KR20240051635A - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

The refrigerator of this embodiment includes a cabinet having a storage compartment; a door that opens and closes the storage compartment; a space forming wall provided on the door and forming an ice-making room; and an ice maker accommodated in the ice-making chamber and including a tray forming an ice-making cell for producing ice, and a driving unit operating to move the tray, wherein the space forming wall includes a first side wall, and the a second side wall facing the first side wall, a rear wall connecting the first side wall and the second side wall, an upper side wall extending from the upper side of the rear side wall, and a lower side wall extending from the lower side of the rear side wall. An inlet through which cold air to be supplied to the ice-making chamber passes is formed on the upper wall or the first side wall, and an outlet through which cold air to be discharged from the ice-making chamber passes is formed on the first side wall, and the inlet is formed in the ice-making chamber. It is located higher than the driving part.

Description

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, a sub-water tank and a branch valve are provided at the rear of the dispenser, so 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.

This embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of producing spherical ice in the refrigerator door.

Optionally or additionally, a refrigerator capable of forming an ice-making chamber at the rear of the dispenser is provided.

Optionally or additionally, a refrigerator is provided in which cold air can be smoothly supplied to an ice maker provided in an ice-making compartment of the refrigerator door.

Optionally or additionally, a refrigerator is provided that is capable of producing transparent ice as needed by guiding cold air toward the first tray among the first and second trays arranged in the vertical direction in the ice-making chamber.

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 further include a space forming wall provided on the door and forming an ice-making chamber. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker accommodated in the ice making compartment.

The ice maker may include a tray forming an ice-making cell for producing ice. The ice maker may further include a driving unit that operates to move the tray.

The space forming wall may include a first side wall. The space forming wall may further include a second side wall facing the first side wall.

The space forming wall may further include a rear side wall connecting the first side wall and the second side wall. The space forming wall may further include an upper side wall extending from the upper side of the rear side wall. The space forming wall may further include a lower side wall extending from the lower side of the rear side wall.

An inlet through which cold air to be supplied to the ice-making chamber passes may be formed in the upper wall or the first side wall.

An outlet through which cold air to be discharged from the ice-making chamber passes may be formed on the first side wall.

The inlet may be located higher than the driving unit.

The outlet may be located lower than the driving unit.

The inlet may be located higher than the ice-making cell.

The refrigerator may further include a water supply unit that guides water to the ice-making cell. The water supply unit is spaced apart from the rear wall, and at least a portion of the inlet may overlook the space between the rear wall and the water supply unit.

The inlet may overlap at least a portion of the water supply unit in a horizontal direction.

The refrigerator may further include a pusher for separating ice produced in the ice-making cell from the tray.

The inlet may overlook the area between the rear wall and the pusher.

The tray may further include a first tray forming part of the ice-making cell. The tray may further include a second tray located above the first tray and forming another part of the ice-making cell.

The driving unit may operate to move the second tray.

At least a portion of the inlet may be located higher than the first tray.

The refrigerator may further include a bracket supporting the first tray.

The bracket may include a cold air guide that guides cold air flowing in through the inlet.

At least a portion of the upper surface of the cold air guide may have a lower height as it moves away from the inlet side.

The cold air guide is spaced apart from the rear wall so that cold air can flow between the cold air guide and the rear wall.

At least a portion of the inlet may be located higher than the cold air guide.

The bracket may further include a lower guide that guides cold air between the cold air guide and the rear wall toward the first tray.

The bracket may include a tray cover mounted on the first tray.

The lower guide may be positioned higher than the tray cover.

The lower guide may include a first guide adjacent to the inlet. The lower guide may further include a second guide extending from the first guide toward the first tray.

The first guide may be located at the same height as the bottom of the inlet or may be located lower.

A portion of the first guide may be depressed downward to form a depressed floor. The driving unit may be located below the bottom of the depression.

The rear wall may include an inclined wall positioned higher than the first tray. Cold air introduced through the inlet may flow between the inclined wall and the cold air guide.

The rear wall may further include a guide wall that is inclined toward the inclined wall and guides cold air. At least a portion of the entrance may overlook the guide wall.

The guide wall may be inclined in a direction away from the cold air guide.

A passage width between the cold air guide and the guide wall may be larger than a passage width between the inclined wall and the cold air guide.

