EP4603769A1

EP4603769A1 - Refrigerator

Info

Publication number: EP4603769A1
Application number: EP23877464.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Donghoon Lee; Changho Seo; Wookyong Lee
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2022-10-13
Filing date: 2023-08-24
Publication date: 2025-08-20
Also published as: WO2024080534A1; EP4603769A4; KR20240051626A

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cabinet which has a storage compartment; a refrigerator door which opens/closes the storage compartment; a dispenser which is provided in the refrigerator door to dispense water or ice; an icemaking compartment which is disposed at the rear of the dispenser; an icemaker which is provided in the icemaking compartment; and an icemaking compartment door which covers the icemaking compartment.

Description

[Technical Field]

The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

[Background Art]

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance for storing food at a low temperature in a storage space that is covered by a door.
The refrigerator is configured to keep stored food in in a refrigerated state or frozen state by cooling an inside of the storage space using cold air.
The refrigerator may be a side-by-side type refrigerator in which a freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber are arranged left and right, a top mount type refrigerator in which the freezing chamber is located above the refrigerating chamber, or a bottom freezer type refrigerator in which the refrigerating chamber is located above the freezing chamber.
Typically, an ice maker is provided in the freezing chamber of a refrigerator to make ice. The ice maker receives water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and cools the water to generate ice. The ice generated by the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin.
The ice stored in the ice bin can be discharged through a dispenser provided in the door, or the user can open a freezing chamber door, approach the ice bin, and take out the ice in the ice bin.
A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document.
The refrigerator of the prior art document comprises a cabinet in which a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber below the refrigerating chamber are formed; a pair of refrigerating chamber doors arranged on the left and right sides to open and close the refrigerating chamber, and an ice maker and a dispenser being provided on one side; a main water tank provided in the refrigerating chamber and cooling the supplied water; a water purifier provided in the cabinet and purifying supplied water; a sub water tank provided in the refrigerating chamber door and additionally cooling the supplied water; a water supply path connecting the water purifier, the main water tank, the sub water tank, the dispenser and the ice maker; and a branch valve provided on the water supply path of the refrigerating chamber door to selectively supply purified water to the dispenser or the ice maker.
However, in a case of the prior document, the sub-water tank and the branch valve are provided at a rear side of the dispenser, there is a disadvantage that a space at the rear of the dispenser cannot be used as a separate storage space or an ice making chamber.
Therefore, in a case of the prior art, since one ice maker may be installed in the refrigerator door, there is a disadvantage in that only one type of ice may be generated and multiple types of ice cannot be generated as needed.

[Disclosure]

[Technical Problem]

One embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of forming a space for a specific purpose at a rear side of a dispenser.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of generating ice in the space.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of allowing a user to easily take out ice generated in the space.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which cold air leakage is minimized during a process of taking ice generated in the space.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which manufacturing cost of a mold for a door liner forming another portion of the space is prevented from increasing as a door opening and closing the space forms a portion of the space.

[Technical Solution]

