KR20240051634A - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

The refrigerator of this embodiment includes a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door that opens and closes the storage compartment; an ice maker provided at the door and producing ice; and a dispenser provided on the door and configured to take out ice produced by the ice maker, the dispenser comprising: a dispenser housing forming a receiving space; an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing through which the ice passes; It includes an ice chute forming an ice passage that guides ice produced by the ice maker to the ice slot, and a cap duct that opens and closes the ice slot, wherein the ice chute has a chute body having an ice inlet and an ice outlet. The ice inlet includes a first inlet end and a second inlet end spaced apart from the first inlet end, and the second inlet end is located closer to the front of the door than the first inlet end. , the chute body includes a first extension wall extending from the first inlet end, and a second extension wall extending from the second inlet end, wherein the first extension wall extends from the top to the bottom and the second extension wall It is inclined in a direction closer to the extension wall, and the second extension wall is inclined in a direction closer to the first extension wall from the top to the bottom.

Description

Refrigerator {Refrigerator}

This specification relates to refrigerators.

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperatures in an internal storage space shielded by a door.

The refrigerator can cool the inside of the storage space using cold air, thereby keeping the stored food in a refrigerated or frozen state.

The refrigerator is a side-by-side type refrigerator in which the freezer compartment and the refrigerator compartment are arranged on the left and right, a top-mount type refrigerator in which the freezer compartment is located above the refrigerator compartment, or a bottom freezer type refrigerator in which the refrigerator compartment is located above the freezer compartment. You can.

Typically, an ice maker for making ice is provided in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator. The ice maker collects water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and then cools the water to create ice. Ice produced by the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin.

Ice stored in the ice bin is discharged through a dispenser provided in the door, or the user can open the freezer door, access the ice bin, and take out the ice from the ice bin.

A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659, a prior document.

The refrigerator in the prior literature includes a cabinet having a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment below the refrigerator compartment; A pair of refrigerating compartment doors are disposed on both left and right sides to open and close the refrigerating compartment, and one side is equipped with an ice maker and dispenser; a main water tank provided in the refrigerating compartment and cooling supplied water; A water purification device provided in the cabinet and purifying the supplied water; a sub-water tank provided at the refrigerating compartment door to additionally cool supplied water; a water supply passage connecting the water purification device, main water tank, sub water tank, dispenser, and ice maker; It is provided on the water supply passage of the refrigerating compartment door and includes a branch valve that selectively supplies purified water to the dispenser or ice maker.

However, in the case of the prior literature, since components such as a sub-water tank and a branch valve are provided at the rear of the dispenser, there is a disadvantage that the space at the rear of the dispenser cannot be used as a separate storage space or ice-making room.

Even so, in the case of the prior literature, when an additional space is formed at the rear of the dispenser, the thickness of the door becomes thick, so there is a disadvantage in that the volume of the refrigerating compartment is reduced by the thickness of the door.

This embodiment provides a refrigerator with a slimmer dispenser.

Alternatively or additionally, the present embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of smoothly discharging ice while reducing the width of a passage for ice discharged from an ice maker provided in the door.

Alternatively or additionally, the present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which ice debris is prevented from accumulating in the ice chute forming the ice passage during the ice dispensing process.

Alternatively or additionally, the present embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of forming an ice-making room or storage space at the rear of the slimmer dispenser.

A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet having a storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a door that opens and closes the storage compartment.

The refrigerator may be provided in the door or the cabinet and may further include an ice maker that produces ice. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided on the door and for dispensing ice produced by the ice maker.

The dispenser may include a dispenser housing that forms a receiving space. The dispenser may further include an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing through which the ice passes. The dispenser may further include an ice chute forming an ice passage that guides ice produced by the ice maker to the ice slot.

The dispenser may further include a cap duct that opens and closes the ice slot.

The ice chute may include a chute body having an ice inlet and an ice outlet.

The ice inlet may include a first inlet end and a second inlet end spaced apart from the first inlet end.

The second entrance end may be located closer to the front of the door than the first entrance end.

The suit body may include a first extension wall extending from the first inlet end and a second extension wall extending from the second inlet end.

The first extension wall may be inclined in a direction closer to the second extension wall from the top to the bottom.

The second extension wall may be inclined in a direction closer to the first extension wall from the top to the bottom.

The inclination angle of the first extension wall with respect to the horizontal plane may be equal to or greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall.

The vertical length of the second extension wall may be greater than the vertical length of the first extension wall.

The length of the ice outlet in the front-to-back direction of the door may be shorter than the length of the ice outlet in the left-right direction of the door.

The ice outlet may include a first outlet end and a second outlet end spaced apart from the first outlet end. The second outlet end may be located closer to the front of the door than the first outlet end.

A first imaginary line passing through a point bisecting the first outlet end and the second outlet end in the front-back direction of the door passes through a point bisecting the first inlet end and the second entrance end in the front-back direction of the door. It may be located closer to the front of the door than the second virtual line.

A third vertical line A3 extending vertically from the first inlet end may be located outside the ice outlet.

The entire ice passage may be located between the third vertical line A3 and the front of the door.

