EP4647694A1 - Kühlschrank - Google Patents

Kühlschrank

Info

Publication number
EP4647694A1
EP4647694A1 EP23916442.9A EP23916442A EP4647694A1 EP 4647694 A1 EP4647694 A1 EP 4647694A1 EP 23916442 A EP23916442 A EP 23916442A EP 4647694 A1 EP4647694 A1 EP 4647694A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ice
pusher
row
tray
column
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP23916442.9A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP4647694A4 (de
Inventor
Chongyoung PARK
Donghoon Lee
Bongjin Kim
Wookyong Lee
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LG Electronics Inc
Original Assignee
LG Electronics Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from KR1020230004914A external-priority patent/KR20240113021A/ko
Priority claimed from KR1020230131004A external-priority patent/KR20250046932A/ko
Application filed by LG Electronics Inc filed Critical LG Electronics Inc
Publication of EP4647694A1 publication Critical patent/EP4647694A1/de
Publication of EP4647694A4 publication Critical patent/EP4647694A4/de
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C1/00—Producing ice
    • F25C1/04—Producing ice by using stationary moulds
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00—General constructional features
    • F25D23/02—Doors; Covers
    • F25D23/025—Secondary closures
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00—General constructional features
    • F25D23/02—Doors; Covers
    • F25D23/04—Doors; Covers with special compartments, e.g. butter conditioners

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.
  • 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.
  • an ice maker to make ice is provided in a freezing chamber of a refrigerator.
  • the ice maker receives water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and cools the water to make ice.
  • the ice generated in the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin. Ice stored in the ice bin can be taken out of the ice bin by a user opening a freezing chamber door and approaching the ice bin.
  • a refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as "first prior art document”.
  • a refrigerator of a first prior art document includes a storage chamber where food is stored; a first tray assembly provided in the storage chamber and forming a part of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by cold; and a second tray assembly forming another part of the ice making cell.
  • spherical ice can be generated using the first and second tray assemblies, but there is a disadvantage in that a user must open a door to use the ice.
  • the ice maker includes an elastic mold that forms a cavity and is formed of an elastic material, a heat exchanger that is connected to the elastic mold and freezes water in the cavity, an elevating mechanism that easily discharges the ice from the cavity, and a driving mechanism that drives the elevating mechanism.
  • the driving mechanism includes a motor and a rotating cam.
  • One embodiment provides a refrigerator in which ice may be smoothly separated from each of a plurality of ice making cells.
  • one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of increasing a number of generated ices during one ice making process.
  • one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of generating spherical ice from a door.
  • one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of easily discharging generated ice from a dispenser of a door.
  • a refrigerator may include an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated.
  • the refrigerator may further include a cooler.
  • the cooler may be supply cold or operable to supply cold to the ice making chamber.
  • the refrigerator may further include an ice maker.
  • the ice maker may be disposed in the ice making chamber.
  • the ice making chamber may be provided in a cabinet or in a door.
  • An ice maker of one aspect may include a first tray assembly.
  • the first tray assembly may define a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by cold.
  • the ice maker may further include a second tray assembly.
  • the second tray assembly may define another portion of the ice making cell.
  • the first tray assembly may include a first tray.
  • the second tray assembly may include a second tray.
  • the ice maker may further include a pusher to separate ice from the first tray.
  • the ice making cells may be arranged in a plurality of rows.
  • the pusher may include a first column.
  • the pusher may include a second column.
  • the pusher may include a first column in a first row for separating ice in a first row of the plurality of rows, and a second column in a second row for separating ice in a second row of the plurality of rows.
  • the first column may be arranged to face between the plurality of second columns.
  • the pusher may include a plurality of first columns in a first row.
  • the pusher may include a plurality of second columns in a second row.
  • a number of the plurality of first columns may be less than a number of the plurality of second columns.
  • the refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber door that opens and closes the ice making chamber.
  • the second row may be arranged between the first row and the ice making chamber door.
  • a distance between two adjacent first columns among the plurality of first columns may be different from a distance between two other adjacent first columns.
  • a distance between two adjacent second columns among the plurality of second columns may be different from a distance between two other adjacent second columns.
  • the pusher may further include a pusher body connected to the first column and the second column so that the first column and the second column are spaced apart from each other.
  • the first column may be disposed at one side of the pusher body, and the second column may be disposed at another side of the pusher body.
  • the pusher body may be provided with a connection portion to which a pusher link is connected.
  • the pusher body may include a first portion provided with the first column.
  • the pusher body may include a second portion provided with the second column.
  • the pusher body may further include a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion so that the first portion and the second portion are spaced apart from each other.
  • the third portion may include a connection portion to which a pusher link is connected.
  • the pusher may be divided into a pusher of a first row having a first column of a first row for separating ice of a first row among a plurality of rows, and a pusher of a second row having a second column of a second row for separating ice of a second row among the plurality of rows.
  • the first pusher of the first row may be connected to a first pusher link
  • the second pusher of the second row may be connected to a second pusher link.
  • At least one of the plurality of first columns may include a hole or groove extending in a direction of movement of the pusher.
  • At least one of the plurality of second columns may include a hole or groove extending in a direction of movement of the pusher.
  • An inner surface of the hole or groove may include a portion having a constant diameter or a portion having a decreasing diameter as being closer to the ice making cell.
  • the pusher body may include a first surface and a second surface facing the first surface.
  • a first groove recessed toward the second surface may be formed on the first surface, or a second groove recessed toward the first surface may be formed on the second surface, or a first groove recessed toward the second surface may be formed on the first surface and a second groove recessed toward the first surface may be formed on the second surface.
  • the pusher body may include an extension body extending from the pusher body, and a connection portion extending from the extension body.
  • a first length of the extension body in a movement direction of the pusher may be greater than a second length of the extension body in a direction crossing the movement direction of the pusher.
  • a diameter of the connection portion may be equal to or less than a second length of the extension body.
  • Each of the first column and the second column may include a first edge for pressing ice and a second edge positioned opposite the first edge. At least one of the second edge of the first column or the second edge of the second column may include an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the ice making cell as going outward.
  • the first tray assembly may further include a first tray cover that forms a cooling passage together with the first tray for a flow of cold.
  • the first tray cover may include a first portion having a communication hole communicating with the ice making cell. At a water supply position or an ice making position, at least one of the first edge of the first column or the first edge of the second column may be positioned farther from the ice making cell than the first portion.
  • the first tray cover may further include a second portion extending in a direction away from the ice making cell from the first portion.
  • the second portion may be arranged to overlap the first column and the second column in an arrangement direction of the first column and the second column.
  • At a water supply position or an ice making position at least one of the second edge of the first column or the second edge of the second column may be positioned farther from the ice making cell than the second portion.
  • a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space.
  • the refrigerator may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space.
  • the refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber provided in the door.
  • the refrigerator may further include an ice maker provided in the ice making chamber and generating ice.
  • the refrigerator may further include an ice bin for storing ice generated by the ice maker.
  • the refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided in the door and for discharging ice stored in the ice bin.
  • the ice maker may include a first tray assembly having a first tray to define a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice.
  • the ice maker may further include a second tray assembly having a second tray to define another portion of the ice making cell.
  • the ice maker may further include the pusher described above.
  • ice can be smoothly separated from each of a plurality of ice making cells.
  • generated spherical ice can be easily discharged from a dispenser of a door.
  • component A and component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B. Additionally, at least one of component A or component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B.
  • component A or component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B.
  • FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated.
  • FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door
  • FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door.
  • a refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a cabinet 2.
  • the cabinet 2 may have a storage space.
  • the refrigerator 1 may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space. The door may be movably connected to the cabinet 2.
  • the storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 18.
  • the storage chamber may alternatively or additionally include a freezing chamber 19.
  • FIG. 1B illustrates that the storage space includes a refrigerating chamber 18 and a freezing chamber 19.
  • the door may include a refrigerating chamber door 5 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 18.
  • the refrigerating chamber 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating chamber doors 5.
  • the door may further include a freezing chamber door 30 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 19.
  • the freezing chamber 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing chamber doors 30.
  • the refrigerating chamber 18 is 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.
  • a dispenser 11 for discharging water and/or ice.
  • the freezing chamber door 30 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 200.
  • a refrigerator includes a plurality of ice makers
  • types of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different.
  • Sizes (or volumes) of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different.
  • a transparency of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different.
  • structures for generating ice and methods for separating generated ice may be the same or different.
  • an ice maker 200 is provided in the first refrigerating chamber door 10
  • an ice maker may also be provided in the second refrigerating chamber door 20 or the freezing chamber door 30.
  • the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be provided in the same door.
  • an additional ice maker may be provided in the refrigerating chamber 18 or the freezing chamber 19.
  • the refrigerator 1 is exemplarily illustrated as a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but it should 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.
  • a freezing chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser, or a refrigerating chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser.
  • the dispenser 11 may be positioned at a front side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. A portion of the dispenser 11 may be recessed rearward to provide a space in which a container may be positioned.
