RU2771782C1 - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: refrigerating equipment.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to a refrigerator that includes an ice generator. The refrigerator contains a cabinet equipped with a freezer space and an ice generator provided in the freezer space. At the same time, the ice generator contains: a tray made with the possibility of forming an ice chamber, and a housing connected to the tray. In this case, the housing contains a fixing part, which must be fixed to the fixed part located on the upper side of the freezer space. In this case, the fixing part contains an inclined surface to create an inclination relative to the fixed part.

EFFECT: production of spherical ice is simplified.

19 cl, 45 dwg

Description

The field of technology to which the invention belongs

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigerator including an ice maker.

State of the art

[0002] In general, refrigerators are household appliances for storing food at a low temperature in a storage space that is closed by a door.

[0003] The refrigerator can cool the interior of the storage space by using cold air to keep stored food in a chilled or frozen state.

[0004] Typically, an ice maker for making ice is provided in a refrigerator.

[0005] The ice maker has a structure in which water supplied from a water supply source or a water tank is placed in a tray to make ice.

[0006] In addition, the ice maker is configured to transfer the made ice from the ice tray by heating or by twisting.

[0007] As described above, the ice maker, through which water is automatically supplied and ice is automatically transferred, can be opened upwards so that the ice that has been made abruptly pops upwards.

[0008] As described above, ice made in an icemaker may have at least one flat surface, such as a crescent or cube shape.

[0009] When the ice has a spherical shape, it is more convenient to freeze the ice, and another user experience can also be produced. In addition, even when the ice made is stored, the contact area between the ice cubes can be minimized so as to minimize sticking of the ice cubes.

[0010] Korean Patent No. 10-1850918 describes an ice maker as a prior art document.

[0011] The ice maker of the prior art includes an upper tray accommodating a plurality of upper hemispherical shaped cells and accommodating a pair of guide rods extending upward on both sides, a lower tray accommodating a plurality of lower hemispherical shaped cells, and which pivotally connected to the upper tray, a rotation shaft connected to the rear ends of the lower tray and the upper tray so that the lower tray rotates relative to the upper tray, a pair of rods having one end connected to the lower tray and the other end connected to the rod guides, and an upper ejector pin assembly respectively connected to the pair of rods in a state in which both ends are placed inside the guide rods to move up and down with the rods.

[0012] The top ejector pin assembly moves up and down to separate the top tray ice. Accordingly, the upper ejector pin assembly must move up and down in the vertical direction.

[0013] The lower tray rotates to one side to separate ice and then rotates to the other side to make ice. In this process, when the upper tray and the lower tray are not fully connected, water flows through the gap, or it may be difficult to make spherical ice.

[0014] Since the refrigerator is mounted tilted when the ice maker and the refrigerator are horizontally aligned, it may be difficult to make spherical ice.

[0015] An electric motor is provided on one side of the ice maker. Since errors occur due to the gap in assembling the actual parts, there is a difference in height between both rods, and there is a difference in sealing force between the left and right ice boxes.

Invention

Technical task

[0016] The present invention provides an ice maker adapted to make spherical ice that does not include a protrusion even when the refrigerator is actually installed inclined relative to the ground, and a refrigerator including the ice maker.

[0017] The present invention provides an ice maker adapted to maintain a secure connection state of an upper tray and a lower tray, and a refrigerator including the ice maker.

[0018] The present invention provides an ice maker allowing the sealing forces of a plurality of ice chambers to be equal by compensating for assembly errors that may occur in operation of the ice maker, and a refrigerator including the ice maker.

Technical solution

[0019] The ice maker of the present invention includes a tray defining an ice compartment, and a housing attached to the tray, and the housing includes a fixing portion to be attached to a wall defining a freezing space or a casing (hereinafter referred to as fixed part) attached to the wall.

[0020] The locking portion may include an inclined surface to create a slope relative to the wall or housing.

[0021] The tray may include a top tray and a bottom tray, a case may include an upper case supporting the top tray, and a fixing portion may be formed in the upper case.

[0022] The top case may include a top plate for attaching the top tray, a vertical expansion portion vertically extending along the periphery of the top plate; and a horizontal expansion part extending horizontally to the outside of the vertical expansion part.

[0023] The ice maker may be mounted on the wall of the freezing space of the refrigerator or a separate casing.

[0024] The fixing part may include a first fixing part recessed from the horizontal expansion part in order to insert the screw, and the surface to which the screw of the first fixing part is attached can be inclined with respect to the horizontal expansion part.

[0025] The locking portion may include a second locking portion protruding from the vertical expansion portion to engage with the fixed portion, the second locking portion may include a first portion extending upward from the vertical expansion portion and a second portion bent and extending from of the first part to the outer side of the vertical expansion part, and the bottom surface of the second part can be inclined with respect to the horizontal expansion part.

[0026] The body may further include a plate connected to the upper body, and the fixing part may include a third fixing part protruding to the outside of the vertical expansion part to support the plate of the fixed part.

[0027] The third fixing part may include a vertical part extending in a direction vertical with respect to the horizontal expansion part, and an inclined part bent and extending from the vertical part to support the plate of the fixed part, and the inclined part can be inclined with respect to the horizontal extension part.

[0028] The plate of the fixed part may be inserted between the bottom surface of the second part and the top surface of the inclined part.

[0029] The top assembly may be attached to the wall of the freezer space or a separate casing, and the bottom assembly may be pivotally attached to the top assembly.

[0030] The upper body may further include a pair of side circumferential walls extending upward from an edge of the horizontal expansion portion, and the upper surface of the pair of side circumferential walls may be inclined with respect to the horizontal expansion portion.

[0031] A top ejector including an upper ejector pin for separating ice from the top tray after ice making is completed may be further included.

[0032] The top driver can be attached to the bottom node and thus, as the bottom node rotates, the top driver can move up and down.

[0033] A plurality of links may be included, and a coupling block connecting the upper pusher and the lower assembly and a drive unit for providing rotational power to the lower assembly may be further included.

[0034] The connecting block may include a pair of first links that rotate with the power of the actuating block to rotate the lower support.

[0035] The heights of the upper ends of the pair of first rods differ from each other in the water supply position.

[0036] The height of the upper end of one first link next to the actuation unit between the pair of first links is lower than the height of the upper end of the other first link.

[0037] The heights of the upper ends of the pair of first links may be equal to each other when making ice.

Action of the invention

[0038] According to the invention, for making ice, after the lower tray is rotated towards the upper tray, the lower tray is further rotated towards the upper tray in a state in which the motor operation is stopped, thereby connecting the upper tray to the lower tray more securely. tray.

[0039] In the process of making ice, it is possible to maintain a secure connection state of the upper tray with the lower tray.

[0040] When the refrigerator and the ice maker are connected to be inclined, even if the refrigerator is installed inclined with respect to the ground, it is possible to produce spherical ice that does not include a protrusion.

[0041] The heights of the left and right first links are different, thereby compensating for assembly errors that may occur in the operation of the ice machine.

[0042] By compensating for assembly errors of the ice maker, the sealing forces of the plurality of ice boxes are equal, and thus the ice produced in the plurality of ice boxes becomes the same.

Brief description of the drawings

[0043] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1b is a view showing a state in which the refrigerator doors of FIG. 1a are open.

[0044] FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the refrigerator body and the ice maker are connected.

[0045] FIG. 2b is a cross-sectional view showing the actual installation state of the refrigerator.

[0046] FIG. 3a and 3b are general views of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an ice maker according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an upper housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of an upper housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a top tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of a top tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a perspective side view of a top tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an upper support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of an upper support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of the heater connection area in the upper housing of FIG. 5.

[0056] FIG. 13 is a view showing a state in which the heater is attached to the upper case of FIG. 5.

[0057] FIG. 14 is a view showing the wiring connected to the heater in the upper case.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a sectional view showing the state in which the upper assembly has been assembled.

[0059] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a lower assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a lower housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 18 is a bottom perspective view of a lower housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of a lower tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are bottom perspective views of a lower tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 22 is a side perspective view of a lower tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 23 is a top plan view of a lower support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of a lower support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the state in which the lower assembly has been assembled.

[0068] FIG. 26 is a plan view of a lower support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 27 is an overview showing a state in which the lower heater is connected to the lower support of FIG. 26.

[0070] FIG. 28 is a view showing a state in which the lower node is connected to the upper node, and at the same time, the wire connected to the lower heater penetrates into the upper case.

[0071] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view along the line A-A of FIG. 3a.

[0072] FIG. 30 is a view showing a state in which ice formation is completed in FIG. 26.

[0073] FIG. 31a and 31b are perspective views of the ice machine from which the top case has been removed.

[0074] FIG. 32a and 32b are views illustrating the difference in height of the first link of the ice machine from which the top case has been removed.

[0075] FIG. 33 is a side view showing the lower tray and the upper ejector.

[0076] FIG. 34 is a side view showing a state in which the lower tray is rotated and the upper driver is lowered in the state of FIG. 33.

[0077] FIG. 35a-35b are side views showing a state in which the lower tray is further rotated.

[0078] FIG. 36a-36b are side views showing the position of the lower tray according to the rotation angle of the first link.

[0079] FIG. 36c is a side view showing a state in which the lower tray is further rotated by the elastic member.

[0080] FIG. 37 is an overview showing the connection state of the upper pusher and the second link.

[0081] FIG. 38 is a general bottom view of the top ejector.

[0082] FIG. 39a and 39b are general views for the first pull.

[0083] FIG. 40 is an overview showing the connection state of the first link and the connecting shaft.

[0084] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the state of water supply.

[0085] FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the state of making ice.

[0086] FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the ice making completion state.

[0087] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the initial ice separation state.

[0088] FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in a state of completion of ice separation.

Description of preferred embodiments of the invention

[0089] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when the components in the drawings are designated by reference numbers, the same components have the same reference numbers, as far as possible, even if the components are illustrated in different drawings. In addition, in the description of embodiments of the present invention, when it is determined that detailed descriptions of well-known configurations or functions interfere with the understanding of embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0090] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) may be used in describing embodiments of the present invention. Each of the terms is used only to distinguish the respective component from other components and does not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the respective component. It should be understood that when one component is "coupled", "attached" or "coupled" to another component, the former may be directly coupled or coupled to the latter, or may be "coupled", "attached" or "coupled" to the latter via a third component inserted between them.

[0091] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1b is a view showing a state in which the refrigerator doors of FIG. 1a are open.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 1a and 2b, the refrigerator 1 according to the embodiment may include a cabinet 2 defining a storage space and a door that opens and closes the storage space.

[0093] In detail, the cabinet 2 may define a storage space that is vertically divided by a partition. Here, the refrigerating space 3 may be defined on the upper side, and the freezing space 4 may be defined on the lower side.

[0094] Accommodation elements such as a drawer, shelf, basket, etc. may be provided in the refrigerating space 3 and the freezing space 4.

[0095] The door may include a refrigerating space door 5 opening/closing the refrigerating space 3 and a freezing space door 6 opening/closing the freezing space 4.

[0096] The door 5 of the refrigerating space may be constructed by a pair of left and right doors, and may be opened and closed through their rotation. In addition, the freezer door 6 can be inserted and removed by pulling out.

[0097] Alternatively, the layout of the refrigeration space 3 and the freezing space 4 and the shape of the door may vary according to types of refrigerators, but is not limited to this. For example, the embodiments may apply to various types of refrigerators. For example, freezer space 4 and refrigeration space 3 may be located on the left and right sides, or freezer space 4 may be located above refrigeration space 3.

[0098] An ice maker 100 may be provided in the freezing space 4. The ice maker 100 is designed to make ice by using supplied water. Here, the ice may have a spherical shape. Alternatively, the ice maker 100 may be provided in a freezer space door 6, a refrigeration space 3, or a freezer space door 5.

[0099] Further, an ice pocket 102 in which ice is stored after being transferred from the ice maker 100 may further be provided below the ice maker 100.

[00100] The ice maker 100 and the ice pocket 102 can be mounted in the freezer space 4 in a state of appropriate mounting in a separate casing.

[00101] As another example, the ice maker 100 may be directly attached to the wall defining the freezer space 4.

[00102] The casing or wall defining the freezer space 4 connected to the ice maker 100 may be referred to as the fixed part 101.

[00103] The user can open the refrigerator space door 6 to reach the ice pocket 102, thereby obtaining ice.

[00104] In another example, a dispenser 7 for dispensing purified water or made ice to the outside may be provided in the door 5 of the refrigeration space.

[00105] In addition, ice made in the ice maker 100 or ice stored in the ice pocket 102 after being made in the ice maker 100 can be transferred to the dispenser 7 by the transfer unit. Thus, the user can receive ice from the dispenser 7.

[00106] FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the refrigerator case and the ice maker are connected, and FIG. 2b is a cross-sectional view showing the actual installation state of the refrigerator.

[00107] Referring to FIG. 2a and 2b, the fixed portion 101 of the refrigerator 1 and the ice maker 100 may be connected at some angle.

[00108] As shown in FIG. 2b in the refrigerator 1, since the front side of the refrigerator is installed at a higher position with respect to the ground so that the door is more easily closed, the ice maker 100 can be connected horizontally with respect to the ground according to the actual installation environment.

[00109] Refrigerator 1 may be mounted inclined relative to the ground at a predetermined angle, and ice maker 100 may include an anti-tilt structure to be inclined relative to refrigerator 1 in the opposite direction.

[00110] Hereinafter, the ice maker is described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[00111] FIG. 3a and 3b are perspective views of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an ice maker according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[00112] Referring to FIG. 3a to 4, ice maker 100 may include an upper assembly 110 and a lower assembly 200.

