RU2350859C1 - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: heating.

SUBSTANCE: refrigerator consists of a housing containing a freezing compartment and a chilling compartment (the former positioned underneath the latter), a door for opening and closing the chilling compartment, an ice chamber (arranged on the door inside thus positioned inside the chilling compartment while the door is closed), a heat exchanger generating chilled air and a chilled air directing unit that delivers the chilled air generated by the heat exchanger into the ice chamber to provide for generation of ice therein.

EFFECT: facilitated retrieval of ice from the ice chamber.

30 cl, 22 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator that comprises an ice formation chamber for ice formation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typically, refrigerators are used to store food at a low temperature and in a fresh state for a long period of time. Such a refrigerator carries out storage in a frozen or chilled state in accordance with the state or type of food product.

To store a food product in a low-temperature state, the refrigerator contains a refrigeration device, which repeatedly performs the refrigeration cycle "compression-condensation-expansion-evaporation".

Below, a conventional refrigerator will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, a conventional refrigerator comprises a refrigerator body 10, which includes a refrigerator 20 for storing a food product in a refrigerated state and a freezer 30 for storing a food product in a frozen state.

The refrigerator compartment 20 and the freezer compartment 30 are separated so that they have independent spaces, respectively. Both the refrigerator 20 and the freezer 30 have an opening on their front side.

The opening of the refrigerator compartment 20 is opened or closed by the doors 22 of the refrigerator compartment. The opening of the freezer 30 is opened or closed by the door 32 of the freezer.

Typically, the refrigerator 20 is used more often than the freezer 30. To this end, the refrigerator 20 is located above the freezer 30 so that the user can easily bend the foodstuff stored in the refrigerator 20 without bending.

Boxes, baskets and shelves for holding a food product of various sizes and conditions are provided inside the refrigerator compartment 20 and on the doors 22 of the refrigerator compartment.

The freezer door 32 is slidable in the front and rear directions to open or close the freezer 30. The lower door handle is attached to the front surface of the freezer door 32 at the top of the freezer door 32 so that the user can slide the door 32 freezer when capturing the bottom door handle.

An ice maker 40 is located in the freezer 30 to form ice using cold air generated by a heat exchanger and supplied to the freezer 30.

However, a conventional refrigerator having this configuration has various problems.

Firstly, there is a problem in that the ice maker 40, which forms ice, is located inside the freezer 30, and the freezer 30 is located under the refrigerator 20 in a conventional refrigerator having this configuration. That is, it is inconvenient for the user to get ice out of the ice maker 40, since the user must bend down to use the ice maker 40 after opening the door 32 of the freezer.

This problem can be solved by placing the freezer 30 above the refrigerator 20. However, in this case, it is difficult for a person of small stature or a child to get ice out of the ice maker 40 located inside the freezer 30 after opening the freezer 30 when the refrigerator is large .

Meanwhile, the ice maker 40 can be installed in a suitable position outside the freezer 30, separately from the freezer 30. However, in this case, there are various problems, for example, an increase in production costs for the refrigerator, an increase in the volume of the refrigerator and difficulty in manufacturing the refrigerator, since an ice-forming heat exchanger must be installed in the ice-making chamber.

Due to these reasons, it is necessary to create a refrigerator that will allow the user to easily get ice out of the ice maker without changing the volume of the refrigerator or restricting the position of the freezer.

Disclosure of the present invention

Technical problem

The aim of the present invention, aimed at solving these problems, is to create a refrigerator that will allow the user to easily get ice out of the ice maker without changing the volume of the refrigerator or limiting the position of the freezer.

Technical solution

In accordance with the present invention, this goal can be achieved by creating a refrigerator containing a refrigerator body, which includes a freezer and a refrigerator; an ice-forming chamber, which is located in the refrigerator, to form ice; a heat exchanger that generates cold air to freeze a food product stored in the freezer; and a device for directing cold air, which directs the cold air generated by the heat exchanger into the ice formation chamber to form ice in the ice formation chamber.

Preferably, the ice formation chamber is located inside the door assembly of the refrigerator compartment, which opens and closes the interior of the refrigerator compartment. Preferably, the refrigerator is located above the freezer.

Preferably, the device for directing cold air comprises a channel device that is connected to an ice formation chamber.

The refrigerator may further comprise a fan for supplying cold air, which forcibly supplies cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the ice formation chamber.

The channel device may include an air supply channel that delivers cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the ice formation chamber, and a return channel that directs cold air from the ice formation chamber to the freezer.

In other words, the channel device may include at least one channel, which is located on one side wall of the refrigerating chamber, so that the channel is connected to the ice formation chamber.

Preferably, the channel is located between the outer wall and the inner wall, which form the side wall of the refrigerator.

More preferably, the channel may be located at a distance from the outer wall and the inner wall.

To this end, the refrigerator further comprises a spacer that supports the channel so that the channel is spaced from the outer wall and from the inner wall.

The spacer may contain two spacer ribs that protrude from the outer surface of the channel to place the channel at the same distance, respectively, from the outer wall and inner wall. Preferably, the spacer ribs are symmetrical with respect to each other.

The refrigerator may further comprise a channel holder that secures the channel to the side wall of the refrigerator.

The channel may be installed internally between the outer wall and the inner wall, provided that the channel is secured by the channel holder.

The channel holder may include at least a receiving device that reliably holds the channel, and spacer protrusions that protrude outward from the channel receiving device to position the channel at a distance from the outer and inner walls.

At least one channel may include a pair of channels, and at least one receiver for the channel may include a pair of receivers for the channel, which are connected to each other so that the receivers for the channel are made as a whole, and the receiving devices for the channel accommodate, respectively, the channels.

Preferably, the refrigerator further comprises a first heater, which prevents the occurrence of a freezing phenomenon in the refrigerating chamber due to the cold air passing through the channel.

In this case, the channel is installed in the side wall of the refrigerator and the first heater is located on the inner surface of the side wall.

Preferably, the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment comprises a first hole that forms one end of the channel device, and a first heater is located adjacent to the first hole.

The refrigerator may further comprise a guide for cold air, which is located in the partition separating the refrigerator from the freezer, for connecting the channel device to the freezer.

The partition may include a lid that is removably connected to the cold air guide. The cold air guide may include an air supply channel that directs cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the channel device, and a return channel that directs cold air directed through the channel device after leaving the ice formation chamber to the freezer.

The refrigerator may further comprise a second heater, which is located on one surface of the partition facing the interior of the refrigerator, to prevent the occurrence of freezing in the refrigerator, thanks to the guide for cold air. The second heater may be selectively driven in accordance with a predetermined mode.

In this case, an ice formation chamber is formed on the door assembly of the refrigerator compartment, which opens or closes the interior of the refrigerator. The channel device contains a first hole, which is provided on the inner wall of the refrigerator and forms one end of the channel device connected to one side of the door assembly of the refrigerator. The door unit of the refrigerator compartment contains a second hole that is connected to the first hole for connecting the channel device to the interior of the ice formation chamber.

The refrigerator may further comprise a sealing element that is provided at least in either the first hole or the second hole to prevent air leakage between the first and second holes.

The sealing member may include a gasket and a gasket fastener that secures the gasket to at least the first or second holes.

The gasket mounting member may include a gasket support member that connects to at least one of the first and second holes, and a gasket holder that secures the gasket to the gasket support member.

The ice formation chamber may include a door channel device that is installed in the door assembly of the refrigerator to open or close the interior of the refrigerator, for connecting the channel device to the interior of the refrigerator.