The refrigerator may further include a cold air duct that guides cold air into the ice-making chamber. The cold air duct may include an opening in communication with the inlet.

The first side wall may include a depression that is depressed toward the second side wall. A portion of the cold air duct may contact the depression. The entrance may be formed in the depression.

According to this embodiment, there is an advantage that spherical ice can be created in the refrigerator door.

Since an ice-making chamber can be formed at the rear of the dispenser, when the ice-making chamber is provided above the dispenser, there is an advantage in that it is possible to produce multiple types of ice or to produce a large amount of a single type of ice.

According to this embodiment, there is an advantage that cold air can be smoothly supplied to the ice maker by the cold air guide of the bracket and the guide wall of the space forming wall forming the ice making chamber.

There is an advantage in that cold air can flow toward the first tray first among the first and second trays arranged in the vertical direction in the ice-making room, allowing transparent ice to be created as needed.

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 a view showing a state in which the cold air duct of this embodiment is connected to the door liner.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of the door liner of this embodiment.
Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the second space of the door liner of this embodiment.
Figure 11 is a view showing a state in which a guide bracket is coupled to the door liner of this embodiment.
Figure 12 is a perspective view of the cold air duct as seen from the third duct side.
Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the cold air duct of Figure 12.
Figure 14 is a perspective view of the cold air duct as seen from the first duct side.
Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of the cold air duct of Figure 14.
Figure 16 is a view showing a state in which the third duct is in contact with the first space forming wall of the door liner.
Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of Figure 9.
Figure 18 is a view showing a state in which the third duct is in contact with the second space forming wall of the door liner.
FIG. 19 is a view taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 12.
Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 of Figure 4.
Figure 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line 21-21 in Figure 4.
Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 22-22 in Figure 5.
Figure 23 is a perspective view of a bracket according to this embodiment.
Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of Figure 22.

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.

Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in Figure 3.

Referring to FIG. 6, 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 may guide ice to the dispenser 11.

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.

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

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a cold air flow path in the first refrigerating compartment door of this embodiment, FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a state in which the cold air duct of this embodiment is connected to the door liner, and FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the door liner of this embodiment. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the second space of the door liner of this embodiment, and Figure 11 is a view showing a state in which a guide bracket is coupled to the door liner of this embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 8 to 11 , the present embodiment may further include a cold air duct 400 that forms a flow path for cold air to flow in the first refrigerating compartment door 10 . The cold air duct 400 may be installed in the door liner 102, for example.

The cold air duct 400 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 duct 400 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 upper part of 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 duct 400 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.

The cold air duct 400 may include a first duct 410 forming the first cold air flow path P1.

The cold air duct 400 may further include a second duct 430 that forms the first cold air flow path (P1) together with the first duct 410.

A portion of the first duct 410 may be aligned with the cold air inlet 123a. A portion of the second duct 430 may be aligned with the first inlet 491.

A portion of the first duct 410 and a portion of the second duct 430 include a first space forming wall 122a forming the first space 122 and a peripheral wall 102c of the door liner 102. ) can be located between. The second duct 430 may contact the first wall 122a.

The cold air duct 400 may further include a third duct 450 forming the second cold air flow path (P2). The third duct 450 may form the second cold air passage P2 alone or together with the second duct 430 may form the second cold air passage P2. Hereinafter, the second duct 430 and the second duct 450 forming the second cold air flow path P2 will be described as an example.

The third duct 450 may contact the first space forming wall 122a. The third duct 450 may contact the second space forming wall 124g forming the second space 124.

A portion of the third duct 450 may be aligned with the first outlet 492. Another part of the third duct 450 may be aligned with the second inlet 493.

Another part of the first duct 410 and another part of the second duct 430 may be located between the peripheral wall 102c and the second wall 124g.

A portion of the second duct 430 may be disposed between the first duct 410 and the third duct 450.

The cold air duct 400 may further include a fourth duct 470 (or return duct) forming the third cold air flow path P3.

The fourth duct 470 may be aligned with the second cold air outlet 494.

The fourth duct 470 may be located between the peripheral wall 102c and the second wall 124g. The fourth duct 470 may be located below the first duct 410.

The door liner 102 may include the first space forming wall 122a. The first space forming wall 122a may include a first side wall 122c. The first cold air inlet 491 and the first cold air outlet 492 may be formed on the first side wall 122c. The first cold air inlet 491 may be located higher than the first cold air outlet 492.