[00113] The bottom node 200 can rotate relative to the top node 110. For example, the bottom node 200 can be connected to be pivotal about the top node 110.

[00114] In a state in which the lower node 200 is in contact with the upper node 110, the lower node 200 together with the upper node 110 can produce spherical ice.

[00115] In other words, the upper assembly 110 and the lower assembly 200 may define an ice chamber 111 for making spherical ice. The ice chamber 111 may have a chamber having a substantially spherical shape.

[00116] The upper node 110 and the lower node 200 may define a plurality of ice chambers 111.

[00117] Hereinafter, the structure in which three ice chambers are defined by the upper assembly 110 and the lower assembly 200 is described as an example, and in addition, the embodiments are not limited to the number of ice chambers 111.

[00118] Meanwhile, in another aspect, the ice maker may include a tray defining an ice chamber and a case supporting the tray.

[00119] The tray includes an upper tray 150 and a lower tray 250, to be described later, and a housing may include an upper cabinet 120 and a lower cabinet 210, to be described later.

[00120] In a state in which the ice chamber 111 is set by the upper assembly 110 and the lower assembly 200, water is supplied to the ice chamber 111 through the water supply portion 190.

[00121] Part 190 of the water supply is attached to the upper node 110 to direct the water supplied from the outside into the chamber 111 for ice.

[00122] After the ice is made, the bottom assembly 200 can rotate in the forward direction. Thus, the spherical ice made between the upper node 110 and the lower node 200 can be separated from the upper node 110 and the lower node 200.

[00123] The ice maker 100 may further include an actuating unit 180 such that the lower assembly 200 is rotatable relative to the upper assembly 110.

[00124] The drive unit 180 may include a drive motor and a power transmission portion for transmitting power of the drive motor to the lower assembly 200. The power transmission portion may include one or more gear trains.

[00125] The drive motor may be a bidirectional rotary motor. Thus, the lower assembly 200 can rotate in both directions.

[00126] The ice maker 100 may further include a top pusher 300 such that the ice is adapted to be separated from the top assembly 110.

[00127] The upper driver 300 is connected to the lower node 200. Therefore, when the lower node 200 rotates, the upper driver 300 can move up and down.

[00128] For example, after ice making is completed, when the lower assembly 200 rotates downward to separate from the upper ice separation assembly 110, the upper pusher 300 may move downward.

[00129] After the separation of ice is completed, when the lower node 200 rotates upward to join the upper node 110 for supplying water, the upper pusher 300 can move upward.

[00130] As the top pusher 300 moves down during ice separation, the ice attached to the top assembly 110 may be separated from the top assembly 110.

[00131] The upper driver 300 may include a driver body 310 and a plurality of upper driver pins 320 extending in a direction intersecting the driver body 310.

[00132] For example, the driver body 310 is formed in the horizontal direction, and the upper driver pin 320 may be formed extending in the vertical direction from the underside of the driver body 310.

[00133] A plurality of recesses may be formed in the driver body 310 in the longitudinal direction. A plurality of reinforcing ribs 311 may be formed in the recesses. The reinforcing ribs 311 may be formed parallel in the longitudinal direction of the driver body 310. The reinforcing ribs 311 may be formed in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the driver body 310.

[00134] The cavity 321 may be formed in the upper driver pin 320. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the strength of the upper driver pin 320.

[00135] For ice separation, when the lower end of the upper ejector pin 320 presses the spherical upper tray 150, i.e., the upper side of the ice chamber 111, stable contact is possible through the cavity 321.

[00136] The top ejector pins 320 may be provided in the same number as the ice chambers 111.

[00137] A separation prevention protrusion 312 for preventing the connection block 350 from being separated in a state of attachment to the connection block 350 to be described later may be provided on each of both ends of the driver body 310.

[00138] For example, a pair of protrusions 312 to prevent separation may protrude in opposite directions from the body 310 of the ejector.

[00139] Specifically, detachment prevention protrusions 312 protruding in a direction crossing the driver body 310 may be formed on both ends of the driver body 310.

[00140] The protrusion 312 for preventing separation may include a circular central portion 312a and a plurality of protruding portions 312b protruding from both sides of the central portion 312a in the radial direction of the central portion 312a.

[00141] With this, the upper ejector pin 320 passing through the upper assembly 110 and inserted into the ice chamber 111 can press the ice in the ice chamber 111.

[00142] The ice pressed by the top ejector pin 320 can be separated from the top assembly 110.

[00143] Furthermore, the ice maker 100 may further include a lower pusher 400 such that the ice attached to the lower assembly 200 is detachable.

[00144] The lower driver 400 may press the lower node 200 to separate the ice attached to the lower node 200 from the lower node 200. For example, the lower driver 400 may be secured to the upper node 110.

[00145] The lower driver 400 may include a driver body 410 and a plurality of lower driver pins 420 protruding from the driver body 410. The lower ejector pins 420 may be provided in the same number as the ice chambers 111 .

[00146] As the bottom assembly 200 rotates to carry ice, the rotational force of the bottom assembly 200 may be transferred to the top pusher 300.

[00147] To this end, the ice maker 100 may further include a connection block 350 connecting the bottom assembly 200 to the top pusher 300. The connection block 350 may include one or more links.

[00148] For example, when the lower assembly 200 rotates in one direction, the upper pusher 300 can be lowered by the connection block 350 to allow the top pusher pin 320 to press ice.

[00149] On the other hand, when the lower assembly 200 is rotated in the other direction, the upper driver 300 may be raised by the coupling block 350 to return to its original position.

[00150] Later in this document, the upper node 110 and the lower node 120 are described in more detail.

[00151] The top assembly 110 may include an top tray 150 forming a portion of an ice chamber 111 that makes ice. For example, the top tray 150 may form the top portion of the ice chamber 111.

[00152] The top assembly 110 may further include a top housing 120 and a support 170 that secures the top tray 150 in position.

[00153] The top tray 150 may be positioned below the top body 120. The top support portion 170 may be positioned below the top tray 150.

[00154] As described above, the top body 120, the top tray 150, and the top support 170, which are aligned vertically, can be attached to each other via the attachment member.

[00155] In other words, the top tray 150 can be attached to the top body 120 by attaching an attachment member.

[00156] The top support 170 may restrict downward movement by supporting the bottom portion of the top tray 150.

[00157] For example, the water supply portion 190 may be attached to the upper body 120.

[00158] The ice maker 100 may further include a temperature sensor 500 that detects the temperature of the top tray 150.

[00159] For example, the temperature sensor 500 may be mounted on the top tray 120. Also, when the top tray 150 is attached to the top cabinet 120, the temperature sensor 500 may be in contact with the top tray 150.

[00160] The bottom assembly 200 may include a bottom tray 250 defining another portion of the ice chamber 111 making ice. For example, the bottom tray 250 may form the bottom portion of the ice chamber 111.

[00161] The lower assembly 200 may further include a lower support 270 supporting a lower portion of the lower tray 250 and the lower housing 210, at least a portion thereof covering the upper side of the lower tray 250.

[00162] The lower body 210, the lower tray 250, and the lower support 270 may be attached to each other via an attachment member.

[00163] The ice maker 100 may further include a switch for turning on/off the ice maker 100. When the user turns on the switch 600, the ice maker 100 can make ice.

[00164] In other words, when the switch 600 is turned on, water can be supplied to the ice maker 100. Thereafter, an ice-making process for making ice by using cold air, and an ice-separating process for transporting ice through rotation of the lower assembly 200.

[00165] On the other hand, when the switch 600 is manipulated to turn off, making ice through the ice maker 100 may not be possible. For example, switch 600 may be provided in top housing 120.

[00166] Upper housing

[00167] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an upper housing according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of an upper housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[00168] Referring to FIG. 5 and 6, the top case 120 can be fixed to the case 101 in the freezing space 4 or the wall of the freezing space 4 in a state in which the top tray 150 is fixed.

[00169] The top case 120 may include a top plate for fixing the top tray 150.

[00170] The top tray 150 may be fixed to the top plate 121 in a state in which a portion of the top tray 150 contacts the bottom surface of the top plate 121.

[00171] An opening 123 through which a portion of the top tray 150 extends may be defined in the top plate 121.

[00172] For example, when the top tray 150 is secured to the top plate 121 in a state in which the top tray 150 is positioned below the top plate 121, a portion of the top tray 150 may protrude upward from the top plate 121 through the opening 123.

[00173] Alternatively, the top tray 150 may not protrude upward from the top plate 121 through the opening 123, but protrude downward from the top plate 121 through the opening 123.

[00174] The top plate 121 may include a recess 122 that is recessed downward. The opening 123 may be defined in the bottom surface 122a of the recess 122.

[00175] Thus, the top tray 150 passing through the opening 123 can be placed in the space defined by the recess 122.

[00176] A heater connection portion 124 for attaching an upper heater (see ref. 148 in FIG. 13) that heats the upper tray 150 so as to transfer ice may be provided in the upper body 120.

[00177] For example, a heater attachment portion 124 may be provided on top plate 121. A heater attachment portion 124 may be placed below recess 122.

[00178] The top case 120 may further include a plurality of mounting ribs 128 and 129 for mounting the temperature sensor 500.

[00179] The pair of mounting ribs 128 and 129 may be placed spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 6. A pair of mounting ribs 128 and 129 may be placed facing each other, and a temperature sensor 500 may be placed between a pair of mounting ribs 128 and 129.

[00180] A pair of mounting ribs 128 and 129 may be provided on top plate 121.

[00181] A plurality of slots 131 and 132 connected to the top tray 150 may be provided in the top plate 121.

[00182] A portion of the top tray 150 may be inserted into a plurality of slots 131 and 132.

[00183] The plurality of slots 131 and 132 may include a first top slot 131 and a second top slot 132 located on the opposite side to the first top slot 131 from opening 123.

[00184] An opening 123 may be defined between the first top slot 131 and the second top slot 132.

[00185] The first top slot 131 and the second top slot 132 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 6.

[00186] Although not limited, the plurality of first top slots 131 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A (hereinafter referred to as the "first direction"), which is the direction intersecting the direction of arrow B (hereinafter referred to in this document as the "second track").

[00187] In addition, the plurality of second top slots 132 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A.

[00188] In this detailed description, the direction of the arrow A may be the same direction as the placement direction of the plurality of ice chambers 111.

[00189] For example, the first top slot 131 may be defined in a curved shape. Thus, the first upper slot 131 can increase in length.

[00190] For example, the second top slot 132 may be defined in a curved shape. Thus, the second top slot 133 can be extended in length.

[00191] As each of the top slots 131 and 132 increases in length, the protrusion (which is located on the top tray) inserted into each of the top slots 131 and 132 can increase in length to increase the attachment force between the top tray 150 and the top body 120.

[00192] The distance between the first top slot 131 and the hole 123 may be different from the distance between the second top slot 132 and the hole 123. For example, the distance between the first top slot 131 and the hole 123 may be greater than the distance between the second top slot 132 and the hole 123.

[00193] In addition, when viewed from the opening 123 to each of the top slots 131, a shape can be provided that curves convexly from each of the slots 131 to the outside of the opening 123.

[00194] The top plate 121 may further include a collar 133 into which a sleeve is inserted for attaching the top support, which is described below.

[00195] Sleeve 133 may be cylindrical and extend upward from top plate 121.

[00196] For example, a plurality of cuffs 133 may be provided on the top plate 121. A plurality of cuffs 133 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A. Also, a plurality of cuffs 133 may be placed in a plurality of rows in the direction of arrow B.

[00197] A portion of the plurality of cuffs may be located between the first two upper slots 131 next to each other.

[00198] Another portion of the plurality of cuffs may be positioned between the two second upper slots 132 next to each other or positioned so that it faces the area between the two second upper slots 132.

[00199] The upper body 120 may further include a plurality of hinges 135 and 136 to allow the lower assembly 200 to rotate.

[00200] The plurality of hinge supports 135 and 136 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A with respect to FIG. 6. Also, a first hinge cavity 137 may be defined in each of the hinge bearings 135 and 136.

[00201] For example, a plurality of hinges 135 and 136 may extend downward from the top plate 121.

[00202] The top body 120 may further include a vertical expansion portion 140 vertically extending along the periphery of the top plate 121. The vertical expansion portion 140 may extend upward from the top plate 121.

[00203] The water supply part 190 may be connected to the vertical expansion part 140.

[00204] The upper body 120 may further include a horizontal expansion portion 142 extending horizontally into the outer portion relative to the vertical expansion portion 140.

[00205] The top case 120 may further include a side peripheral wall 143a extending to the top side of the horizontal expansion portion 142.

[00206] For example, the side peripheral wall 143a may extend upward from the edge of the horizontal expansion portion 142 and have a pair of walls formed such that their height gradually increases towards the screw attachment portion 142a described below in the direction of arrow A.

[00207] Specifically, the wall formed in the direction of the arrow A for the side peripheral wall 143a can be tilted based on the horizontal expansion portion 142 so that the ice maker 100 is horizontal with respect to the ground considering the tilt of the refrigerator 1.

[00208] The upper body 120 may further include a front peripheral wall 143b extending to the upper side of the horizontal expansion portion 142.

[00209] For example, the front peripheral wall 143b may be connected to the side peripheral wall 143a and extend upward from the edge of the horizontal expansion portion 142.

[00210] The front peripheral wall 143b can be formed once divided without interfering with other components according to the shape of the edge of the horizontal expansion portion 142.

[00211] The side peripheral wall 143a and the front peripheral wall 143b serve to prevent a gap between the ice maker 100 and the case 101 to the outside when the ice maker 100 is attached to the fixed portion 101 in an inclined state.