The ice formation chamber may include an ice formation compartment that accommodates an ice maker to form ice using cold air generated by the heat exchanger, and an ice formation chamber door that opens or closes an opening formed on the rear side of the ice formation compartment.

The door of the ice formation chamber can be pivoted by a hinge mounted on one side of the ice formation compartment. The door of the ice formation chamber may include a hinge cover that closes the hinge.

Advantage effects

A refrigerator in accordance with the present invention includes various purposes, as set forth below.

First, since the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention comprises a device for directing cold air generated by a heat exchanger that controls the temperature of the freezer to the ice formation chamber, it is possible to appropriately select the position of the ice formation chamber regardless of the structure or volume of the refrigerator. Therefore, it is possible to achieve an increase in the degree of freedom of the design of the refrigerator and reduce production costs for the refrigerator, as well as maximize the internal space of the refrigerator.

Secondly, in the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention, it is possible to conveniently use a refrigerator and to easily get ice out of the ice formation chamber, since the freezer is located under the refrigerator.

Thirdly, in the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of freezing in the refrigerating chamber due to the device for directing cold air, which directs cold air, since the heater is located on the inner surface of the refrigerating chamber.

Fourthly, in the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention, it is easy to fill the foaming liquid, since the channel is located in a predetermined position between the outer wall and the inner wall, which form one side wall of the refrigerator with spacer ribs and / or spacer protrusions.

Fifth, since the refrigerator according to the present invention comprises a channel holder for securing the channel to one side wall of the refrigerator, it is easy to install the channel.

Sixth, since the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention contains a hinge cover that closes the hinge when opening or closing the door mounted on the hinge, the ice formation chamber, accidental pinching of a part of the user's body in the hinge can be prevented by negligence and provide a beautiful appearance ice formation chambers.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and together with the description serve to explain the principle of the present invention.

In the drawings:

figure 1 is a perspective view of a conventional refrigerator, illustrating the open position of the doors of the refrigerator and the open position of the door of the freezer;

2 is a front view illustrating a refrigerator in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the open position of the doors of the refrigerator compartment and the open position of the door of the freezer compartment in the refrigerator of figure 2;

figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating the trajectory of the movement of cold air in the ice formation chamber and device for directing cold air in the refrigerator in figure 2;

5 is a perspective view illustrating the inner side of a portion of one door of the refrigerating chamber in which the ice formation chamber is located in the refrigerator of FIG. 2;

6 is a perspective view of a refrigerator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the open position of the doors of the refrigerator compartment and the open position of the door of the freezer compartment;

7 is a perspective view illustrating a device for directing cold air and one door of a refrigerator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

Fig.8 is a perspective view with a spatial separation of the parts, illustrating the sealing element used in the refrigerator in Fig.7;

Fig.9 is a sectional view illustrating a sealing element used in the refrigerator of Fig.7;

10 is a front view illustrating an inner case contained in a door of a refrigerator that is used in a refrigerator in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;

11 is a perspective view with a spatial separation of parts, illustrating the device of the channel of the door mounted on the inner casing of figure 10, and a sealing element mounted on the device of the channel of the door;

12 is a perspective view illustrating a device for directing cold air and a refrigerator door that are used in a refrigerator in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

Fig.13 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the channel forming a device for directing cold air in Fig.12;

14 is a sectional view illustrating a state in which the channel of FIG. 13 is mounted on one wall of the refrigerator;

15 is a perspective view illustrating a channel holder used in a refrigerator in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view illustrating a state in which a channel is mounted on one wall of the refrigerator with the channel holder in FIG. 15;

17 is a perspective view illustrating a first heater that is used in a refrigerator in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention and is mounted in a wall of a refrigerator;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a refrigerator in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention, illustrating open positions of doors of a refrigerator and a door of a freezer;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view illustrating a cold air guide located on the refrigerator wall of Fig. 18;

Fig.20 is a perspective view illustrating the lid of the partition, which opens or closes the guide for cold air in Fig.19;

Fig.21 is a perspective view illustrating the position in which the guide for cold air is closed by the lid of the partition in Fig.20; and

FIG. 22 is a rear view of a perspective view of an ice formation chamber used in a refrigerator in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

The best way to perform the present invention

Reference will be made in detail to preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same name and reference number will mean the same configuration, and no further description will be given.

2 is a front view illustrating a refrigerator in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the open position of the doors of the refrigerator compartment and the open position of the door of the refrigerator compartment in the refrigerator of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the trajectories of the movement of cold air in the ice formation chamber and the device for directing cold air in the refrigerator of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the inside of a portion of one door of a refrigerator in which an ice formation chamber is located in the refrigerator of FIG. 2.

As shown in FIGS. 2-5, a refrigerator in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention comprises a refrigerator body 100 and an ice formation chamber 500 in which ice is formed.

The interior of the refrigerator body 100 is divided into a refrigerator 200 and a freezer 300.

Although not shown, shelves and drawers of various shapes are located in the refrigerator compartment 200 to effectively accommodate various types of food product.

The cold air stream supplied to the refrigerating chamber 200 on one side of the refrigerating chamber 200 is affected by the shelves and drawers, so that the convection of cold air is limited or controlled. As a result, cold air is supplied in varying amounts in the part of the refrigerating chamber 200 formed by the shelves and drawers, respectively, so that the parts of the refrigerating chamber 200 have different temperature parameters. Thus, it is possible to store the food product in an appropriate part of the refrigerating chamber 200 depending on the storage conditions of the food product.

Meanwhile, the refrigeration chamber 200 is open on its front side. The refrigerator compartment 200 includes a refrigerator compartment door assembly 400 that selectively opens or closes the front side of the refrigerator compartment 200. Thus, the refrigerator compartment door assembly 400 opens or closes the interior of the refrigerator compartment 200.

The door assembly 400 of the refrigerator compartment comprises a pair of hinged doors 410 and 420 pivotally connected to the refrigerator body 100.

The left door of the hinged doors 410 and 420, that is, the door 410, can be pivotally connected at its left end to the left corners of the front side of the refrigerator compartment 200, respectively, using hinges. The right door of the hinged doors 410 and 420, that is, the door 420, can be pivotally connected at its right end to the right corners of the front side of the refrigerator 200, respectively, by hinges. Thus, the left and right doors 410 and 420 are able to open independently of each other.

Shelves 411 and 421 can be installed in the node 400 of the doors of the refrigerator compartment to accommodate bottles of drinks and other food product.

The freezer 300 is adapted to store fish, meat or a food product that must be stored for a long period of time in a frozen state. Boxes and baskets (not shown) are located in the freezer 300 for separately storing various food products that must be stored frozen depending on the size or condition of the food product.

The temperature of the freezer 300 is controlled by a heat exchanger 310 mounted in the refrigerator body 100. In detail, the interior of the freezer 300 is maintained in a low temperature state by using the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 to freeze the food stored in the freezer 300.

In other words, the refrigerant that passes through the heat exchanger 310 evaporates when it absorbs heat from the cold air supplied to the freezer 300, thereby lowering the temperature of the cold air. Thus, the interior of the freezer 300 is maintained at a temperature suitable for storing the food product in a frozen state.

A heat exchanger 310 is located on the rear side of the freezer 300, in particular, on the rear side of the storage box 330 located in the freezer 300. Here, the storage box 330 holds said drawers and / or baskets for storing food.