In the front-back direction of the door, the distance between the fourth vertical line A4 extending vertically from the second inlet end and the second vertical line A2 extending vertically from the second outlet end is the second vertical line ( It may be smaller than the distance between A2) and the first vertical line A1 extending in the vertical direction from the end of the first outlet.

In the front-back direction of the door, the distance between the fourth vertical line (A4) and the second vertical line (A2) is the third vertical line (A3) extending in the vertical direction from the first vertical line (A1) and the second entrance end. It may be smaller than the distance between

In the front-back direction of the door, the distance between the first vertical line A1 and the third vertical line A3 may be greater than the distance between the first vertical line A1 and the second vertical line A2.

The ice chute may further include a fixing part extending from the first extension wall to be coupled to the dispenser housing.

The fixing part may be positioned between a first vertical line A1 extending in a vertical direction from the first outlet end and a third vertical line A3 extending in a vertical direction from the first inlet end.

In a state in which the cap duct opens the ice slot, the fourth vertical line A4 extending in the vertical direction from the end of the second inlet may not pass through the cap duct.

The rotation center of the cap duct may be located between the fourth vertical line A4 and the front surface of the door.

The dispenser may further include an ice guide that guides ice passing through the ice slot and has an ice outlet through which ice is discharged.

The center of the ice outlet of the ice guide may be located between a fourth vertical line A4 extending in a vertical direction from the second inlet end and the front surface of the door.

A refrigerator according to another aspect may include a dispenser having a dispenser housing forming a receiving space.

The dispenser may include an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing and through which the ice passes. The dispenser may include an ice chute that guides ice produced by the ice maker to the ice slot.

The ice chute may include a chute body having an ice inlet and an ice outlet.

The ice inlet may include a first inlet end and a second inlet end spaced apart from the first inlet end. The second entrance end may be located closer to the front of the door than the first entrance end.

The ice outlet may include a first outlet end and a second outlet end spaced apart from the first outlet end. The second outlet end may be located closer to the front of the door than the first outlet end.

In the front-back direction of the door, the distance between the fourth vertical line A4 extending vertically from the second inlet end and the second vertical line A2 extending vertically from the second outlet end is the second vertical line ( It may be smaller than the distance between A2) and the first vertical line A1 extending in the vertical direction from the end of the first outlet.

In the front-back direction of the door, the distance between the fourth vertical line (A4) and the second vertical line (A2) is the third vertical line (A3) extending in the vertical direction from the first vertical line (A1) and the second entrance end. It may be smaller than the distance between

In the front-back direction of the door, the distance between the first vertical line A1 and the third vertical line A3 may be greater than the distance between the first vertical line A1 and the second vertical line A2.

According to this embodiment, the dispenser can become slimmer by reducing the passage of ice formed by the ice chute and reducing the length of the door in the thickness direction.

According to this embodiment, during the process of discharging ice, ice debris can be prevented from accumulating in the ice chute that forms the ice passage.

According to this embodiment, there is an advantage that an ice-making room or storage space can be formed at the rear of the dispenser without increasing the thickness of the door or while minimizing the increase in the thickness of the door due to the slimmer dispenser.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to this embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 is separated.
Figure 3 is a perspective view seen from the front of the first refrigerating chamber door according to this embodiment.
Figure 4 is a perspective view seen from the rear of the first refrigerating chamber door according to this embodiment.
Figure 5 is a side view of the first refrigerating compartment door according to this embodiment.
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in Figure 3.
Figure 7 is a diagram showing a cold air flow path in the first refrigerating chamber door of this embodiment.
Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the dispenser according to this embodiment.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of an ice chute according to this embodiment.
Figure 10 is a view of the ice chute according to this embodiment viewed from below.
11 is a plan view of an ice chute according to this embodiment.
Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 in Figure 11.
Figure 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerating compartment door showing the arrangement of the cap duct and ice chute with the ice slot in the present embodiment closed.
Figure 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerating compartment door showing the arrangement of the cap duct and the ice chute with the ice slot in the open state of the present embodiment.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through illustrative drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in each drawing, it should be noted that identical components are given the same reference numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. Additionally, in describing embodiments of the present invention, if detailed descriptions of related known configurations or functions are judged to impede understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

Additionally, when describing the components of an embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, order, or order of the component is not limited by the term. When a component is described as being "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, that component may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there is no need for another component between each component. It should be understood that may be “connected,” “combined,” or “connected.”

FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to this embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a view showing one door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 in a separated state.

Figure 3 is a perspective view viewed from the front of the first refrigerating compartment door according to this embodiment, and Figure 4 is a perspective view viewed from the rear of the first refrigerating compartment door according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a side view of the first refrigerating compartment door according to this embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5 , the refrigerator 1 of this embodiment may include a cabinet 2 having a storage compartment. The refrigerator 1 may further include a refrigerator door that opens and closes the storage compartment.

The storage compartment may include a refrigerating compartment (18). The storage compartment may optionally or additionally include a freezer compartment (19).

For example, Figure 2 shows that the storage compartment includes a refrigerating compartment 18 and a freezing compartment 19.

The refrigerating compartment 18 can be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating compartment doors 5. The freezer compartment 19 can be opened and closed by one or more freezer doors 30.