The first space forming wall 122a may further include a second side wall 122d facing the first side wall 122c.

The first space forming wall 122a may further include a first rear wall 122b. The first rear side wall 122b may connect the first side wall 122c and the second side wall 122d.

The first space forming wall 122a may further include a first upper side wall 122e. The first space forming wall 122a may further include a first lower side wall 122f.

The second space forming wall 124g may include a first side wall 124a. A second inlet 493 may be formed in the first side wall 124. A second outlet 494 may be formed on the first side wall 124 below the second inlet 493.

The second space forming wall 124g may further include a second side wall 124d facing the first side wall 124a.

The first side wall 124a may further include a recessed portion 124a1, a portion of which is recessed toward the second side wall 124d. The depression 124a1 may be a protrusion protruding into the second space 124 on the side of the second space 124 .

The third duct 430 may be positioned between the depression 124a1 and the peripheral portion 102c by the depression 124a1. The third duct 430 may contact the recessed portion 124a1.

The second inlet 493 may be formed in the depression 124a1.

Accordingly, the distance between the second inlet 493 and the second side wall 124d is shorter than the distance between the second outlet 494 and the second side wall 124d.

The second space forming wall 124g may further include a second rear side wall 124c connecting the first side wall 124a and the second side wall 124d.

The second rear wall 124c may be bent one or more times. A portion of the second rear wall 124c may be a vertical surface. Another part of the rear wall 124c may be inclined. Another part of the second rear wall 124c may be rounded.

The second rear wall 124c may include an inclined wall 124c1. A first hole 495 may be formed in the inclined wall 124c1. The tube 489 through which water supplied to the second ice maker 500 flows may pass through the first hole 495.

A second hole 496 may be formed in the inclined wall 124c1. A wire to be connected to the second ice maker 500 may pass through the second hole 496. The first hole 495 and the second hole 496 may be spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

The second rear wall 124c may further include a recessed wall 124c2 formed by partially recessing into the second space 124.

A portion of the first hole 495 may be formed in the recessed portion 124c.

The second space forming wall 124g may further include a second upper side wall 124e. The second upper side wall 124e may extend from the second rear side wall 123c.

The second space forming wall 124g may further include a second lower side wall 124b. The second lower side wall 124b may extend from the second rear side wall 123c.

The inclined wall 124c1 may be connected to the second upper side wall 124e.

A guide bracket 480 may be coupled to the second space forming wall 124g. The guide bracket 480 may guide the tube 489 and/or wire.

The guide bracket 480 may include a first bracket body 481. The first bracket body 481 may contact the recessed wall 124c2.

The guide bracket 480 may further include a second bracket body 482 obliquely extending from the first bracket body 481. The second bracket body 482 may contact the inclined wall 124c1.

The first bracket body 481 may be provided with a dispenser fastening portion 483.

The guide bracket 480 may include a tube hole 485 through which the tube 489 passes. The tube hole 485 may be aligned with the first hole 495.

Part of the tube hole 485 may be formed in the first bracket body 481 and another part may be formed in the second bracket body 482.

The guide bracket 480 may further include a tube guide 484 that guides the tube 489. The tube guide 484, which is not limited, may extend upward from the second bracket body 482.

The guide bracket 480 may further include a wire guide 486 that guides the wire. Although not limited, the wire guide 486 may extend from the second bracket body 482.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the cold air duct as seen from the third duct side, and Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the cold air duct of Figure 12. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the cold air duct as seen from the first duct side, and Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of the cold air duct of Figure 14.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 11 to 15 , the first duct 410 may include a first duct body 411.

The first duct body 411 may include a first opening 412. The first opening 412 may be aligned with the cold air inlet 123a.

The first duct body 411 may extend in the vertical direction. The first opening 412 may be formed in the lower part of the first duct body 411.

The first duct 411 may include a first extension body 413 extending around the first duct 411 .

The first duct body 411 may be provided with a fastening hole 415 through which a fastening member for fastening to the second duct 410 passes.

The first extended body 413 may be provided with a first hook 416 to be coupled to the second duct 410. For example, the first extended body 413 may be provided with a plurality of first hooks 416.