  • the dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the ice maker 200. At least a portion of the ice maker 200 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include an outer case 101.
  • the outer case 101 may form a front exterior of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a door liner 102.
  • the door liner 102 may be directly or indirectly connected to the outer case 101.
  • the door liner 102 may open and close the refrigerating chamber 18.
  • an insulating space may be formed between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102.
  • An insulator may be provided in the insulating space.
  • the insulator may be formed by hardening a foaming agent injected from an outside.
  • a vacuum insulator may be provided in the insulating space. It is also possible for the insulator and the vacuum insulator to be provided together in the insulating space.
  • the refrigerator 1 may include an ice making chamber 122 that provides a space where ice is generated.
  • the ice making chamber 122 may be provided, for example, in the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
  • the ice maker 200 may be disposed in the ice making chamber 122.
  • the door liner 102 may form the ice making chamber 122.
  • the ice making chamber 122 may be formed as one surface of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice bin 600 in which ice generated in the ice maker 200 is stored. Ice stored in the ice bin 600 may be discharged to the dispenser 11. The ice bin 600 may be received in the ice making chamber 122 together with the ice maker 200. The ice bin 600 may be disposed below the ice maker 200.
  • Cold generated in a cooler 110 may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122. That is, a cooler 110 may be configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122. Alternatively, the cooler 110 may be a component configured to operate to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122.
  • the cooler 110 may be configured to cool the ice making chamber 122, 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 ice making chamber 122.
  • the refrigerator 1 may further 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 include a discharge passage 2b that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 to the freezing chamber 19 or a 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.
  • 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.
  • the ice maker 200 may form ice having a spherical shape.
  • the "spherical shape” mentioned in this specification means not only a geometrically spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape.
  • 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 the front-back direction.
  • a width of the second side portion 102b may be formed to be greater than a width of the first side portion 102a.
  • At least one of the cold air inlet 123a or the cold air outlet 123b may be formed in the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102.
  • the second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber 18 than the first side portion 102a.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice making chamber door 130 that opens and closes the ice making chamber 122.
  • the ice making chamber door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulator provided therein.
  • the ice making chamber door 130 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge.
  • a basket 136 (a first basket) capable of storing food, may be connected to the ice making chamber door 130.
  • a basket 137 (a second basket) may also be provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
  • the second basket 137 may be positioned below the first basket 136.
  • a length of the second basket 137 in a front-back direction may be less than a length of the first basket 136 in a front-back direction.
  • the second basket 137 may overlap the dispenser 11 in a front-back direction.
  • a component space 123 for receiving a component may be formed in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. At least one of a valve 750 for controlling the flow of water, a filter (not shown) for purifying water, or a water tank 700 for storing water may be received in the component space 123.
  • the component space 123 may be formed by the door liner 102. Alternatively, the component space 123 may be formed by a separate wall connected to the door liner 102.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cover member 132 that covers the component space 123.
  • a holder 125 to which the filter is coupled may be provided in the component space 123.
  • the cover member 132 may include an opening 133.
  • the filter may be coupled to the holder 125 through the opening 133.
  • the second basket 137 may cover the opening 133. When the second basket 137 is separated, the opening 133 may be exposed.
  • the holder 125 may be exposed to the opening 133.
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Fig. 2A .
  • the dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a.
  • the dispenser housing 11a may form a space 11b.
  • a container such as a cup may be positioned in the space 11b. Water or ice may be discharged into the space 11b.
  • At least a portion of the dispenser housing 11a may be arranged to overlap the component space 123 in a front-back direction.
  • a minimum horizontal distance between a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 (or the outer case 101) and a component space 123 may be greater than a minimum horizontal distance between a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 (or the outer case 101) and the ice making chamber 122. At least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 may overlap the component space 123 in a vertical direction.
  • the ice maker 200 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction.
  • the ice bin 600 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction.
  • the ice maker 200 may include a second pusher 530.
  • the second pusher 530 may overlap the ice bin 600 in a vertical direction.
  • the second pusher 530 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction.
  • the ice bin 600 may include an ice discharging portion 630 that operates to discharge stored ice.
  • the ice discharging portion 630 may include, for example, a rotating member that rotates.
  • An ice chute 800 may be arranged at a lower side of the ice making chamber 122.
  • the ice chute 800 may be opened and closed by a cap duct 820.
  • An ice guide 840 may be positioned at a lower side of the ice chute 800.
  • the ice chute 800 may provide a path for ice to move.
  • the ice chute 800 may guide ice discharged from the ice bin 600 to the ice guide 840.
  • the ice guide 840 may guide ice to the space 11b.
  • the ice chute 800 may overlap at least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the ice chute 800 may overlap the ice maker 200 in a vertical direction.
  • the second pusher 530 may overlap the ice chute 800 in the vertical direction.
  • the second pusher 530 may overlap the cap duct 820 in a vertical direction.
  • the second pusher 530 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510.
  • the second pusher 530 may be positioned closer to the outer case 101 than the first pusher 510.
  • a horizontal distance between the second pusher 530 and a front surface of the outer case 101 may be less than a horizontal distance between a path formed by the ice chute 800 and a front surface of the outer case 101.
  • the first pusher 510 may overlap the ice discharging portion 630 in a vertical direction.
  • the first pusher 510 may overlap the ice chute 800 in a vertical direction.
  • the first pusher 510 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.
  • the ice maker 200 may overlap the water tank 700 in a vertical direction.
  • FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner of a first embodiment
  • Fig. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner of a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion of a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct of a first embodiment.
  • the door liner 102 may include an ice making chamber wall 140 forming the ice making chamber 122.
  • the door liner 102 may further include a peripheral wall 102c.
  • the peripheral wall 102c may be spaced apart from the ice making chamber wall 140 at an outer side of the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air duct 900.
  • the cold air duct 900 may guide cold air introduced through the cold air inlet 123a to the ice making chamber 122.
  • the cold air duct 900 may guide cold air of the ice making chamber 122 to the cold air outlet 123b.
  • the cold air duct 900 may include a first duct 910 forming a first passage.
  • the first passage may communicate the cold air inlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122.
  • the cold air duct 900 may further include a second duct 920.
  • the second duct 920 may form the first passage together with the first duct 910.
  • a portion of the first duct 910 may be aligned with the cold air inlet 123a.
  • a portion of the second duct 920 may be in contact with the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • a first through hole 140a may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the first through hole 140a is a supply through hole through which cold air is supplied to the ice making chamber 122.
  • a portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the first through hole 140a.
  • One surface of the second duct 920 may form the first passage.
  • the cold air duct 900 may further include a third duct 930.
  • the third duct 930 may form a second passage.
  • the second passage may communicate the cold air outlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122.
  • the third duct 930 may form the second passage together with the second duct 920.
  • another surface of the second duct 920 may form the second passage.
  • a second through hole 140b may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the second through hole 140b is a discharge through hole through which cold air is discharged from the ice making chamber 122.
  • the second through hole 140b may be located below the first through hole 140a.
  • Another portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the cold air outlet 123b.
  • a portion of the third duct 930 may be aligned with the second through hole 140b.
  • the cold air duct 900 may be omitted.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may include a front wall 141.
  • the front wall 141 may be a wall facing the outer case 101.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a first side wall 143.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a second side wall 144 positioned opposite the first side wall 143.
  • the cold air duct 900 may be positioned between the second side wall 144 and the peripheral wall 102c.
  • the first through hole 140a and the second through hole 140b may be formed in the second side wall 144.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may further include an upper wall 142.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a lower wall 148.
  • the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a supporting portion 150 on which the ice maker 200 is installed.
  • the supporting portion 150 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • a portion or all of the supporting portion 150 may be integrally formed with the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the supporting portion 150 may be omitted and the ice maker 200 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. In either case, the ice maker 200 may be described as being supported on the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the supporting portion 150 may include a first member 152.
  • the first member 152 may extend in a vertical direction.
  • the ice maker 200 may be installed on the first member 152.
  • the first member 152 may include a mounting portion 155.
  • the mounting portion 155 may be disposed at an upper portion of the first member 152.
  • the first member 152 may be provided with a slot 154 through which a portion of the ice maker 200 passes.
  • a motor assembly for driving an ice discharging portion 630 of the ice bin 600 may be mounted on the first member 152.
  • the supporting portion 150 may further include a second member 153.
  • the second member 153 may extend in a horizontal direction from the first member 152.
  • the ice bin 600 may be seated on the second member 153.
  • An ice through hole 153a through which ice passes may be formed in the second member 153.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a bracket 220 supported by the supporting portion 150 or supported by the ice making chamber wall 140. When the ice maker 200 is directly supported by the ice making chamber wall 140, the ice maker 200 may be supported by the front wall 141.
  • FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of a first embodiment
  • FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of an ice maker according to a first embodiment.
  • the ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly 201.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may form a portion of an ice making cell 203.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a second tray assembly 202.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may form another portion of the ice making cell 203.
  • the ice making cell 203 is a space where water is phase-changed by cold.