In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a refrigerator door that opens and closes the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice. The refrigerator may further include a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser. The refrigerator may further include a space door to cover the space.
The space may be, for example, an ice making chamber. The space door may be an ice making chamber door that opens and closes the ice making chamber.
The space door may include a main door to cover at least a portion of the space. The space door may further include a sub door movable relative to the main door and to open and close a portion of the space.
In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber disposed at a rear side of the dispenser. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker provided in the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber door to cover the ice making chamber.
The ice making chamber door may include a main door to cover at least a portion of the ice making chamber. The ice making chamber door may further include a sub door to open and close a portion of the ice making chamber. The ice making chamber door may be movable with respect to the main door.
The main door may include a door opening. The sub door may open and close the door opening. Alternatively, the main door may cover a portion of the ice making chamber. The sub door may open and close another portion of the ice making chamber.
The main door may be provided with a door receiving portion having a recessed shape. The door opening may be formed in the door receiving portion. The sub door may be disposed in the door receiving portion.
The sub door may include a door protrusion. The door protrusion may be inserted into the door opening in a state in which the sub door is closed.
The refrigerator may further include an ice bin to store ice generated by the ice maker. The ice bin may be coupled to the sub door.
When the sub door is moved in one direction, the ice bin may be withdrawn from the ice making chamber through the door opening. When the sub door is moved in another direction, the ice bin may be received in the ice making chamber through the door opening.
The sub door may further include a supporter to support the ice bin.
A left-right length of the main door may be greater than a left-right length of the second space. A vertical length of the main door may be greater than a vertical length of the second space.
The sub door may be rotatably connected to the main door by a hinge.
The sub door may further include a locking portion for allowing the sub door to be coupled to the main door or the refrigerator door. The locking portion may include a lever rotatably connected to the sub door. The main door or the refrigerator door may include a hooking protrusion coupled to the lever.
The sub door may include a receiving portion having a recessed shape on which the lever is disposed. The sub door may include a gripping portion rotatably connected to the lever. The sub door may include a seating groove on which the gripping portion is seated.
The main door may include a recessed portion to receive a portion of the ice maker. A maximum recessed depth of the recessed portion may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the sub door.
The refrigerator door may include a dike formed in a protruding shape to form a portion of the second space. The main door may include a recessed portion to form another portion of the second space. A length of the main door in a front-back direction may be greater than a protruding length of the dike.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice making chamber door to cover the ice making chamber. The ice making chamber door may include a gasket. An ice maker may be disposed within the ice making chamber.
A vertical line passing through the gasket may pass through the ice maker. A vertical line passing through the gasket may pass through an ice making cell. An ice bin to store ice may be provided in the ice making chamber. A vertical line passing through the gasket may pass through the ice bin. The ice making chamber door may include a recessed portion to receive a portion of the ice maker. The recessed portion may receive a portion of the ice bin. A horizontal center line of the ice making cell may pass through the recessed portion.
A horizontal distance between a vertical line passing through the gasket and a vertical center line of the ice making cell may be less than a radius of the ice making cell.
The refrigerator may further include a vacuum insulator disposed between the dispenser and the ice making chamber. A horizontal center line of the ice making cell may pass through the vacuum insulator.
A portion of the vacuum insulator may be disposed at a lower side of a bottom of the ice making chamber.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet to form a storage space. The refrigerator may include a door to open and close the storage space.
The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided on the door to discharge water or ice. The refrigerator may further include a first space in which ice is generated and formed in the door and at least a portion of which is disposed at an upper side of dispenser. The refrigerator may further include a second space in which ice is generated and formed in the door and at least a portion of which is disposed at a lower side of the first space. The refrigerator may further include a space door to open and close the second space.
The refrigerator may further include a first ice maker disposed in the first space and having a first ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include a second ice maker disposed in the second space and having a second ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated. A type of ice generated in the first space may be different from a type of ice generated in the second space.
Ice generated in the first space may be discharged through the dispenser. Ice generated in the second space may be discharged by opening of the space door.
A shape of ice generated in the first space may be different from a shape of ice generated in the second space. A transparency of ice generated in the first space may be different from a transparency of ice generated in the second space.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet to form a storage space; a door to open and close the storage space; a first space formed in the door and in which ice is generated; and a second space formed in the door and disposed at a different position from the first space and in which ice is generated.
The refrigerator may further include a first ice maker. The first ice maker may include a first tray provided in the first space and to provide a first ice making cell, which is a space in which ice is generated.
The refrigerator may further include a second ice maker. The second ice maker may include a second tray provided in the second space and to provide a second ice making cell, which is a space in which ice is generated.
The refrigerator may further include a first component provided in the door and provided to discharge ice from the first space. The first component may include a dispenser, a space door, or an ice bin, etc.
The refrigerator may further include a second component provided in the door and provided to discharge ice from the second space. The second component may include a dispenser, a space door, or an ice bin, etc.
At least a portion of first component is different or separate from the second component.
A type of ice generated in the first space may be different from a type of ice generated in the second space. For example, a shape, size, transparency, color, and strength of ice generated in the first space may be different from ice generated in the second space.
The door may include a first surface and a second surface different from the first surface.
A passage or through-hole through which ice is discharged from the first space may be provided on the first surface. A passage or through-hole through which ice is discharged from the second space may be provided on the second surface.
The first surface may include a surface (for example, a front surface, a rear surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, etc.) exposed to an external space of the refrigerator when the door is in a position to close the storage space. The second surface may include a surface (for example, a rear surface) exposed to a user when the door is in a position to open the storage space.
The door may include a first door and a second door disposed between the first door and the storage space. The first surface may be positioned on the first door. The second surface may be positioned on the second door.
Each of the first surface and the second surface may be positioned on the first door.
Each of the first surface and the second surface may be positioned on the second door.
A process of separating ice from the first tray may be different from a process of separating ice from the second tray.
The first tray may be detachably provided by a user from the first space so that ice may be separated from the first tray.
The second tray may be moved by a driving means so that ice may be separated from the second tray.
The first tray may be provided so that at least a portion of the first tray deformed by an external force may be restored.
The second tray may include a first portion to form the second ice making cell, and a second portion provided so as to be in contact with and detachable from the first portion.
The door may include a front surface, a rear surface, a side surface, an upper surface, and a lower surface.
At least a portion of the first component and at least a portion of the second component may be arranged on the same surface among the front surface, the rear surface, the side surface, the upper surface, and the lower surface.
When the first component moves to open the first space, at least a portion of the second space may be opened. When the first component moves to close the first space, at least a portion of the second space may be closed.
The refrigerator may further include a controller. The controller may control at least one of characteristics of the second component to change when characteristics (e.g., color, transparency, position, etc.) of the first component change.
At least a portion of a wall partitioning the first space and at least a portion of a wall partitioning the second space may be provided in common.
At least a portion of a passage through which ice is discharged from the first space and at least a portion of a passage through which ice is discharged from the second space may be provided in common.
At least a portion of a through hole through which ice is discharged from the first space and at least a portion of a through hole through which ice is discharged from the second space may be provided in common.
At least a portion of a wall forming a passage through which ice is discharged from the first space and at least a portion of a wall forming a passage through which ice is discharged from the second space may be provided in common.
At least some of sub-components constituting the first component (for example, a hinge, a handle, a gasket, a cap duct, a chute, a funnel (ice guide), a switch pad, a sensor, an insulator, a driving means, etc.) and sub-components constituting the second component (for example, a hinge, a handle, a gasket, a cap duct, a chute, a funnel (ice guide), a switch pad, a sensor, an insulator, a driving means, etc.) may be provided in common.
The door may include a front surface, a rear surface, a side surface, an upper surface, and a lower surface. A display for the first ice maker and a display for the second ice maker may be arranged on the same surface among the front surface, the rear surface, the side surface, the upper surface, and the lower surface.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet to form a storage space; a door to open and close the storage space; a space formed in the door where ice is generated; and an ice maker provided in the space and having a tray to provide an ice making cell in which ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include a space door provided in the door and provided to open and close the space to discharge ice from the space.
The space door may include a boundary surface provided to be in contact with and separable from a wall forming the space.
A gasket may be provided on the boundary surface.
A vertical line passing through the boundary surface may pass through the ice maker. A vertical line passing through the boundary surface may pass through the ice making cell.
The refrigerator may further include an ice bin provided in the space and to store ice generated by the ice maker.
A vertical line passing through the boundary surface may pass through the ice bin.
The space door may include a recessed portion to receive a portion of the ice maker. The recessed portion may receive a portion of the ice bin.
A horizontal center line of the ice making cell may pass through the recessed portion.
A horizontal distance between a vertical line passing through the boundary surface and a vertical center line of the ice making cell may be less than a radius of the ice making cell.
The refrigerator may further include an additional space formed in the door and provided at a different position from the space for generating ice. The refrigerator may further include an additional ice maker provided in the additional space and having a tray to provide an ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated.
A vertical line passing through the boundary surface may be disposed so as not to pass through the additional ice maker. A vertical line passing through the boundary surface may be disposed so as not to pass through an ice making cell of the additional ice maker..

[Advantageous Effects]

According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that a space for a specific purpose may be formed at a rear side of a dispenser.
According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that ice may be generated in the space at a rear side of the dispenser.
According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that an ice bin storing ice generated in the space moves together with a door that opens and closes the space, so that a user can easily take out ice from the ice bin by opening a door.
According to one embodiment, since an ice bin is connected to a sub door that opens and closes a portion of the space and moves together, so that cold air leakage may be minimized.
According to one embodiment, since a door that opens and closes the space forms a portion of the space, an increase in a manufacturing cost of a mold for a door liner that forms another portion of the space may be prevented.

[Description of Drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 is separated.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door as viewed from a front side according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door as viewed from a rear side according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a lateral side view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a second door in an opened state according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a rear view of a second door according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along 8-8 of FIG. 4.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along 9-9 of FIG. 4.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along 10-10 of FIG. 3.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 4 according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a first refrigerating chamber door according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an opened state of a sub door according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a state in which a second ice bin is separated from a sub door according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a sub door according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 12.
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 12.
FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a first refrigerating chamber door according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a second door in a closed state according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 4 according to a fifth embodiment.