The second duct 430 may include a second duct body 431. The second duct body 431 may include a second opening 434. The second opening 434 may be aligned with the first inlet 491.

The second duct body 431 may extend in the vertical direction. The second opening 434 may be formed in the upper part of the second duct body 431.

The second duct body 431 may further include a flange 435 in contact with the first space forming wall 122a. The flange 435 may extend around the second opening 434 .

The second duct 430 may include a second extension body 433 extending around one surface of the second duct body 431. The second extended body 433 may contact the first extended body 413. The first extension body 411 may contact the second extension body 413. The first duct body 411 and the second duct body 431 may be spaced apart by the first extension body 411 and the second extension body 413. Accordingly, the first cold air flow path P1 may be formed between the first duct body 411 and the second duct body 431.

The second extension body 433 may be provided with a first hook coupling portion 437 to which the first hook 416 is coupled.

The second extension body 433 may further include a first fastening protrusion 436 to which a fastening member penetrating the fastening hole 415 is fastened. The first fastening protrusion 436 may protrude from one surface of the second duct body 431.

The second duct 430 may further include a third extension body 438 extending from the other surface of the second duct body 431. The third extended body 438 may be provided with a second hook coupling portion 438a.

The second extended body 433 may further include a second fastening protrusion 439 for fastening with the third duct 430. The second fastening protrusion 439 may protrude from the other surface of the second duct body 431.

The third duct 450 may include a third duct body 451.

The third duct body 451 may include a third opening 454. The third opening 454 may be aligned with the first outlet 492.

The third duct body 451 may further include a fourth opening 457. The fourth opening 457 may be aligned with the second inlet 493.

In the third duct body 451, the fourth opening 457 may be located below the third opening 454. The fourth opening 457 may be located higher than the lower end of the second duct 430.

The third duct body 451 may further include a fourth extended body 452. The fourth extended body 452 may contact the third extended body 438.

The second duct body 431 and the third duct body 451 may be spaced apart by the third extension body 438 and the fourth extension body 452. Accordingly, the second cold air flow path P2 may be formed between the second duct body 431 and the third duct body 451.

The third extension body 438 may be provided with a second hook 453 to be fastened to the second hook fastening portion 438a.

The third duct body 451 may include a first contact portion 455. The first contact portion 455 may contact the first space forming wall 122a. For example, the third opening 493 may be formed in the first contact portion 455.

The first contact portion 455 may include a round portion 455a.

The third duct 450 may further include a fastening body 456 extending from the first contact portion 455. It may be fastened to the first space forming wall 122a.

The third duct body 451 may further include a second contact portion 458. The second contact portion 458 may contact the second space forming wall 124g.

For example, the fourth opening 494 may be formed in the second contact portion 458. The third duct 451 may further include a third contact portion 459 extending in a direction intersecting the second contact portion 458. The third contact portion 459 may contact the second space forming wall 124g.

The fourth duct 470 may include a fourth duct body 471. The fourth duct body 471 may form a third cold air flow path (P3).

The fourth duct body 471 may include a fifth opening 472. The fifth opening 472 may be aligned with the second outlet 494.

The fourth duct body 471 may further include a sixth opening 473. The sixth opening 473 may be aligned with the cold air outlet 123b.

The fifth opening 472 and the sixth opening 473 may face each other on opposite sides of the fourth duct body 470.

The fourth duct 470 may be connected to the second duct 430 through a connection portion 477. For example, the fourth duct 470 may be formed integrally with the second duct 430. The fourth duct 470 may be located below the second duct 430. The private connection portion 477 may be provided with a fastening boss 478.

The size of the sixth opening 473 may be larger than the size of the fifth opening 471.

For example, the cross-sectional area of the fourth duct body 471 may increase from the fifth opening 472 to the sixth opening 473.

FIG. 16 is a view showing the third duct in contact with the first space forming wall of the door liner, FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 9, and FIG. 18 is a view showing the third duct in contact with the first space forming wall of the door liner. This is a drawing showing a state in contact with the second space forming wall.

16 to 18, the first contact portion 455 of the third duct 450 may contact the first side wall 122c of the first space forming wall 122a.

The round portion 455a of the first contact portion 455 may contact the first rear wall 122b of the first space forming wall 122a.