Preferably, a fan (not shown) is located on one side of the heat exchanger 310 for forcing air circulation in the freezer 300.

The freezer door 320 is located on the open front side of the freezer 300 to open or close the freezer 300. The freezer door 320 is pivotally connected at its lower end to the lower end of the front side of the storage box 330. The storage box 330 is connected to the refrigerator body 100 in such a way that the storage box 330 is slidably extended in the front and rear directions. The storage box 330 is capable of being pushed forward and pushed back together with the door 320 of the freezer.

The lower handle 321 may be attached to the front surface of the freezer door 320 to open or close the freezer door 320. Shelf 322, which can hold food, can be attached to the rear surface of the door 320 of the freezer.

Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the heat exchanger 310 is adapted to perform temperature control in both the refrigerating chamber 200 and the freezing chamber 300. Of course, in the refrigerating chamber 200, the temperature can be controlled by a separate heat exchanger (not shown).

The refrigerator 200 and the freezer 300, which have the respective configurations, respectively, are separated by a partition 210.

Typically, the refrigerator 200 is used more often than the refrigerator 300. To this end, it is preferable that the refrigerator 200 is located above the freezer 300 so that the foodstuff stored in the refrigerator 200 is easily accessible to the user. bending over.

Accordingly, the partition 210 is located horizontally in the refrigerator body 100, so that the partition 210 forms the lower part of the refrigerator 200 and the upper part of the freezer 300.

Meanwhile, the ice formation chamber 500 is mainly intended for ice formation and ice storage. Preferably, the ice-making chamber 500 is positioned in the refrigerator so that the user can easily get ice formed in the ice-making chamber 500, regardless of the size or volume of the refrigerator, and the location of the freezer 300 and the refrigerator 200.

In ordinary cases in which there is a restriction on the location of the ice-forming chamber, since the ice-forming chamber must be located in the freezer, there is a problem in arranging the ice-forming chamber in an appropriate position in the refrigerator.

Therefore, in order not only to form ice using said heat exchanger without using a separate heat exchanger to form ice, but also to ensure that the ice maker is positioned in an appropriate position that makes it easier for the user to get the ice formed by the ice maker, it is preferable that the refrigerator comprises a device for directing cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 into the ice formation chamber 500.

In other words, a distinctive feature of the present invention is that the refrigerator comprises a device for directing cold air to direct part of the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310, to ensure that the ice maker is in the most suitable position regardless of the size or volume of the refrigerator, and the location of the freezer 300 and the refrigerator cameras 200.

This feature of the present invention is more effective when the freezer 300 is located under the refrigerator 200.

In other words, when the refrigerating chamber 200 is located above the freezing chamber 300, it is possible to easily reach the food product stored in the interior of the refrigerating chamber 200, in particular in the lower part of the refrigerating compartment 200.

In addition, it is preferable that the ice-making chamber 500 is located in the refrigerating chamber 200 so that the user can easily get the ice stored in the ice-making chamber 500. In the illustrated case, the ice formation chamber 500 is located in the door assembly 400 of the refrigeration chamber.

As shown in FIGS. 2-5, the dispenser 430 is also located in the door assembly 400 of the refrigerator compartment in addition to the ice formation chamber 500. Dispenser 430 is operable so that a user can withdraw water purified in the refrigerator and ice formed in the ice formation chamber 500 from the outside of the refrigerator. Operation buttons 450 for controlling internal temperatures in the chambers in the refrigerator and other functions, as well as a display device 440 for displaying the operating state of the refrigerator, are located on the front surface of the refrigerator body 100.

According to this embodiment, the ice-making chamber 500 is located on the inside of the refrigerator door assembly 400, in particular on the inside of the left door 410. The dispenser 430 is arranged to dispense ice stored in the ice-making chamber 500 on the front side of the left door 410 Of course, the ice formation chamber 500 and the dispenser 430 may be located on the right door 420.

In order for the dispenser 430 to discharge the ice formed in the ice formation chamber 500 by gravity, it is preferred that the ice formation chamber 500 is located above the dispenser 430.

The ice formation chamber 500 has a rear wall that projects from the left door 410 to the refrigeration chamber 200.

The ice formation chamber 500 comprises an ice formation compartment 510, in which an ice maker 511 is arranged adapted to form ice using cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310, and an ice formation chamber door 520 that opens or closes an opening formed on the rear side of the ice formation compartment 510 .

The ice formation chamber 500 is formed by an inner case (not shown) connected to the rear surface of the left door 410. Therefore, the interior of the ice formation chamber 500 is separated from the interior of the refrigeration chamber 200.

An ice maker 511 that forms ice using cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 is located on the inside of the ice formation chamber 500, that is, the ice formation compartment 510. A feed device 512 is also installed in the ice formation compartment 510. A feeding device 512 is located below the ice maker 511 for storing and supplying ice formed by the ice maker 511.

The supply device 512 not only stores ice formed by the ice maker 511, but also delivers ice to the dispenser 430 so that the user can get ice through the dispenser 430, if necessary.

Meanwhile, the cold air guiding device is for guiding the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 to the ice forming section 510 of the ice forming chamber 500.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the device for directing cold air comprises a channel device 600 that is connected to the ice formation chamber 500.

In detail, the channel device 600 determines a cold air flow path generated by the heat exchanger 310. Preferably, the refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention further comprises a cold air supply fan 630 that forcibly directs the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 through the ice formation chamber 500 .

Therefore, part of the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 is supplied to the ice formation chamber 500 through the channel device 600 in accordance with the actuation of the fan 630 for supplying cold air.

The ice formation chamber 500 may be configured to selectively couple to a channel device 600, as in this embodiment.

In detail, the ice chamber 500 and the channel device 600 are configured to connect to each other only in the closed state of the left door 410.

In other words, when the left door 410 is closed, the ice formation chamber 500 is connected to the channel device 600.

For this configuration, a first hole 601 is formed in the inner wall of the refrigeration chamber 200. The first hole 601 forms one end of the channel device 600, in particular, the upper end of the channel device 600. A second hole 501, which selectively connects to the first hole 601, is formed in the door assembly 400 of the refrigerator compartment, in particular the left door 410.

When the second hole 501 is connected to the first hole 610, the second hole 501 is connected to the interior of the ice formation chamber 500, in particular the ice formation compartment 510.

In detail, when the left door 410 is closed, the second hole 501 is connected to the first hole 601. On the other hand, when the left door 410 is open, the second hole 501 is disconnected from the first hole 601.

Although not shown, the ice formation chamber 500 may be configured such that it always connects to the channel device 600. For this configuration, the channel device 600 can be directly connected at one end to one side of the refrigerator door assembly 400 on which an ice formation chamber 500 is formed, and can be connected at its other end to one side of the freezer 300.

The channel device 600 includes at least one channel, two channels 610 and 620 in the illustrated case, located on one side wall of the refrigerating chamber 200.

Where the ice formation chamber 500 is located on the left door 410, as in this embodiment, it is preferred that the channels 610 and 620 are located on the left wall of the refrigeration chamber 200.

Channels 610 and 620 are designed to supply cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 into the ice formation chamber 500. Hereinafter, these channels are collectively referred to as air supply channel 610.

In this embodiment, the air supply channel 610 is configured such that one end of the air supply channel 610, that is, the upper end of the air supply channel 610, is connected to the ice formation chamber 500, and the other end of the air supply channel 610, i.e., the lower end the air supply passage 610 is connected to the freezer 300. According to this configuration, the air supply channel 610 directs a portion of the cold air supplied to the freezer 300 to the ice formation chamber 500.