[00212] The top case 120 may include a fixing portion to be fixed to the wall of the freezing space or casing.

[00213] As described above, the fixing portion may include an inclined surface to be fixed inclined relative to the wall of the freezing space or casing in order to compensate for the inclination formed when the refrigerator is installed.

[00214] The vertical expansion portion 140 may include one or more hooks 140a for attachment. Through the attachment hook 140a, the upper body 120 can be attached to the fixed part 101. The attachment hook 140a may be called the second fixing part.

[00215] Specifically, the pair of attachment hooks 140a may be positioned to extend from the upper surface of the upper body 120 and be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B.

[00216] For example, the attachment hook 140a may include a first portion extending from the vertical expansion portion 140 and a second portion folded once and extending from the first portion to the outside of the upper body 120.

[00217] The attachment hook 140a can be tilted to one side to create a tilt considering the inclination of the refrigerator 1 when attached to the fixed part 101.

[00218] In particular, the bottom surface of the second portion of the attachment hook 140a can be tilted to one side to create a slope.

[00219] The vertical expansion portion 140 may further include one or more connecting rails 104b. The connecting guides 140b may be referred to as the third fixing part.

[00220] For example, a pair of connecting rails 140b may be installed spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B on one side of the vertical extension portion 140 and may be bent once or more.

[00221] Specifically, the connection guides 140b may extend outwardly from the vertical expansion portion 140 and include a first portion bent once in the opposite direction for the attachment hook 140a.

[00222] The second part, once bent upward from the upper end of the first part of the connecting guide 140b at a certain angle, may be further included.

[00223] The first part of the connecting guide 140b may include a vertical part extending in the vertical direction and an inclined part folded once and extending from the upper end of the vertical part. The second part of the connecting guide 140b may extend from the end of the horizontal part.

[00224] The sloping portion may be slanted in the same direction as the direction of the inclination of the bottom surface of the attachment hook 140a.

[00225] The plate of the fixed portion 101 can be inserted and attached between the attachment hook 140a and the connecting guide 140b.

[00226] The connecting guide 140b can be formed by adding a rib to the top surface, and the rib can be attached to the top surface of the first part of the connecting guide 140b in a hemispherical shape.

[00227] A screw attachment portion 142a protruding outward to screw attach the upper body 120 to the fixed portion 101 may be provided on the horizontal expansion portion 142. The screw attachment portion 142a may be referred to as the first fixing portion.

[00228] For example, a pair of screw attachment parts 142a can be installed spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B and can be connected to the screw 142b to be connected to the fixed part 101.

[00229] In particular, the surface at which the screw 142b is attached, the screw connection portion 142a can be tilted so that the ice maker 100 is horizontal with respect to the ground, considering that the fixed portion 101 is tilted by tilting the refrigerator 1.

[00230] When the ice maker 100 is horizontally installed in the refrigerator 1, and the refrigerator is installed tilted with respect to the ground, the ice maker 100 tilts with respect to the ground.

[00231] In this case, the water inside in the ice making chamber is deflected, or the water of some of the plurality of ice chambers is also located on the opening side of the upper tray, so that ice including the ledge is formed. However, according to the present invention, since the ice maker 100 is installed tilted in one direction in the refrigerator 1, even if the refrigerator is installed tilted with respect to the ground in the other direction, since the ice maker is horizontal with respect to the ground in the state in which the installation of the refrigerator is completed, it is possible to prevent the above-described problem.

[00232] The upper body 120 may further include a side peripheral portion 143. The side peripheral portion 143 may extend downward from the horizontal expansion portion 142.

[00233] The lateral peripheral portion 143 may be positioned such that it surrounds the periphery of the lower assembly 200. In other words, the lateral peripheral portion 143 may prevent the lower assembly 200 from being accessible from the outside.

[00234] Some or all of the first locking portion through the third locking portion may be provided in the upper housing 120.

[00235] [00236] Top Tray

[00237] FIG. 7 is a perspective top view of a top tray according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a side view of a top tray according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[00238] Referring to FIG. 7-9, the top tray 150 may be made from a non-metallic material and a flexible material that is capable of being restored to its original shape after being deformed by an external force.

[00239] For example, the top tray 150 may be made from a silicone material. Similarly to this embodiment, when the top tray 150 is made of silicone material, even if an external force is applied to deform the top tray 150 during the ice separation process, the top tray 150 can be restored to its original shape. Thus, despite repeated ice making, spherical ice can be made.

[00240] If the top tray 150 is made of a metallic material, when an external force is applied to the top tray 150 to deform the top tray 150 directly, the top tray 150 can no longer be restored to its original shape.

[00241] In this case, after the top tray 150 is deformed in shape, spherical ice cannot be produced. In other words, it is impossible to make spherical ice repeatedly.

[00242] On the other hand, similarly to this embodiment, when the top tray 150 is made of a flexible material that can be restored to its original shape, this limitation may be allowed.

[00243] In addition, when the top tray 150 is made of silicone material, the top tray 150 can be prevented from melting or thermally deforming by the heat provided from the top heater, which will be described below.

[00244] The top tray 150 may include a top tray body 151 defining an upper chamber 152, which is a portion of the ice chamber 111.

[00245] The top tray body 151 may define a plurality of top chambers 152.

[00246] For example, the plurality of upper chambers 152 may define a first upper chamber 152a, a second upper chamber 152b, and a third upper chamber 152c.

[00247] The top tray body 151 may include three chamber walls 153 defining three independent top chambers 152a, 152b, and 152c. The three walls 153 of the chamber may be interconnected to form one housing.

[00248] The first upper chamber 152a, the second upper chamber 152b, and the third upper chamber 152c may be arranged in a line. For example, the first upper chamber 152a, the second upper chamber 152b, and the third upper chamber 152c may be arranged in the direction of arrow A with respect to FIG. 8. The direction of arrow A in FIG. 8 may be in the same direction as arrow A in FIG. 6.

[00249] The upper chamber 152 may have a hemispherical shape. In other words, the upper portion of the spherical ice may be produced by the upper chamber 152.

[00250] An inlet 154 through which water flows into the interior of the upper chamber 152 may be formed in the upper side of the upper tray body 151. For example, three top inlet holes 154 may be formed in the body 151 of the top tray. Cold air may be directed into the ice chamber 111 through the inlet 154.

[00251] During the ice separation process, the upper pusher 300 may be inserted into the upper chamber 152 through the inlet 154.

[00252] While the top pusher 300 is inserted through the inlet 154, the inlet wall 155 may be provided on the top tray 150 to minimize deformation of the inlet 154 in the top tray 150.

[00253] The inlet wall 155 may extend along the periphery of the inlet 154 and extend upward from the top tray body 151.

[00254] Inlet wall 155 may be cylindrical. Thus, the upper driver 30 can pass through the inlet 154 through the interior of the inlet wall 155.

[00255] One or more first connecting ribs 155a may be provided along the periphery of the inlet wall 155 to prevent deformation of the inlet wall 155 while the upper driver 300 is inserted into the inlet 154.

[00256] The first connecting rib 155a may connect the inlet wall 155 to the top tray body 151. For example, the first connecting rib 155a may be integrated with the periphery of the inlet wall 155 and the outer surface of the upper tray body 151.

[00257] Although not limited, a plurality of connecting ribs 155a may be located along the periphery of the inlet wall 155.

[00258] The two inlet walls 155 corresponding to the second upper chamber 152b and the third upper chamber 152c may be interconnected via the second connecting rib 162. The second connecting rib 162 may also prevent deformation of the inlet wall 155.

[00259] The water supply guide 156 may be provided in the inlet wall 155 corresponding to one of the three upper chambers 152a, 152b, and 152c.

[00260] Although not limited, the water supply guide 156 may be provided in the inlet wall corresponding to the second upper chamber 152b.

[00261] The water supply guide 156 may be inclined upward from the inlet wall 155 in a direction that extends from the second upper chamber 152b.

[00262] The top tray 150 may further include a first accommodating portion 160. The recess 122 of the upper housing 120 may be placed in the first part 160 for placement.

[00263] A heater attachment portion 124 may be provided in recess 122, and an upper heater (see reference 148 of FIG. 13) may be provided in heater attachment portion 124. Thus, it is obvious that the upper heater (see reference number 148 in Fig. 13) is placed in the first part 160 for placement.

[00264] The first accommodating portion 160 may be arranged in a shape that surrounds the upper chambers 152a, 152b, and 152c. The first accommodating portion 160 may be provided by sinking the top surface of the top tray body 151 down.

[00265] The heater attachment part 124 to which the top heater is attached (see reference 148 in FIG. 13) may be placed in the first placement part 160.

[00266] The top tray 150 may further include a second accommodating portion 161 (alternatively referred to as a "sensor accommodating portion") accommodating the temperature sensor 500.

[00267] For example, the second accommodating portion 161 may be provided in the top tray body 151. Although not limited, the second placement portion 161 may be provided by recessing the bottom surface of the first placement portion 160 down.

[00268] Further, the second accommodating portion 161 may be positioned between the two upper chambers next to each other. For example, in FIG. 7, the second accommodating portion 161 may be disposed between the first upper chamber 152a and the second upper chamber 152b.

[00269] In this way, interference between the upper heater (see reference 148 in FIG. 13) placed in the first housing portion 160 and the temperature sensor 500 can be prevented.

[00270] In a state in which the temperature sensor 500 is placed in the second accommodating portion 161, the temperature sensor 500 can contact the outer surface of the top tray body 151.

[00271] The chamber wall 153 of the top tray body 151 may include a vertical wall 153a and a curved wall 153b.

[00272] Curved wall 153b may curve upward in a direction that extends from upper chamber 152.

[00273] The top tray 150 may further include a horizontal extension portion 164 extending horizontally from the periphery of the top tray body 151. For example, the horizontal expansion portion 164 may extend along the periphery of the top edge of the top tray body 151.

[00274] The horizontal expansion portion 164 may contact the upper housing 120 and the upper support 170.

[00275] For example, the bottom surface 164b (alternatively referred to as the "first surface") of the horizontal expansion portion 164 may contact the upper support 170, and the upper surface 164a (alternatively referred to as the "second surface") of the horizontal expansion portion 164 may contact the upper housing 120.

[00276] At least a portion of the horizontal expansion portion 164 may be located between the upper housing 120 and the upper support 170.

[00277] The horizontal expansion portion 164 may include a plurality of upper projections 165 and 166, respectively, inserted into a plurality of upper slots 131 and 132.

[00278] The plurality of top ridges 165 and 166 may include a first top ridge 165 and a second top ridge 166 located on the opposite side of the first top ridge 165 relative to the inlet 154.

[00279] The first top lip 165 can be inserted into the first top slot 131, and the second top lip 166 can be inserted into the second top slot 132.

[00280] The first upper projection 165 and the second upper projection 166 may protrude upwardly from the upper surface 164a with respect to the horizontal expansion portion 164.

[00281] The first upper projection 165 and the second upper projection 166 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 8. The direction of arrow B in FIG. 8 may be in the same direction as arrow B in FIG. 6.

[00282] Although not limited, a plurality of first upper projections 165 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A.

[00283] In addition, a plurality of second upper projections 166 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A.

[00284] For example, the first upper projection 165 may be provided in a curved shape. Further, for example, the second upper projection 166 may be provided in a curved shape.

[00285] In this embodiment, each of the top projections 165 and 166 may be designed such that the top tray 150 and the top body 120 are attached to each other, and deformation of the horizontal expansion portion during the ice making process or the ice separation process is also prevented. .

[00286] Here, when each of the upper protrusions 165 and 166 is provided in a curved shape, the distances between the upper protrusions 165 and 166 and the upper chamber 152 in the longitudinal direction of the upper protrusions 165 and 166 can be the same or similar to each other, so as to effectively prevent deformation of the horizontal expansion parts 264.

[00287] For example, deformation in the horizontal direction of the horizontal expansion portion 264 can be minimized so as to prevent plastic deformation of the horizontal expansion portion 264. ice may not be close to a spherical shape.

[00288] The horizontal expansion portion 164 may further include a plurality of lower projections 167 and 168. The plurality of lower projections 167 and 168 may be inserted into the lower slot of the upper support 170, which is described below.

[00289] The plurality of lower protrusions 167 and 168 may include a first lower protrusion 167 and a second lower protrusion 168 located on the opposite side of the first lower protrusion 167 relative to the upper chamber 152.

[00290] The first lower protrusion 167 and the second lower protrusion 168 may protrude upward from the bottom surface 164b of the horizontal expansion portion 164.

[00291] The first lower projection 167 may be located opposite the first upper projection 165 relative to the horizontal expansion portion 164. The second lower projection 168 may be located on the opposite side of the second upper projection 166 relative to the horizontal expansion portion 164.

[00292] The first lower projection 167 may be spaced apart from the vertical wall 153a of the upper tray body 151. The second lower protrusion 168 may be spaced apart from the curved wall 153b of the upper tray body 151.

[00293] Each of the plurality of lower projections 167 and 168 may also be provided in a curved form. Since the protrusions 165, 166, 167 and 168 are located on each of the upper and lower surfaces 164a and 164b of the horizontal expansion portion 164, deformation in the horizontal direction of the horizontal expansion portion 164 can be effectively prevented.

[00294] A through cavity 169 through which a sleeve for attaching an upper support 170, which will be described below, may be provided in the horizontal expansion portion 164.

[00295] For example, a plurality of through cavities 169 may be provided in the horizontal expansion portion 164.