[Mode for Invention]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 is separated.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door as viewed from a front side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door as viewed from a rear side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a lateral side view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment.
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a refrigerator 1 of a first embodiment may include a cabinet 2 having a storage space. The refrigerator 1 may further include a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space.
The storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 18. The storage space may optionally or additionally include a freezing chamber 19. As an example, FIG. 2 illustrates that the storage space includes a refrigerating chamber 18 and a freezing chamber 19.
The refrigerating chamber 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating chamber doors 5. The freezing chamber 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing chamber doors 30.
Hereinafter, the refrigerating chamber 18 is described as being opened and closed by a first refrigerating chamber door 10 and a second refrigerating chamber door 20.
At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for discharging water and/or ice. Of course, depending on a type of refrigerator, it is also possible for the freezing chamber door 30 to be provided with the dispenser 11.
At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include at least one ice maker.
Hereinafter, an example of an ice maker being provided in the first refrigerating chamber door 10 will be described. Of course, if necessary, an ice maker may also be provided in the second refrigerating chamber door 20 or the freezing chamber door 30. At this time, the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be provided in the same door.
Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the first refrigerating chamber door 10 includes a plurality of ice makers. It is not limited thereto, and the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may also include a plurality of ice makers. Or, it is also possible for each refrigerating chamber door to include an ice maker.
In FIG. 2, the refrigerator 1 is exemplarily illustrated as a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but it is to be noted that an idea of the present invention can be equally applied to a side-by-side type refrigerator or a top-mount type refrigerator.
In the case of a side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerator, the freezing chamber door may include a plurality of ice makers or the refrigerating chamber door may include a plurality of ice makers.
The dispenser 11 is disposed at a front side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, and a portion of the dispensers may be recessed toward rearward to provide a space where a container can be disposed.
The plurality of ice makers may be arranged in a vertical direction. For example, the plurality of ice makers may include a first ice maker 200. The plurality of ice makers may further include a second ice maker 500. The second ice maker 500 may be disposed at a lower side of the first ice maker 200. Of course, the present embodiment does not exclude the plurality of ice makers 200, 500 being arranged in a left-right direction.
The dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the first ice maker 200. To this end, the first ice maker 200 may include a portion positioned higher than the dispenser 11. If the dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the second ice maker 500, the second ice maker 500 may also include a portion positioned higher than the dispenser 11.
Or, even if at least one of the first ice maker 200 or the second ice maker 500 is positioned the same as or lower than the dispenser 11, ice generated in at least one of the first ice maker 200 or the second ice maker 500 can be transferred to the dispenser 11 by a separate transfer mechanism.
As another example, the dispenser 11 may include a first dispenser to discharge ice generated in the first ice maker 200, and a second dispenser to discharge ice generated in the second ice maker.
The second ice maker 500 may be disposed at a rear side of the dispenser 11.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include an outer case 101 configured to form a front exterior. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a door liner 102 coupled to the outer case 101. The door liner 102 may open and close the refrigerating chamber 18. In a state in which the outer case 101 is coupled to the door liner 102, an insulating space may be formed in a space between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102. An insulating material may be provided in the insulating space.
The door liner 102 may include a first space 122 in which the first ice maker 200 is disposed. The first space 122 may also be referred to as a first ice making chamber. The door liner 102 may further include a second space 124 in which the second ice maker 500 is disposed. The second space 124 may also be referred to as a second ice making chamber.
In the present embodiment, the second ice maker 500 may be omitted, and in this case, the second space 124 may exist. In this case, the second space 124 may function as a door storage space used for a specific purpose.
The first space 122 may be formed as one side of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101. The second space 124 may be formed as one side of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101. For example, the second space 124 may be recessed toward the dispenser 11.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a first ice bin 280 in which ice generated in the first ice maker 200 is stored. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a second ice bin 600 in which ice generated in the second ice maker 500 is stored. Of course, if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second ice bin 600 may also be omitted.
The first ice bin 280 may be received in the first space 122 together with the first ice maker 200. The second ice bin 600 may be received in the second space 124 together with the second ice maker 500.
The first space 122 may be supplied with cold generated from a cooler. The cooler may be defined as a means for cooling the storage space, including at least one of a refrigerant cycle or a thermoelectric element. For example, cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 may be supplied to the first space 122.
The second space 124 may be supplied with cold generated from a cooler. For example, cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 may be supplied to the second space 124.
The refrigerator 1 may include a supply passage 2a that guides cold air of the freezing chamber 19 or cold air of a space where an evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 is disposed to the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The refrigerator 1 may further include a discharge passage 2b that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 to the freezing chamber 19 or the space where the evaporator is disposed. The supply passage 2a and the discharge passage 2b may be provided in the cabinet 2.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a cold air inlet 123a. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air inlet 123a may be communicated with the supply passage 2a. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air outlet 123b. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air outlet 123b may be communicated with the discharge passage 2b.
The cold air inlet 123a may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the supply passage 2a is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed. The cold air outlet 123b may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the discharge passage 2b is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed.
A shape of the ice generated from the first ice maker 200 may be the same as or different from a shape of the ice generated from the second ice maker 200. For example, the second ice maker 500 may form spherical ice.
The "spherical shape" mentioned in this specification means not only a geometrically spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape.
A transparency of ice generated from the first ice maker200 may be the same as or different from a transparency of ice generated from the second ice maker 500. For example, a transparency of the ice generated from the second ice maker 500 may be greater than a transparency of the ice formed from the first ice maker 200.
A size or volume of ice generated from the first ice maker 200 may be different from a size or volume of ice generated from the second ice maker 500. For example, a size or volume of ice generated from the second ice maker 500 may be greater than a size or volume of ice formed from the first ice maker 200.
A structure of the first ice maker 200 for generating ice and a method for separation the generated ice may be the same as or different from a structure of the second ice maker 500 and a method for separation the ice generated from the second ice maker 500 is separated.
If the structure and/or the method of the ice makers are different, a shape of the first space 122 where the first ice maker 200 is disposed may be different from a shape of the second space 124 where the second ice maker 500 is disposed.
For example, a depth of the second space 124 may be greater than a depth of the first space 122. Due to a difference in depth between the first space 122 and the second space 124, the one side of the door liner 102 may include a first side portion 102a and a second side portion 102b having different widths in a front-back direction (a width in a X-axis direction).