  • a driver 480 may be mounted on one side of the bracket 220.
  • the driver 480 may provide driving force to the second tray assembly 202.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may be installed on the bracket 220.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move relative to the first tray assembly 201.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move linearly, curvedly, or rotationally.
  • the driver 480 may include a motor housing 481.
  • the driver 480 may further include a motor received in the motor housing 481 and a power transfer portion.
  • a coupling portion 482 may be formed at an upper side of the motor housing 481.
  • the coupling portion 482 may be coupled to the bracket 220 by a coupling member.
  • the driver 480 may be positioned adjacent to the first side wall 143. That is, the driver 480 may be positioned opposite a first through hole (inlet through hole) 140a through which cold air is introduced.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550 for detecting a full ice of the ice bin 600.
  • a full ice detection lever 550 for detecting a full ice of the ice bin 600.
  • One end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the driver 480.
  • Another end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the bracket 220.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may be provided with a recess formed at a position corresponding to the driver 480.
  • the recess may include a first recess 145a formed in the first side wall 143.
  • the recess may further include a second recess 145b formed in the front wall 141.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a third recess 145c in which a portion of the supporting portion 150 is positioned.
  • the third recess 145c may be formed in the front wall 141.
  • the third recess 145c may be connected to the second recess 145b.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a cold guide.
  • the cold guide may provide a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203.
  • the cold guide may be provided outside the ice making cell 203.
  • the cold guide may include, for example, a cold air guide 270. Accordingly, all configurations described in the cold air guide may be understood as configurations of the cold guide.
  • a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203 may be formed by the cold air guide, the first tray, and the first tray cover. Accordingly, at least a portion of each of the cold guide, the first tray and the first tray cover may serve as the cold guide.
  • the cold air guide 270 may be adjacent to or in contact with the second side wall 144.
  • the cold air guide 270 may be a separate component from the first tray case described below or may be a portion of the first tray case.
  • the driver 480 may be located at an opposite side of the second side wall 144 or the cold air guide 270 with respect to the ice maker 200.
  • the ice making chamber wall 140 may have slots 146, 147 formed therein through which a water pipe through which water flows and one or more connectors (or wire) for connection with the ice maker 200 pass.
  • the slots 146, 147 may be formed in the front wall 141.
  • a portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the first tray assembly 201. Another portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the second tray assembly 202. In a state in which an ice making is completed, a portion of ice may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. In a state in which an ice making is completed, another portion of ice may be in contact with the second tray assembly 202.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray 320.
  • the first tray 320 may form a portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray case.
  • the first tray case may include a portion that is in contact with the first tray or that is supported by the first tray.
  • the first tray case may further include a first tray cover 300.
  • the first tray cover 300 may be coupled to the first tray 320.
  • the first tray cover 300 may be disposed at one side of the first tray 320.
  • the first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220.
  • the first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220 in a state in which the first tray cover 300 is coupled to one side of the first tray 320.
  • the first tray 320 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a heater 330 to provide heat to the ice making cell 203.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may include the heater 330.
  • the heater 330 may operate at least in an ice separation process to provide heat to the first tray 320 after an ice making is completed.
  • the heater 330 may function as an ice separation heater.
  • the heater 330 may be in contact with the first tray 320.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may further include a heater cover 340 (or a heater case) that covers the heater 330.
  • the heater cover 340 may include a portion in contact with the heater 330 or supported by the heater 330.
  • the heater cover 340 may be a separate component from the first tray cover 300 or may be integrally formed with the first tray cover 300.
  • the heater cover 340 may press the heater 330 toward the first tray 320.
  • the heater cover 340 may be positioned between the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300.
  • the heater cover 340 may be positioned at an upper side of a portion of the first tray 320 and at a lower side of a portion of the first tray cover 300.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may include a second tray 360.
  • the second tray 360 may form another portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.
  • At least a portion of the second tray 360 may be formed of a deformable material so that ice may be easily separated.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may further include a second tray case.
  • the second tray case may be in contact with the second tray 360.
  • the second tray case may include a second tray cover 350. A portion of the second tray cover 350 may be positioned closer to the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360.
  • the second tray case may further include a second tray supporter 380. A portion of the second tray supporter 380 may be positioned farther way from the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a water supply 240 for supplying water to the ice making cell.
  • the water supply 240 may supply water to some of a plurality of ice making cells.
  • the water supply 240 may be installed on the bracket 220.
  • the water supply 240 may be provided with a slot 242 through which a water pipe passes.
  • the water supply 240 may include a through hole 241 through which water is discharged.
  • the cold air guide 270 may be installed on, for example, the bracket 220, the first tray 320, or the first tray cover 300.
  • the cold air guide 270 may guide cold air to the ice making cell 203.
  • the cold air guide 270 may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201.
  • the cold guide 270 may be in contact with one or more of the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300.
  • a portion of the cold air guide 270 may be positioned at an opposite side of the driver 480 with respect to the first tray assembly 201. Cold air guided by the cold air guide 270 may flow in a direction close to the driver 480.
  • the driver 480 may be prevented from acting as a flow resistance of cold air by an arrangement of the driver 480.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a temperature sensor 710 for detecting a temperature of water or ice in an ice making cell.
  • the temperature sensor 710 may detect a temperature of the first tray 320.
  • the temperature sensor 710 may be seated on the first tray 320.
  • the temperature sensor 710 may be covered by an insulator 720.
  • the insulator 720 may prevent cold air from directly contacting the temperature sensor 710.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a transfer portion 420, 421 for transmitting a power of the driver 480.
  • a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the second tray assembly 202 by a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421.
  • a first transfer portion 420 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be connected to the driver 480.
  • the first transfer portion 420 may be coupled to one side of the second tray supporter 380.
  • a second transfer portion 421 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be coupled to another side of the second tray supporter 380.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a shaft 410 coupled to each of the plurality of transfer portions 420 and 421.
  • the first transfer portion 420 may be movably supported by one side of the first tray 320.
  • the second transfer portion 421 may be movably supported by another side of the first tray 320.
  • a material of the transfer portions 420, 421 is different from a material of the first tray 320.
  • the transfer portions 420, 421 may be, for example, a plastic injection molded product.
  • an intermediate member 416 may be coupled to one of the transfer portions 420, 421 and the first tray 320.
  • the intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the first tray 320.
  • the transfer portions 420, 421 may pass through the intermediate member 416 and be in contact with the intermediate member 416.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510 to press ice or a first tray assembly 201 in an ice separation process.
  • the first pusher 510 may push ice so that ice is separated from the first tray 320.
  • the first pusher 510 may pass through the first tray cover 300 to push ice, for example.
  • the first pusher 510 may push ice by passing through the first tray 320.
  • the first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480.
  • the first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480 transmitted to the second tray assembly 202.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a pusher link 440.
  • a plurality of pusher links 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510.
  • One side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510, and another side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202.
  • the other side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray supporter 380.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include an elastic member 460.
  • One end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the transfer portion 420, 421, and another end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202.
  • a position of the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be moved to an initial position by a restoring force.
  • the elastic member 460 may increase an adhesion force between the first tray assembly 201 and the second tray assembly 202 at an ice making position.
  • the other end of the elastic member 460 may be coupled to the second tray supporter 380.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a second pusher 530 to press ice or the second tray assembly 202 in an ice separation process.
  • the second pusher 530 may be installed on the bracket 220, for example. If the bracket 220 is omitted, the second pusher 530 may be installed on the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may include a lever body 552 extending in one direction.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may further include a first extension 553 extending from one end of the lever body 552.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may further include a second extension 554 extending from another end of the lever body 552.
  • the first extension 553 may be connected to the driver 480.
  • the second extension 554 may be connected to the bracket 220.
  • the driver 480 may include an extension rib 484 for insertion into or passing through the bracket 220.
  • a plurality of extension ribs 484 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal or vertical direction.
  • the extension ribs 484 may protrude from the motor housing 481.
  • FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a cold air guide as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a cold air guide as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.
  • the cold air guide 270 may include a first opening 272 (or a cold air inlet).
  • the first opening 272 may provide a path for cold air, which is an example of cold, to flow into an inside of a space defined by the cold air guide 270.
  • the cold air guide 270 may further include a second opening 278 (or a cold air outlet).
  • the second opening 278 may provide a path for the cold air to be discharged from an inside of a space defined by the cold air guide 270 to an outside.
  • the cold air guide 270 may include a first guide 271 to form the first opening 272.
  • the cold air guide 270 may further include a second guide 275 to form the second opening 278.
  • the second guide 275 may extend from the first guide 271.
  • the first guide 271 and the second guide 275 may define a cold air passage 270a, which is a path through which cold air flows.
  • the first guide 271 may further include a rounded wall 274.
  • the rounded wall 274 may be formed to be convex upward, for example. Interference between the second transfer portion 421 and the first guide 271 may be prevented by the round wall 274.
  • the cold air guide 270 may include a guide wall that provides one side of a space or cold air passage 270a defined by the cold air guide 270.