Of course, the other end of the air supply channel 610 may be open on one side of the heat exchanger 310, so that the air supply channel 610 directly draws in cold air from the heat exchanger 310 to direct the intake of cold air into the ice formation chamber 500.

Meanwhile, cold air supplied to the ice formation chamber 500 absorbs heat from the water in the ice formation chamber 500. Cold air exiting the ice formation chamber 500 may be supplied to the interior of the refrigeration chamber 200. However, it is preferable that the cold air exiting the ice formation chamber 500 is returned to the freezing chamber 300, taking into account the temperature difference between the cold air in the refrigerating chamber. chamber 200 and cold air in the ice formation chamber 500.

To this end, the channel device 60 preferably further comprises a channel 620, which is connected to the ice formation chamber 500, for directing cold air from the ice formation chamber 500 to the freezing chamber 300. Hereinafter, channel 620 is called the return channel.

One end of the return channel 620, that is, the upper end of the return channel 620, is connected to the ice chamber 500, while the other end of the return channel 620, that is, the lower end of the return channel 620, is connected to one side of the freezer 300, so that the return channel 620 is connected to the interior of the freezer 300.

Meanwhile, the first opening 601 comprises an air supply opening 601a on the channel side, which supplies cold air leaving the air supply channel 610 to the ice formation chamber 500. The second hole 501 comprises an inlet 501a on the door side, which is formed in the inner wall of the left door 410, so that the inlet 501a on the door side selectively connects to the channel side air inlet 601a.

Where the channel device 600 further comprises a return channel 620, as in this embodiment, the first opening 601 further comprises an inlet 601b on the channel side that receives cold air leaving the ice formation chamber 500 to direct the received cold air to the freezer 300. In this case, the second hole 501 further comprises an outlet side 501b on the door side, which is formed in the inner wall of the left door 410, so that the outlet side 501b on the side of the door ivno connected to the inlet 601b to the channel side.

Meanwhile, at least one of the channels 610 and 620, in particular at least one of the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620, is preferably located between the outer and inner walls forming one side of the refrigerating chamber 200, i.e. , left side of the refrigerator compartment 200.

The outer wall forms the left appearance of the refrigerator body 100, while the inner wall forms the left inner wall of the refrigerator 200.

In particular, it is preferable that the air supply channel 610 is located between the outer and inner walls, since the temperature of the cold air passing through the air supply channel 610 is lower than the temperature of the cold air passing through the return channel 620.

However, in order to minimize the effect of the channel device 600 on the temperature of the refrigerating chamber 200, it is preferable that both the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620 are located between the outer and inner walls, as in this embodiment.

The space between the walls of the refrigeration chamber 200, i.e., the outer and inner walls of the refrigeration chamber 200, is filled with insulating material, such as urethane foam, to prevent the internal temperature of the refrigeration chamber 200 from changing due to the cold air passing through the duct device 600 and to minimize the increase in cold temperature air passing through channels 610 and 620.

Where the air supply duct 610 is located on the left side of the refrigerating chamber 200 in the space between the outer and inner walls of the refrigerating chamber 200, it is preferable that the first opening 601 is located on the left inner wall of the refrigerating chamber 200. In this case, it is also preferable that the second opening 501 was located on the inner case of the refrigerator door assembly 400.

In detail, the channel side air inlet 601a and the channel side inlet 601b may be formed in front of a left inner wall of the refrigeration chamber 200.

One end of the air supply passage 610, i.e., the outlet of the air supply passage 610, is connected to the air supply opening 601a on the channel side. One end of the return channel 620, i.e., the inlet of the return channel 620, is connected to the inlet 601b on the channel side.

Meanwhile, the inlet 501a on the door side and the outlet 501b on the side of the door are formed on the inner case, so that they correspond to the air inlet 601a on the channel side and the inlet 601b on the channel side, respectively.

Where one end of the air supply passage 610 protrudes from the inner wall of the refrigeration chamber 200, the outlet of the air supply passage 610 may form an air supply opening on the channel side. On the other hand, where one end of the return channel 620 protrudes from the inner wall of the refrigeration chamber 200, the inlet of the return channel 620 may form an air supply opening on the channel side.

According to this configuration, when the left door 410 is closed, the first opening 601 and the second opening 501 are connected to each other. In this state, part of the cold air supplied to the freezing chamber 300 is supplied into the ice formation chamber 500 through the air supply duct 610. In addition, the cold air used to form ice in the ice formation chamber 500 is returned to the freezer chamber 300 through a return channel 620.

Below will be described the operation of the refrigerator having the specified configuration in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

First, the cold air that is supplied to the freezer 300 after being cooled by the heat exchanger 310 freezes the food stored in the freezer 300.

A portion of the cold air that is supplied to the freezer 300 after being cooled by the heat exchanger 310 is sent to the ice formation chamber 500 by means of a cold air guiding device, in particular a channel device 600.

In detail, a portion of the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 is forcibly supplied to the ice formation chamber 500 through the air supply duct 610 by a fan 630 for supplying cold air.

Between the cold air supplied to the ice formation chamber 500 and the water supplied to the ice maker 540, heat is exchanged. Thus, ice formation is carried out in the ice formation chamber 500.

The cold air in which heat exchange occurred, that is, which was used to form ice, is supplied to the return channel 620 through the channel side inlet 601b connected to the door side outlet 501b, and then returns to the freezer 300 through the return channel 620.

The cold air supplied to the freezer 300 is cooled by repeated heat exchange with the heat exchanger 310. The resulting cold air is then supplied to the freezer 300 or ice chamber 500.

The ice formed in the ice formation chamber 500 is stored in the feeder 512. The ice stored in the feeder 512 is subsequently discharged outward through the dispenser 420 in accordance with the operation of the user.

The method of implementation of the present invention

Below, with reference to FIGS. 6-9, a refrigerator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

6 is a perspective view of a refrigerator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, illustrating an open position of a refrigerator door and an open position of a freezer door. 7 is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for directing cold air and one refrigerator door in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a sealing element used in the refrigerator of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a sectional view illustrating a sealing element used in the refrigerator of FIG. 7.

The main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention are identical to the main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, given with reference to a refrigerator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, constituent elements identical to the constituent elements of the first embodiment of the present invention will be denoted by the same reference numbers as the reference numbers used in the first embodiment of the present invention, respectively , and no further description will be given.

A refrigerator in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention comprises sealing elements 710 and 720 to prevent leakage of cold air between the first opening 601 and the second opening 501.

A handle 521 is provided on the door 520 of the ice formation chamber to open or close the door 520 of the ice formation chamber by the user in the refrigerator according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the ice formation chamber door 520 is hinged on one edge of the opening formed in the rear wall of the compartment 510 ice formation.

The opening / closing structure of the ice-forming chamber door 520 and the handle 521 can be used in the refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention in the same manner as described above.

A hole formed in the rear wall of the ice formation compartment 510 is formed on the inner lining 530, which is connected to the inner wall of the left door 410.

Therefore, when the user pulls the handle 521 in the open position of the left door 410, the door 520 of the ice formation chamber is opened by articulating movement.

Sealing elements 710 and 720 may be provided on one of the first and second openings 601 and 501.

Sealing elements 710 and 720 may be provided on the first and second holes 601 and 501, respectively.