Hereinafter, the refrigerating compartment 18 will be described as an example of being opened and closed by the first refrigerating compartment door 10 and the second refrigerating compartment door 20.

At least one of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 and the second refrigerating compartment door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for dispensing water and/or ice. Of course, depending on the type of refrigerator, the freezer door 30 may be equipped with the dispenser 11.

At least one of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 and the second refrigerating compartment door 20 may include one or more ice makers.

Hereinafter, an example in which an ice maker is provided in the first refrigerating compartment door 10 will be described. Of course, if necessary, an ice maker may be provided in the second refrigerating compartment door 20 or the freezing compartment door 30. At this time, the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be installed in the same door.

Hereinafter, it will be described as an example that the first refrigerating compartment door 20 includes a plurality of ice makers. It is not limited to this, and the second refrigerating compartment door 20 may also include a plurality of ice makers.

2 exemplarily shows that the refrigerator 1 is a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but unlike this, it is revealed that the idea of the present invention can be equally applied to a side-by-side type refrigerator or a top-mount type refrigerator. put it

In the case of a side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerator, the freezer compartment door may include a plurality of ice makers or the refrigerator compartment door may include a plurality of ice makers.

The dispenser 11 is located in the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10, and a portion of the dispenser 11 may be recessed toward the rear to provide a space in which a container can be placed.

The plurality of ice makers may be arranged in a vertical direction. For example, the plurality of ice makers may include a first ice maker 200. The plurality of ice makers may further include a second ice maker 500.

The second ice maker 500 may be located below the first ice maker 200. Of course, this embodiment does not exclude that a plurality of ice makers 200 and 500 are arranged in the left and right directions.

The dispenser 11 may discharge at least ice produced in the first ice maker 200. To this end, the first ice maker 200 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11.

If the dispenser 11 is capable of discharging ice produced by the second ice maker 500, the second ice maker 500 may also be positioned higher than the dispenser 11. Alternatively, even if the second ice maker 500 is located at the same level or lower than the dispenser 11, ice produced in the second ice maker 500 may be transferred to the dispenser 11 by a separate transfer mechanism.

As another example, the dispenser 11 may include a first dispenser through which ice produced by the first ice maker 200 is discharged, and a second dispenser through which ice produced by the second ice maker 500 is discharged. do.

The second ice maker 500 may be located behind the dispenser 11.

The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may include an outer case 101 to form a front exterior. The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may further include a door liner 102 coupled to the outer case 101. The door liner 102 can open and close the refrigerating compartment 18.

When the outer case 101 and the door liner 102 are coupled, an insulating space may be formed in the space between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102. An insulating material may be provided in the insulating space.

The door liner 102 may include a first space 122 in which the first ice maker 200 is located. The first space 122 may also be referred to as a first ice-making room. The door liner 102 may further include a second space 124 in which the second ice maker 500 is located. The second space 124 may also be referred to as a second ice-making room.

In this embodiment, the second ice maker 500 may be omitted, and even in this case, the second space 124 may exist. At this time, the second space 124 may function as a door storage room used for a specific purpose.

Alternatively, in this embodiment, the position of the second ice maker 500 may be changed. Depending on the type of refrigerator, the second ice maker 500 may be located in the storage space. In this case, the second space 124 may exist or the second space 124 may be omitted.

The first space 122 may be formed as one surface of the door liner 102 is depressed toward the outer case 101. The second space 124 may be formed as one surface of the door liner 102 is depressed toward the outer case 101. For example, the second space 124 may be depressed toward the dispenser 11.

The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may include a first ice bin 280 in which ice generated by the first ice maker 200 is stored. The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may further include a second ice bin 600 in which ice generated by the second ice maker 500 is stored. Of course, if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second ice bin 600 may also be omitted.

The first ice bin 280 may be accommodated in the first space 122 together with the first ice maker 200. The second ice bin 600 may be accommodated in the second space 124 together with the second ice maker 500.

Cold generated in a cooler may be supplied to the first space 122. The cooler may be defined as a means for cooling the storage compartment, including at least one of a refrigerant cycle and a thermoelectric element. For example, cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 19 may be supplied to the first space 122.

Cold generated in a cooler may be supplied to the second space 124. For example, cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 19 may be supplied to the second space 124.

The refrigerator 1 has a supply passage 2a that guides the cold air of the freezer compartment 19 or the cold air of the space where the evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 19 is located to the first refrigerator compartment door 10. may include. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge passage 2b that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerator compartment door 10 to the freezer compartment 19 or a space where the evaporator is located. The supply flow path (2a) and the discharge flow path (2b) may be provided in the cabinet (2).

The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may include a cold air inlet 123a. When the first refrigerating compartment door 10 is closed, the cold air inlet 123a may communicate with the supply passage 2a.

The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may further include a cold air outlet 123b. When the first refrigerating compartment door 10 is closed, the cold air outlet 123b may communicate with the discharge passage 2b.

The cold air inlet 123a may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limiting, one side of the door liner 102 faces the wall where the supply passage 2a is located in the refrigerating compartment 18 when the first refrigerating compartment door 10 is closed.

For example, the cold air inlet 123a may be arranged to overlap the second space 124 in the horizontal direction.