[00296] The portion of the plurality of through cavities 169 may be located between the two first upper projections 165 adjacent to each other, or between the two first lower projections 167 adjacent to each other.

[00297] Another portion of the plurality of through cavities 169 may be located between the two second lower lugs 168 adjacent to each other, or positioned so that it faces the area between the two second lower lugs 168.

[00298] Upper support

[00299] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an upper support according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of an upper support according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[00300] Referring to FIG. 10 and 11, the top support 170 may include a base plate 171 in contact with the top tray 150.

[00301] For example, the top surface of the base plate 171 may contact the bottom surface 164b of the horizontal extension portion 164 of the top tray 150.

[00302] The plate hole 172 through which the upper tray body 151 passes may be defined in the base plate 171.

[00303] A peripheral wall 174 that curves upward may be provided at the edge of the base plate 171. For example, the peripheral wall 174 may contact at least a portion of the periphery of the side surface of the horizontal expansion portion 164.

[00304] In addition, the top surface of the peripheral wall 174 may contact the bottom surface of the top plate 121.

[00305] The base plate 171 may include a plurality of bottom slots 176 and 177.

[00306] The plurality of bottom slots 176 and 177 may include a first bottom slot 176 into which the first bottom boss 167 is inserted and a second bottom slot 177 into which the second bottom boss 168 is inserted.

[00307] A plurality of first bottom slots 176 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A on the base plate 171. In addition, a plurality of second bottom slots 177 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A on the base plate 171.

[00308] The base plate 171 may further include a plurality of bushings 175 for attachment. A plurality of attachment sleeves 175 may protrude upward from the top surface with respect to the base plate 171.

[00309] Each of the attachment sleeves 175 can pass through the through cavity 169 of the horizontal expansion portion 164 and be inserted into the collar 133 of the upper body 120.

[00310] In a state in which the attachment sleeve 175 is inserted into the cuff 133, the top surface of the attachment sleeve 175 may be at a height identical to that of the top surface of the cuff 133, or be located at a height lower than the height of the top surface of the cuff 133.

[00311] The attachment member attached to the attachment sleeve 175, for example, may be a bolt (see reference B1 of FIG. 3). The bolt B1 may include a body part and a head part having a diameter greater than that of the body part. The bolt B1 can be attached to the attachment sleeve 175 from the top side of the attachment sleeve 175 .

[00312] At the time that the body part of the bolt B1 is attached to the attachment sleeve 175, when the head part contacts the upper surface of the collar 133, and the head part contacts the upper surface of the collar 133 and the upper surface of the attachment sleeve 175, assembly of the upper assembly 110 may end.

[00313] The top support 170 may further include a plurality of block guides 181 and 182 for guiding a connection block 350 coupled to the top driver 300.

[00314] The plurality of block guides 181 and 182, for example, may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A with respect to FIG. eleven.

[00315] Block guides 181 and 182 may extend upward from the top surface of base plate 171. Each of block guides 181 and 182 may be connected to peripheral wall 174.

[00316] Each of the block guides 181 and 182 may include a guide slot 183 that extends vertically.

[00317] In a state in which both ends of the driver body 310 for the upper driver 300 pass through the guide slot 183, the connection block 350 is connected to the driver body 310.

[00318] Thus, when the rotational force is transmitted to the driver body 310 by the coupling block 350 while the lower assembly 200 rotates, the driver body 310 can vertically move along the guide slot 183.

[00319] Upper heater connection design

[00320] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view showing a heater connection portion in the upper case of FIG. 5, fig. 13 is a view showing a state in which the heater is attached to the upper case of FIG. 5 and FIG. 14 is a view showing the wiring connected to the heater in the upper case.

[00321] Referring to FIG. 12-14, the heater connection portion 124 may include a heater accommodating recess 124a accommodating the top heater 148.

[00322] For example, the heater accommodating recess 124a may be defined by recessing a portion of the lower surface of the recess 122 of the upper housing 120 upward.

[00323] The heater accommodating recess 124a may extend along the periphery of the opening 123 of the upper housing 120.

[00324] For example, the top heater 148 may be a wired heater. Thus, the upper heater 148 may flex. The top heater 148 can be bent so that it conforms to the shape of the heater receiving recess 124a so as to position the upper heater 148 in the heater receiving recess 124a.

[00325] The top heater 148 may be a DC heater receiving DC power. The top heater 148 may be turned on to transfer ice. When the heat of the upper heater 148 is transferred to the upper tray 150, the ice may separate from the surface (inner surface) of the upper tray 150. In this case, since the heating of the upper heater 148 is stronger, the area of spherical ice facing the upper heater 148 becomes opaque in compared to other area. That is, an opaque strip having a shape corresponding to the top heater is formed around the circumference of the ice.

[00326] However, in the present embodiment, by using a DC heater having a low output, the amount of heat transferred to the upper tray 150 can be reduced, thereby preventing the formation of an opaque band around the circumference of the ice.

[00327] The top heater 148 may be positioned to surround the periphery of each of the plurality of top chambers 152 such that heat from the top heater 148 is uniformly transferred to the plurality of top chambers 152 of the top tray 150.

[00328] In addition, the upper heater 148 may be in contact with the periphery of each of the chamber walls 153 respectively defining a plurality of upper chambers 152. Here, the upper heater 148 may be located at a position that is lower than the position of the inlet 154.

[00329] Because the heater accommodating recess 124a is recessed relative to the recess 122, the heater accommodating recess 124a may be defined by the outer wall 124b and the inner wall 124c.

[00330] The upper heater 148 may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the heater receiving recess 124a so that the upper heater 148 protrudes outside the heater attachment portion 124 in a state in which the upper heater 148 is accommodated in the heater receiving recess 124a.

[00331] Since a portion of the upper heater 148 protrudes outside the heater accommodating recess 124a in a state in which the upper heater 148 is accommodated in the heater accommodating recess 124a, the upper heater 148 can contact the upper tray 150.

[00332] A separation prevention protrusion 124d may be provided on one of the outer wall 124b and the inner wall 124c to prevent the separation of the upper heater 148 housed in the heater accommodating recess 124a from the heater accommodating recess 124a.

[00333] FIG. 12, for example, a plurality of detachment prevention projections 124d are provided on the inner wall 124c.

[00334] The protrusion 124d to prevent separation may protrude from the end of the inner wall 124c to the outer wall 124b.

[00335] Here, the protrusion length of the protrusion 124d to prevent separation may be less than about 1/2 the distance between the outer wall 124b and the inner wall 124c to prevent the upper heater 148 from being easily separated from the heater accommodating recess 124a without interfering with the insertion of the upper heater 148 by means of a protrusion 124d to prevent separation.

[00336] As illustrated in FIG. 13, in a state in which the upper heater 148 is placed in the heater accommodating recess 124a, the upper heater 148 can be divided into an upper rounded portion 148c and a linear portion 148d.

[00337] In other words, the heater accommodating recess 124a may include an upper rounded portion and a linear portion. Thus, the upper heater 148 can be divided into an upper rounded portion 148c and a linear portion 148d, which correspond to the upper rounded portion and the linear portion of the heater accommodating recess 124a.

[00338] The upper rounded portion 148c may be a portion located along the periphery of the upper chamber 152, as well as a portion that is bent such that it is rounded in a horizontal direction.

[00339] The linear portion 148d may be a portion connecting the upper rounded portions 148c corresponding to the upper chambers 152 to each other.

[00340] Since the upper heater 148 is located at a position below the position of the inlet 154, a line connecting two points of the upper rounded portions, which are spaced apart from each other, can pass through the upper chamber 152.

[00341] Since the upper rounded portion 148c of the upper heater 148 can be separated from the heater receiving recess 124a, the separation prevention protrusion 124d may be positioned to contact the upper rounded portion 148c.

[00342] The through hole 124e may be defined in the bottom surface of the recess 124a for receiving the heater. When the upper heater 148 is placed in the heater receiving recess 124a, a portion of the upper heater 148 may be located in the through hole 124e. For example, the through hole 124e may be defined in a portion of the upper heater 148 facing the protrusion 124d to prevent separation.

[00343] When the upper heater 148 is bent such that it is horizontally rounded, the tension of the upper heater 148 may increase to cause detachment, and in addition, the upper heater 148 may separate from the recess 124a to accommodate the heater.

[00344] However, when the through hole 124e is defined in the heater accommodating recess 124a, similarly to this embodiment, a portion of the upper heater 148 may be located in the through hole 124e to reduce tension on the upper heater 148, thereby preventing the recess 124a from separating for placing the heater from the top heater 148.

[00345] As illustrated in FIG. 14, in a state in which the power supply input terminal 148a and the power supply output terminal 148b of the upper heater 148 are parallel to each other, the upper heater 148 can pass through the through heater cavity 125 formed in the upper case 120.

[00346] Since the upper heater 148 is located on the underside of the upper case 120, the power supply input terminal 148a and the power supply output terminal 148b of the upper heater 148 can extend upwardly so that they pass through the through heater cavity 125.

[00347] The power supply input terminal 148a and the power supply output terminal 148b passing through the heater through cavity 125 can be connected to one first connector 129a.

[00348] In addition, the second connector 129c, to which two wires 129d connected so that they correspond to the power supply input terminal 148a and the power supply output terminal 148b, can be connected to the first connector 129a.

[00349] A first guide portion 126, an upper heater guide 148, a first connector 129a, a second connector 129c, and a wire 129d may be provided on the top plate 121 of the upper case 120.

[00350] FIG. 14 illustrates, for example, a construction in which the first guide portion 126 guides the first connector 129a.

[00351] The first guide portion 126 may extend upward from the top surface of the top plate 121 and have an upper end that curves in a horizontal direction.

[00352] Thus, the upper curved portion of the first guide portion 126 may restrict upward movement of the first connector 126.

[00353] The wire 129d may extend beyond the upper housing 120 after being bent into an approximately U-shape to prevent interference with the surrounding structure.

[00354] Since the wire 129d is bent at least once, the upper housing 120 may further include wire guides 127 and 128 to secure the position of the wire 129d.

[00355] The wire guides 127 and 128 may include a first guide 127 and a second guide 128 that are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal direction. The first guide 127 and the second guide 128 can be bent in a direction corresponding to the bending direction of the wire 129d to minimize damage to the wire 129d to be bent.

[00356] In other words, each of the first guide 127 and the second guide 128 may include a curved portion.

[00357] To restrict upward movement of wire 129d located between first guide 127 and second guide 128, at least one of first guide 127 and second guide 128 may include an upper guide 127a extending to the other guide.

[00358] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the upper assembly is assembled.

[00359] Referring to FIG. 15, in a state in which the top heater 148 is attached to the heater attachment portion 124 of the top case 120, the top case 120, the top tray 150, and the top support 170 can be attached to each other.

[00360] The first upper lug 165 of the upper tray 150 may be inserted into the first upper slot 131 of the upper housing 120. In addition, the second upper lug 166 of the upper tray 150 may be inserted into the second upper slot 132 of the upper housing 120.

[00361] Thereafter, the first lower lip 167 of the upper tray 150 may be inserted into the first lower slot 176 of the upper support 170, and the second lower lip 168 of the upper tray 150 may be inserted into the second lower slot 177 of the upper support 170.

[00362] In this way, the sleeve 175 for attaching the upper support 170 can pass through the through cavity of the upper tray 150 and then be placed in the collar 133 of the upper body 120. In this state, the bolt B1 can be connected to the sleeve 175 for attachment from the upper side of the sleeve 175 to accessions.

[00363] In a state in which the bolt B1 is attached to the attachment sleeve 175, the head portion of the bolt B1 may be located at a position higher than the position of the top plate 121.

[00364] On the other hand, since the hinge supports 135 and 136 are positioned below the top plate 121 at the time that the bottom assembly 200 is rotated, interference can be prevented by the top assembly 110 or the connection block 350 for the head portion of the bolt B1.

[00365] While the top assembly 110 is being assembled, a plurality of rails 181 and 182 of the top support block 170 may protrude upward from the top plate 121 through a through hole (see references 139a and 139b of FIG. 6) formed in both sides of the top plate 121.

[00366] As described above, the top driver 300 passes through the guide slots 183 of the block guides 181 and 182 protruding upward from the top plate 121.

[00367] Thus, the top pusher 300 can be lowered in a position above the top plate 121 and inserted into the top chamber 152 to separate the ice of the top chamber 152 from the top tray 150.

[00368] When the upper assembly 110 is assembled, the heater attachment portion 124 to which the upper heater 148 is attached may be placed in the first portion 160 for receiving the upper tray 150.

[00369] In a state in which the heater connection part 124 is placed in the first placement part 160, the upper heater 148 can contact the bottom surface 160a of the first placement part 160.

[00370] Similar to this embodiment, when the top heater 148 is placed in the heater attachment portion 124 having a recessed shape to contact the top tray body 151, the heat of the top heater 148 can be minimally transferred to another location except for the top tray body 151.

[00371] At least a portion of the upper heater 148 may be positioned to vertically overlap the upper chamber 152 so that the heat of the upper heater 148 is smoothly transferred to the upper chamber 152.

[00372] In this embodiment, the upper rounded portion 148c of the upper heater 148 may vertically overlap the upper chamber 152.

[00373] In other words, the maximum distance between two points of the upper rounded portion 148c, which are located on opposite sides of the upper chamber 152, may be less than the diameter of the upper chamber 152.

[00374] Lower housing

[00375] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a lower assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the lower case according to the embodiment, and FIG. 18 is a bottom perspective view of the lower case according to the embodiment.

[00376] Referring to FIG. 16-18, the bottom assembly 200 may include a bottom tray 250, a bottom support 270, and a bottom housing 210.