Below, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the sealing elements 710 and 720 will be described in more detail. Since the sealing elements 710 and 720 have the same design, the following description will be given only along with one of the sealing elements 710 and 720, for example, sealing element 710.

A sealing element 710 is provided on the second hole 510 of the inner housing 530 and is designed to prevent leakage of cold air through the first hole 601 and the second hole 501.

The sealing element 710 comprises a gasket 711 and a gasket fastener for attaching the gasket 711 to the first hole 601 provided on the inner wall of the refrigeration chamber 200.

The gasket 711 is in contact with the first hole 601.

The gasket fastener comprises a gasket support member 713 that connects to the first hole 601, and a gasket holder 712 that secures the gasket 711 to the gasket support 713.

In detail, the gasket holder 712 is connected to the gasket support member 713 to secure the gasket 711 to the gasket support member 713. The gasket support member 713 is connected to the edge of the first hole 601 to secure the gasket 711 to the inner housing 530.

The gasket 711 includes a gasket housing 711a and a holder connector 711d for connecting the gasket 711 to the gasket holder 712.

A cold air hole 711b is provided in the gasket body 711a to allow ice formation chamber 500 and channel device 600 to be connected to each other. A cold air hole 711b is formed in the gasket body 711a.

In this embodiment, the gasket body 711a is formed of an annular element, so that a cold air hole 711b is formed in the central part of the gasket body 711a.

Preferably, a reinforcing rib 711c is provided at the cold air hole 711b. The reinforcing rib 711c comprises a first rib having an approximately cruciform shape and an annular second rib that has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the cold air hole 711b and is integrally formed with the first rib.

The holder connector 711d forms a groove 711f for receiving the holder for receiving the gasket holder 712. To form a groove 711f for holding the holder, the holder connector 711d extends radially inward from the edge of the gasket body 711a and then extends radially outward after bending.

Thus, the curved portion of the holder connector 711d forms a groove 711f for receiving the gasket holder 712, as shown in FIG. 9.

The gasket holder 712 comprises a holder body 712a having an approximately annular shape and at least one fastener 712b that is connected to the gasket support member 713.

The holder body 712a is mounted in a groove 711f for receiving the holder. The fastener 712b comprises a hook extending from the edge of the holder body 712a on one side of the holder body 712a, so that the hook is integral with the holder body 712a.

The hook extends toward the pad support member 713. The hook is connected to the gasket support member 713, thereby securing the gasket 711 to the gasket support member 713.

In detail, a portion of the holder connector 711d extending from the curved portion of the holder connector 711d outward from the gasket body 711a is inserted between the holder body 712a and the gasket support member 713.

When the hook engages with the pad support member 713, the pad 711 is partially supported by the pad holder 712 and the pad support member 713. Thus, the sealing element 710 is assembled.

Meanwhile, the hook groove 711e through which the hook passes is formed in the portion of the holder connector 711d extending from the curved portion of the holder connector 711d outward from the gasket body.

The number of hook slots 711e is equal to the number of hooks. In this embodiment, four hooks 711e that are spaced apart from each other at an angle of 90 ° are formed on the holder connector 711d. In addition, four hooks that are spaced apart from each other at an angle of 90 ° are formed on the holder body 712a.

The gasket support member 713 includes a support member body 713a and hook connecting holes 713c formed on the support member body 713a, so that the hook connecting holes 713c correspond to the hooks, respectively.

The support element body 713a has a recessed step on which the gasket holder 712 and the gasket 711 are mounted. A connecting hole 713b having a predetermined diameter is formed in the support element body 713a inside the step. The connecting hole 713b is connected to the cold air hole 711b of the gasket 711. The hooks pass through the hook connecting holes 713c, respectively, and engage with the rear surface of the support member body 713a.

In detail, hook engagement slots 713d are formed on the rear surface of the support member body 713a. The hook engagement slots 713d accommodate the respective ends of the hooks. A support protrusion 712c is formed on each hook. The support protrusion 712c supports the edge of the hooked groove groove 713d on one side of the hooked grooved groove 713d. Each hook is preferably made of resilient material.

Therefore, when each hook 712b engages with the rear surface of the support member body 713a after passing through the connected hook connection hole 713c, a portion of the holder connector 711d is inserted between the holder body 712a and the support member body 713a. Thus, the gasket 711 is secured to the gasket support member 713.

Preferably, the gasket 711 having the specified design, was made of an elastic element. For example, the gasket 711 may be made of a material having elasticity, such as rubber.

The gasket support member 713 is attached to the left door 210. In detail, the gasket support member 713 is attached to the second hole 501 of the inner housing 530, thereby supporting the gasket holder 420, so that the gasket holder 420 is securely held.

Sealing elements 710 and 720, which have the specified design, can also be provided on the first hole 601.

Where the first hole 601 comprises an air supply opening 601a on the channel side and an inlet 601b on the channel side and the second hole 501 comprises an inlet 501a on the door side and an outlet 501b on the door side, sealing elements 710 and 720 are provided at least , on one of the channel side air inlet 601a, the channel side inlet 601b, the door side inlet 501a and the door side outlet 501b.

In this case, it is preferable that the sealing elements 710 and 720 are provided at least on one of the air supply opening 601a on the channel side and on the door side inlet 501a, and on at least one of the side inlet 601b channel and outlet 501b on the side of the door. Sealing elements 710 and 720 may be provided on each of the channel side air inlet 601a, the channel side inlet 601b, the door side inlet 501a, and the door side outlet 501b.

Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 is supplied to the air supply channel 610 after passing through the inside of the partition 210. Where the channel device 600 includes a return channel 620, cold air leaving the ice formation chamber 500 is supplied into the freezer 300 after passing through the inside of the partition 210.

The grate pan 340 is located on the rear side of the freezer 300 to form the back wall of the freezer 300. The grate pan 340 comprises a fan mounting portion 341 into which a fan for supplying cold air (not shown) is installed.

Although not shown, constituent elements of a refrigerant cycle, such as a compressor and heat exchanger 310, are mounted on the rear side of the grill fan 340.

Other refrigerator configurations in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention are identical to the refrigerator configurations of the first embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, a repeated description of identical configurations will not be given.

Below, with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, a refrigerator in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

10 is a front view illustrating an inner case contained in a door of a refrigerator that is used in a refrigerator in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a perspective view with a spatial separation of parts, illustrating the device of the door channel mounted on the inner housing shown in figure 10, and the sealing element installed in the device of the door channel.

The main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention are identical to the main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention and / or the second embodiment of the present invention. In the following description of the refrigerator according to the third embodiment of the present invention, constituent elements identical to the constituent elements of the first embodiment and / or the second embodiment of the present invention will be denoted by the same reference numbers as the reference numbers used in the first embodiment and / or a second embodiment of the present invention, respectively, and no further description will be given.

According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the ice formation chamber 500 comprises a door channel 540 that connects the inside of the ice formation chamber 500 to the channel device 600, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

A door channel 540 is provided on the door assembly 400 of the refrigerator compartment, in particular on the inner side of the inner case 530 of the left door 410.

As shown in FIG. 10, the upper wall of the inner housing 530 is recessed back to form an ice formation compartment 510. The door channel 540 may be located inside the second hole 501 so that the door channel 540 is connected to the second hole 501. Alternatively, the door channel 540 may open outwardly of the inner housing 530 on one side of the door channel 540 so that the door channel 540 forms second hole 501.

The door channel 540 fits into the space formed between the second hole 501 and the ice formation compartment 510 in a fixed state.