A body seating portion 122b1 on which the fastening body 456 is seated may be formed on the first rear wall 122b. The body seating portion 122b1 may be formed as a portion of the first rear wall 122b is depressed toward the first space 122.

A head seating groove 122b may be formed in the body seating portion 122b1 so that the head portion of the fastening member can be seated.

The head portion seating groove 122b may be formed as a portion of the body seating portion 122b1 is depressed in a direction away from the first space. Accordingly, in the first space 122, the fastening member may pass through the head seating groove 122b and be fastened to the fastening body 456.

When the first contact portion 455 of the third duct 450 contacts the first side wall 122c of the first space forming wall 122a, the third opening 454 is connected to the first outlet 492. can be sorted

The second contact portion 458 of the third duct 450 may contact the first side wall 124a of the second space forming wall 124g. For example, the second contact portion 458 may contact the recessed portion 124a1 formed in the first side wall 124a.

The third contact portion 459 of the third duct 450 may contact one or more of the second rear side wall 124c and the second upper side wall 124e.

The third contact portion 459 may include a first part 459a. The first part 459a may contact the second rear wall 124c.

The third contact portion 459 may further include a second part 459b extending from the first part 459a. The second part 459b may be inclined with the first part 459a. The second part 459b may contact an inclined surface at the second rear wall 124c.

The third contact portion 459 may further include a third part 459c extending from the second part 459b. The third part 459c may be inclined with the second part 459b. The third part 459c may contact the second upper side wall 124e.

When the second contact portion 458 of the third duct 450 contacts the first side wall 124a, the fourth opening 457 may be aligned with the second inlet 493.

FIG. 19 is a view cut along line 19-19 of FIG. 12.

Referring to FIG. 19, one of the first extension body 413 of the first duct 410 and the second extension body 433 of the second duct 430 is inserted into the other. The extension body 413 and the second extension body 433 may be combined.

For example, a first insertion groove 413a may be formed in the first extension body 413. The second extended body 433 may include a first insertion protrusion 433a inserted into the first insertion groove 413a. Of course, it is also possible that the first extension body 413 includes an insertion protrusion and the second extension body includes an insertion groove.

As the first insertion protrusion 433a is inserted into the first insertion groove 413a, leakage of cold air from the first cold air passage P1 can be prevented. That is, the first insertion protrusion 433a and the first insertion groove 413a may serve as a sealing member.

The third extension body 438 is configured such that one of the third extension body 438 of the second duct 430 and the fourth extension body 452 of the third duct 450 is inserted into the other. and the fourth extended body 452 may be combined.

For example, a second insertion protrusion 438a may be formed on the third extension body 438. The fourth extended body 452 may include a second insertion groove 452a into which the second insertion protrusion 438a is inserted. Of course, it is also possible that the third extension body 413 includes an insertion groove and the fourth extension body includes an insertion protrusion.

As the second insertion protrusion 438a is inserted into the second insertion groove 452a, leakage of cold air from the second cold air passage P2 can be prevented. That is, the second insertion protrusion 438a and the second insertion groove 452a may serve as a sealing member.

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 of Figure 4, and Figure 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line 21-21 of Figure 4. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 22-22 in Figure 5. Figure 23 is a perspective view of the bracket according to this embodiment, and Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of Figure 22.

20 to 24, the second ice maker 500 of this embodiment may further include a first tray case supporting the first tray 510.

The first tray case may include a bracket 520 that supports the first tray 510 from the upper side.

The first tray case may include a first supporter 530 that supports the first tray 510 from the lower side.

The second ice maker 500 may further include a second tray case supporting the second tray 550.

The second tray case may include a second tray cover 560 that supports the second tray 550 on the upper side.

The second tray case may include a second supporter 570 that supports the second tray 550 from the lower side.

The bracket 520 may include a first tray cover 521 mounted on the upper side of the first tray 510 .

The first tray cover 521 may include an opening 523. The first tray 510 may contact the lower surface of the first tray cover 521 from the lower side of the first tray cover 521 . A portion of the first tray 510 may pass through the opening 523.

The bracket 520 may further include a peripheral portion 522 extending upward from the first tray cover 521.

The bracket 520 may further include a cold air guide 524 that guides cold air. The cold air guide 524 may extend upward from the first tray cover 521. The cold air guide 524 may guide cold air toward the opening 523.