The cold air outlet 123b may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limiting, one side of the door liner 102 faces the wall where the discharge passage 2b is located in the refrigerating compartment 18 when the first refrigerating compartment door 10 is closed.

For example, the cold air outlet 123b may be arranged to overlap the second space 124 in the horizontal direction.

The form of ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be the same as or different from that of the ice produced by the second ice maker 200. For example, the second ice maker 200 can form ice in a spherical shape.

As used herein, “spherical shape” means not only a spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape geometrically.

The transparency of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be the same as or different from the transparency of the ice produced by the second ice maker 500. For example, the transparency of ice produced by the second ice maker 500 may be higher than that of ice produced by the first ice maker 200.

The size (or volume) of ice produced in the first ice maker 200 and the size (or volume) of ice produced in the second ice maker 500 may be different. For example, the size (or volume) of ice produced in the second ice maker 500 may be larger than the size (or volume) of ice produced in the first ice maker 200.

The structure of the first ice maker 200 for producing ice and the method in which the ice is separated are the same as the structure of the second ice maker 500 and the method in which the ice produced in the second ice maker 500 is separated. can be different.

When the structures and/or moving methods of the ice makers are different, the shape of the first space 122 where the first ice maker 200 is located is determined by the shape of the second space 124 where the second ice maker 500 is located. The form may be different.

For example, the depth of the second space 124 may be deeper than the depth of the first space 122.

Due to the difference in depth between the first and second spaces 122 and 124, the one side of the door liner 102 may include a first side portion 102a and a second side portion 102b having different widths in the front-back direction. You can.

The width of the second side portion 102b may be larger than the width of the first side portion 102a. Due to the difference in width between the first side portion 102a and the second side portion 102b, the thickness of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 in the front-back direction at the portion where the first ice maker 200 is located is greater than the thickness of the second ice maker 200. The thickness of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 in the front-back direction at the portion where 500 is located may be thick.

One or more of the cold air inlet 123a and the cold air outlet 123b may be formed on the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102.

The second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating compartment 18 than the first side portion 102a.

The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may further include a first door 130 (or first space door) that opens and closes the first space 122. The first door 130 may be an insulated door provided with an insulating material inside.

The first refrigerating compartment door 10 may further include a second door 132 (or a second space door) that opens and closes the second space 124. The second door 130 may be an insulated door provided with an insulating material inside. Even if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second door 132 may exist.

Accordingly, heat transfer between the refrigerating compartment 18 and the first and second spaces 122 and 124 can be minimized by the first and second doors 130 and 132.

The first door 130 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerating compartment door 10 by a hinge.

The second door 132 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerating compartment door 10 by a hinge. The rotation direction of the first door 130 and the rotation direction of the second door 132 may be the same or different.

Meanwhile, a basket 136 capable of storing food may be connected to the first door 130 by varying the thickness of the first refrigerating compartment door 10.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , when the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second space 124 in the vertical direction. .

When the basket 136 is installed on the first door 130, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second ice maker 500 in the vertical direction.

When the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130 and the second door 132 is closed, at least a portion of the basket 136 is in a vertical direction with the second ice bin 600. May overlap.

When the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130 and the second door 132 is closed, at least a portion of the basket 136 overlaps the second door 132 in the vertical direction. It can be.

Meanwhile, a filter (not shown) may be mounted on one side 103 of the first refrigerating compartment door 10, and the filter may be covered by a filter cover 142.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3, and FIG. 7 is a view showing the cold air flow path in the first refrigerating compartment door of this embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the first refrigerating compartment door 10 may further include a cold air passage for cold air flow. The flow path may be formed by a cold air duct, not shown. The cold air duct may be installed in the door liner 102, for example.

The cold air flow path may guide cold air to one or more of the first space 122 and the second space 124.

The cold air flow path may include a first cold air flow path (P1).

The first cold air passage P1 may guide cold air supplied from the cabinet 2 to the first space 122.

At least a portion of the first cold air passage P1 may extend in the vertical direction. Cold air may rise in the first cold air passage P1 and be supplied to the upper part of the first space 122. For example, cold air guided by the first cold air passage P1 may flow toward the first ice maker 200.

The cold air flow path may further include a second cold air flow path (P2).

The second cold air flow path P2 may guide cold air in the first space 122 to the second space 124.

Cold air in the lower part of the first space 122 may be discharged into the second cold air flow path (P2). At least a portion of the second cold air passage P2 may extend in the vertical direction.

Cold air may descend from the second cold air flow path (P2) and be supplied to the second space 124. For example, cold air guided by the second cold air passage P2 may flow toward the second ice maker 500.

The cold air flow path may further include a third cold air flow path (P3).

The third cold air passage P3 may guide cold air in the second space 124 to the outside of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 .

Cold air in the lower part of the second space 124 may flow through the third cold air passage P3. At least a portion of the third cold air passage P3 may extend in the horizontal direction.

Meanwhile, the first ice maker 200 may include an ice tray 210 forming an ice-making cell.

The first ice maker 200 may further include a driving unit that provides power to automatically rotate the ice tray 210 to separate ice from the ice tray 210. The first ice maker 200 may further include a power transmission unit that transmits power from the driving unit to the ice tray 210.