A width of the second side portion 102b may be formed to be greater than a width of the first side portion 102a. Due to a difference in width between the first side portion 102a and the second side portion 102b, a front-back thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 at a portion where the second ice maker 500 is positioned may be greater than a front-back thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 at a portion where the first ice maker 200 is positioned.
At least one of the cold air inlet 123a or the cold air outlet 123b may be formed on the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102. The second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber18 than the first side portion 102a.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a first door130 (or a first space door or a first ice making chamber door) that opens and closes the first space 122. The first door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulating material provided therein. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a second door 132 (or a second space door or a second ice making chamber door) that opens and closes the second space 124. The second door 132 may be an insulated door having an insulating material provided therein. Even if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second door 132 may exist.
Accordingly, a heat transfer between the refrigerating chamber 18 and the first and second spaces 122, 124 may be minimized by the first and second doors 130, 132.
The first door 130 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge (see, 132a of FIG. 6). The second door 132 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge. A rotation direction of the first door 130 and a rotation direction of the second door 132 may be the same or different.
Meanwhile, a basket 136 capable of storing food may be connected to the first door 130 by varying a thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, in a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second space 124 in a vertical direction (for example, a Z-axis direction).
In a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second ice maker 500 in the vertical direction.
In a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130 and the second door 132 is closed, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second ice bin 600 in the vertical direction.
In a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130 and the second door 132 is closed, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second door 132 in the vertical direction.
Meanwhile, a filter (not shown) may be mounted on one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, and the filter may be covered by a filter cover 142.
FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a second door in an opened state according to a first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a rear view of a second door according to a first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along 8-8 of FIG. 4. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along 9-9 of FIG. 4. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along 10-10 of FIG. 3.
Referring to FIGS. 6 to 10, the second door 132 may rotate to open and close the second space 124. The second door 132 may be connected to the door liner 102 by a hinge 132a.
The second ice bin 600 may be connected to the second door 132. Accordingly, the second ice bin 600 may move together with the second door 132.
When the second door 132 is rotated in one direction to open the second space 124, at least a portion of the second ice bin 600 may be withdrawn from the second space 124. Accordingly, when the second door 132 is opened, the user can immediately access the second ice bin 600. Accordingly, an inconvenience of having to separately take the second ice bin 600 out of the second space 124 may be eliminated.
On the other hand, when the second door 132 is rotated in another direction to close the second space 124, the second ice bin 600 may be received in the second space 124.
One side wall 124a forming the second space 124 may be provided with an inlet (or a first through hole) through which cold air is introduced. The inlet may overlap the second ice maker 500 in a horizontal direction. For example, the inlet may overlap the second ice maker 500 in a Z-axis direction.
One side wall 124a forming the second space 124 may be provided with an outlet 126 (or a second through hole) through which cold air is discharged. The outlet 126 may overlap the second ice bin 600 in a horizontal direction in a state in which the second ice bin 600 is received in the second space 124. For example, the outlet 126 may overlap the second ice bin 600 in a Z-axis direction.
The second door 132 may include a first frame 1321. The second door 132 may further include a second frame 1322 coupled to the first frame 1321.
The first frame 1321 may form an exterior of the second door 132 when the second door 132 is closed. When the second door 132 is closed, a surface of the first frame 1321 that forms an exterior of the second door 132 may be referred to as a first surface. The second frame 1322 may face the second space 124 when the second door 132 is closed. A surface of the second frame 1322 that faces the second space 124 may be referred to as a second surface.
The second ice bin 600 may be coupled to the second frame 1322. The second ice bin 600 may include a first body 610 coupled to the second door 132.
The second door 132 may be provided with a coupling protrusion 1325 for coupling the second ice bin 600. The coupling protrusion 1325 may, for example, protrude from the second frame 1232. A plurality of coupling protrusions 1325 may be spaced apart from each other for stable coupling of the second ice bin 600. The plurality of coupling protrusions 1325 may, for example, be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal direction.
The first body 610 may be formed with a coupling hole 612 for coupling the coupling protrusion 1325. The coupling hole 612 may include a first portion 612a for positioning a portion of the coupling protrusion 1325. The coupling hole 612 may further include a second portion 612b for providing a passage during a coupling process of the coupling protrusion 1325. A diameter of the second portion 612b may be greater than a diameter of the first portion 612a.
The coupling protrusion 1325 may include a first part 1325a protruding from the second frame 1322. The coupling protrusion 1325 may include a second part 1325b extending from the first part 1325a. A diameter of the second part 1325b may be greater than a diameter of the first part 1325a.
When the first part 1325a is positioned on the first portion 612a in a state in which the second part 1325b passes through the second portion 612b, the first part 1325a can be caught on the first body 610 and the first body 610 may be supported by the coupling projection 1325 and coupled to the coupling projection 1325.
The second ice bin 600 may further include a second body 614 facing the first body 610. An upper end of the second body 614 may be positioned lower than an upper end of the first body 610. The second ice bin 600 may further include a third body 620 to connect one side of the first body 610 and one side of the second body 614. The second ice bin 600 may further include a fourth body 630 to connect another side of the first body 610 and another side of the second body 614.
A height of an upper end of the third body 620 and the fourth body 630 may be varied. Each of the third body 620 and the fourth body 630 may include a first upper end 621 connected to the first body 610 and a second upper end 624 connected to the second body 614. The first upper end 621 may be positioned higher than the second upper end 624.
The third body 620 may be positioned adjacent to the one side wall 124a. The third body 620 may have a cold air through hole 623 formed at least partially aligned with the outlet 126. Accordingly, cold air introduced into a space formed by the second ice bin 600 may pass through the cold air through hole 623 and flow toward the outlet 126.
The second door 132 may further include a locking portion 660 that allows the second door 132 to be coupled or uncoupled from the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
When a user operates the locking portion 660, the second door 132 may be maintained in a state of being coupled to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 while the second space 124 is closed (locked state). When a user operates the locking portion 660, a coupling between the second door 132 and the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may be released, thereby enabling a rotation of the second door 132 (unlocked state).
The locking portion 660 may include a lever 661. The lever 661 may be rotatably coupled to the second door 132. The second door 132 may be provided with a shaft 1321b for rotation of the lever 661. A rotation center line of the lever 661 may extend in a horizontal direction.
The lever 661 may include a shaft coupling portion 663 to which the shaft 1321b is coupled. The lever 661 may further include a hook 665.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a lever receiving portion 127 for coupling or uncoupling from the lever 661. The lever receiving portion 127 may be formed by a portion of the door liner 102 being recessed toward the outer case 101. The lever 661 may be inserted into the lever receiving portion 127 through an opening 127a of the lever receiving portion 127.