Since a portion of the first tray 510 penetrates the opening 523, cold air guided by the cold air guide 524 may contact the first tray 510.

The bracket 520 may further include a lower guide. The lower guide may be disposed between the cold air guide 524 and the peripheral portion 522 to guide cold air toward the first tray 510 (or opening).

The lower guide may be positioned higher than the first tray cover 521. The lower guide may be stepped.

The lower guide may include a first guide 525 adjacent to the second inlet 493.

The first guide 525 may be positioned at the same height as the lower end 493a of the second inlet 493 or positioned lower.

A portion of the first guide 525 may be depressed downward to form a depressed bottom 525a.

The lower guide may further include a second guide 526 extending from the first guide 525. The second guide 526 may extend in a direction away from the second inlet 493.

The second guide 526 may be positioned higher than the recessed bottom 525a.

Accordingly, while cold air may be guided to flow by the lower guide, some of the cold air may stagnate around the depression bottom 525a.

The driving unit 580 may be located below the recessed body 525a. For example, the upper surface of the driving unit 580 may contact the recessed bottom 525a.

If cold air stagnates around the cave bottom 525a, the driving unit 580 can be cooled by the cold air, so heat dissipation performance can be improved.

The second guide 526 may be positioned at the same height as the portion of the first guide 525 excluding the recessed bottom 525a or may be positioned lower.

At least a portion of the second guide 526 may be a horizontal surface. At least a portion of the second guide 526 may be an inclined surface.

The height of the upper surface of the cold air guide 524 may be variable. For example, at least a portion of the upper surface of the cold air guide 525 may become lower in height as it moves away from the second inlet 493.

For example, the cold air guide 524 may include a first upper surface 524a and a second upper surface 524b that is inclined downward from the first upper surface 524a.

The first upper surface 524a may be positioned higher than the top of the peripheral portion 522.

The bracket 520 may further include a coupling portion 528 to which the water supply portion 546 is coupled. The coupling portion 528 may be provided on the first tray cover 521. The coupling portion 528 may protrude upward from the first tray cover 521.

The second ice maker 500 may further include the water supply unit 546. The water supply unit 546 may guide the supplied water to the lower side of the water supply unit 546.

The water supply unit 546 may be installed in the first tray case. For example, the water supply unit 546 may be installed on the first tray cover 521.

When the water supply unit 546 is installed on the first tray cover 521, the water supply unit 546 and the peripheral portion 522 may be spaced apart.

The second inlet 493 may be located higher than the driving unit 580.

The second inlet 493 may be located higher than the ice-making cell 501.

At least a portion of the second inlet 493 may be located higher than the first pusher 540.

At least a portion of the second inlet 493 may be located higher than the cold air guide 524.

The second inlet 493 may be located closer to the second rear wall 124c than the opening 124f of the second space 124.

The second entrance 493 may view the area between the second rear wall 124c and the first pusher 540.

At least a portion of the second inlet 493 may overlap the water supply unit 546 in the horizontal direction. At least a portion of the second inlet 493 may view the space between the water supply portion 546 and the peripheral portion 522 (or the second rear wall 124c).

The inclined wall 124c1 of the second rear wall 124c may be positioned higher than the first tray 510. For example, the inclined wall 124c1 may be located above the peripheral portion 522.

The inclined wall 124c1 may be located above the lower guide.

The second rear wall 124a may further include a guide wall 124c2 that is inclined with the inclined wall 124c1 and guides cold air. At least a portion of the second entrance 493 may face the guide wall 124c2.

The guide wall 124c2 may be inclined in a direction away from the cold air guide 524 at the inclined wall 124c1.

Accordingly, the width of the flow path between the cold air guide 524 and the guide wall 124c2 may be larger than the width of the flow path between the inclined wall 124c1 and the cold air guide 524.

Some of the cold air introduced through the second inlet 493 may be guided toward the inclined wall 124c1 along the guide wall 124c2. Another part of the cold air introduced through the second inlet 493 may flow along the cold air guide 524.

Therefore, the cold air introduced into the second space 124 through the second inlet 493 is guided by the cold air guide 524, the floor guide, the guide wall 124c2, and the inclined wall 124c1 to the It may flow toward the first tray 510.

Since the lower guide is positioned higher than the first tray 510, cold air can be guided to the upper part of the first tray 510.