The ice tray 210 may include a plurality of ice-making cells. Water discharged from a water supply unit (not shown) and dropped into the ice tray 210 may be distributed to the plurality of ice-making cells.

When ice production in the ice tray 210 is completed, the ice may be separated from the ice tray 210 as the ice tray 210 is rotated (twisted) by the driving unit. Ice separated from the ice tray 210 may be stored in the first ice bin 280.

The second ice maker 500 may include a first tray 510. The second ice maker 500 may further include the second tray 550. The first tray 510 and the second tray 550 may form an ice-making cell 501. The second tray 550 may be moved relative to the first tray 510 . For example, the second tray 550 may be rotated relative to the first tray 510, may move linearly relative to the first tray 510, or may perform linear and rotational movements.

When the second tray 550 is a rotating type, water supply may be performed at the water supply location of the second tray 550. After completion of water supply, the second tray 550 may be rotated to the ice-making position. When the second tray 550 is a linear movement type, water supply may be performed at the ice-making position of the second tray 550.

At least a portion of the second tray 550 may be spaced apart from at least a portion of the first tray 510 at the water supply position. The portion of the second tray 550 spaced apart from the first tray 510 at the water supply position may contact the first tray 510 at the ice making position to complete the ice making cell 501.

The dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space. A container such as a cup may be placed in the receiving space. Water or ice may be discharged into the receiving space.

At least a portion of the dispenser housing 11a may be arranged to overlap the second space 124 in the front-back direction.

The shortest horizontal distance between the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 and the second space 124 is greater than the shortest horizontal distance between the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 and the first space 122 by the dispenser housing 11a. The horizontal distance is large.

The vertical length of the first space 122 may be longer than the vertical length of the second space 124. At least a portion of the second space 124 may overlap the first space 122 in the vertical direction.

The ice making cell 501 of the second ice maker 500 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in the front-back direction.

An ice chute 700 may be placed below the first space 122. The ice chute 700 can be opened and closed by the cap duct 900.

An ice guide 800 may be located below the ice chute 700.

The ice chute 700 may guide ice discharged from the first ice bin 280 to the ice guide 800.

The ice guide 800 guides the ice and allows the ice to be finally discharged.

The ice chute 700 may overlap at least a portion of the first space 122 in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the ice chute 700 may overlap the second space 124 in the vertical direction.

A water tank 340 may be detachably mounted on the first refrigerating compartment door 10. At least a portion of the ice chute 700 may overlap the water tank 340 in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the water tank 340 may overlap the ice-making cell 501 in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the water tank 340 may overlap the second ice bin 600 in the vertical direction.

At least a portion of the water tank 340 may overlap the basket 136 in the vertical direction. Of course, the position of the water tank 340 in this embodiment is not limited, and it should be noted that it can be placed in various positions as long as the thickness of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 is not increased or the increase in thickness is minimized.

The ice guide 800 may overlap at least a portion of the second space 124 in the horizontal direction.

In this embodiment, the reason that the second space 124 can be arranged at the rear of the dispenser housing 11a may be due to the slimmer of the dispenser housing 11a. In order to slim the dispenser housing 11a, the shape of the ice guide 800, which forms part of the ice passage, may be important. The structure of the ice guide 800 will be described later with reference to the drawings.

Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the dispenser according to this embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 8, the dispenser 11 of this embodiment may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space 11c.

The receiving space 11c may be formed as the front of the dispenser housing 11a is depressed backward.

The dispenser 11 may further include a pad 1010. The pad 1010 may be movably installed in the dispenser housing 11a. A user can manipulate the pad 1010 to dispense ice and/or water. For example, the user may push or press the pad 1010.

A lever 1070 operated by the pad 1010 may be installed in the dispenser housing 11a. A switch 1050 that is selectively turned on or off by the lever 1070 may be installed in the dispenser housing 11a.

For example, when the pad 1010 is not operated, the switch 1050 is turned off, and when the pad 1010 is operated, the operating force of the pad 1010 is transmitted to the lever 1070 and the lever 1070 is operated. The switch 1050 can be turned on.

The dispenser housing 11a may further include an ice slot 111 through which ice guided by the ice chute 700 passes.

For example, the ice slot 111 may be formed on the inclined wall 111a of the dispenser housing 11a. The inclined wall 111a may be inclined in a direction away from the front of the dispenser housing 11a from the top to the bottom.

The ice chute 700 may be located outside the dispenser housing 11a. For example, the ice chute 700 may be located on the upper side of the inclined wall 111a of the dispenser housing 11a.

The ice guide 800 may be located in the receiving space 11c. The ice guide 800 may guide ice that has passed through the ice slot 111.

The ice guide 800 may be located below the inclined wall 111a.

The ice slot 111 can be opened and closed by the cap duct 900. The cap duct 900 can open and close the ice slot 111 in the accommodation space 11c.

The cap duct 900 is driven by the duct driver 990 to open and close the ice slot 111. For example, the duct driving unit 990 may include a motor. The cap duct 900 may be rotated by driving a motor to open the ice slot 111.

The dispenser 11 may further include a water outlet 870 through which water is discharged. The water outlet 870 may be located in the receiving space 11c. The water outlet 870 may be located adjacent to the ice guide 800.