  • the guide wall may include a first guide wall 275a.
  • the first guide wall 275a may provide a first surface of the cold air passage 270a.
  • the first surface may be a portion of an upper surface of the cold air guide 275.
  • the guide wall may further include a second guide wall 276.
  • the second guide wall 276 may extend from the first guide wall 275a.
  • the second guide wall 276 may provide a second surface of the cold air passage 270a.
  • the second surface may define a first side surface of the cold air passage 270a.
  • the second surface may form a first corner portion of the cold air guide 270 together with the first surface.
  • the guide wall may further include a third guide wall 277.
  • the third guide wall 277 may extend from the first guide wall 275a.
  • the third guide wall 277 may provide a third surface of the cold air passage 270a.
  • the third surface may define a second side surface of the cold air passage 270a.
  • the third surface may form a second corner portion of the cold air guide 270 together with the first surface.
  • the second guide 275 may include the first to third guide walls 275a, 276, 277.
  • the first guide wall 275a may include a first inclined surface 275b.
  • the first inclined surface 275b may be inclined in a direction closer to the second opening 278.
  • the first inclined surface 275b may be inclined downward as being away from the first guide 271.
  • the first guide wall 275a may further include a second inclined surface 275c.
  • An inclination direction of the second inclined surface 275c may be different from an inclination direction of the first inclined surface 275b.
  • the second inclined surface 275c may be inclined in a direction closer to the second opening 278.
  • the second inclined surface 275c may be inclined downward as being away from the second guide wall 276.
  • the second opening 278 may be formed in the first guide wall 275a or the third guide wall 277.
  • the cold guide 270 may further include a bracket coupling portion 273a coupled to the bracket 220.
  • the bracket coupling portion 273a may be formed on the first guide 271 or the second guide 275.
  • the bracket coupling portion 273a may be formed at a connection portion between the first guide 271 and the second guide 275.
  • the cold guide 270 may further include a protrusion 273b coupled to the bracket 200.
  • the protrusion 273b may be formed on the second guide 275, for example.
  • the cold guide 270 may further include a recess 276c on which a portion of the water supply 240 is disposed.
  • the recess 276c may be formed in the second guide 275, for example.
  • FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 15 is a plan view of a first tray according to a first embodiment.
  • the first tray 320 may define a first cell 321, which is a portion of the ice making cell 203.
  • the first tray 320 may include a first cell wall 322 to form the first cell 321.
  • the first cell 321 may be formed in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere, for example.
  • the first tray 320 may include a first contact surface 322a in contact with the second tray 360.
  • the first contact surface 322a may be one surface of the first cell wall 322.
  • the first tray 320 may form, for example, a plurality of first cells 321.
  • a plurality of first cells 321 may be arranged in a plurality of rows so as to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of ices.
  • the plurality of first cells 321 may include a first cell portion 321a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 321b arranged in a second row.
  • the first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing.
  • the Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door.
  • the first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 321a.
  • the second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 321b.
  • the first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row.
  • the second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.
  • a number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a may be the same as or different from a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b.
  • a number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a may be less than a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b.
  • One first cell portion 321a may be arranged to correspond to an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b.
  • one first cell portion 321a may be arranged to face an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. That is, a first cell portion 321a and a second cell portion 321b may be arranged in a zigzag shape.
  • the first tray 320 may further include through holes 323a, 323b that provide a path for water or cold air.
  • the through holes 323a, 323b may be provided in the same number as a number of the plurality of first cells 321.
  • the first tray 320 may further include an auxiliary storage chamber 323d.
  • the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may allow water or cold air to pass through.
  • the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be disposed at an upper side of the through holes 323a, 323b.
  • the first tray 320 may further include an extension wall 323c.
  • the extension wall 323c may extend upward from a periphery of the through holes 323a, 323b to form the auxiliary storage chamber 323d.
  • the extension wall 323c may extend from the first cell wall 322.
  • the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a space where ice is generated. Alternatively, the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a portion of an ice making cell 203.
  • an upper end of ice may be located in the through hole 323a, 323b or adjacent to the through hole 323a, 323b. Accordingly, generated ice may have a spherical shape or a shape that is almost spherical.
  • the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store water supplied in excess to the ice making cell 203.
  • the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store ice that expands in a process of supplied water being phase-changed.
  • the first tray 320 may further include an extension 324.
  • the extension 324 may include a portion extending from the first cell wall 322.
  • the extension 324 may be in contact with guide walls 275a, 276, 277, which provide one surface of a space defined by the cold air guide 270, or may support the guide walls 275a, 276, 277.
  • the extension 324 may include a portion spaced apart from the guide walls 275a, 276, 277, so that the cold air passage 270a may be positioned in a space between the extension 324 and the guide walls 275a, 276, 277.
  • a space defined by the cold guide may be formed by a first surface (for example, a lower surface, an upper surface or a horizontal surface) and a second surface (for example, a side surface or a vertical surface) forming a corner portion together with the first surface.
  • a first surface for example, a lower surface, an upper surface or a horizontal surface
  • a second surface for example, a side surface or a vertical surface
  • the extension 324 may provide at least a portion of the first surface.
  • the guide walls 275a, 276, and 277 may provide the second surface.
  • the extension 324 may be in contact with the guide wall or be spaced apart from the guide wall at the corner portion.
  • the extension 324 may further include a first extension wall 324e providing at least a portion of the first surface, and a second extension wall 324d providing at least a portion of the second surface.
  • the second extension wall 324d may extend in a direction crossing the first extension wall 324e.
  • the first and second extension walls 324d, 324e may be in contact with the guide wall or be spaced apart from the guide wall at the corner portion.
  • the first tray 320 may further include one or more coupling parts to be coupled to the bracket 220.
  • the first tray 320 may include a first coupling part 324a.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a second coupling part 324b.
  • the bracket 220 is omitted, the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may be in contact with or be supported by the ice making chamber wall 140.
  • the extension 324 may include the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b.
  • the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may extend from one end of the first extension wall 324e in a direction away from the second tray 360.
  • the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction (a direction crossing a Y-axis, for example, a horizontal direction).
  • the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may include a coupling hole 324c.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a supporter 325 that supports a component for a movement of the second tray assembly 202.
  • a supporter 325 may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction.
  • the supporter 325 may extend in one direction from the extension 324.
  • the supporter 325 may extend in a direction opposite to an extension direction of the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b.
  • the supporter 325 may include a hole 325a.
  • the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be movably coupled to the supporter 325.
  • the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be rotatably coupled to the supporter 325.
  • the intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the hole 325a of the supporter 325, and a slot 325b into which a portion of the intermediate member 416 is inserted may be provided in the supporter 325 to prevent the intermediate member 416 from rotating with respect to the supporter 325.
  • the slot 325b may extend outwardly from the hole 325a.
  • the intermediate member 416 may be formed of a different material than the first tray 320.
  • An entirety of the first tray 320 may be formed of the same material, or at least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a bracket coupling portion 325c to be coupled to the bracket 220.
  • the bracket coupling portion 325c may protrude from the extension 324.
  • the bracket coupling portion 325c may be positioned between a plurality of supports 325.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a cover coupling portion 327 to be coupled to the first tray cover 300.
  • a cover coupling portion 327 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a left-right direction or a front-back direction.
  • the cover coupling portion 327 may protrude from the extension 324.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a sensor mounting portion 326 on which the temperature sensor 710 is mounted.
  • the sensor mounting portion 326 may be formed in a recessed shape toward the second tray 360.
  • the temperature sensor 710 may be received in the sensor mounting portion 326.
  • a portion of the sensor mounting portion 326 may be positioned between two adjacent first cell portions 321a. Another portion of the sensor mounting portion 326 may be positioned between two adjacent second cell portions 321b.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a receiving portion 326a for receiving an insulator seated on an upper side of the temperature sensor 710.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c.
  • the plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may include a first coupling boss 328a.
  • the heater cover 340 may be seated on the first coupling boss 328a.
  • the first coupling boss 328a may be coupled to a coupling member passing through the first tray cover 300 and the heater cover 340.
  • the first coupling boss 328a may protrude from the extension 324.
  • the plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may further include a second coupling boss 328b.
  • the first tray cover 300 may be seated on the second coupling boss 328b.
  • the second coupling boss 328b may be coupled to a coupling member that is coupled to the first tray cover 300.
  • the second coupling boss 328b may protrude from the first cell wall 322.
  • the plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may further include a third coupling boss 328c.
  • the third coupling boss 328c may be coupled to a coupling member passing through the first tray cover 300.
  • the third coupling boss 328c may protrude from the extension 324.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a heater seating portion 329 on which the heater 330 is seated.
  • the heater seating portion 329 may be formed, for example, by a portion of the first tray 320 being recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360.
  • the heater seating portion 329 may be formed in a shape that is recessed downward.
  • the heater seating portion 329 may be arranged to surround the plurality of first cell portions 321a and the plurality of second cell portions 321b.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a guide groove 329a for guiding a portion of the heater 330 disposed outside the heater seating portion 329.