The door channel 540 comprises a first channel part 541 that connects to the air supply channel 610, and a second channel part 542 that connects to the return channel 620.

In this embodiment, the inlet of the first channel portion 541 and the outlet of the second channel portion 542 form the door side inlet 501a and the door side outlet 501b, respectively. Preferably, said sealing element 710 is provided on each of the inlet of the first channel portion 541 and the outlet of the second channel portion 542.

Below, the channel 540 of the door will be described in more detail. The first channel portion 541 comprises a housing 541b formed in the center with a through hole 541a.

Preferably, the through hole 541a has an inlet that forms an inlet 501a on the door side. It is also preferred that the housing 541b has a step recessed to a predetermined depth to accommodate the sealing member 710.

Preferably, the step has an edge having the same shape as the exterior of the gasket support member 713 and has a depth approximately equal to the thickness of the gasket support member 713 to prevent jerking of the sealing element 710 after being mounted on the step.

A plurality of grooves 541c for mounting the support member are formed on the step for attaching the support member 713 to the step of the first channel portion 541. In addition, these connecting protrusions (not shown) are formed on the support element 713 for laying.

The connecting protrusions engage in grooves 541c for mounting the support member, respectively.

The second channel portion 542 may be of the same construction as that of the first channel portion 541.

Meanwhile, the door channel 540 is made of insulating material to minimize the heat loss of cold air, since the door channel 540 directs cold air supplied to or leaving the channel device 600. Preferably, the door channel 540 is made of an insulating material, such as polystyrene foam (EPS), which is easy to form and has a high insulating ability.

Thus, the cold air leaving the heat exchanger 310 is supplied to the ice formation compartment 510 through the air supply channel 610 and the first part 541 of the door channel 540. On the other hand, cold air leaving the ice-making compartment 510 is returned to the freezer 300 through the second part 542 of the door channel 540 and the return channel 620.

Other refrigerator configurations in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention are identical to the refrigerator configurations of the first embodiment and / or the second embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, a repeated description of identical configurations will not be given.

Below, with reference to FIGS. 12-16, a refrigerator in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

12 is a perspective view illustrating a device for directing cold air and a refrigerator door that are used in a refrigerator in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Fig.13 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the channel constituting the device for directing cold air in Fig.12. 14 is a sectional view illustrating a state in which the channel of FIG. 13 is mounted on one wall of the refrigerator. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a channel holder used in a refrigerator in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a sectional view illustrating a state in which a channel is mounted on one wall of the refrigerator with the channel holder in FIG. 15.

The main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention are identical to the main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with at least one of the first to third embodiments of the present invention. In the following description given along with the refrigerator according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the constituent elements identical to the constituent elements of at least one of the first to third embodiments of the present invention will be denoted by the same reference numbers as the reference numbers used in at least one of the first to third embodiments of the present invention, respectively, and no further description will be given.

As shown in FIGS. 12-14, a refrigerator in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention comprises a spacer element that spans channels located internally on one side wall of the refrigerator from the outer wall O and the inner wall I forming the side wall of the refrigerator.

The channels comprise said air supply channel 610 and a return channel 620.

The spacer element supports an air supply channel 610 and / or a return channel 620 located at a distance from the outer wall O and the inner wall I.

A spacer element is provided to minimize the heat loss of cold air passing through the channel device 600 and to easily fill the foamed liquid between the outer wall O and the inner wall I.

Preferably, the spacer element is configured to be placed at the same distance of each of the channels 610 and 620 from the outer wall O and the inner wall I.

The spacer element at least contains one spacer rib protruding from the outer surface of the connected one of the channels 610 and 620.

The spacer rib is designed to locate the associated channel, that is, the air supply channel 610 or the return channel 620, in a predetermined corresponding position on one side wall of the refrigeration chamber 200.

In this embodiment, the spacer element comprises two expansion ribs 611a or 621a that protrude symmetrically from the outer surface of the connected air supply duct 610 or return duct 620. Preferably, the expansion ribs 611a and expansion ribs 621a are provided in the air supply duct 610 and the return duct 620, respectively.

Spacer ribs 611a or 621a extend in opposite directions from the outer surface of the connected channel 610 or 620, respectively.

Thus, the air supply channel 610 and / or the return channel 620 are located in the center between the outer wall O and the inner wall I.

The spacer ribs 611a or 621a are preferably shaped with a small cross-sectional area to minimize the area of the spacer ribs 611a or 621a in contact with the outer wall O and the inner wall I. Therefore, heat losses due to the spacer ribs can be minimized.

When the channels 610 and 620 are located in the center between the inner wall I and the outer wall O, the foamed liquid L filling the space between the outer wall O and the inner wall I can evenly pass. In other words, since the distance between each of the channels 610 and 620 and the inner wall I and the distance between each of the channels 610 and 620 and the outer wall O are the same, the foamed liquid L can completely fill the space between the inner wall I and the outer wall O.

Meanwhile, the air supply channel 610 includes at least one main channel 611 that directs cold air for a straight passage, and a connecting channel 612 that changes the direction of the cold air flow passing through the air supply channel 610. The connecting channel 612 can be connected to one end of the main channel 611. Where the air supply channel 610 contains, for example, two main channels 611, the connecting channel 612 can be connected to the ends of the main channels 611 facing each other.

Where the air supply channel 610 contains, in addition to the air supply channel 610, a return channel 620, the return channel 620 contains, like the air supply channel 610, at least one main channel 621 that directs cold air for rectilinear passage, and a connecting channel 622 which changes the direction of the flow of cold air passing through the return channel 620. The connecting channel 622 can be connected to one end of the main channel 621. Where the return channel 620 contains, for example, two main channels 621, connecting channel 622 may be connected to the facing ends of the main channels 621.

Each of the main channels 611 and 621 has an approximately rectilinear shape. Each of the connecting channels 612 and 622 has a curved shape for directing the flow of cold air. The connecting channel 612 or 622 may form one end of the connected air supply channel 610 or the return channel 620. Where the connecting channel 612 or 622 is connected between adjacent main channels 611 or 621, it changes the direction of flow of cold air.

In this embodiment, spacer ribs 611a and 621a are provided, respectively, on the outer surfaces of the connected connecting channels 612 and 622. However, the present invention is not limited to this arrangement. Spacer ribs 611a and 621a, respectively, may be provided on the outer surfaces of the connected main channels 611 and 621.

The refrigerator in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention may further comprise a channel holder 800, which is designed to secure the channels 610 and 620 on one side wall of the refrigerator 200.

In detail, at least one of the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620 is connected to the channel holder 800 and attached to one side wall of the refrigeration chamber 200 by the channel holder 800.

As shown in FIGS. 13, 15 and 16, the channel holder 800 comprises channel receivers 810 and 820 that receive channels 610 and 620, respectively, in a fixed state.

In this embodiment, the channel holder 800 simultaneously secures the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620. To this end, it is preferable that the channel holder 800 comprises a pair of channel receivers, that is, channel receivers 810 and 820 that are connected to each other in this way that they are one.

Hereinafter, the channel receiving device 810, which accommodates the air supply channel 610, is also called the first channel receiving device, while the channel receiving device 820, which houses the return channel 620, is also called the second channel receiving device.

Channel receivers 810 and 820 have openings 811 and 812 for receiving the channel through which channels 610 and 620 pass, respectively. Channel receivers 810 and 820 are connected to each other by a connecting rib 830.