The dispenser 11 may further include a supporter 890 that supports the water outlet 870.

The dispenser 11 may further include a sterilizing device 880 for sterilizing the water outlet 870. For example, the sterilizing device 880 may sterilize the water flow path formed by the water outlet 870 by irradiating ultraviolet rays.

The dispenser 11 may further include a display device.

The display device may include a display 1100. The display 1100 can display the operating status of the refrigerator. The display 1100 can function as an input unit that can receive user commands. The user can select or change the temperature or various functions by manipulating or touching the buttons displayed on the display 1100.

The display device may further include a display frame 1120 supporting the display 1100. The display frame 1120 can be accommodated in the accommodation space 11c.

The display frame 1120 may include a first frame 1121 including an opening 1122 where at least a portion of the display 1100 is located. The display 1100 may be exposed to the outside through the opening 1122.

The display frame 1120 may further include a second frame 1124 extending from the first frame 1121. The second frame 1124 may be inclined with respect to the first frame 1121.

An input module 1160 may be installed in the second frame 1124. The type of ice can be selected through the input module 1160. Alternatively, the state of ice to be discharged can be selected through the input module 1160. For example, transparent ice or opaque ice can be selected through the input module 1160. Alternatively, ice of different sizes can be distinguished and selected through the input module 1160.

The input module 1160 may include a button, for example. A portion of the input module 1160 may be exposed to the outside while installed on the second frame 1124.

The shape of the display frame 1120 is not limited to the above, and the input module 1160 may be installed or supported in a configuration other than the display frame 1120.

Of course, it is possible for the display 1110 to additionally perform the function of an input module without a separate input module 1160.

The display device may further include a display supporter 1140 located behind the display frame 1120. The display supporter 1140 may support the display 1100 penetrating the opening 1122. Of course, the display supporter 1140 can be omitted.

Meanwhile, the dispenser housing 11a may be coupled to the door liner 102. The door liner 102 may include a space forming wall 124g that forms the second space 124. The dispenser housing 11a may be located in front of the space forming wall 124g. A mounting bracket 480 that guides water to the second space 124 may be installed on the space forming wall 124g. The mounting bracket 480 may be located behind the ice guide 800. That is, the mounting bracket 480 may be arranged to overlap the ice guide 800 in the front-to-back direction.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of the ice chute according to this embodiment, and Figure 10 is a view of the ice chute according to this embodiment viewed from below. Figure 11 is a plan view of the ice chute according to this embodiment, and Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 11.

Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12 , the ice chute 700 may form an ice passage 701.

The ice chute 700 may include a chute body 710 having an ice inlet 711 and an ice outlet 712.

The chute body 710 may include a first body 720 in which the ice inlet 711 is formed. The ice inlet 711 may be formed on the upper side of the first body 720.

The length of the first body 720 in the X-axis direction may decrease from the top to the bottom.

The length of the first body 720 in the Y-axis direction may decrease from the top to the bottom.

The first body 720 may include a flange 740 that is bent and extended from an upper end of the first body 720. The flange 740 may contact the wall forming the first space 122.

The suit body 710 may further include a second body 730 extending obliquely from the first body 720 . The ice outlet 712 may be formed on the lower side of the second body 730.

The ice inlet 711 may be formed to be larger than the ice outlet 712.

The length of the ice outlet 712 in the X-axis direction may be shorter than the length in the Y-axis direction. The length of the chute body 710 in the X-axis direction can be reduced by the shape of the ice outlet 712.

In this specification, the X-axis direction may be the front-to-back direction of the refrigerator or the front-to-back direction or thickness direction of the first refrigerator compartment door.

For example, the ice outlet 712 may be formed in an oval shape.

With reference to FIG. 12 , the ice inlet 711 may include a first inlet end 711a and a second inlet end 711b spaced apart from the first inlet end 711a. The second inlet end 711b may be spaced apart from the first inlet end 711a in the X-axis direction.

The second inlet end 711b may be located closer to the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 than the first inlet end 711a.

The first body 720 may include a first extension wall 722 extending from the first inlet end 711a. The first body 720 may further include a second extension wall 724 extending from the second inlet end 711b.

At least a portion of the first extension wall 722 may be an inclined wall. At least a portion of the second extension wall 724 may be an inclined wall.

The first extension wall 722 may be inclined forward from the top to the bottom. The first extension wall 722 may be inclined in a direction closer to the second extension wall 724 from the top to the bottom.

The second extension wall 724 may be inclined rearward from the top to the bottom. The second extension wall 724 may be inclined in a direction closer to the first extension wall 722 from the top to the bottom.

The horizontal length in the X-axis direction between the first extension wall 722 and the second extension wall 724 may decrease downward.

The inclination angle of the first extension wall 722 with respect to the horizontal plane may be equal to or greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall 724.

The length of the first extension wall 722 in the Z-axis direction may be greater than the length of the second extension wall 724.

Due to the structure of the first extension wall 722 and the second extension wall 724, ice debris does not fall on the first extension wall 722 or the second extension wall 724 during the ice passage. Accumulation can be prevented.

12, the ice outlet 712 may include a first outlet end 712a and a second outlet end 712b spaced apart from the first outlet end 712a.