[00377] The lower body 210 may surround the periphery of the lower tray 250 and the lower support 270 may support the lower tray 250.

[00378] The connector block 350 can be connected to the bottom support 270.

[00379] The coupling block 350 may include a first link 352 that receives power from the driving block 180 to allow the lower leg 270 to rotate and a second link 356 coupled to the lower leg 270 to transmit the rotational force of the lower leg 270 to the upper driver 300 when the lower support 270 rotates so that the upper driver 300 moves up and down.

[00380] The first link 352 and the lower leg 270 may be connected by a resilient member 360. The resilient member 360 provides a tensile force between the first link 352 and the lower leg 270. For example, the resilient member 360 may be a coil spring. In another example, the elastic element 360 may be an extension spring.

[00381] The elastic element 360 may have one end connected to the first rod 362 and the other end connected to the lower support 270.

[00382] The elastic member 360 provides a resilient force to the lower support 270 such that contact between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 is maintained.

[00383] In this embodiment, the first link 352 and the second link 356 may be located on both sides of the lower support 270, respectively.

[00384] One of the first two rods 352a and 352b may be connected to the drive unit 180 to receive rotational force from the drive unit 180. The first two rods 352a, 352b can be connected to each other via a connecting shaft (see reference number 370 in Fig. 4).

[00385] In particular, in FIG. 16, the actuating unit 180 may be connected to the right first link 352a, and the left first link 352b may receive rotational force via the connecting shaft 370.

[00386] In this case, the heights of the left first link 352b and the right first link 352a may be different. In particular, the height of the left first link 352b may be greater than the height of the right first link 352a by about 5 mm based on the lower surface of the lower support 270.

[00387] In connection with the connecting shaft 370 and the first link 352, the rotational force obtained by the left first link 352b may be less than the rotational force of the right first link 352a due to the assembly tolerance. In this embodiment, there is a difference in the resilient force between the resilient members 360, and thus there may be a difference in the sealing force between the ice chambers. However, in the present invention, by making the heights of the first two links 352a and 352b different, it is possible to prevent the difference in elastic forces between the elastic members 360.

[00388] A separation prevention cavity 358 through which the driver body 310 for the upper driver 300 passes may be formed at the upper end of the second link 356.

[00389] Specifically, a separation prevention cavity 358, through which the separation prevention protrusion 312 can penetrate, may be formed at the upper end of the second link 356.

[00390] The separation prevention cavity 358 may include a circular center portion 358a to fit the separation prevention protrusion 312, and a pair of recesses 358b radially outwardly recessed on both sides of the center portion 358a to communicate with the center portion 358a.

[00391] Accordingly, the separation prevention protrusion 321 can be inserted into the separation prevention cavity 358 by inserting the center portion 312a and the protruding portion 312b of the separation prevention protrusion 312 into the center portion 358a and the recess 358b of the separation prevention cavity 358. In a state in which the separation prevention protrusion 312 is inserted into the separation prevention cavity 358, the recess 358b and the protrusion portion 312b are shifted, and thus the separation prevention protrusion 312 can be permanently inserted into the separation prevention cavity 358 without separation.

[00392] The bottom case 210 may include a bottom plate 211 for securing the bottom tray 250.

[00393] A portion of the bottom tray 250 may be secured to contact the bottom surface of the bottom plate 211.

[00394] An opening 212 through which a portion of the bottom tray 250 passes may be defined in the bottom plate 211.

[00395] For example, when the bottom tray 250 is secured to the bottom plate 211 in a state in which the bottom tray 250 is positioned below the bottom plate 211, a portion of the bottom tray 250 may protrude upward from the bottom plate 211 through the opening 212.

[00396] The bottom case 210 may further include a peripheral wall 214 surrounding a bottom tray 250 extending through the bottom plate 211.

[00397] The peripheral wall 214 may include a vertical wall 214a and a curved wall 215.

[00398] Vertical wall 214a is a wall extending vertically upward from bottom plate 211. Curved wall 215 is a wall that curves in a direction that extends from opening 212 upward from bottom plate 211.

[00399] The vertical wall 214a may include a first attachment slot 214b attached to the bottom tray 250. The first attachment slot 214b may be defined by recessing the upper end of the vertical wall down.

[00400] The curved wall 215 may include a second attachment slot 215a for the bottom tray 250.

[00401] The second attachment slot 215a may be defined by sinking the top end of the curved wall 215 down.

[00402] The lower housing 210 may further include a first attachment sleeve 216 and a second attachment sleeve 217.

[00403] The first attachment sleeve 216 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the bottom plate 211. For example, a plurality of first attachment sleeves 216 may protrude downward from the bottom plate 211.

[00404] The plurality of first attachment sleeves 216 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A with respect to FIG. 17.

[00405] The second attachment sleeve 217 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the bottom plate 211. For example, a plurality of second attachment sleeves 217 may protrude from the bottom plate 211. arrows A with respect to FIG. 17.

[00406] The first attachment sleeve 216 and the second attachment sleeve 217 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow B.

[00407] In this embodiment, the length of the first attachment sleeve 216 and the length of the second attachment sleeve 217 may be different from each other. For example, the first sleeve 216 to join may have a length less than the length of the second sleeve 217 to join.

[00408] The first element for attachment can be attached to the first sleeve 216 for attachment in the upper portion of the first sleeve 216 for attachment. On the other hand, the second element for connection may be attached to the second sleeve 217 for connection in the lower portion of the second sleeve 217 for connection.

[00409] A recess 215b for moving the attachment member may be defined in the curved wall 215 to prevent the first attachment member from interfering with the curved wall 215 at the time the first attachment member is attached to the first attachment sleeve 216.

[00410] The bottom case 210 may further include a slot 218 attached to the bottom tray 250.

[00411] A portion of the lower tray 250 may be inserted into the slot 218. The slot 218 may be adjacent to the vertical wall 214a.

[00412] For example, the plurality of slots 218 may be defined to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 17. Each of the slots 218 may have a curved shape.

[00413] The lower body 210 may further include an accommodating recess 218a into which a portion of the lower tray 250 is inserted. The accommodating recess 218a may be defined by recessing the portion of the lower tray 211 against the curved wall 215.

[00414] The bottom body 210 may further include an expansion wall 219 contacting a side surface periphery portion of the bottom plate 212 in a state of attachment to the bottom tray 250. The expansion wall 219 may extend linearly in the direction of arrow A.

[00415] Lower Tray

[00416] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the lower tray according to the embodiment, FIG. 20 and 21 are bottom perspective views of the lower tray according to the embodiment, and FIG. 22 is a side view of the lower tray according to the embodiment.

[00417] Referring to FIG. 19-22, the bottom tray 250 may be made from a flexible material that is capable of being restored to its original shape after being deformed by an external force.

[00418] For example, the bottom tray 250 may be made from a silicone material. Similarly to this embodiment, when the bottom tray 250 is made of silicone material, the bottom tray 250 can be restored to its original shape even if an external force is applied to deform the bottom tray 250 during the ice separation process. Thus, despite repeated ice making, spherical ice can be made.

[00419] If the bottom tray 250 is made of a metallic material, when an external force is applied to the bottom tray 250 to deform the bottom tray 250 directly, the bottom tray 250 can no longer be restored to its original shape.

[00420] In this case, after the lower tray 250 is deformed in shape, spherical ice cannot be produced. In other words, it is impossible to make spherical ice repeatedly.

[00421] On the other hand, similarly to this embodiment, when the lower tray 250 is made of a flexible material that can be restored to its original shape, this limitation may be allowed.

[00422] In addition, when the lower tray 250 is made of silicone material, the lower tray 250 can be prevented from melting or thermally deforming by the heat provided from the upper heater, which will be described below.

[00423] The bottom tray 250 may include a bottom tray body 251 defining a bottom chamber 252, which is a portion of the ice chamber 111. The lower tray body 251 may be referred to as the lower mold body.

[00424] The lower tray body 251 may define a plurality of lower chambers 252.

[00425] For example, the plurality of lower chambers 252 may include a first lower chamber 252a, a second lower chamber 252b, and a third lower chamber 252c.

[00426] The bottom tray body 251 may include three chamber walls 252d defining three independent bottom chambers 252a, 252b, and 252c. The three chamber walls 252d may be integrated in one housing to form the lower tray housing 251.

[00427] The first lower chamber 252a, the second lower chamber 252b, and the third lower chamber 252c may be arranged in line. For example, the first lower chamber 252a, the second lower chamber 252b, and the third lower chamber 252c may be arranged in the direction of arrow A with respect to FIG. nineteen.

[00428] The lower chamber 252 may have a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemispherical shape. In other words, the lower portion of the spherical ice may be produced by the lower chamber 252.

[00429] In the present invention, a shape similar to a hemispherical shape means a shape that is not a complete hemisphere, but is close to a hemisphere.

[00430] The bottom tray 250 may further include a first extension portion 253 extending horizontally from an upper end edge of the bottom tray body 251. The first expansion portion 253 may be continuously formed along the periphery of the lower tray body 251.

[00431] The bottom tray 250 may further include a peripheral wall 260 extending upward from the top surface of the first expansion portion 253.

[00432] The lower surface of the upper tray body 151 may contact the upper surface 251e of the lower tray body 251. The upper surface of the lower tray body 251 may be referred to as the end surface.

[00433] The peripheral wall 260 may surround the upper tray body 251 seated on the top surface 251e of the lower tray body 251.

[00434] The peripheral wall 260 may include a first wall 260a surrounding a vertical wall 153a of the top tray body 151 and a second wall 260b surrounding a curved wall 153b of the top tray body 151.

[00435] The first wall 260a is a vertical wall extending vertically from the top surface of the first expansion portion 253. The second wall 260b is a curved wall shaped to match the top tray body 151. In other words, the second wall 260b may curve upward from the first expansion portion 253 in a direction that extends from the lower chamber 252.

[00436] The bottom tray 250 may further include a second expansion portion 254 extending horizontally from the peripheral wall 260.

[00437] The second expansion portion 254 may be located above the first expansion portion 253. Thus, the first expansion portion 253 and the second expansion portion 254 may be stepped relative to each other.

[00438] The second extension portion 254 may include a first upper projection 255 inserted into a slot 218 of the lower housing 210. The first upper projection 255 may be positioned to be horizontally spaced from the peripheral wall 260.

[00439] For example, the first top projection 255 may protrude upward from the top surface with respect to the second expansion portion 254 at a position adjacent to the first wall 260a.

[00440] Although not limited, a plurality of first upper projections 255 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A with respect to FIG. 19. The first top projection 255 may extend in a curved shape, for example.

[00441] The second extension portion 254 may include a first lower protrusion 257 inserted into the protrusion recess of the lower housing 270, which is described below. The first lower protrusion 257 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second expansion portion 254.

[00442] Although not limited, a plurality of first lower projections 257 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A.

[00443] The first upper projection 255 and the first lower projection 257 may be located on opposite sides with respect to the vertical direction of the second expansion portion 254. At least a portion of the first upper projection 255 may vertically overlap the second lower projection 257.

[00444] A plurality of through cavities may be defined in the second expansion portion 254.

[00445] The plurality of through cavities 256 may include a first through cavity 256a through which a first sleeve 216 extends for attaching a lower housing 210, and a second through cavity 256b through which a second sleeve 217 passes for attaching a lower housing 210.

[00446] For example, the plurality of through cavities 256a may be defined to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A in FIG. nineteen.

[00447] In addition, the plurality of second through cavities 256b may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A in FIG. nineteen.

[00448] The plurality of first through cavities 256a and the plurality of second through cavities 256b may be located on opposite sides of the lower chamber 252.

[00449] A portion of the plurality of second through cavities 256b may be defined between the two first upper projections 255. In addition, a portion of the plurality of second through cavities 256b may be defined between the two first lower projections 257.

[00450] The second expansion portion 254 may optionally have a second upper projection 258. The second upper projection 258 may be located on the opposite side of the first upper projection 255 relative to the lower chamber 252.

[00451] The second top projection 258 may be positioned to be horizontally spaced apart from the peripheral wall 260. For example, the second top projection 258 may project upwardly from the top surface with respect to the second expansion portion 254 at a position adjacent to the second wall 260b.

[00452] Although not limited, a plurality of second top projections 258 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 20.

[00453] The second upper protrusion 258 may be placed in the recess 218a to receive the lower body 210. In a state in which the second upper protrusion 258 is placed in the recess 218a to accommodate, the second upper protrusion 258 may contact the curved wall 215 of the lower housing 210.

[00454] The peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250 may include a first attachment protrusion 262 attached to the lower housing 210.

[00455] The first attachment protrusion 262 may protrude horizontally from the first wall 260a of the peripheral wall 260. The first attachment protrusion 262 may be located on an upper portion of the side surface of the first wall 260a.

[00456] The first attachment protrusion 262 may include a neck portion 262a having a relatively smaller diameter compared to other portions. The neck portion 262a can be inserted into the first attachment slot 214b formed in the peripheral wall 214 of the lower body 210.

[00457] The peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250 may further include a second attachment protrusion 262c attached to the lower body 210.

[00458] The second attachment protrusion 262c can extend horizontally from the second wall 260a of the peripheral wall 260. The second attachment protrusion 260c can be inserted into the second attachment slot 215a formed in the peripheral wall 214 of the lower housing 210.

[00459] The second extension portion 254 may include a second lower lip 266. The second lower lip 266 may be located on the opposite side of the second lower lip 257 relative to the lower chamber 252.

[00460] The second lower protrusion 266 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second expansion portion 254. For example, the second lower protrusion 266 may extend linearly.