The lever receiving portion 127 may be provided with a hooking projection 127b for engaging the hook 665 of the locking portion 660.
The second door 132 may include a guide projection 1321c to guide a rotation of the lever 661. The lever 661 may be provided with a guide slot 664 in which the guide projection 1321c is received. In order to guide a rotation of the lever 661, the guide slot 664 may be formed in an arc shape centered on the shaft 1321b. The guide projection 1321c may be positioned higher than the shaft 1321b.
Although not limited, the second door 132 may include a receiving portion 1321a having a recessed shape. The receiving portion 1321a may be formed by being recessed on a side surface of the second door 132. The receiving portion 1321a may be formed, for example, in the first frame 1321.
The locking portion 660 may further include a grip portion 666 rotatably connected to the lever 661. A user may rotate the lever 661 while holding the grip portion 666.
The lever 661 may further include a connecting portion 662 for connecting to the grip portion 666. The connecting portion 662 may provide a space in which a hinge portion 667 of the grip portion 666 is inserted. The connecting portion 662 may be positioned higher than the shaft coupling portion 663.
The grip portion 666 may be formed in an oval shape, for example, and may include a space 668 in which a user's hand is inserted. A rotation center line of the grip portion 666 may extend in a vertical direction. Accordingly, a rotation direction of the grip portion 666 with respect to the lever 661 may be different from a rotation direction of the lever 661 with respect to the shaft 663.
In order to reduce a protrusion of the grip portion 666 outward, the second door 132 may further include a seating groove 1321d on which the grip portion 666 is seated. The seating groove 1321d may be formed, for example, in the first frame 1321. The seating groove 1321d may be formed, for example, by a front surface of the first frame 1321 being recessed toward the second frame 1322.
The second door 132 may further include a gasket 1329. The gasket 1329 may prevent cold air leakage in the second space 124 by contacting with the door liner 102 in a state in which the second door 132 is closed. The gasket 1329 may be coupled to the second frame 1322, for example.
The second door 132 may include a first recessed portion 1323a to receiving a portion of the second ice maker 500. The first recessed portion 1323a may be formed as a portion of the second frame 1322 is recessed toward a first surface of the second door 132. A portion of the second ice bin 600 may be disposed in the first recessed portion 1323a. The coupling protrusion 1325 may be disposed, for example, in the first recessed portion 1323a.
The second door 132 may further include a second recessed portion 1323b that is additionally recessed in the first recessed portion 1323a to receive a portion of the second ice maker 500. The first recessed portion 1323a and the second recessed portion 1323b may also form the second space 124. Accordingly, a size of the second space 124 may be increased while preventing an increase in a thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
Meanwhile, an ice chute 700 may be disposed at a lower side of the first space 122. The ice chute 700 may be opened and closed by a cap duct 900.
An ice guide 800 may be disposed at a lower side of the ice chute 700.
The ice chute 700 may guide ice discharged from the first ice bin 280 to the ice guide 800. The ice guide 800 may guide ice to the dispenser 11. At least a portion of the ice chute 700 may overlap the second space 124 in a vertical direction.
The second ice maker 500 may include a first tray 510. The second ice maker 500 may further include a second tray 550. The first tray 510 and the second tray 550 may form an ice making cell 501, which is a space where ice is generated. The second tray 550 may be moved with respect to the first tray 510. For example, the second tray 550 may rotate with respect to the first tray 510, move linearly with respect to the first tray 510, or move linearly and rotate with respect to the first tray 510.
If the second tray 550 is a rotation type tray, water supply may be performed at a water supply position of the second tray 550. After the water supply is completed, the second tray550 may be rotated to an ice making position. If the second tray 550 is a linear movement type tray, water supply may be performed at the ice making position of the second tray 550.
At least a portion of the second tray 550 may be spaced apart from at least a portion of the first tray 510 at the water supply position. A portion of the second tray 550 spaced apart from the first tray 510 at the water supply position may be in contact with the first tray 510 at the ice making position to form the ice making cell 501.
The second ice maker 500 may further include a driver for moving the second tray 550. The driver 580 may be disposed adjacent to one side wall 124a on which the outlet 126 is formed.
A rear wall 124c forming the second space 124 may include a receiving groove 124d in which a portion of the driver 580 is received. The receiving groove 124d may be formed as a portion of the rear wall 124c is recessed in a direction away from the second door 132.
The second ice maker 500 may further include a first pusher 540 to separate ice from the first tray 510 during an ice separation process. For example, the first pusher 540 may press ice to separate ice from the first tray 510. The second ice maker 500 may further include a second pusher 590 to press the second tray 550 during a movement process of the second tray 550.
The second ice maker 500 may further include a first tray case 520, 530 to support the first tray 510. The second ice maker 500 may further include a second tray case 560 to support the second tray 510. A portion of the first tray case 520, 530 may be positioned in the second recessed portion 1323b.
The dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space. A container such as a cup may be positioned in the receiving space. Water or ice may be discharged into the receiving space.
At least a portion of the dispenser housing 11a may be disposed to overlap the second space 124 in a front-back direction (for example, a X-axis direction).
A minimum horizontal distance between a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and the second space 124 by the dispenser housing 11a may be greater than a minimum horizontal distance between a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber 10 and the first space 122.
A pad 19 that a user presses to discharge water or ice may be installed at the dispenser housing 11a. The pad 19 may overlap the second space 124 in a horizontal direction.
An ice making cell 501 of the second ice maker 500 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a front-back direction. The pad 19 may overlap the ice making cell 501 in a horizontal direction.
In order to increase a size of the second space 124, a rear wall 124c forming the second space 124 may be positioned adjacent to the dispenser housing 11a. Since a space between the dispenser housing 11a and the rear wall 124c is narrow, a vacuum insulator 392 may be provided in a space between the dispenser housing 11a and the rear wall 124c. A portion of the vacuum insulator 392 may be disposed between the pad 19 and the ice making cell 501. An insulator formed by hardening of a foaming agent may be disposed in a remaining area other than an area occupied by the vacuum insulator 392. Another portion of the vacuum insulator 392 may be disposed at a lower side of a bottom wall 124b forming the second space 124.
A vertical center line Y1 of the ice-making cell 501 may be positioned closer to the second door 132 than the rear wall 124c.
A vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 may pass through the second ice maker 500. A vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 may pass through the ice making cell 501.
A vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 may pass between the first pusher 540 and the second door 132. A vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 may pass through the second ice bin 600.
The first pusher 540 may be positioned closer to the second door 132 than the rear wall 124c.
It may also be considered that the gasket 1329 is omitted. In this case, A surface that contacts the second door 132 and the door liner 102 may be defined as a boundary surface. A vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 may be replaced with a vertical line Y2 extending along the boundary surface.
A horizontal center line X1 of the ice making cell 501 may pass through the pad 19. A horizontal center line X1 of the ice making cell 501 may pass through the vacuum insulator 392.
The ice guide 800 may include a through hole 802 through which ice is discharged. A horizontal center line X1 of the ice making cell 501 may be positioned lower than the through hole 802.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 4 according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 11 shows a state in which a second ice bin is removed.
This embodiment is identical to a first embodiment in other parts, except that it differs in a shape of a door liner and a shape of a second door. Therefore, only characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.
Referring to FIG. 11, a second door 133 according to a second embodiment may form a portion of the second space 124.
That is, a portion of the second space 124 may be formed by a dike 102e of the door liner 102, and another portion of the second space 124 may be formed by the second door 133. When the second space 124 is formed by the second door 133, a length of the dike 102e may be reduced. The door liner 102 may be formed by a mold, and when a length of the dike 102e is reduced, a size of a mold may be reduced, thereby preventing an increase in manufacturing cost.