The second outlet end 712b may be located closer to the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 than the first outlet end 712a.

A first virtual line passing through a point bisecting the first outlet end 712a and the second outlet end 712b in the It may be located ahead of the second virtual line passing through the point bisecting the direction. That is, the first virtual line may be located closer to the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 than the second virtual line.

The first outlet end 712a may be located closer to the first extension wall 722 than the second outlet end 712b.

The distance between the first inlet end 711a and the second inlet end 711b in the X-axis direction is greater than the distance between the second inlet end 712a and the second outlet end 712b.

The first vertical line A1 extending in the vertical direction from the first outlet end 712a may pass through the ice inlet 711.

The second vertical line A2 extending in the vertical direction from the second outlet end 712b may pass through the ice inlet 711. The second vertical line A2 may pass through the second extension wall 724.

A third vertical line A3 extending vertically from the first inlet end 711a may be located outside the ice outlet 712.

The third vertical line A3 may be located outside the ice passage 701. That is, the third vertical line A3 may not pass through the ice passage 701.

Accordingly, the ice passage 701 may be located in front of the third vertical line A3. That is, the entire ice passage 701 may be located between the third vertical line A3 and the front of the first refrigerating compartment door 10.

The fourth vertical line A4 extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end 711b may be located outside the ice outlet 712.

The fourth vertical line A4 may not pass through the ice passage 701. Accordingly, the ice passage 701 may be located behind the fourth vertical line A4.

The distance between the fourth vertical line A4 and the second vertical line A2 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the distance between the second vertical line A2 and the first vertical line A1.

The distance between the fourth vertical line A4 and the second vertical line A2 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the distance between the first vertical line A1 and the third vertical line A3.

The distance between the third vertical line A3 and the first vertical line A1 in the X-axis direction may be greater than the distance between the first vertical line A2 and the second vertical line A2.

The center of the ice inlet 711 may be spaced apart from the center of the ice outlet 712 in the X-axis direction.

Meanwhile, the ice chute 700 may further include a fixing part 750 for fixing the ice chute 700. For example, the fixing part 750 may be coupled to the dispenser housing (11a).

The fixing part 750 may extend from the first extension wall 722.

The fixing part 750 may be positioned between the first vertical line A1 and the third vertical line A3. In this case, an increase in the thickness of the ice chute 700 in the X-axis direction can be prevented.

Figure 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerating compartment door showing the arrangement of the cap duct and the ice chute when the ice slot of the present embodiment is closed. Figure 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerating compartment door showing the arrangement of the cap duct and the ice chute with the ice slot in the open state of this embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , the dispenser housing 11a may include a cover wall 110 surrounding the ice guide 800. The cover wall 110 may include the inclined wall 111a.

A coupling wall 112 may extend around the ice slot 111 in the cover wall 110a. The ice chute 700 may be coupled to the coupling wall 112. For example, a portion of the ice chute 700 may be inserted into the coupling wall 112.

An insertion groove 112a may be formed in the coupling wall 112 into which the second body 730 of the ice chute 700 is inserted.

When the second body 730 of the ice chute 700 is inserted into the coupling wall 112, the ice outlet 712 may be spaced apart from the ice slot 111. Accordingly, the coupling wall 112 may provide a passage through which ice moves.

The coupling wall 112 may be provided with a coupling extension part 114 to which the fixing part 750 is coupled. The fixing part 750 may be fastened to the coupling extension part 114 by a fastening member 755.

In a state where the cap duct 900 closes the ice slot 111 of the dispenser housing 11a, the fourth vertical line A4 may pass through the cap duct 900.

To open the ice slot 111, the cap duct 900 may be rotated in one direction (clockwise in the drawing).

In a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111, the fourth vertical line A4 may not pass through the cap duct 900. In a state in which the ice slot 111 is opened, the cap duct 900 may be positioned between the fourth vertical line A4 and the front surface of the first refrigerating compartment door.

The rotation center RC of the cap duct 900 may be located between the fourth vertical line A4 and the front surface of the first refrigerating compartment door.

A portion of the cap duct 900 may be located inside the ice guide 800. The ice guide 800 may include an ice outlet 851 through which ice is finally discharged. The center 851a of the ice outlet 851 of the ice guide 800 may be located ahead of the fourth vertical line A4. That is, the center 851a of the ice outlet 851 may be located between the fourth vertical line A4 and the front surface of the first refrigerating compartment door.

According to this embodiment, the dispenser can become slimmer by reducing the passage of ice formed by the ice chute and reducing the length of the door in the thickness direction.

Additionally, during the process of discharging ice, ice debris can be prevented from accumulating in the ice chute that forms the ice passage.

Additionally, the slimmer dispenser has the advantage of forming an ice-making room or storage space at the rear of the dispenser without increasing the thickness of the door or while minimizing the increase in the thickness of the door.