The shapes of the openings 811 and 821 for holding the channel correspond to external cross-sectional shapes of the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620, respectively. Therefore, the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620 are fixed when they are installed in the hole 811 for receiving the channel of the first channel receiving device 810 and the hole 821 for receiving the channel of the second channel receiving device 820, respectively.

In addition to this configuration, the channel holder 800 preferably comprises at least one spacer protrusion 840 protruding outward from the outer surface of each of the channel receivers 810 and 820.

The spacer projection 840 has the same function as the functions of said spacer ribs 611a and 621a. Therefore, the channel device 600 may comprise spacer tabs 840 or only spacer ribs 611a and 621a.

The difference between the spacer protrusions 840 and the spacer ribs 611a and 621a is that the spacer protrusions 840 protrude from the respective outer surfaces of the channel receiving devices 810 and 820, while the spacer ribs 611a and 621a protrude from the corresponding outer surfaces of the channels 610 and 620.

Spacers 840 formed on each of the channel receivers 810 and 820 are located on opposite sides of the associated channel receiver 810 or 820. Therefore, the spacer tabs 840 hold the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620 in a central position between the outer wall O and the inner wall I.

Where the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620 are located in the center between the inner wall I and the outer wall O, the foamed liquid L filling the space between the inner wall I and the outer wall O can pass evenly. Therefore, the foamed liquid L can completely fill the space between the inner wall I and the outer wall O.

Other refrigerator configurations in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention are identical to the refrigerator configurations of the first to third embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, a repeated description of identical configurations will not be given.

Below, with reference to FIG. 17, a refrigerator in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

17 is a perspective view illustrating a first heater that is used in a refrigerator in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention and is mounted in a wall of a refrigerator.

The main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention are identical to the main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with at least one of the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention. In the following description of a refrigerator in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention, constituent elements identical to the constituent elements of at least one of the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention will be denoted by the same reference numbers as the reference numbers used at least , in one of the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention, respectively, and no further description will be given.

As shown in FIG. 17, the refrigerator according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention comprises a first heater 851, which prevents the occurrence of freezing phenomena in the refrigerating chamber 200 due to the cold air passing through the channels 610 and 620.

In this case, at least one of the channels 610 and 620, that is, the air supply channel 610 and the return channel 620, is located in one side wall of the refrigerating chamber 200. The first heater 851 is located on one side wall of the refrigerating chamber 200.

In detail, channels 610 and 620 are located between the outer wall O and the inner wall I of the refrigerating chamber 200. The first heater 851 is located on the inner wall I of the refrigerating chamber 200. In other words, the first heater 851 is mounted on the inner wall I of the refrigerating chamber 200 to increase the temperature of the inner wall I of the refrigerating chamber 200. In particular, the first heater 851 is preferably located on one surface of the inner wall I of the refrigerating chamber 200 in contact with the filled foam liquid L, so that the first Recover 851 does not open out.

More preferably, the first heater 851 is located adjacent to the first hole 601.

Cold air is supplied to the channel device 600 through the channel side air inlet 601a and leaves the channel device 600 through the channel side inlet 601b. If a heater, such as a first heater 851, is not located near the channel side air inlet 601a and the channel side inlet 601b, then the temperature around the channel side air inlet 601a and the channel inlet 601b is reduced due to the influence of cold air, passing through the device 600 channel. For this reason, it is preferable that the first heater 851 is located next to the first hole 601.

The first heater 851 heats the inner wall of the refrigerating chamber 200, so that the temperature of the inner wall of the refrigerating chamber 200 is similar to the internal temperature of the refrigerating chamber 200.

In detail, it is preferable that the first heater 851 is located around each of the channel side air inlet 601a and the channel side inlet 601b. The first heater 851 comprises a heating wire having a plurality of bent parts. The heating wire generates heat when external electricity is applied to the wire.

Although not shown, the refrigerator may further comprise a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the wall of the refrigeration chamber 200, and a power controller that selectively turns the heater 130 on or off based on the value measured by the temperature sensor.

Using the first heater 851 having the above configuration, it is possible to prevent a freezing phenomenon on the inner surface of the refrigerating chamber 200 due to the cold air passing through the air supply opening 601a on the channel side and the inlet 601b on the channel side.

Other configurations of the refrigerator in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention are identical to the configurations of the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, a repeated description of identical configurations will not be given.

Below, with reference to FIGS. 18-21, a refrigerator in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention are identical to the main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with at least one of the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention. In the following description of a refrigerator in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention, constituent elements identical to the constituent elements of at least one of the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention will be denoted by the same reference numbers as the reference numbers used at least in at least one of the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention, respectively, and no further description will be given.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a refrigerator in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the open positions of the doors of the refrigerator compartment and the door of the freezer compartment. Fig. 19 is a perspective view illustrating a cold air guide located on the refrigerator wall of Fig. 18. FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a partition lid that opens or closes a cold air guide in FIG. 19. FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the cold air guide is closed by the partition cover in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 18-21, a refrigerator in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention includes a cold air guide 900 that is located on a partition 210 separating the refrigerator 200 and the freezer 300.

The cold air guide 900 is adapted to connect the channel device 600 and the freezer 300.

In detail, the cold air guide 900 comprises an air supply channel 910 that directs the cold air generated by the heat exchanger 310 to the air supply channel 610.

Where the channel device 600 further comprises a return channel 620, as described above, the cold air guide 900 further comprises a return channel 920.

In this case, it is preferable that the partition wall 930 is located between the air supply channel 910 and the return channel 920.

The return channel 920 directs cold air, which is directed through the channel device, in particular the return channel 620, after exiting the ice formation chamber 500 to the freezing chamber 300.

In detail, the air supply passage 910 comprises an air supply opening 911 that extends vertically and an air supply guide 912 that directs cold air from the air supply opening 911 to the air supply channel 610.

Return duct 920 includes a cold air return opening 921 that extends vertically, and a cold air return guide 922 that directs cold air from the return channel 620 to cold air return opening 921.

In addition to this configuration, the baffle 210 includes a cover 211 that opens or closes the cold air guide 900.

The cover 211 is removably connected to the cold air guide 900. The cover 211 comprises an air supply cover 211a for opening or closing the air supply passage 910 and an air return cover 211b for opening or closing the return passage 920. Preferably, the air supply cover 211a and the air return cover 211b are integrally formed.

The cover 211 also includes a separation groove 211c formed between the air supply cover 211a and the air return cover 211b to provide a sealing effect between the air supply channel 910 and the return channel 920.

A cover 211 having the indicated configuration is removably attached to the top of the cold air guide 900.

Where cold air passing through the channel device 600 passes through the inner side of the partition 210, as described above, it is preferable that a second heater 861 be installed on the partition 210 to prevent freezing on the inside of the refrigerator 200.

Preferably, the second heater 861 is located on one surface of the partition 210 facing the inside of the refrigerator 200, that is, the upper surface of the partition 210. That is, the second heater 861 is located on the underside of the refrigerator 200. The electrical wires 861a are connected to the second heater 861 for supplying electricity to the second heater 861.

Where the partition 210 includes a cover 211 for opening or closing the cold air guide 900, as in this embodiment, it is more preferable that the second heater 861 is located on the upper surface of the cover 211.

Meanwhile, the second heater 861 is configured to selectively actuate in accordance with a predetermined mode.