[00461] A portion of the plurality of first through cavities 256a may be defined between the second lower ledge 266 and the lower chamber 252.

[00462] The second lower protrusion 266 may be received in a guide recess formed in the lower support 270, which is described below.

[00463] The second extension portion 254 may further have a side restrictive portion 264. The side restrictive portion 264 limits the horizontal movement of the lower tray 250 in a state in which the lower tray 250 is attached to the lower body 210 and the lower support 270.

[00464] The side boundary portion 264 transversely projects from the second expansion portion 254 and has a vertical length greater than the thickness of the second expansion portion 254. part 264 may be located below the bottom surface of the second expansion part 254.

[00465] Thus, one portion of the side restrictor 264 may contact the side surface of the lower body 210, and another portion may contact the side surface of the lower support 270. In one example, the lower tray body 251 may have a heater contact portion 251a with which the lower heater 296 contacts. In one example, a heater contact portion 251a may be formed on each of the chamber walls 252d. The contact portion 251a of the heater may protrude from the corresponding wall 252d of the chamber. In one example, the heater contact portion 251a may be formed in the shape of a circular ring.

[00466] Bottom support

[00467] FIG. 23 is a top plan view of a lower support according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of a lower support according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the state in which the lower assembly has been assembled.

[00468] Referring to FIG. 23-25, the bottom support 270 may include a support body 271 supporting the bottom tray 250.

[00469] The support body 271 may include three chamber accommodating portions 272 accommodating three chamber walls 252d of the lower tray 250. The chamber accommodating portion 272 may have a hemispherical shape.

[00470] The support body 271 may have a bottom opening 274 through which the bottom pusher 400 passes during the ice separation process. For example, the three bottom holes 274 may be defined such that they correspond to the three portions 272 for housing the camera in the body 271 of the support.

[00471] A reinforcing rib 275 that enhances strength may be located along the periphery of the bottom hole 274.

[00472] Two adjacent chamber walls 252d of three chamber walls 252d may be connected by a connecting rib 273. The connecting rib 273 may increase the strength of the chamber walls 252d.

[00473] The bottom leg 270 may further include a first expansion wall 285 extending horizontally from the upper end of the leg body 271.

[00474] The bottom support 270 may further include a second expansion wall 286 that is formed such that it is stepped with respect to the first expansion wall 285 at the edge of the first expansion wall 285.

[00475] The upper surface of the second expansion wall 286 may be located above the first expansion wall 285.

[00476] The first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250 may fit on the upper surface 271a of the support body 271, and the second extension portion 285 may surround the side surface of the first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250. Here, the second extension wall 286 may contact the side surface of the first extension parts 253 of the lower tray 250.

[00477] The bottom support 270 may further include a first lip recess 287 accommodating the first bottom lip 257 of the lower tray 250.

[00478] The recess 287 for the first protrusion may extend in a curved shape. The recess 287 for the first protrusion may be formed in the second expansion wall 286, for example.

[00479] The bottom support 270 may further include a first attachment recess 286a to which a first attachment element B2 is attached, extending through the first attachment sleeve 216 of the upper housing 210.

[00480] The first attachment recess 286a may be provided in the second expansion wall 286, for example.

[00481] A plurality of first attachment recesses 286a may be spaced apart in the direction of arrow A in the second expansion wall 286. Some of the plurality of first attachment recesses 286a may be defined between adjacent two first projection recesses 287.

[00482] The bottom support 270 may further include a bushing through cavity 286b through which a second bushing 217 extends to attach the upper housing 210.

[00483] A sleeve through cavity 286b may be provided, for example, in a second expansion wall 286. A sleeve 286c surrounding a second attachment sleeve 217 extending through the sleeve through cavity 286b may be located on the second expansion wall 286. Sleeve 286c may be cylindrical. form with an open bottom section.

[00484] The first attachment member B2 may be attached to the first attachment recess 286a after passing through the first attachment sleeve 216 from the upper side of the lower housing 210.

[00485] The second attachment element B3 may be attached to the second attachment sleeve 217 from the underside of the bottom support 270.

[00486] Cuff 286c may have a lower end that is located at a height identical to the height of the lower end of the second sleeve 217 for attachment, or located at a height lower than the height of the lower end of the second sleeve 217 for attachment.

[00487] Thus, at the time the second attachment member B3 is attached, the head portion of the second attachment member B3 may contact the bottom surfaces of the second attachment sleeve 217 and the collar 286c, or may contact the lower surface of the collar 286c.

[00488] The bottom support 270 may further include an outer wall 280 positioned such that it surrounds the bottom tray body 251 in a state of expanding outward from the bottom tray body 251.

[00489] The outer wall 280, for example, may extend downward along the edge of the second expansion wall 286.

[00490] The lower support 270 may further include a plurality of hinged housings 281 and 282, respectively, connected to the hinged supports 135 and 136 of the upper housing 210.

[00491] The plurality of hinge bodies 281 and 282 may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 23. Each of the hinge housings 281 and 282 may further include a second hinge cavity 281a.

[00492] The connecting part 353 of the shaft of the first thrust 352 can pass through the second hinge cavity 281. The connecting shaft 370 can be connected to the connecting part 353 of the shaft.

[00493] The shaft connecting portion 353 may include polygonal recesses in the surfaces facing each other, and the shaft connecting portion 353 may be connected by a connecting shaft 370 having both ends having a polygonal cross section and inserted into the recesses.

[00494] For example, the connecting shaft portion 353 may include recesses having a square cross section in the surfaces facing each other, and the connecting shaft 370 may include a square cross section.

[00495] The first link 352 may have a shaft connecting portion 354a connected to the rotation shaft of the actuating unit 180 from the surface facing the actuating unit 180.

[00496] The shaft connecting portion 354a may have a cavity formed inside it. A plurality of reinforcing ribs may be formed around the shaft connecting portion 354a.

[00497] Accordingly, when the driving unit 180 rotates, the shaft connecting portion 354a rotates, and thus the first link 352 rotates. In this case, the first links 352 on both sides can be simultaneously rotated by the connecting shaft 370.

[00498] The distance between the plurality of articulated bodies 281 and 282 may be less than the distance between the plurality of articulated supports 135 and 136. Thus, the plurality of articulated bodies 281 and 282 may be located between the plurality of articulated supports 135 and 136.

[00499] The bottom support 270 may further include an attachment shaft 283 to which a second link 356 is rotatably coupled. The attachment shaft 283 may be located on each of both surfaces of the outer wall 280.

[00500] In addition, the bottom support 270 may further include a resilient member attachment portion 284 to which the resilient member 360 is attached. 360 is housed in the resilient attachment portion 284, this prevents the resilient element 360 from interfering with the surrounding structure.

[00501] Further, the resilient member attachment portion 284 may include a hook portion 284a to which the lower end of the resilient member 370 is attached.

[00502] Lower heater connection design

[00503] Fi. 26 is a plan view of a lower support according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 27 is an overview showing a state in which the lower heater is connected to the lower support of FIG. 26 and fig. 28 is a view showing a state in which the lower node is connected to the upper node, and at the same time, the wire connected to the lower heater penetrates into the upper case.

[00504] Referring to FIG. 26-28, the ice maker 100 according to this embodiment may further include a bottom heater 296 for applying heat to the bottom tray 250 during the ice making process.

[00505] The bottom heater 297 can provide heat to the bottom chamber 252 during the ice making process such that the ice in the ice chamber 111 is frozen from the top side.

[00506] In addition, since the bottom heater 296 generates heat during the ice-making process, the bubbles in the ice chamber 111 may move downward during the ice-making process. When the ice is completely made, the remaining portion of the spherical ice, except for the lowest portion of the ice, may be transparent. According to this embodiment, spherical ice that is substantially transparent can be produced.

[00507] For example, bottom heater 296 may be a wire heater.

[00508] The bottom heater 296 may be mounted on the bottom support 270. In addition, the bottom heater 296 may contact the bottom tray 250 to provide heat to the bottom chamber 252.

[00509] For example, the bottom heater 296 may be in contact with the body 251 of the bottom tray. In addition, the lower heater 296 may be positioned so that it surrounds the three chamber walls 252d of the lower tray body 251.

[00510] The bottom support 270 may further include a heater attachment portion 290 to which the bottom heater 296 is attached.

[00511] The heater attachment portion 290 may include a heater accommodating recess 291 that is recessed downward from the chamber accommodating portion 272 of the lower tray body 251.

[00512] Because the heater receiving recess 291 is recessed, the heater attachment portion 290 may include an inner wall 291a and an outer wall 291b.

[00513] The inner wall 291a may have, for example, an annular shape, and the outer wall 291b may be positioned such that it surrounds the inner wall 291a.

[00514] When the lower heater 296 is placed in the heater accommodating recess 291, the lower heater 296 may surround at least a portion of the inner wall 291a.

[00515] The bottom opening 274 may be defined in the region defined by the inner wall 291a. Thus, when the chamber wall 252d of the lower tray 250 is placed in the chamber accommodating portion 272, the chamber wall 252d can contact the upper surface of the inner wall 291a. The upper surface of the inner wall 291a may be a rounded surface corresponding to the chamber wall 252d having a hemispherical shape.

[00516] The lower heater may have a diameter larger than the recessed depth of the heater accommodating recess 291 such that a portion of the lower heater 296 protrudes outside the heater accommodating recess 291 in a state in which the lower heater 296 is accommodated in the heater accommodating recess 291.

[00517] A separation prevention protrusion 291c may be provided on one of the outer wall 291b and the inner wall 291a to prevent the lower heater 296 housed in the heater accommodating recess 291 from being separated from the heater accommodating recess 291.

[00518] FIG. 26, detachment prevention projections 291c are provided on the inner wall 291a.

[00519] Since the inner wall 291a has a smaller diameter than the chamber receiving portion 272, the lower heater 196 can be moved along the surface of the chamber receiving portion 272 and then placed in the heater receiving recess 291 during assembly of the lower heater 196.

[00520] In other words, the lower heater 196 is placed in the recess 291 to accommodate the heater from the upper side of the outer wall 291a to the inner wall 291a. Thus, the separation prevention protrusion 291c can be disposed on the inner wall 291a to prevent the lower heater 296 from interfering with the separation prevention protrusion 291c while the lower heater 196 is placed in the heater accommodating recess 291.

[00521] The protrusion 291c to prevent separation may protrude from the upper end of the inner wall 291a to the outer wall 291b.

[00522] The protrusion length of the protrusion 291c to prevent separation may be about 1/2 of the distance between the outer wall 291b and the inner wall 291a.

[00523] As illustrated in FIG. 27, in a state in which the lower heater 296 is placed in the heater accommodating recess 291, the lower heater 296 may be divided into a lower rounded portion 296a and a linear portion 296b.

[00524] The lower rounded portion 296a may be a portion located along the periphery of the lower chamber 252, as well as a portion that is bent such that it is rounded in a horizontal direction.

[00525] The linear portion 296b may be a portion connecting the lower rounded portions 296a corresponding to the lower chambers 252 to each other.

[00526] Since the lower rounded portion 296a of the lower heater 296 can be separated from the heater accommodating recess 291, the separation preventing protrusion 291c may be positioned to contact the lower rounded portion 296a.

[00527] The through hole 291d may be defined in the bottom surface of the recess 291 for accommodating the heater. When the lower heater 296 is placed in the heater accommodating recess 291, the portion of the upper heater 296 may be located in the through hole 291d. For example, the through hole 291d may be defined in the portion of the lower heater 296 facing the protrusion 291c to prevent separation.

[00528] When the lower heater 296 is bent such that it is horizontally rounded, the tension of the lower heater 296 may increase to cause detachment, and in addition, the lower heater 296 may separate from the recess 291 to accommodate the heater.

[00529] However, when the through hole 291d is provided in the heater accommodating recess 291, similarly to this embodiment, a portion of the lower heater 296 may be located in the through hole 291d to reduce tension on the lower heater 296, thereby preventing the recess 291 from separating to placement of the heater from the lower heater 296.

[00530] The bottom support 270 may include a first guide recess 293, a power input guide input terminal 296c and a power supply output terminal of the lower heater 296 disposed in the heater accommodating recess 291, and a second guide recess 294 extending in the direction crossing the first guide recess 293.

[00531] For example, the first guide recess 293 may extend in the direction of the arrow B in the portion 291 to accommodate the heater.

[00532] The second guide recess 294 may extend from the end of the first guide recess 293 in the direction of the arrow A. In this embodiment, the direction of the arrow A may be a direction that is parallel to the direction of passage of the central axis of rotation C1 of the lower assembly.

[00533] Referring to FIG. 27, the first guide recess 293 may extend from one of the left and right camera accommodating parts except for the intermediate camera accommodating part of the three camera accommodating parts.

[00534] For example, in FIG. 27, the first guide recess 293 extends from the camera accommodating part, which is located on the left side, of the three camera accommodating parts.

[00535] As illustrated in FIG. 27, in a state in which the power supply input terminal 296c and the power supply output terminal 296d of the lower heater 296 are arranged parallel to each other, the lower heater 296 may be placed in the first guide recess 293.

[00536] The power supply input terminal 296c and the power supply output terminal 296c of the lower heater 296 may be connected to one first connector 297a.

[00537] The second connector 297b, to which two wires 298 connected so that they correspond to the power supply input terminal 296a and the power supply output terminal 296b, can be connected to the first connector 297a.

[00538] In this embodiment, in a state in which the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are connected to each other, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are placed in the second guide recess 294.

[00539] The wire 298 connected to the second connector 297b is led from the end of the second guide recess 294 to the outside of the lower leg 270 through an exit slot 295 formed in the lower leg 270.