The second door 133 may include a first frame 1331. The second door 133 may further include a second frame 1332 connected to the first frame 1331. An insulation may be provided between the first frame 1331 and the second frame 1332.
The second door 133 may include a first recessed portion 1333a to receive the second ice maker 500. The second ice bin 600 may be received in the first recessed portion 1333a. In a state in which the second door 133 is closed, the first recessed portion 1333a may be recessed in a direction away from a rear wall 124c of the second space 124. The second door 133 may further include a second recessed portion 1333b that is additionally recessed in the first recessed portion 1333a. In a state in which the second door 133 closed, the second recessed portion 1333b may be recessed in a direction away from a rear wall 124c of the second space 124.
The first recessed portion 1333a may be formed, for example, in the second frame 1332. Of course, the first recessed portion 1333a and the second recessed portion 1333b may not be distinguished and may be understood as a single recessed portion. In this case, a recessed depth of the recessed portion may vary in a horizontal direction or in a vertical direction.
A recessed depth of the second recessed portion 1333b may be greater than a thickness in a front-back direction of a portion in which the second recessed portion 1333b is formed in the second door 133.
In a closed state of the second door 133, at least a portion of the ice making cell 501 may be disposed in the first recessed portion 1333a. A horizontal center line X1 of the ice making cell 501 may pass through the second recessed portion 1333b.
The second door 133 may be provided with a gasket 1329. The gasket 1329 may be formed in a closed loop shape. At least a portion of the first pusher 540 may be disposed within an area formed by the gasket 1329.
A vertical center line Y1 of the ice making cell 501 may be disposed closer to the second door 133 than the rear wall 124c.
A horizontal distance between the vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 and a vertical center line Y1 of the ice making cell 501 may be less than a radius of the ice-making cell 501.
A horizontal distance between a vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 and a vertical center line Y1 of the ice making cell 501 may be less than a horizontal distance between the vertical line Y2 and the second recessed portion 1333b.
A vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1329 may pass through the ice making cell 501.
A horizontal center line X1 of the ice making cell 501 may be positioned lower than a through hole 802 of the ice guide 800.
FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a first refrigerating chamber according to a third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an opened state of a sub door according to a third embodiment. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a state in which a second ice bin is separated from a sub door according to a third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a sub door according to a third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 12. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 12.
This embodiment is identical to a first embodiment in other parts, except that it differs in a structure of a second door. Therefore, only characteristic parts of the present embodiment will be described below.
Referring to FIGS. 12 to 17, a second door 1340 of a third embodiment may include a main door 1350 to cover at least a portion of the second space 124. The main door 1350 may be rotated, for example, by a hinge (moving type). In this case, a gasket may be disposed between the main door 1350 and the door liner 102.
Alternatively, the main door 1350 may be maintained in a fixed state by being fixed to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a coupling member (fixed type). Of course, if the coupling member is separated, the main door 1350 may be separated from the first refrigerating chamber door 10. In this case, the main door 1350 may be provided with a through-hole through which a coupling member passes, and the door liner 102 may be provided with a coupling hole through which the coupling member is coupled. At this time, a gasket may be disposed between the main door 1350 and the door liner 102, or the gasket may be omitted.
For example, a left-right length and a vertical length of the main door 1350 may be greater than a left-right length and a vertical length of the second space 124.
The main door 1350 may include a door opening 1352. The door opening 1352 may be communicated with the second space 124. The door opening 1352 may be disposed at a lower portion of the main door 1350. For example, the door opening 1352 may be provided below a line that bisects a height of the main door 1350. That is, a height of the door opening 1352 may be less than half a height of the main door 1350.
The second door 1340 may further include a sub door 1370 that opens and closes the door opening 1352. The sub door 1370 opening and closing the door opening 1352 may be explained as the sub door 1370 opening and closing a portion of the second space 124. The sub door 1370 may be rotatably connected to the main door 1350 by, for example, a hinge. When the main door 1350 is rotatable, a rotation direction of the main door 1350 and a rotation direction of the sub door 130 may be the same.
In a state in which the main door 1350 is closed, the sub door 1370 may open the door opening 1352. When the door opening 1352 is opened, a portion of the second space 124 may be exposed to an outside. When the main door 1350 is separated from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 in a state in which the sub door 1370 closes the door opening 1352, an entire second space 124 may be exposed to an outside.
As another example, the main door 1350 may be maintained in a fixed state while covering a portion of the second space 124.The sub door 1370 may open and close another portion of the second space 124. In this case, the sub door 1370 may be disposed at a lower side the main door 1350. The sub door 1370 may be rotatably connected to the main door 1350 or may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerating chamber door 10. Of course, by separating the main door 1350 and rotating the sub door 1370, an entire second space 124 may be opened.
In the present embodiment, the sub door 1370 may be rotated to take out ice stored in the second ice bin 600. When the sub door 1370 is rotated to take out ice stored in the second ice bin 600, a size of the second space 124 exposed to an outside is reduced, so that an amount of cold air leaking out of the second space 124 may be reduced.
The main door 1340 may include a door receiving portion 1351 having a recessed shape for positioning the sub door 1370 so that a front surface of the sub door 1370 and a front surface of the main door 1340 are positioned on substantially the same vertical line in a state in which the sub door 1370 closes the door opening 1352. The door opening 1352 may be formed in the door receiving portion 1351.
The sub door 1370 may include a first frame 1371. The sub door 1370 may further include a second frame 1375 coupled to the first frame 1371.
The sub door 1370 may further include a gasket 1379. The gasket 1379 may prevent cold air leakage in the second space 124 by contacting the main door 1350 in a state in which the sub door 1370 closes the door opening 1352. For example, the gasket 1379 may be in contact with the door receiving portion 1351. For example, the gasket 1379 may be provided in the second frame 1375.
The sub door 1370 may further include a locking portion 660a. The locking portion 660a may allow the sub door 1370 to be coupled or uncoupled from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the main door 1350. Hereinafter, the locking portion 660a being coupled to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 will be described as an example.
A basic structure of the locking portion 660a may be the same as or similar to the locking portion 660 described in a first embodiment.
The locking portion 660a may include a lever 661a rotatably connected to the sub door 1370. The locking portion 660a may further include a grip portion 666a rotatably connected to the lever 661a. A user may rotate the lever 661a while holding the grip portion 666a.
A lever through hole 1353 through which the lever 661a passes may be formed in the main door 1350. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a lever receiving portion (see 127 of FIG. 8) for coupling or uncoupling the lever 661a.
As another example, if the main door 1350 is of a fixed type, the lever through hole 1353 may be omitted, and the lever receiving portion 127 and a hooking projection 127b may be formed in the main door 1350.
The sub door 1370 may include a receiving portion 1372 in a recessed shape. The receiving portion 1372 may be formed by being recessed in a side of the sub door 1370. For example, the receiving portion 1372 may be formed in the first frame 1371. The lever 661a may be received in the receiving portion 1372.
The sub door 1370 may be provided with a shaft 1373a for rotation of the lever 661a. The shaft 1373a may be positioned, for example, in the receiving portion 1372. The sub door 1370 may be provided with a guide protrusion 1373b to guide the rotation of the lever 661a. The lever 661a may be provided with a guide slot 664a in which the guide protrusion 1321c is received. In order to guide a rotation of the lever 661a, the guide slot 664a may be formed in an arc shape centered on the shaft 1373a.