In detail, the second heater 861 automatically turns on or off according to the temperature at the bottom of the refrigerator 200. That is, when the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor (not shown) that measures the temperature at the bottom of the refrigerator 200 is below a predetermined lower limit , the second heater 861 is turned on by a power control device (not shown). On the other hand, when the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor is above a predetermined upper limit, the second heater 861 is turned off by the power control device.

Other refrigerator configurations in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention are identical to the refrigerator configurations of the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, a repeated description of identical configurations will not be given.

In conclusion, with reference to FIG. 22, a refrigerator in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention are identical to the main constituent elements of the refrigerator in accordance with at least one of the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention. In the following description of a refrigerator according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention, constituent elements identical to the constituent elements of at least one of the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention will be denoted by the same reference numbers as the reference numbers used by at least in at least one of the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention, respectively, and no further description will be given.

FIG. 22 is a rear view of a perspective view of an ice formation chamber used in a refrigerator in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 22, the door 520 of the ice formation chamber in the refrigerator according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is hingedly connected to one side of the opening of the freezer 510 by means of hinges 522.

Thus, the door 520 of the ice formation chamber, hinged, is able to open around the hinges 522.

Preferably, the hinges 522 are located in the upper and lower corners of the ice chamber door 520 from one edge of the ice chamber door 520.

A refrigerator in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention further comprises a hinge cover 523 that closes each hinge 522.

To secure the hinge cover 523, a cover support 524 is provided in the corner of the door 520 of the ice formation chamber. The hinge cover 523 has a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the associated cover support 524.

Therefore, when the hinge cover 523 is fixed to the bonded bonnet support 524, the bonded hinge 522 is not open to the outside.

The hinge cover 523 prevents an accident involving pinching a part of the user's body in the hinge 522 by negligence, and provides a beautiful appearance of the ice formation chamber.

Other refrigerator configurations in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention are identical to the refrigerator configurations of the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, identical configurations will not be described repeatedly.

Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes are possible in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

That is, it is intended that the present invention include modifications and variations of this invention provided that they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Industrial applicability

A refrigerator with this configuration has various advantages.

Industrial applicability of the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention is described in the sections "Best way to perform the present invention" and "Method of performing the present invention."

Since the refrigerator in accordance with the present invention typically comprises a cold air guiding device for guiding the cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the ice forming chamber located in the refrigerating chamber, it is possible to appropriately select the position of the ice forming chamber regardless of the design or volume of the refrigerator. Therefore, it is possible to achieve an increase in the degree of freedom of the design of the refrigerator and reduce production costs for the refrigerator and maximize the internal space of the refrigerator. Such advantages become more effective when the freezer is located under the refrigerator.

Claims (30)

1. A refrigerator comprising a refrigerator body, which includes a freezer and a refrigerator, the refrigerator being located above the freezer, a door for opening and closing the refrigerator, an ice formation chamber that is provided on the inside of the door and is placed in the refrigerator, when the door is closed, a heat exchanger that generates cold air and a device for directing cold air that directs the cold air generated by the heat exchanger into the imaging chamber Nia ice to ensure the formation of ice in the ice making chamber. 2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the device for directing cold air comprises a channel device that is connected to an ice formation chamber. 3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, further comprising a fan for supplying cold air, which forcibly supplies cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the ice formation chamber. 4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the channel device comprises an air supply channel that delivers cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the ice formation chamber, and a return channel that directs cold air from the ice formation chamber to the freezer. 5. The refrigerator according to claim 2, in which the channel device comprises at least one channel, which is located on one side wall of the refrigerating chamber in such a way that the channel communicates with the ice formation chamber. 6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, in which the channel is located between the outer wall and the inner wall, which form the side wall of the refrigerator. 7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, in which the channel is located at a distance from the outer wall and the inner wall. 8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, additionally containing a spacer element that supports the channel so that the channel is spaced from the outer wall and inner wall. 9. The refrigerator of claim 8, in which the spacer element contains two spacer ribs that protrude from the outer surface of the channel for the location of the channel at the same distance, respectively, from the outer wall and inner wall. 10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, in which the spacer ribs are symmetrical with respect to each other. 11. The refrigerator according to claim 5, further comprising a channel holder that secures the channel to the side wall of the refrigerator. 12. The refrigerator according to claim 11, in which the channel is installed inside between the outer wall and the inner wall in a position in which the channel is fixed using the channel holder. 13. The refrigerator according to item 12, in which the channel holder comprises at least one channel receiving device that reliably holds the channel, and spacer protrusions that protrude outward from the channel receiving device, for arranging the channel at a distance from the outer wall and the inner the walls. 14. The refrigerator according to claim 11, in which at least one channel contains a pair of channels and at least one channel receiver contains a pair of channel receivers that are connected to each other so that the channel receivers are one the whole, and the receiving devices of the channel respectively accommodate the channels. 15. The refrigerator according to claim 5, further comprising a first heater, which prevents the occurrence of a freezing phenomenon in the refrigerating chamber due to the cold air passing through the channel. 16. The refrigerator according to clause 15, in which the channel is installed in the side wall of the refrigerator and the first heater is located on the inner surface of the side wall. 17. The refrigerator according to clause 16, in which the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment has a first hole that forms one end of the channel device, and the first heater is located next to the first hole. 18. The refrigerator according to claim 2, additionally containing a guide for cold air, which is located in the partition separating the refrigerator from the freezer, for connecting the channel device to the freezer. 19. The refrigerator according to claim 18, wherein the partition includes a lid that is removably coupled to a cold air guide. 20. The refrigerator according to claim 18, wherein the cold air guide comprises an air supply channel that directs cold air generated by the heat exchanger to the channel device, and a return channel that directs cold air directed through the channel device after leaving the ice formation chamber in the freezer. 21. The refrigerator according to claim 18, further comprising a second heater, which is located on one surface of the partition facing the interior of the refrigerator, to prevent the occurrence of freezing in the refrigerator, due to the guide for cold air. 22. The refrigerator according to item 21, in which the second heater is selectively driven in accordance with a predetermined mode. 23. The refrigerator according to claim 2, in which the ice chamber is located on the door assembly of the refrigerator, which opens or closes the interior of the refrigerator, the channel device comprises a first hole that is located on the inner wall of the refrigerator and forms one end of the channel device connected to one side of the door of the refrigerator compartment, and the door of the refrigerator compartment contains a second hole that is connected to the first hole for connecting the channel device to the interior ice formation chambers. 24. The refrigerator according to item 23, further comprising a sealing element, which is located in at least one of the first and second openings, to prevent air leakage between the first and second openings. 25. The refrigerator according to paragraph 24, in which the sealing element contains a gasket and a fastening element for laying, which secures the gasket at least one of the first and second holes. 26. The refrigerator according A.25, in which the fastener for laying contains a support element for laying, which is connected to at least one of the first and second holes, and a holder for the gasket, which secures the gasket on the supporting element for laying. 27. The refrigerator according to claim 2, in which the ice-forming chamber comprises a door channel device that is located on the door assembly of the refrigerator to open or close the interior of the refrigerator, for connecting the channel device to the inside of the freezer. 28. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the ice formation chamber comprises an ice formation compartment that accommodates an ice maker for ice formation using cold air generated by a heat exchanger, and an ice formation chamber door that opens or closes an opening formed on the rear side of the formation compartment ice. 29. The refrigerator according to claim 28, wherein the door of the ice formation chamber is pivotally moved by a hinge mounted on one side of the ice formation compartment. 30. The refrigerator according to clause 29, in which the door of the ice formation chamber includes a hinge cover that closes the hinge.

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