[00540] According to this embodiment, since the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are housed in the second guide recess 294, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are not accessible from the outside when the lower assembly 200 is fully assembled.

[00541] As described above, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b may not be accessible from the outside to prevent the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b from interfering with the surrounding structure while the lower assembly 200 rotates and to prevent the separation of the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b.

[00542] Since the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are located in the second guide recess 294, one section of the wire 298 may be located in the second guide recess 294, and the other section may be located outside the lower support 270 through the exit slot 295.

[00543] Here, since the second guide recess 294 extends in a direction parallel to the central axis of rotation C1 of the lower assembly 200, one section of wire 298 may extend in a direction parallel to the central axis of rotation C1.

[00544] Another portion of the wire 298 may extend from outside the lower support 270 in a direction intersecting the central axis of rotation C1.

[00545] According to the arrangement of the wires 298, not only can a tensile force act on the wires 298, but a torsional force may act on the wires 298 during rotation of the lower assembly 200.

[00546] Compared to when a tensile force is applied to wire 298, if torsion is applied to wire 298, the likelihood of wire 298 coming off may be very low.

[00547] According to this embodiment, while the bottom assembly 200 rotates, the bottom heater 296 can be maintained in a fixed position, and a twisting force can act on the wire 298 to prevent the bottom heater 296 from being damaged and detached.

[00548] The power supply input terminal 296c and the power supply output terminal 296d of the lower heater 296 are located in the first guide recess 293. Here, since heat is also generated in the power supply input terminal 296c and the power supply output terminal 296d, the heat provided to the left chamber accommodating portion into which the first guide recess 293 extends may exceed the heat provided to the other chamber accommodating portions.

[00549] In this case, if the intensity of heat supplied to each chamber accommodating part is different, the transparency of the produced spherical ice after the ice making process and the ice separating process may vary for each ice.

[00550] Thus, the loop accommodating recess 292 may further be provided in the camera accommodating portion (for example, the right camera accommodating portion) which is furthest away from the first three-part camera accommodating guide recess 292 to minimize the transparency difference. for each ice.

[00551] For example, loop accommodating recess 292 may extend outward from heater accommodating recess 291 and then bent such that it is positioned in a shape that connects to heater accommodating recess 291.

[00552] When the lower heater portion 291 is further placed in the loop accommodating recess 292, the contact area between the chamber wall placed on the right chamber accommodating portion 272 and the lower heater 296 can be increased.

[00553] Thus, the protrusion 292a for fixing the position of the lower heater placed in the hinge accommodating recess 292 can be further provided in the right chamber accommodating portion 272.

[00554] Referring to FIG. 28, in a state in which the lower assembly 200 is attached to the upper body 120 of the upper body 110, the wire 298 outputted outwardly from the lower support 270 can pass through the through wire slot 138 formed in the upper body 120, to extend upward from the upper housing 120.

[00555] A restrictive guide 139 for restricting movement of the wire 298 passing through the through wire slot 138 may be provided in the through wire slot 138. The limit guide 139 may have a shape that bends several times, and the wire 298 may be positioned in the region formed by the limit guide 139.

[00556] [00557] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view along the line A-A of FIG. 3a and FIG. 30 is a view showing a state in which ice formation is completely completed in FIG. 26.

[00558] FIG. 29, a state in which the upper tray and the lower tray are in contact with each other is illustrated.

[00559] Referring to FIG. 29, the top tray 150 and the bottom tray 250 vertically contact each other to complete the ice box 111.

[00560] The lower surface 151a of the upper tray body 151 contacts the upper surface 251e of the lower tray body 251.

[00561] Here, in a state in which the upper surface 251e of the lower tray body 251 contacts the lower surface 151a of the upper tray body 151, the elastic force of the elastic member 360 is applied to the lower support 270.

[00562] The elastic force of the elastic member 360 may be applied to the lower tray 250 by the lower support 270, and thereby the upper surface 251e of the lower tray body 251 may press the lower surface 151a of the upper tray body 151.

[00563] Thus, in a state in which the top surface 251e of the lower tray body 251 contacts the bottom surface 151a of the top tray body 151, the surfaces can be pressed against each other to improve adhesion.

[00564] As described above, when the adhesion between the upper surface 251e of the lower tray body 251 and the lower surface 151a of the upper tray is increased, a gap between the two surfaces may not occur to prevent the production of ice having a thin strip shape along the periphery of the spherical ice after as ice making is completed.

[00565] The first expansion portion 253 of the lower tray 250 sits on the top surface 271a of the support body 271 of the lower support 270. In addition, the second expansion wall 286 of the lower support 270 contacts the side surface of the first expansion portion 253 of the lower tray 250.

[00566] The second expansion portion 254 of the lower tray 250 may fit on the second expansion wall 286 of the lower support 270.

[00567] In a state in which the lower surface 151a of the upper tray body 151 is seated on the upper surface 251e of the lower tray body 251, the upper tray body 151 can be accommodated in the interior of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250.

[00568] Here, the vertical wall 153a of the upper tray body 151 may be positioned so that it faces the vertical wall 260a of the lower tray 250, and the curved wall 153b of the upper tray body 151 may be positioned such that it faces the second wall 260b of the lower tray 250.

[00569] The outer surface of the chamber wall 153 of the upper tray body 151 is spaced from the inner surface of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250. In other words, the space may be defined between the outer surface of the chamber wall 153 of the upper tray body 151 and the inner surface of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250.

[00570] The water supplied through the water supply portion 180 is placed in the ice chamber 111 . When a relatively large amount of water compared to the volume of the ice box 111 is supplied, the water that is not accommodated in the ice box 111 can flow into the space between the outer surface of the chamber wall 153 of the upper tray body 151 and the inner surface of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250.

[00571] Thus, according to this embodiment, even if a relatively large amount of water compared to the volume of the ice box 111 is supplied, water can be prevented from overflowing from the ice maker 100.

[00572] A heater contact portion 251a to enable an increase in the contact area with the lower heater 296 may further be provided on the lower tray body 251.

[00573] The contact portion 251a of the heater may protrude from the bottom surface of the body 251 of the lower tray. In one example, the heater contact portion 251a may be formed into a ring shape and placed on the lower surface of the lower tray body 251. The bottom surface of the heater contact portion 251a may be flat.

[00574] The lower tray body 251 may further include a convex portion 251b in which a portion of the lower portion of the lower tray body 251 is convex upward. In other words, the convex portion 251b may be convex towards the inside of the ice chamber 111.

[00575] The recess 251c may be defined below the raised portion 251b such that the raised portion 251b has a substantially identical thickness to another portion of the lower tray body 251.

[00576] In this detailed description, "substantially identical" is a concept that includes a completely identical form and a form that is not similar, i. there is a slight difference.

[00577] The convex portion 251b may be positioned so that it is vertically facing the lower opening 274 of the lower support 270.

[00578] The raised portion 251b may have a diameter D smaller than the diameter D2 of the bottom opening 274.

[00579] When cold air is supplied to the ice chamber 111 in a state in which water is supplied to the ice chamber 111, liquid water turns into solid ice in phase. Here, the water can expand while the water is being phased. The expansion force of the water can be transmitted to each of the upper tray body 151 and the lower tray body 251.

[00580] In the case of this embodiment, although other portions of the lower tray body 251 are surrounded by the support body 271, the portion (hereinafter referred to as "corresponding portion") corresponding to the lower opening 274 of the support body 271 is not surrounded.

[00581] If the bottom tray body 251 is fully hemispherical, when an expanding water force is applied to a corresponding portion of the bottom tray body 251 corresponding to the bottom opening 274, the corresponding section of the bottom tray body 251 deforms toward the bottom opening 274.

[00582] In this case, although the water supplied to the ice chamber 111 exists in a spherical shape before ice is made, the corresponding portion of the lower tray body 251 is deformed after ice is made. Thus, additional ice having the shape of a protrusion can be made from spherical ice due to the space generated by the deformation of the corresponding portion.

[00583] Thus, in this embodiment, the convex portion 251b can be positioned on the bottom tray body 251 while considering the deformation of the bottom tray body 251 such that the ice has a perfectly spherical shape.

[00584] In this embodiment, the water supplied to the ice chamber 111 is not formed into a spherical shape before ice is formed. After ice formation is completed, the convex portion 251b of the lower tray body 251 is deformed towards the lower opening 274, so that spherical ice can be formed.

[00585] In the present embodiment, the diameter D1 of the convex portion 251b is smaller than the diameter D2 of the bottom hole 274, so that the convex portion 251b can be deformed and located inside the bottom hole 274.

[00586] [00587] Later in this document, the traction structure of the upper driver and the lower assembly will be described in more detail.

[00588] FIG. 31a is a perspective view of the ice machine from which the top case has been removed when viewed from one side, and FIG. 31b is a perspective view of the ice machine from which the top case has been removed when viewed from the other side.

[00589] FIG. 32a and 32b are views illustrating the difference in height of the first link of the ice machine from which the top case has been removed.

[00590] FIG. 33 is a side view showing the lower tray and the upper ejector. Fig. 34 is a side view showing a state in which the lower tray is rotated and the upper driver is lowered in the state of FIG. 33. FIG. 35a-35b are side views showing a state in which the lower tray is further rotated. Fig. 36a-36c are side views showing the position of the lower tray according to the rotation angle of the first link. Fig. 37 is an overview showing the attachment state of the top pusher and the second link. Fig. 38 is a general bottom view of the top ejector. Fig. 39a and 39b are general views for the first pull. Fig. 40 is an overview showing the connection state of the first link and the connecting shaft.

[00591] As shown in the drawings, the ice maker 100 according to the present invention may further include a top pusher 300 so that the ice is separated from the top assembly 110.

[00592] The upper driver 300 may be attached to the lower assembly 200. As the lower assembly 200 rotates, the upper driver 300 may move up and down.

[00593] For example, after ice making is completed, when the lower assembly 200 rotates downward to separate from the upper ice separation assembly 110, the upper pusher 300 may move downward.

[00594] After ice making is completed, when the lower assembly 200 rotates upward to join the upper water supply assembly 110, the upper pusher 300 may move upward.

[00595] During ice separation, when the top pusher 300 moves down, the ice attached to the top assembly 110 may be separated from the top assembly 110.

[00596] The top driver 300 is connected to the bottom assembly 200 via a connector block 350.

[00597] The coupling block 350 includes a first link 352 that receives power from the driving block 180 to allow the lower support 270 to rotate. Accordingly, when the driving unit 180 is operated, the first link 352 and the lower support 270 simultaneously rotate.

[00598] The lower leg 270 has hinged bodies 281 and 282 formed on both sides thereof, and second hinge cavities 281a are formed in the hinged bodies 281 and 282.

[00599] The connecting portion 353 of the shaft of the first link 352 may pass through the second hinge cavity 281.

[00600] The connecting shaft 370 can be attached to the connecting part 353 of the shaft.

[00601] The shaft connecting portion 353 may include polygonal recesses 353c for shaft attachment at surfaces facing each other, and the shaft connecting portion 353 may be connected by a connecting shaft 370 having both ends having a polygonal cross section and inserted into recess 353c for shaft attachment.

[00602] For example, the shaft connecting portion 353 may include shaft attachment recesses 353c having a square cross section at the surfaces facing each other, and the connecting shaft 370 may include a square cross section.

[00603] In this case, when assembling the shaft attachment recesses 353c and the connecting shaft 370, an assembly tolerance may occur, and thus sufficient rotational force may not be transmitted to the left first link 352b, which is not connected to the motor.

[00604] In order to solve this, as shown in FIG. 40, the left first link 352b may be formed at a higher position than the right first position 352a, and the dotted line connecting the centers of the connection cavities 354d of the two first links 352a and 352b may not be horizontal with respect to the connecting shaft 370.

[00605] In the second hinge cavity 281a, an accessible space can be provided in the direction of rotation of the shaft connecting part 353 in a state in which the shaft connecting part 353 is attached.

[00606] Referring to the drawing, the shaft connecting portion 353 may include a first circular center portion 353a and first locking portions 353b protruding from both sides of the first center portion 353a in the radial direction, and the second hinge cavity 281a may include a second circular center part 281b and a second locking recess 281c communicating with the second central part 281b and recessed on both sides of the second central part 281b to the outer side in the radial direction.

[00607] The width of the second locking recess 281c may be greater than the width of the first locking portion 353b.

[00608] In a state in which the first locking portion 353b is inserted into the second locking recess 281c, an accessible space can be provided in the second locking portion 281c in the direction of rotation of the first locking portion 353b.

[00609] The first link 352 and the lower leg 270 may be connected by a resilient member 360. The resilient member 360 provides a tensile force between the first link 352 and the lower leg 270. For example, the resilient member 360 may be a coil spring. In another example, the elastic element 360 may be an extension spring.

[00610] The resilient member 360 may have one end connected to the first link 362 and the other end connected to the bottom support 270.

[00611] The elastic member 360 provides an elastic force pulling the lower support 270 towards the upper tray 150 so that contact between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 is maintained.

[00612] As shown in FIG. 39a-40, a connection cavity 354d connected to the end of the elastic member 360 may be formed at one end of the first link 352. A connection cavity 354d connected to the end of the elastic member 360 may be formed at one end of the first link 352.

[00613] Referring to FIG. 35a-36c, after the ice separation is completed, when the driving unit 180 is operated, the shaft connecting part 353 rotates, and the first link 352 rotates together with the shaft connecting part 353. When the first link 352 is rotated, the lower support 270 is also rotated upward by the resilient member 360 and reaches the position in FIG. 36a. Specifically, when the first link 352 connected to the driving unit 180 rotates in the clockwise direction (in FIG. 36a), the upper end of the first link 352 also rotates in the clockwise direction, and the lower support 270 also rotates in the clockwise direction. clockwise through the elastic element 360 connecting the upper end of the first rod 352 and the lower end of the lower support 270.