Claims (19)

Cabinets forming storage rooms;
a door that opens and closes the storage compartment;
an ice maker provided in the door or cabinet and producing ice; and
It is provided at the door and includes a dispenser for dispensing ice produced by the ice maker,
The dispenser includes a dispenser housing forming a receiving space,
an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing through which the ice passes;
an ice chute forming an ice passage that guides ice produced by the ice maker to the ice slot;
Includes a cap duct that opens and closes the ice slot,
The ice chute includes a chute body having an ice inlet and an ice outlet,
The ice inlet includes a first inlet end and a second inlet end spaced apart from the first inlet end,
The second inlet end is located closer to the front of the door than the first inlet end,
The chute body includes a first extension wall extending from the first inlet end and a second extension wall extending from the second inlet end,
The first extension wall is inclined from the top to the bottom to become closer to the second extension wall,
The refrigerator wherein the second extension wall is inclined in a direction closer to the first extension wall from the top to the bottom. According to claim 1,
The refrigerator wherein the inclination angle of the first extension wall with respect to the horizontal plane is equal to or greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall. According to claim 2,
A refrigerator in which the vertical length of the second extension wall is greater than the vertical length of the first extension wall. According to claim 1,
A refrigerator in which the length of the ice outlet in the front-to-back direction of the door is shorter than the length of the ice outlet in the left-right direction of the door. According to claim 1,
The ice outlet includes a first outlet end and a second outlet end spaced apart from the first outlet end,
The refrigerator wherein the second outlet end is located closer to the front of the door than the first outlet end. According to claim 5,
A first imaginary line passing through a point bisecting the first outlet end and the second outlet end in the front-back direction of the door passes through a point bisecting the first inlet end and the second entrance end in the front-back direction of the door. A refrigerator located closer to the front of the door than the second imaginary line. According to claim 5,
A third vertical line (A3) extending in a vertical direction from the end of the first inlet is located outside the ice outlet. According to claim 7,
The entire ice passage is located between the third vertical line (A3) and the front of the door. According to claim 5,
In the front and rear direction of the door,
The distance between the fourth vertical line (A4) extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end and the second vertical line (A2) extending in the vertical direction from the second outlet end is equal to the distance between the second vertical line (A2) and the first outlet. A refrigerator that is smaller than the distance between the first vertical lines (A1) extending vertically from the ends. According to claim 5,
In the front and rear direction of the door,
The distance between the fourth vertical line A4 extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end and the second vertical line A2 extending in the vertical direction from the second outlet end is the second vertical line extending in the vertical direction from the first outlet end. 1. A refrigerator that is smaller than the distance between the vertical line (A1) and the third vertical line (A3) extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end. According to claim 5,
In the front and rear direction of the door,
The distance between the first vertical line (A1) extending in the vertical direction from the first outlet end and the third vertical line (A3) extending in the vertical direction from the first inlet end is equal to the distance between the first vertical line (A1) and the second outlet. A refrigerator that is greater than the distance between the second vertical lines (A2) extending vertically from the end. According to claim 5,
The ice chute further includes a fixing part extending from the first extension wall to be coupled to the dispenser housing. According to claim 12,
The fixing part is located between a first vertical line (A1) extending in a vertical direction from the first outlet end and a third vertical line (A3) extending in a vertical direction from the first inlet end. According to claim 5,
In a state in which the cap duct opens the ice slot, a fourth vertical line (A4) extending in a vertical direction from an end of the second inlet does not pass through the cap duct. According to claim 14,
The center of rotation of the cap duct is located between the fourth vertical line (A4) and the front of the door. According to claim 5,
The dispenser further includes an ice guide that guides ice passing through the ice slot and has an ice outlet through which ice is discharged,
The center of the ice outlet of the ice guide is located between a fourth vertical line (A4) extending vertically from the second inlet end and the front of the door. Cabinets forming storage rooms;
a door that opens and closes the storage compartment;
an ice maker provided in the door or cabinet and producing ice; and
It is provided at the door and includes a dispenser for dispensing ice produced by the ice maker,
The dispenser includes a dispenser housing forming a receiving space,
an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing through which the ice passes;
Includes an ice chute that guides ice produced by the ice maker to the ice slot,
The ice chute includes a chute body having an ice inlet and an ice outlet,
The ice inlet includes a first inlet end and a second inlet end spaced apart from the first inlet end,
The second inlet end is located closer to the front of the door than the first inlet end,
The ice outlet includes a first outlet end and a second outlet end spaced apart from the first outlet end,
The second outlet end is located closer to the front of the door than the first outlet end,
In the front and rear direction of the door,
The distance between the fourth vertical line (A4) extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end and the second vertical line (A2) extending in the vertical direction from the second outlet end is equal to the distance between the second vertical line (A2) and the first outlet. A refrigerator that is smaller than the distance between the first vertical lines (A1) extending vertically from the ends. According to claim 17,
In the front and rear direction of the door,
The distance between the fourth vertical line A4 extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end and the second vertical line A2 extending in the vertical direction from the second outlet end is the second vertical line extending in the vertical direction from the first outlet end. 1. A refrigerator that is smaller than the distance between the vertical line (A1) and the third vertical line (A3) extending in the vertical direction from the second inlet end. According to claim 17,
The distance between the first vertical line A1 extending vertically from the first outlet end in the front-back direction of the door and the third vertical line A3 extending vertically from the first entrance end is equal to the first vertical line A1 ) and the second vertical line A2 extending vertically from the second outlet end is greater.

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