The sub door 1370 may further include a door protrusion 1380. In a state in which the sub door 1370 is closed, the door protrusion 1380 may be positioned corresponding to the door opening 1352.
In a closed state of the sub door 1370, the door protrusion 1380 may be inserted into the door opening 1352. In a closed state of the sub door 1370, the door protrusion 1380 may reduce an amount of cold air passing through the door opening 1352.
For example, the door protrusion 1380 may be protruded from the second frame 1375. The gasket 1379 may be disposed along an outer perimeter of the door protrusion 1380. The door protrusion 1380 may be disposed within a region formed by the gasket 1379. An area of the door protrusion 1380 in the second frame 1375 may be greater than an area of a remaining portion.
A second ice bin 600 of the present embodiment may be supported by the sub door 1370. When the second ice bin 600 is supported by the sub door 1370, the second ice bin 600 may move together with the sub door 1370.
The second ice bin 600 may pass through the door opening 1352 during an opening and closing process of the sub door 1370. The second ice bin 600 may be disposed in the second space 124 in a state in which the sub door 1370 is closed. During an opening process of the sub door 1370, the second ice bin 600 may pass through the door opening 1352 and be withdrawn from the second space 124. Therefore, a user can easily access the second ice bin 600 and easily take out ice by opening the sub door 1370. During a closing process of the sub door 1370, the second ice bin 600 may pass through the door opening 1352 and be received in the second space 124.
In order for the second ice bin 600 to pass through the door opening 1352, a height of the second ice bin 600 may be less than a vertical length of the door opening 1352. A left-right width of the second ice bin 600 may be less than a left-right length of the door opening 1352.
The sub door 1370 may be provided with a coupling protrusion 1382 for coupling the second ice bin 600. The coupling protrusion 1382 may, for example, protrude from the second frame 1375.
The coupling protrusion 1382 may protrude from the door protrusion 1380. In order to stably couple the second ice bin 600, a plurality of coupling protrusions 1382 may be disposed spaced apart from each other. For example, the plurality of coupling protrusions 1382 may be disposed spaced apart from each other in a horizontal direction.
A coupling hole 612 may be formed in the second ice bin 600 for coupling the coupling protrusion 1382. Since a shape of the coupling hole 612 may be the same as a shape of the coupling hole described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.
The sub door 1370 may further include a supporter 1384 to support the second ice bin 600 coupled to the sub door 1370. The supporter 1384 may protrude from the door protrusion 1380. When the second ice bin 600 is supported by the supporter 1384, a load of ice stored in the second ice bin 600 may be reduced from being concentrated on the coupling protrusion 1382, thereby preventing damage to the coupling protrusion 1382.
The second ice bin 600 may include a first body 610 coupled to the sub door 1370 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The second ice bin 600 may further include a second body 614 disposed opposite the first body 610.
The second ice bin 600 may further include a third body 620 to connect one side of the first body 610 and one side of the second body 614. The second ice bin 600 may further include a fourth body 630 to connect another side of the first body 610 and another side of the second body 614.
The third body 620 may be disposed adjacent to one side wall 124a forming the second space 124. The fourth body 630 may be disposed adjacent to another side wall 124e, which is an opposite wall to the one side wall 124a. In the present embodiment, the third body 620 may be disposed closer to a rotation center of the sub door 1370 than the fourth body 630.
Therefore, the second ice bin 600 may pass through the door opening 1352 while rotating. In order to prevent the fourth body 630 from interfering with the main door 1350, a horizontal distance between the third body 620 and the fourth body 630 at a position adjacent to the second body 614 may be less than a horizontal distance between the third body 620 and the fourth body 630 at a position adjacent to the first body 610.
Although not limited, a horizontal distance between the third body 620 and the fourth body 630 may decrease from the first body 620 toward the second body 614. A curvature of the fourth body 630 may be variable.
A curvature of a portion of the fourth body 630 adjacent to the second body 614 may be greater than a curvature of a portion adjacent to the first body 610.
A gap between the one side wall 124a and the third body 620 may increase from the first body 620 toward the second body 614. A gap between the other side wall 124e and the fourth body 640 may increase from the first body 620 toward the second body 614. A gap increase rate between the other side wall 124e and the fourth body 640 may be greater than a gap increase rate between the one side wall 124a and the third body 620. A gap between the other side wall 124e and the fourth body 640 at a position adjacent to the second body 614 may be greater than a gap between the one side wall 124a and the third body 620.
Meanwhile, the main door 1350 may further include a recessed portion 1353 to receive a portion of the second ice maker 500.
FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a first refrigerating chamber door according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 19 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a second door in a closed state according to a fourth embodiment.
This embodiment is identical to a third embodiment in other parts, except that there is a difference in a structure of a second door. Therefore, only characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.
Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a second door 1400 according to a fourth embodiment may include a main door 1410 to cover at least a portion of the second space 124. The second door 1400 may further include a sub door 1420 to open and close a portion of the second space 124. The sub door 1420 may be movably connected to the main door 1410. A second ice bin 600 may be coupled to the sub door 1420.
In the present embodiment, the first refrigerating chamber door 10 (or door liner) may include a dike 1020 having a recessed shape to form the second space 124.
That is, a portion of the second space 124 may be formed by the dike 1020, and another portion of the second space 124 may be formed by the second door 1400. When the second space 124 is formed by the second door 1400, a length of the dike 1020 may be reduced. The door liner 102 may be formed by a mold, and when a length of the dike 1020 is reduced, a size of a mold may be reduced, thereby preventing an increase in manufacturing costs.
Although not limited, a horizontal length L1 (or a protruding length) of the dike 1020 may be greater than a horizontal length L2 in a front-back direction of second door 1400.
The main door 1410 may include a recessed portion 1415 to form the second space 124. A portion of the second ice maker 500 may be disposed in the recessed portion 1415. The second ice bin 600 may be disposed in the recessed portion 1415. A recessed depth of the recessed portion 1415 may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the sub door 1420.
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 4 according to a fifth embodiment.
This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other parts, except that it differs in a shape of a door liner and a shape of a second door. Therefore, only characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.
Referring to FIG. 20, a surface facing the second space 124 in a second door 1440 according to a fifth embodiment may be formed in a flat shape.
By a shape of the second door 1440, the second ice maker 500 may not be received in the second door 1440, but may be disposed outside the second door 1440.
The second door 1440 may be provided with a gasket 1450. The gasket 1450 may be formed in a closed loop shape. The second ice maker 500 may be disposed outside an area formed by the gasket 1450.
For example, an ice making cell 501 formed by the first tray 510 and the second tray 550 may be spaced apart from a vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1450. That is, a vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1450 may be disposed outside the ice making cell 501. The first tray 510 and the above second tray 550 may be spaced apart from a vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1450.
A vertical center line Y1 of the ice making cell 501 may be positioned closer to the second door 1440 than the rear wall 124c.
A horizontal distance between a vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1450 and a vertical center line Y1 of the ice making cell 501 may be greater than a radius of the ice making cell 501.
A horizontal distance between a vertical line Y2 passing through the gasket 1450 and a vertical center line Y1 of the ice making cell 501 may be greater than a thickness of the second door 1440.
A horizontal center line X1 of the ice making cell 501 may be positioned lower than a through hole 802 of the ice guide 800.
A vertical line Y3 passing through a rotation center C1 of the second tray 550 may be positioned closer to the rear wall 124c than a vertical center line Y1 of the ice-making cell 501.