  • the first tray 320 may further include a recess 329c recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360 from the extension 324 or the first cell wall 322.
  • the heater seating portion 329 may be formed by being recessed in the recess 329c.
  • the recess 329c may be omitted.
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.
  • the first tray cover 300 may include a first portion 301. At least a portion of the first portion 301 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, at least a portion of the first portion 301 may be positioned at an upper side of the first tray 320.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a second portion 302 extending from one side of the first portion 301.
  • the second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction crossing the first portion 301.
  • the second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction away from the first tray 320.
  • the second portion 302 may cover the first pusher 510 at an ice making position. The second portion 302 may minimize an exposure of the first pusher 510. The second portion 302 may be positioned between the first pusher 510 and the ice making chamber door 130. A hole 302a may be formed in the second portion 302. A coupling member may pass through the hole 302a.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a guide 303.
  • the guide 303 may extend from the first portion 301 and provide a movement path of the first pusher 510.
  • the guide 303 may extend in a direction crossing the first portion 301 from the first portion 301.
  • the guide 303 may include a guide slot 303a.
  • the guide 303 may extend from the second portion 302.
  • the guide 303 may be formed in the first tray 320.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a water supply hole 301a.
  • the water supply hole 301a may be aligned with a through hole 241 of the water supply 240.
  • the water supply hole 301a may be formed as a portion of the first portion 301 is recessed toward the second portion 302. Alternatively, the water supply hole 301a may be formed as a portion of the first portion 301 is cut.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a communication hole 301b aligned with the auxiliary storage chamber 323d (or a through hole 323a, 323b) of the first tray 320.
  • the water supply hole 301a and the communication hole 301b may be referred to as a cover opening.
  • a plurality of communication holes 301b may be formed in the first portion 301.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a first coupling hole 301d aligned with the first coupling boss 328a.
  • a coupling member may be coupled to the first coupling boss 328a by passing through the first coupling hole 301d and the heater cover 340.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a coupling portion 301e aligned with the second coupling boss 328b.
  • the coupling portion 301e may protrude from the first portion 301.
  • a coupling member may be coupled to the second coupling boss 328b by passing through the coupling portion 301e.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a second coupling hole 301f aligned with the third coupling boss 328c.
  • a coupling member may be coupled to the third coupling boss 328c by passing through the second coupling hole 301f.
  • the first portion 301 may further include a receiving groove 301g in which an extension wall 323c of the first tray 320 is received.
  • a rib 301c may be formed in a portion of the receiving groove 301g corresponding to the communication hole 301b.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a guide cover 304 in contact with a portion of the cold air guide 270.
  • the guide cover 304 may cover a portion of the cold air guide 270.
  • the guide cover 304 may be bent at the first portion 301.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a guide contact portion 304a in contact with the cold air guide 270.
  • the guide contact portion 304a may extend upward from the first portion 301.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a tray seating portion 305 seated on the first tray 320.
  • a tray seating portion 305 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first portion 301.
  • the tray seating portion 305 may extend downward from both ends of the first portion 301.
  • the first portion 301 may be spaced apart from a portion of the first tray 320 by the tray seating portion 305.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a tray coupling portion 306 to be coupled to the first tray 320.
  • the cover coupling portion 327 may be coupled to the tray coupling portion 306.
  • the cover coupling portion 327 may be inserted into the tray coupling portion 306.
  • the tray coupling portion 306 may extend from the first portion 301 or may extend from the tray seating portion 305.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a cover pressing portion 307 (or a first protrusion).
  • the cover pressing portion 307 may protrude from the first portion 301.
  • the cover pressing portion 307 may be in contact with the heater cover 340.
  • the cover pressing portion 307 may press the heater cover 340.
  • a plurality of cover pressing portions 307 may be arranged to be spaced apart in a front-back direction and a left-right direction.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a pressing protrusion 308 (or a second protrusion).
  • the pressing protrusion 380 may press the insulator 720.
  • a plurality of pressing protrusions 308 may protrude from the first portion 301.
  • the first tray cover 300 may further include a heater guide 309.
  • the heater guide 309 may be positioned adjacent to one tray seating portion of a plurality of tray seating portions 305.
  • the heater guide 309 may protrude from the first portion 301.
  • a portion of the heater 330 may be positioned between the heater guide 309 and the one tray seating portion 305.
  • FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a bracket as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 18B is a perspective view of a bracket according to the first embodiment as viewed from another side.
  • the bracket 220 may include a first portion 221.
  • the first tray assembly 201 may be in contact with the first portion 221 or supported by the first portion 221.
  • the first portion 221 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150.
  • the bracket 220 may further include a second portion 230 extending from the first portion 221.
  • the driver 480 may be coupled to the second portion 230.
  • the first portion 221 may include a first supporter 222a to support the water supply 240. A portion of the water supply 240 may be inserted into the first supporter 222a.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a first coupling portion 222b through which a coupling member coupled to the water supply 240 passes.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a second supporter 223a that supports the cold air guide 270.
  • a protrusion 273b of the cold air guide 270 may be inserted into the second supporter 223a.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a second coupling portion 223b through which a coupling member coupled to the cold air guide 270 passes.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a third supporter 224a that supports the first tray assembly 201.
  • the first tray 320 may be supported by the third supporter 224a.
  • the third supporter 224a may be provided on a first surface of the first portion 221.
  • a bracket coupling portion 325c of the first tray 320 may be inserted into the third supporter 224a.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a third coupling portion 224d, 224e through which a coupling member coupled to the first tray 320 passes.
  • a plurality of third coupling portions 224d, 224e may be arranged spaced apart in a horizontal or vertical direction.
  • the first portion 221 may further include guide ribs 224b, 224c that guide a position of the first tray 320 in a state in which the first tray 320 is supported by the third supporter 224a.
  • guide ribs 224b, 224c may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal or vertical direction.
  • a first guide rib 224b of the plurality of guide ribs 224b, 224c may be adjacent to or in contact with the first coupling part 324a.
  • a second guide rib 224c of the plurality of guide ribs 224b, 224c may be adjacent to or in contact with the second coupling part 324b.
  • the first portion 221 may include a first wall 221a. At least a portion of the first wall 221a may extend in a vertical direction.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a second wall 221b extending from a lower end of the first wall 221a.
  • the second wall 221b may be inclined from the first wall 221a.
  • the first portion 221 may further include a third wall 221c extending from the second wall 221b.
  • the third wall 221c may be divided into a part extending in a horizontal direction and a part extending in a vertical direction.
  • the second wall 221b may be omitted, and the third wall 221c may also extend from a lower side of the first wall 221a.
  • the second pusher 530 may be coupled to or supported by the first portion 221.
  • the second pusher 530 may be coupled to or supported by the third wall 221c.
  • the bracket 220 may further include a bracket extension 225 passing through a slot 154 of the supporting portion 150.
  • the bracket extension 225 may be formed on the first portion 221.
  • the bracket extension 225 may be provided on a second surface opposite to the first surface of the first wall 221.
  • the bracket 220 may further include a heater guide 226 that guides the heater 330.
  • the heater guide 226 may form a space 226a that receives the heater 330 therein by protruding a portion of the first portion 221.
  • the heater guide 226 may protrude from a second surface of the first wall 221.
  • the first portion 221 may include a hole 226b through which a portion of the heater 330 passes.
  • the hole 226a may be positioned adjacent to the second portion 230 in the first portion 221.
  • the second portion 230 may surround a portion of an outer surface of the driver 480.
  • the second portion 230 may include an opening 232 through which a component for connecting the driver 480 and the second tray assembly 202 passes.
  • the second portion 320 may be provided with a coupling protrusion 231c for coupling with the driver 480.
  • a rib 232 for reinforcing strength may be provided at a connection portion between the second portion 230 and the first portion 221.
  • a plurality of ribs 232 may be arranged in a vertical direction or a horizontal direction.
  • the ribs 232 may be formed on a second surface of the first wall 221a.
  • the second portion 230 may further include a rib receiving portion 231a and 231b that receives an extension rib 484 of the driver 480.
  • the bracket 220 may further include a lever coupling portion 228 to which a second extension 554 of the full ice detection lever 550 is coupled.
  • the lever coupling portion 228 may include a lever through hole 228a.
  • the lever coupling portion 228 may be disposed at an opposite side of the second portion 230 in the first portion 221.
  • the lever coupling portion 228 may include, for example, a first part 228c extending from the third wall 221c.
  • the lever coupling portion 228 may further include a second part 228d bent from the first part 228c.
  • the lever through hole 228a may be formed in the second part 228d.
  • FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a first pusher as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a first pusher as viewed from a lower side according to a present embodiment.
  • FIG. 21A is a plan view of a first pusher according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 21B is a front view of a first pusher according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 22A-22A of FIG. 21 A
  • FIG. 22B is a perspective view showing a connection portion of a first pusher according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 23A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23A-23A of FIG. 21A
  • FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23B-23B of FIG. 21A .
  • the first pusher 510 may include a pusher body 511.