When the second ice maker 500 is an ice maker that produces transparent ice, a heater may be installed adjacent to the second tray 550. When the heater operates during the ice-making process, the ice may freeze from the upper side of the ice-making cell 501 and grow downward. According to this embodiment, cold air can be guided to the upper part of the first tray 510, which can be advantageous in producing transparent ice.

The second outlet 494 may be located lower than the driving unit 580.

The second outlet 494 may be located closer to the second rear wall 124c than the opening 124f of the second space 124.

The driving unit 580 may be arranged to correspond to the area between the second inlet 493 and the second outlet 494.

Claims (22)

cabinets with storage compartments;
a door that opens and closes the storage compartment;
a space forming wall provided on the door and forming an ice-making room; and
A tray accommodated in the ice-making chamber and forming an ice-making cell for producing ice, and an ice maker including a driving unit that operates to move the tray,
The space forming wall includes a first side wall, a second side wall facing the first side wall, and
a rear side wall connecting the first side wall and the second side wall;
an upper side wall extending from the upper side of the rear side wall;
It includes a lower side wall extending from the lower side of the rear side wall,
An inlet through which cold air to be supplied to the ice-making chamber passes is formed in the upper wall or the first side wall,
An outlet through which cold air to be discharged from the ice-making chamber passes is formed on the first side wall,
A refrigerator in which the inlet is located higher than the driving unit. According to claim 1,
A refrigerator in which the outlet is located lower than the driving unit. According to claim 1,
A refrigerator in which the inlet is located higher than the ice-making cell. According to claim 1,
Further comprising a water supply unit that guides water to the ice-making cell,
A refrigerator wherein the water supply unit is spaced apart from the rear wall, and at least a portion of the inlet faces a space between the rear wall and the water supply unit. According to claim 4,
The refrigerator wherein the inlet horizontally overlaps at least a portion of the water supply unit. According to claim 1,
Further comprising a pusher for separating ice produced in the ice-making cell from the tray,
The refrigerator has the entrance facing an area between the rear wall and the pusher. According to claim 1,
The tray includes a first tray forming part of the ice-making cell,
a second tray located above the first tray and forming another part of the ice-making cell;
The driving unit operates to move the second tray,
A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the inlet is located higher than the first tray. According to claim 7,
Further comprising a bracket supporting the first tray,
The bracket is a refrigerator including a cold air guide that guides cold air flowing in through the inlet. According to claim 8,
A refrigerator wherein the height of at least a portion of the upper surface of the cold air guide decreases as it moves away from the inlet side. According to claim 8,
The cold air guide is spaced apart from the rear wall so that cold air flows between the cold air guide and the rear wall. According to claim 8,
A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the inlet is located higher than the cold air guide. According to claim 10,
The bracket further includes a lower guide that guides cold air between the cold air guide and the rear wall toward the first tray. According to claim 12,
The bracket includes a tray cover mounted on the first tray,
A refrigerator in which the lower guide is positioned higher than the tray cover. According to claim 12,
The lower guide includes a first guide adjacent to the inlet,
A refrigerator including a second guide extending from the first guide toward the first tray. According to claim 14,
The refrigerator wherein the first guide is located at the same height as the lower end of the inlet or is located lower. According to claim 14,
A portion of the first guide is depressed downward to form a depressed bottom,
A refrigerator in which the driving unit is located below the recessed floor. According to claim 8,
The rear wall includes an inclined wall positioned higher than the first tray,
A refrigerator in which cold air introduced through the inlet flows between the inclined wall and the cold air guide. According to claim 17,
The rear wall further includes a guide wall that is inclined toward the inclined wall and guides cold air.
A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the second entrance faces the guide wall. According to claim 18,
A refrigerator wherein the guide wall is inclined in a direction away from the cold air guide on the inclined wall. According to claim 18,
A refrigerator in which the passage width between the cold air guide and the guide wall is greater than the passage width between the inclined wall and the cold air guide. According to claim 1,
Further comprising a cold air duct that guides cold air to the ice making room,
A refrigerator wherein the cold air duct includes an opening communicating with the inlet. According to claim 21,
The first side wall includes a depression that is depressed toward the second side wall,
A portion of the cold air duct contacts the depression,
A refrigerator in which the entrance is formed in the depression.

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