Claims

A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet having a storage space;

a refrigerator door configured to open and close the storage space;

a dispenser provided on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice;

an ice making chamber disposed at a rear side of the dispenser;

an ice maker provided in the ice making chamber; and

an ice making chamber door to cover the ice making chamber.
The refrigerator of claim 1,
wherein the ice making chamber door includes:
a main door to cover at least a portion of the ice making chamber; and

a sub door movable with respect to the main door and to open and close a portion of the ice making chamber.
The refrigerator of claim 2,
wherein the main door includes a door opening, and the sub door is configured to open and close the door opening.
The refrigerator of claim 3,
wherein the main door is provided with a door receiving portion having a recessed shape,

the door opening is formed in the door receiving portion, and

the sub door is disposed in the door receiving portion in a state in which the sub door closes the door opening.
The refrigerator of claim 3,
wherein the sub door includes a door protrusion inserted into the door opening in a state in which the sub door closes the door opening.
The refrigerator of claim 3,
further comprising an ice bin to store ice generated by the ice maker, and

wherein the ice bin is coupled to the sub door.
The refrigerator of claim 6,
wherein when the sub door is moved in one direction, the ice bin is withdrawn from the ice making chamber through the door opening, and

when the sub door is moved in another direction, the ice bin is received in the ice making chamber through the door opening.
The refrigerator of claim 2,
wherein a left-right length of the main door is greater than a left-right length of the second space, and

a vertical length of the main door is greater than a vertical length of the second space.
The refrigerator of claim 2,
wherein the sub door is rotatably connected to the main door by a hinge, and

the sub door further includes a locking portion to allow the sub door to be coupled to the main door or the refrigerator door.
The refrigerator of claim 9,
wherein the locking portion includes a lever rotatably connected to the sub door, and

the main door or the refrigerator door may include a hooking protrusion coupled to the lever.
The refrigerator of claim 10,
wherein the sub door includes a receiving portion having a recessed shape on which the lever is disposed, or

the sub door includes a gripping portion rotatably connected to the lever, and a seating groove on which the gripping portion is seated.
The refrigerator of claim 2,
wherein the main door includes a recessed portion to receive a portion of the ice maker.
The refrigerator of claim 2,
wherein the refrigerator door includes a dike formed in a protruding shape to form a portion of the ice making chamber,

the main door includes a recessed portion to form another portion of the ice making chamber, and

a length of the main door in a front-back direction is greater than a protruding length of the dike.
The refrigerator of claim 1,
wherein the ice making chamber door further includes a gasket in contact with the refrigerator door, and an ice bin provided in the ice making chamber to store ice generated by the ice maker,

wherein the ice maker includes an ice making cell in which ice is generated,

wherein a vertical line passing through the gasket passes through the ice maker, or

the vertical line passing through the gasket passes through the ice making cell, or

the vertical line passing through the gasket passes through the ice bin.
The refrigerator of claim 1,
further comprising an ice bin provided in the ice making chamber to store ice generated by the ice maker,

wherein the ice making chamber door includes a recessed portion to receive at least one of the ice maker or the ice bin.
The refrigerator of claim 15,
wherein the ice maker includes an ice making cell in which ice is generated, and

a horizontal center line of the ice making cell passes through the recessed portion.
The refrigerator of claim 1,
wherein the ice making chamber door include a gasket in contact with the refrigerator,

the ice maker includes an ice making cell in which ice is generated, and

a horizontal distance between a vertical line passing through the gasket and a vertical center line of the ice making cell is less than a radius of the ice making cell.
The refrigerator of claim 1,
further comprising a vacuum insulator disposed between the dispenser and the ice making chamber,

wherein the ice maker includes an ice making cell in which ice is generated, and

a horizontal center line of the ice making cell pass through the vacuum insulator.
A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet to form a storage space;

a door configured to open and close the storage space;

a dispenser provided in the door to discharge water or ice;

a first space in which ice is generated and formed in the door, at least a portion of the first space being disposed at an upper side of dispenser;

a second space in which ice is generated and formed on the door, and at least a portion of the second space being disposed at a lower side of the first space;

a space door to open and close the second space;

a first ice maker disposed in the first space and having a first ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated; and

a second ice maker disposed in the second space and having a second ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated,

wherein a type of ice generated in the first space is different from a type of ice generated in the second space, and

ice generated in the first space is discharged through the dispenser and ice generated in the second space is discharged by opening of the space door.
A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet to form a storage space;

a door configured to open and close the storage space;

a first space in which ice is generated and formed in the door;

a second space in which ice is generated and formed on the door, the second space being disposed at a different position from the first space;

a first ice maker disposed in the first space and having a first ray to provide a first ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated; and

a second ice maker disposed in the second space and having a second tray to provide a second ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated;

a first component provided in the door and provided to discharge ice from the first space; and

a second component provided in the door and provided to discharge ice from the second space,

wherein at least a portion of first component is different or separate from the second component.