  • the pusher body 511 may be formed to be elongated in an X-axis direction, for example.
  • the pusher 510 may include a plurality of columns 513 and 514.
  • the plurality of columns 513 and 514 may extend from the pusher body 511.
  • the plurality of columns 513 and 514 may extend in a Z-axis direction.
  • At least one of two opposing surfaces of the pusher body 511 may be formed with grooves 512a and 512b for reinforcing strength.
  • a first groove 512a may be formed on a first surface 511a of the pusher body 511.
  • the first groove 512a may be recessed from the first surface 511a toward a second surface 511b, which is an opposite surface of the first surface 511a.
  • a second groove 512b may be formed on the second surface 511b of the pusher body 511.
  • the second groove 512b may be recessed toward the first surface 511a.
  • One or more first grooves 512a may be formed on the first surface 511a.
  • One or more second grooves 512b may be formed on the second surface 511b.
  • the second surface 511b may be a surface facing the ice making cell 203.
  • the first surface 511a may be an opposite surface of the second surface 511b.
  • the second surface 511b may be a surface closer to the ice making cell 203 than the first surface 511a.
  • the first surface 511a may be an upper surface of the pusher body 511.
  • the second surface 511b may be a lower surface of the pusher body 511.
  • the first surface 511a may be a first side surface among both side surfaces of the pusher body 511.
  • the second surface 511b may be a second side surface among both side surfaces of the pusher body 511.
  • the plurality of columns 513, 514 may include a first column 513 arranged in a first row and a second column 514 arranged in a second row.
  • the first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing.
  • the first column 513 of the first row and the second column 514 of the second row are spaced apart from each other by the pusher body 511.
  • the first row may include a plurality of first columns 513.
  • the second row may include a plurality of second columns 514.
  • a length of the first column 513 may be the same as or different from a length of the second column 514.
  • one of the first column 513 and the second column 514 may press ice before another one of the first column 513 and the second column 514 presses ice.
  • a torque of the driver 480 transmitted to the first pusher 530 may be reduced.
  • the first row may be positioned closer to a front wall 141 or an outer case 101 than the second row.
  • the second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.
  • a number of the plurality of first columns 513 may be the same as or different from a number of the plurality of second columns 514.
  • a number of the plurality of first columns 513 may be less than a number of the plurality of second columns 514.
  • the first columns 513 may be positioned to correspond to an area between two adjacent second columns 514 or to face an area between two adjacent second columns 514. That is, the first columns 513 and the second columns 514 may be arranged in a zigzag shape.
  • a distance between a plurality of first columns 513 may be constant. Alternatively, a distance between two adjacent first columns 513 among the plurality of first columns 513 may be different from a distance between two other adjacent first columns 513.
  • a distance between a plurality of second columns 514 may be constant. Alternatively, a distance between two adjacent second columns 514 among the plurality of second columns 514 may be different from a distance between two other adjacent second columns 514.
  • At least one of a plurality of first columns 513 may include a first hole 513a.
  • the first hole 513a may be formed to pass through the first column 513.
  • the first hole 513a may extend in a longitudinal direction of the first column 513.
  • At least one of a plurality of second columns 514 may include a second hole 514a.
  • the second hole 514a may be formed to pass through the second column 514.
  • the second hole 514a may extend in a longitudinal direction of the second column 514.
  • a strength of the first column 513 and the second column 514 may be improved by the first and second holes 513a, 514a.
  • An outer surface of at least one of a plurality of first columns 513 may include a portion whose diameter decreases as being closer to the ice making cell 203.
  • An outer surface of at least one of a plurality of second columns 514 may include a portion whose diameter decreases as being closer to the icemaking cell 203.
  • an outer surface of at least one of a plurality of first columns 513 may include a portion having the same diameter in a Z-axis direction.
  • An outer surface of at least one of a plurality of second columns 514 may include a portion having the same diameter in a Z-axis direction.
  • An inner surface of at least one of a plurality of first columns 513 may include a portion whose diameter decreases as being closer to the ice making cell 203.
  • An inner surface of at least one of a plurality of second columns 514 may include a portion whose diameter decreases as being closer to the ice making cell 203.
  • the pusher body 511 may further include a plurality of extensions 515.
  • the plurality of extensions 515 may include a first extension 515a extending from one side of the pusher body 511.
  • the plurality of extensions 515 may include a second extension 515b extending from another side of the pusher body 511.
  • the first column 513 may be extended from the first extension 515a.
  • the second column 514 may be extended from the second extension 515b.
  • a direction in which the extension 515 is extended from the pusher body 511 and a direction in which each column 513, 514 is extended from the extension 515 may cross.
  • a length of the extension 515 from the pusher body 511 may be less than a length of each column 513, 514.
  • At least one of two side surfaces of the first extension 515a may include a rounded surface 515c.
  • At least one of two side surfaces of the second extension 515b may include a rounded surface 515d.
  • the rounded surfaces 515c, 515d may be positioned at a boundary portion between the first and second extensions 515a, 515b and the pusher body 511.
  • the first extension 515a may include a portion whose width decreases as being away from the pusher body 511.
  • the second extension 515b may include a portion whose width decreases as being away from the pusher body 511.
  • the pusher body 511 may further include an extension body 516 extending from both sides of the pusher body 511.
  • the extension body 516 may be positioned in the guide slot 303a.
  • a cross section of the extension body 516 may be formed non-circular.
  • a cross section of the extended body 516 may be formed into a rectangle or a square.
  • a height H (a length in a Z-axis direction or a first length in a movement direction of a first pusher) of the extension body 516 may be greater than a width W (a length in a Y-axis direction or a second length in a direction crossing a movement direction of a first pusher) of the extension body 516. Therefore, during a moving process of the first pusher 510, a movement of the first pusher 510 in a direction crossing a movement direction of the first pusher 510 may be reduced.
  • the pusher body 511 may further include a connection portion 517 extending from the extension body 516.
  • the connection portion 517 may be coupled to the pusher link 440.
  • the connection portion 517 may, for example, pass through the pusher link 440.
  • connection portion 517 may be formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape.
  • the extension body 516 may include a lower surface 516a (or a first surface), and an upper surface 516b (or a second surface).
  • the connection portion 517 may be positioned closer to the lower surface 516a than to the upper surface 516b.
  • a diameter D of the connection portion 517 may be equal to or less than a width W of the extension body 516.
  • a lower surface 516a of the extended body 516 may be positioned at the same height as a lower surface of the connection portion 517, or may be positioned lower than the connection portion 517, or may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the lower surface of the connection portion 517.
  • the extended body 516 may include a portion positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than a first surface 511a of the pusher body 511.
  • an upper surface 516b of the extended body 516 may be positioned lower than a first surface 511a of the pusher body 511, or may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than a first surface 511a of the pusher body 511.
  • the extension body 516 may include a portion positioned closer to the icemaking cell 203 than a second surface 511b of the pusher body 511.
  • a lower surface 516a of the extension body 516 may be positioned lower than a second surface 511b of the pusher body 511 or closer to the ice making cell 203 than a second surface 511b of the pusher body 511.
  • the first pusher 510 may further include a protrusion 518 protruding radially from the connection portion 517.
  • the protrusion 518 may restrict the first pusher 510 from being separated from the pusher link 440 in a state in which the first pusher 510 is coupled to the pusher link 440.
  • a width of the protrusion 518 may be less than a diameter D of the connection portion 517.
  • a plurality of protrusions 518 may protrude from the connection portion 517 and be spaced apart from each other.
  • FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 24B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.
  • the second tray 360 may be seated on the second tray supporter 380.
  • a portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray supporter 380.
  • the second tray cover 350 may be seated on the second tray 360. A portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray cover 350.
  • the second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the second tray cover 350 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S4.
  • the coupling member S4 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may further include a fixing portion 390.
  • the fixing portion 390 may be positioned in a region located in a center portion.
  • the fixing portion 390 may be seated on the second tray 360. In a state in which the fixing portion 390 is seated on the second tray 360, a portion of the fixing portion 390 may pass through the second tray 360.
  • the fixing portion 390 passing through the second tray 360 may be in contact with the second tray supporter 380 or may pass through the second tray supporter 380.
  • the second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the fixing portion 390 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S5.
  • the coupling member S5 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.
  • the second tray 360 may define a second cell 361, which is another portion of the ice making cell.
  • the second tray 360 may include a second cell wall 362 forming the second cell 361.
  • the second cell 361 may be formed, for example, in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere.
  • the second tray 360 may form, for example, a plurality of second cells 361.
  • a plurality of second cells 361 may be arranged in a plurality of rows.
  • the plurality of second cells 361 may include a first cell portion 361a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 361b arranged in a second row.
  • the first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing.
  • the Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door.
  • the first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 361a.
  • the second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 361b.
  • the first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row.
  • the second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.
  • a second cell 361 in the second tray 360 may be arranged to correspond to a first cell 321 of the first tray 320, a description of specific arrangement of the second cell 361 will be omitted.
  • FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to a first embodiment.
  • FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state in which a second tray assembly is moved to a full ice detection position during an ice separation process.
  • FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state in which a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray
  • FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state in which a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray.
  • FIG. 29A is a drawing showing a state in which a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position
  • FIG. 29B is a drawing showing a state in which a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position.
  • FIG. 30 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.
  • the refrigerator may further include a controller 100.
  • the controller 100 may be installed or separated from a component for control.
  • the controller 100 may be disposed inside or outside the component for control.
  • the driver 480 may be controlled by the controller 100.
  • the controller 100 may control the driver 480 so that the second tray assembly 202 moves to a water supply position, an ice making position, a full ice detection position, and an ice separation position.
  • a position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 25 is a water supply position.
  • a position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 26 is an ice making position.
  • a position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 27 is a full ice detection position.
  • a position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 19 is an ice separation position.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move in a first direction from the water supply position to the ice making position.
  • the first direction is clockwise direction in the drawing.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, from the ice making position to the water supply position.
  • the second direction is counterclockwise direction in the drawing.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the water supply position to the full ice detection position.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the full ice detection position to the ice separation position.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move in the first direction from the ice separation position to the water supply position.
  • a water supply process may be performed at an water supply position of the second tray assembly 202. Water may be supplied to the ice making cell 203 through the water supply 240.
  • the first cell 321 and the second cell 361 may be spaced apart from each other.
  • the first row may be positioned closer to a rotation center C1 of the second tray assembly 202 than the second row.
  • a distance between the second cell portion 321b of the first tray 320 and the second cell portion 361b of the second tray 360 in the second row may be greater than a distance between the first cell portion 321a of the first tray 320 and the first cell portion 361a of the second tray 360 in the first row.
  • a first column 513 of the first pusher 510 may separate ice from an ice making cell 203 of the first row.
  • a first column 513 may push ice of the ice making cell 203 of the first row.
  • a second column 514 may separate ice from an ice making cell 203 of the second row. The second column 514 may push ice of the ice making cell 203 of the second row.
  • Each of the first column 513 and the second column 514 may include a first edge 513b, 514b to press ice, and a second edge 513c, 514c positioned opposite the first edge 513b, 514b.
  • the first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second edge 513c, 514c.
  • the first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned outside the ice making cell 203.
  • the first edge 513b, 514b may be spaced apart from the first portion 301 of the first tray cover 300.
  • the first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned farther from the ice making cell 203 than a first portion 301 of the first tray cover 300.
  • the first portion 301 may be positioned between the first edge 513b, 514b and the ice making cell 203.
  • the first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned outside the cooling passage 310. Accordingly, freezing of the first edge 513b, 514b can be reduced, and cold air may flow between the first edge 513b, 514b and the first portion 301.
  • the second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 may face the first pusher 510.
  • the second portion 302 may include a portion positioned farther from the ice making cell 203 than the first edge 513b, 514b.
  • an upper end of the second portion 302 may be positioned farther from the ice making cell 203 than the first edge 513b, 514b.
  • an upper end of the second portion 302 may be positioned closer to the second edge 513c, 514c than the first edge 513b, 514b.
  • the user's hand may be prevented from being inserted between the first pusher 520 and the first portion 301 by the second portion 302.
  • the second portion 302 may include a portion positioned closer to the ice making cell 203) than the second edge 513c, 514c.
  • a lower end of the second portion 302 may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second edge 513c, 514c.
  • the second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 may overlap the pusher body 511 in a horizontal direction.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move to an ice making position.
  • the first tray 320 and the second tray 360 may be in contact with each other.
  • a complete ice making cell 203 may be formed by the first cell 321 and the second cell 322.
  • a portion of the water received in the second tray 360 may be distributed to the first cell 321 of the first tray 320.
  • a portion of the full ice detection lever 550 may be positioned below the second pusher 530.
  • the lever body 552 may be positioned below the second pusher 530.
  • At least a portion of the first extension 553 connected to the driver 480 may be extended in a direction close to the second pusher 530.
  • an ice making process may be performed.
  • Cold air may be introduced into the cold air passage 270a through the first opening 272 of the cold air guide 270.
  • Cold air may pass through the second opening 278 after flowing through the cold air passage 270a.
  • Cold air passing through the second opening 278 may flow through the cooling passage 310.
  • cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during the water supply process.
  • cold air can be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 only during an ice making process.
  • Cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during an ice separation process.
  • an ice making process it may be determined whether an ice making is complete based on at least one of a temperature detected by the temperature sensor 710 or a time for supply cold air.
  • the ice separation process may include a heating process in which the heater 330 operates.
  • heat of the heater 330 may be transferred to the ice making cell 203. Ice may be separated from the first tray 320 by heat of the heater 330.
  • a turning off of the heater 330 may be determined based on at least one of an operating time of the heater 330 or a temperature detected by the temperature sensor 710.
  • the ice separation process may further include a moving process in which the second tray assembly 202 moves.
  • the moving process may be performed after the heater 330 is turned off, or the moving process may be performed while the heater 330 is operating, and the heater 330 may be turned off during the moving process.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction (direction of arrow A) from the ice making position toward the ice separation position.
  • a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the full ice detection lever 550 to move.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may be maintained in a stopped state before the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by a predetermined angle in the second direction from the ice making position.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated when the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by the predetermined angle or more.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated in a first direction (direction of arrow B) opposite to a rotational direction of the second tray assembly 202.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved to a full ice detection position. At this time, the lever body 552 may be spaced apart from the second tray assembly 202.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may be additionally moved in the second direction toward the ice separation position.
  • the full ice detection lever 550 While the second tray assembly 202 is additionally moved in a state in which the full ice detection lever 550 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved in the second direction and returned to an initial position. Accordingly, an interference between the full ice detection lever 550 and the second tray assembly 202 may be prevented.
  • the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may be inserted into the first cell 321 by passing through the through holes 323a and 323b of the first tray 320. In a process of inserting the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 into the first cell 321, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may press ice.
  • the second pusher 530 may include a first column 532.
  • the second pusher 530 may further include a second column 533.
  • the first column 532 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the first row.
  • the second column 533 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the second row.
  • the first column 532 of the second pusher 530 may first contact the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 28A .
  • the first column 532 may be positioned closer to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1 than the second column 533.
  • a distance between a first row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360 is different from a distance between a second row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360. Therefore, positions of the first column 532 and the second column 533 need to be different with respect to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1.
  • a horizontal distance between the first column 532 and the vertical line V1 may be less than a horizontal distance between the second column 533 and the vertical line V1.
  • the first column 532 may include a first pressing surface 532b.
  • the first pressing surface 532b may press a portion corresponding to the first row in the second tray 360.
  • the second column 533 may include a second pressing surface 533b.
  • the second pressing surface 533b may press a portion corresponding to the second row in the second tray 360.
  • the first pressing surface 532b may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1.
  • the second pressing surface 533b may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1.
  • An inclination angle of the first pressing surface 532b may be different from an inclination angle of the second pressing surface 533b.
  • an inclination angle of the first pressing surface 532b with respect to a vertical line may be less than an inclination angle of the second pressing surface 533b.
  • the second column 533 In a state in which the first column 532 is in contact with the second tray 360, the second column 533 may be spaced apart from the second tray 360. In this state, when the second tray assembly 202 is further moved in the second direction, the second column 533 may be in contact with the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 29B .
  • the first column 532 may press the first row in the second tray 360, so that a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row can be deformed.
  • the first edges 513b, 514b of the first and second columns 513, 514 of the first pusher 510 may pass through the first cell 321 and be positioned outside of the first cell 321.
  • the first edges 513b, 514b may be positioned lower than the first tray 320 based on the drawing.
  • ice may be sufficiently pressed by the first edges 513b, 514b, so that ice separation performance may be improved.
  • Ice separated from the second tray assembly 202 may fall downward and be stored in the ice bin 600.
  • the second tray assembly 202 may be moved in the first direction toward the water supply position.
  • FIG. 31A is a front view of a first pusher according to a second embodiment
  • FIG. 31B is a side view of a first pusher according to a second embodiment
  • FIG. 32A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 32A-32A of FIG. 31 according to a second embodiment
  • FIG. 32B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 32A-32A of FIG. 31 according to a modified example of a second embodiment.
  • This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment in other parts, but differs in a shape of a first pusher. Therefore, characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described, and same symbols will be used for the same configurations as a first embodiment, and a description of the first embodiment will be cited.
  • a first pusher 1510 of the present embodiment may include a pusher body 511, a first column 513, and a second column 513 described in the first embodiment.
  • the first column 513 may include a first edge 1513b for pressing ice, and a second edge 1513c spaced apart from the first edge 1513b.
  • the second edge 1513c may include an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the ice making cell 203 as going outward from the pusher body 511. Interference between the first pusher 1510 and the ice making chamber wall 140 may be reduced by the inclined surface.
  • the second column 514 may include a first edge 1514b for pressing ice, and a second edge 1514c spaced apart from the first edge 1514b.
  • the second edge 1514c may include an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the ice making cell 203 as going outward from the pusher body 511. Interference between the first pusher 1510 and the ice making chamber wall 140 may be reduced by the inclined surface.
  • the pusher body 511 may include a groove 1512a that is recessed from a first surface 511a toward a second surface 511b.
  • the pusher body 1511 may include a groove 1512b that is recessed from a second surface 511b toward a first surface 511a.
  • At least one of the first column 513 or the second column 514 may include an extension groove 1513a1 extending from the first edge 1513b, 1514b toward the second edge 1513c, 1514c.
  • at least one of the first column 513 or the second column 513, 514 may include an extension groove 1513a extending from the second edge 1513c, 1514c toward the first edge 1513b, 1514b. That is, one of the first edge 1513b, 1514b and the second edge 1513c, 1514c may be closed, and another of the first edge 1513b, 1514b and the second edge 1513c, 1514c may be opened.
  • the pusher body 511 may further include an extension body 1516 extending from both sides of the pusher body 511.
  • the extension body 1516 may be positioned in the guide slot 303a.
  • a cross section of the extension body 1516 may be formed in a non-circular shape. Since a height and width relationship of the extension body 1516 are the same as those described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.
  • the pusher body 511 may further include a connection portion 1517 extending from the extension body 1516.
  • the connection portion 1517 may be coupled to the pusher link 440.
  • connection portion 517 may be formed in a cylindrical shape, for example.
  • the extension body 1516 may include a lower surface 1516a (or a first surface), and an upper surface 1516b (or a second surface).
  • the connection portion 1517 may be positioned closer to the lower surface 1516a than the upper surface 1516b.
  • a diameter of the connection portion 1517 may be equal to or less than a width of the extension body 1516.
  • the lower surface 1516a of the extension body 1516 may be positioned lower than a lower end of the connection portion 517 or positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than a lower end of the connection portion 517.
  • the extension body 1516 may include a portion positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the first surface 511a of the pusher body 511.
  • an upper surface 516b of the extension body 516 may be positioned lower than a first surface 511a of the pusher body 511 or positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than a first surface 511a of the pusher body 511.
  • the extension body 1516 may include a portion positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second surface 511b of the pusher body 511.
  • a lower surface 516a of the extension body 516 may be positioned lower than a first surface 511b of the pusher body 511 or positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 a first surface 511b of the pusher body 511.
  • a height difference between the lower surface 516a of the extension body 1516 and the second surface 511b of the pusher body 511 may be 1/3 or more of a height of the extension body 1516.
  • the first pusher 1510 may further include a protrusion 1518 protruding radially from the connection portion 1517.
  • a width of the protrusion 1518 may be less than a diameter of the connection portion 1517.
  • a plurality of protrusions 518 may protrude from the connection portion 1517 and be spaced apart from each other.
  • FIG. 33A is a perspective view of a first pusher as viewed from an upper side according to a third embodiment
  • FIG. 33B is a side view of a first pusher according to a third embodiment.
  • FIG. 34A is a perspective view showing a guide of a first tray cover according to a third embodiment
  • FIG. 34B is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first pusher is connected to a guide of a first tray cover according to a third embodiment.
  • This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment in other parts, but differs in a shape of a first pusher. Therefore, characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described, and same symbols will be used for the same configurations as a first embodiment, and a description of the first embodiment will be cited.
  • a first pusher 2510 of the present embodiment may include a first column 2513 of a first row and a second column 2514 of a second row.
  • a number, position, distance relationship, etc. of the first column 2513 and the second column 2514 may be the same as those mentioned in the first embodiment.
  • the first pusher 2510 may further include a pusher body 2511 connected to the first column 2513 and the second column 2514 so that the first column 2513 and the second column 2514 are spaced apart from each other.
  • the pusher body 2511 may include a first portion 2511a provided with a first column 2513.
  • a plurality of first columns 2513 may be provided on the first portion 2511a.
  • the pusher body 2511 may include a second portion 2511b provided with a second column 2514.
  • a plurality of second columns 2514 may be provided on the second portion 2511b.
  • the first column 2513 may include a hole 2513a or a groove.
  • the second column 2514 may include a hole 2513b or a groove.
  • the first portion 2511a may include a straight portion or a curved portion.
  • the second portion 2511b may include a straight portion or a curved portion.
  • the pusher body 2511 may further include a third portion 2511c.
  • the third portion 2511c may connect the first portion 2511a and the second portion 2511b such that the first portion 2511a and the second portion 2511b are spaced apart from each other.
  • one third portion 2511c may connect the first portion 2511a and the second portion 2511b, or a plurality of third portions 2511c in a spaced state may connect the first portion 2511a and the second portion 2511b.
  • the third portion 2511c may include a straight portion or a curved portion.
  • the pusher body 2511 may further include an extension body 2516.
  • the extension body 2516 may be extended from a single third portion 2511c, or may be extended from one or more of a plurality of third portions 2511c. In order to ensure stable movement of the first pusher, the extension body 2516 may be extended from two or more third portions 2511c.
  • the extension body 2516 may be positioned in a slot 303a of the guide 303.
  • the pusher body 2511 may further include a connection portion 2517 extending from the extension body 2516.
  • the first pusher 2510 may further include a protrusion 2518 protruding from the connection portion 2517.
  • a positional relationship between the pusher body 2511 and the extension body 2516, a positional relationship between the extension body 2516 and the connection portion 2517, a size relationship, etc. may be applied as is to a description of the first embodiment.
  • the pusher body 2511 may further include a guide protrusion 2519 that guides a movement of the first pusher 2510.
  • the guide protrusion 2519 may be provided, for example, on the third portion 2511c.
  • the guide protrusion 2519 may be disposed spaced apart from the extension body 2516.
  • One guide protrusion 2519 may be positioned on one side of the extension body 2516, or a guide protrusion 2519 may be positioned on each of both sides of the extension body 2516.
  • the extension body 2516 may be positioned between the plurality of guide protrusions 2519.
  • the guide 303 may have a guide groove 303b formed on one side of the guide slot 303a to guide the guide protrusion 2519.
  • the guide groove 303b may extend in a direction parallel to an extension direction of the guide slot 303a.
  • FIG. 35A is a side view of a first pusher according to a fourth embodiment
  • FIG. 35B is a drawing showing a state in which a first pusher and a pusher link are connected according to a fifth embodiment.
  • FIG. 35A is the same as a first pusher of a third embodiment, but differs in a position of a connecting portion. Therefore, characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.
  • a third portion 2511c of the first pusher 2510 may be provided with a plurality of connection portions.
  • the plurality of connection portions may include a first connection portion 2515a and a second connection portion 2516b.
  • the guide 303 may also be provided with a plurality of guide slots 303a through which the first connection portion and the second connection portion pass.
  • the first connection portion 2515a and the second connection portion 2516b may be connected to one pusher link 440.
  • the pusher link 440 may include a portion to which each of the first connection portion 2515a and the second connection portion 2516b is connected.
  • first pusher 2510 includes a plurality of connection portions, stable movement can be achieved even without a separate guide projection.
  • a first pusher 3510a for pressing ice of a first row and a first pusher 3510b for pressing ice of a second row may be included.
  • the first pusher 3510a and the first pusher 3510b may be moved independently.
  • the first pusher 3510a of the first row may include the first column 3513 and the first connection portion 3515a.
  • the first pusher 3510b of the second row may include the second column 3514 and the second connection portion 3515b.
  • the first connection portion 3515a may be connected to a first pusher link 441.
  • the first pusher link 441 may include a first part 441a connected to the first connection portion 3515a and a second part 441b connected to the second tray assembly 202.
  • the second connection portion 3515b may be connected to a second pusher link 442.
  • the second pusher link 442 may include a first part 442a connected to the second connection portion 3515b and a second part 442b connected to the second tray assembly 202.
  • first pusher 3510a of the first row may receive driving force through the first pusher link 441
  • first pusher 3510b of the second row may receive driving force through the second pusher link 442.
  • a length of the first pusher link 441 may be different from a length of the second pusher link 442 may be different.
  • a shape of the first pusher link 441 may be different from a shape of the second pusher link 442.
  • the first pusher described in the first to fourth embodiments may be a connected type pusher in which the first column and the second column are connected by a pusher body.
  • the fifth embodiment may be a separate type pusher in which the first column and the second column are separated.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Devices That Are Associated With Refrigeration Equipment (AREA)
EP23916442.9A 2023-01-12 2023-12-19 Kühlschrank Pending EP4647694A4 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

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KR1020230004914A KR20240113021A (ko) 2023-01-12 2023-01-12 냉장고
KR1020230131004A KR20250046932A (ko) 2023-09-27 2023-09-27 냉장고
PCT/KR2023/020997 WO2024150959A1 (ko) 2023-01-12 2023-12-19 냉장고

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EP4647694A1 true EP4647694A1 (de) 2025-11-12
EP4647694A4 EP4647694A4 (de) 2026-04-22

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EP4647694A4 (de) 2026-04-22

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