[00614] When the bottom support 270 reaches the position in FIG. 36a, operation of the driving unit 180 is stopped and water supply is performed.

[00615] As shown in the drawing, when the water supply is performed, the upper end of the lower support 270 and the lower end of the upper support 170 can be spaced apart from each other.

[00616] In the water supply position, the top surface of the bottom tray 250 is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the top tray 150.

[00617] Although not limited, the angle between the top surface of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface of the upper tray 150 in the water ready position of the lower assembly 200 may be about 8 degrees.

[00618] Thereafter, when the water supply is completed, the driving unit 180 operates again.

[00619] The shaft connecting part 353 rotates in the clockwise direction together with the driving unit 180, and the first link 352 rotates together with the shaft connecting part 353. As the first link 352 rotates, the lower support 270 also rotates upward through the resilient member 360 and reaches the positions in FIG. 35a and 36b.

[00620] In this case, the upper surface of the lower tray 250 and the lower surface of the upper tray 150 come into contact with each other. Although not limited, in the state of FIG. 35a and 36b, the lower end of the upper tray 150 and the upper end of the lower tray 250 may be in a horizontal state.

[00621] As shown in FIG. 32a, the heights of the right first link 352a and the left first link 352b may be different from each other. That is, the heights of the upper ends of the right first link 352a and the left first link 352b at the water supply position may be different from each other.

[00622] In the state of FIG. 35a and 36b, upper tray 150 and lower tray 250 are in contact with each other, but may not be fully in contact with each other. The connection strength may be weakened.

[00623] Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 35b and 36c, the driving unit 180 is further actuated, the shaft connecting part 353 rotates in the clockwise direction together with the driving unit 180, and the first link 352 rotates together with the shaft connecting part 353.

[00624] In this case, the lower tray 250 is in contact with the upper tray 150 and thus no longer rotates, and only the elastic member 360 is stretched. The elastic recovery force of the elastic member 360 is increased, and the contact between the lower tray 250 and the upper tray 150 can be maintained by the elastic recovery force of the elastic member 360.

[00625] As shown in FIG. 32b, the maximum heights of the right first link 352a and the left first link 352b may be the same, and as a result, the elastic force of the elastic member 360 is the same, and the contact sealing force between the lower tray 250 and the upper tray 150 is the same in the left and right chambers for ice.

[00626] Referring to FIG. 35a-35b, the width of the first locking recess 281c formed in the second hinge cavity 281a is larger than the width of the first locking portion 353b formed on the shaft connection portion 353. The shaft connecting portion 353 can independently rotate in the counterclockwise direction in the state of being inserted into the second hinge cavity 281a.

[00627] Accordingly, in a state in which it is difficult to further rotate the lower tray 250 (in the state of FIG. 235a) when the lower tray 250 is brought into contact with the upper tray 150, when the driving unit 180 is further operated as shown in fig. 35b, only the shaft connecting part can rotate in the clockwise direction in the state of being inserted into the second hinge cavity 281a, and as a result, the first link 352 can rotate together with the shaft connecting part 353.

[00628] When the elastic member 360 is stretched, the elastic recovery force of the elastic member 360 increases, and contact between the lower tray 250 and the upper tray 150 can be maintained by the elastic recovery force of the elastic member 360.

[00629] During the ice making process, contact between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 may be maintained.

[00630] In other words, during the ice making process, the heights of the upper ends of the right first link 352a and the left first link 352b may be the same.

[00631] [00632] Hereinafter, in the state of FIG. 35b and 36c, when the ice making is completed, to separate the ice, the driving unit 180 operates. In this case, the first link 352 rotates in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 35b and 36c). The upper end of the first link 352 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, and, in this state, the contact between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 is maintained by the elastic recovery force of the elastic member 360. In this case, the shaft connection portion 353 independently rotates in the counterclockwise direction. arrows in the inserted state in the second hinge cavity 281a.

[00633] Hereinafter, in the state of FIG. 35a and 36b, the lower end of the first locking portion 353b formed on the left side of the shaft connecting portion 353 is brought into contact with the first locking recess 281c.

[00634] When the driving unit 180 is continuously operated, the shaft connecting portion 353 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the lower end of the first locking portion 353b rotates the first locking recess 281c in the counterclockwise direction, and as a result, the lower support 270 and the lower assembly 200 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[00635] Hereinafter, when the ice separation is completed, the driving unit 180 fires, and the first link 352 and the lower support 270 rotate in the clockwise direction, thereby sequentially undergoing the processes of FIG. 36a, 36b and 36c.

[00636] The coupling block 350 includes a second link 356 coupled to the lower leg 270 to transfer the rotational force of the lower leg 270 to the upper driver 300 as the lower leg 270 rotates.

[00637] That is, the upper driver 300 may be connected to the lower support 270 via a second link 356.

[00638] Accordingly, the rotational force of the lower assembly 200 can be transferred to the upper driver 300 via the second link 356.

[00639] The upper driver 300 is directly moved up and down by the guides 181 and 182 of the block.

[00640] For example, after ice making is completed, for ice separation, when the lower assembly 200 rotates downward to separate from the upper assembly 110, the upper pusher 300 may move downward.

[00641] After the separation of ice is completed, for water supply, when the lower node 200 rotates upward to join the upper node 110, the upper pusher 300 can move upward.

[00642] During ice separation, when the top pusher 300 moves down, the top push pin 320 is inserted into the top chamber 152 through the inlet 154. The ice attached to the top tray 150 can be separated from the top tray 150.

[00643] For information, the driver body 310 for the upper driver 300 can move up and down in the guide slot 183 formed in the block guides 181 and 182.

[00644] The upper pusher 300 reaches the highest position in the ice-making state, i.e., the state in FIG. 35b and 36c.

[00645] When the lower assembly 200 is rotated in a counter-clockwise direction (FIGS. 35a-36c) to separate ice, the upper pusher 300 moves downward in accordance with the angle of rotation of the lower assembly 200.

[00646] For example, when the lower tray 250 is brought into contact with the lower driver 400, the upper driver 300 may reach its lowest position.

[00647] In contrast, after ice making is completed, when the lower assembly 200 is rotated in the clockwise direction (in FIGS. 35a-36c) to supply water and make ice, the upper pusher 300 moves upward according to the rotation angle bottom node 200.

[00648] For example, when the lower tray 250 is brought into contact with the upper tray 150 in a horizontal state, the upper driver 300 can reach the highest position.

[00649] Hereinafter, an ice making process by an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[00650] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the water supply state, and FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the state of making ice.

[00651] FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the ice-making completion state, FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of FIG. 3a in the initial ice separation state, and FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 3a at the completion of the ice separation.

[00652] Referring to FIG. 41-45, first, the lower assembly 200 is rotated to the water supply ready position.

[00653] The upper surface 251e of the lower tray 250 is spaced from the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 at the water supply position of the lower assembly 200. The water supply ready position may be referred to as the open position. The bottom surface 151e of the top tray 150 may be referred to as the end surface.

[00654] Although not limited, the bottom surface 151e of the top tray 150 may be located at a height that is equal to or similar to the center of rotation C2 of the bottom assembly 200.

[00655] In this embodiment, the direction in which the lower assembly 200 rotates (in the counterclockwise direction in the drawing) is referred to as the forward direction, and the opposite direction (in the clockwise direction) is referred to as the reverse direction.

[00656] Although not limited, the angle between the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 in the water-ready position of the lower assembly 200 may be approximately 8 degrees.

[00657] In this state, water is guided by the water supply portion 190 and supplied to the ice chamber 111 .

[00658] In this regard, water is supplied to the ice chamber 111 through one inlet of the plurality of inlets 154 of the upper tray 150.

[00659] In a state in which the water supply is completed, part of the water may be completely filled into the lower chamber 252, and another part of the water may be completely filled into the space between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250.

[00660] The upper chamber 151 may be filled with another portion of the water. Of course, according to the angle between the upper surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 or the volumes of the lower chamber 252 and the upper chamber 152, water may not be located in the upper chamber 152 after the water supply is completed.

[00661] In the case of this embodiment, a channel for communication between the three lower chambers 252 may be provided in the lower tray 250.

[00662] As described above, although the water flow path is not provided in the lower tray 250, since the upper surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 are spaced apart from each other, water may flow into the other lower chamber along the upper surface 251e of the lower tray 250 when water is completely filled in a specific lower chamber during the water supply process.

[00663] Thus, water can be completely filled in each of the plurality of lower chambers 252 of the lower tray 250.

[00664] In the case of this embodiment, since the channel for communication between the lower chambers 252 is not provided in the lower tray 250, it is possible to prevent the production of additional ice having the shape of a ledge around the ice after the ice-making process.

[00665] In the state in which the water supply is completed, as illustrated in FIG. 42, the lower assembly 200 rotates back. When the bottom assembly 200 rotates backward, the top surface 251e of the bottom tray 250 is close to the bottom surface 151e of the top tray 150.

[00666] Thus, the water between the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 can be separated and distributed to the plurality of upper chambers 152.

[00667] In addition, when the upper surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 are attached to each other, water can be completely filled in the upper chamber 152.

[00668] In a state in which the upper surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the lower surface 151e of the upper tray 150 are attached to each other, the position of the lower unit 200 may be referred to as "ice-making position". The ice making position may be referred to as the closed position.

[00669] In a state in which the lower unit 200 moves to the ice-making position, ice-making starts.

[00670] Because the pressing force of the water during ice making is less than the force to deform the convex portion 251b of the lower tray 250, the convex portion 251b may not be deformed to maintain its original shape.

[00671] When ice making begins, the bottom heater 296 is turned on. When the bottom heater 296 is turned on, heat from the bottom heater 296 is transferred to the bottom tray 250.

[00672] Thus, when ice making is performed in a state where the lower heater 296 is turned on, ice can be made from the upper side in the ice chamber 111.

[00673] That is, the water in the area near the inlet 154 in the ice chamber 111 freezes first. Since ice is made from the top side in the ice chamber 111, the bubbles in the ice chamber 111 may move downward.

[00674] Since the ice chamber 111 is formed in the shape of a sphere, the horizontal cross-sectional area may vary based on the height of the ice chamber 111.

[00675] Thus, the power output of the lower heater 296 may vary depending on the height from which ice is made in the ice chamber 111.

[00676] The horizontal cross-sectional area increases as it goes down. Then, the horizontal cross-sectional area becomes maximum at the boundary between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 and decreases as it goes down again.

[00677] In a process where ice is formed from top to bottom in the ice chamber 111, the ice comes into contact with the top surface of the convex portion 251b of the lower tray 250.

[00678] In this state, when ice is continuously made, the blocking portion 251b may be pressed and deformed, as shown in FIG. 43, and spherical ice can be produced when ice production is completed.

[00679] The control unit 700 (not shown) may determine whether or not ice making is being performed based on the temperature read by the temperature sensor 500.

[00680] The bottom heater 296 may be turned off at the end of ice making or before the end of ice making.

[00681] When ice making is completed, the top heater 148 is first turned on to remove the ice. When the top heater 148 is turned on, the heat of the top heater 148 is transferred to the top tray 150, and thereby the ice can be separated from the surface (inner surface) of the top tray 150.

[00682] After the upper heater 148 has been activated for a predetermined duration of time, the upper heater 148 may be turned off and then the actuation unit 180 may be operated to rotate the lower assembly 200 in the forward direction.

[00683] As illustrated in FIG. 44, as the bottom assembly 200 rotates forward, the bottom tray 250 can be spaced apart from the top tray 150.

[00684] In addition, the rotational force of the lower assembly 200 can be transmitted to the upper driver 300 through the connecting block 350. Thus, the upper driver 300 is lowered by the block guides 181 and 182, and the upper driver pin 320 can be inserted into the upper chamber 152 through the inlet 154.

[00685] During the ice separation process, the ice may separate from the top tray 250 before the top ejector pin 320 presses the ice. In other words, ice can be separated from the surface of the top tray 150 by the heat of the top heater 148.

[00686] In this case, the ice may rotate with the lower assembly 200 in a supported state by the lower tray 250.

[00687] Alternatively, even if heat from the top heater 148 is applied to the top tray 150, the ice may not separate from the surface of the top tray 150.

[00688] Thus, when the lower unit 200 rotates forward, the ice can be separated from the lower tray 250 in a state where the ice is attached to the upper tray 150.

[00689] In this state, while the lower assembly 200 rotates, the upper ejector pin 320 passing through the inlet 154 can press the ice attached to the upper tray 150 to separate the ice from the upper tray 150. Ice separated from the upper tray 150 can be supported again by the lower tray 250.

[00690] When the ice rotates together with the bottom assembly 200 in the state where the ice is supported by the bottom tray 250, even if no external force is applied to the bottom tray 250, the ice can be separated from the bottom tray 250 by its own weight.

[00691] While the assembly 200 is rotating, even if the ice does not separate from the bottom tray 250 by its own weight, when the bottom tray 250 is pressed by the bottom pusher 400 as shown in FIG. 45, ice can be separated from the lower tray 250.

[00692] In particular, while the lower assembly 200 is rotating, the lower tray 250 may be in contact with the lower ejector pin 420.

[00693] When the lower assembly 200 continuously rotates forward, the lower ejector pin 420 may press the lower tray 250 to deform the lower tray 250, and the pressing force of the lower ejector pin 420 may be transmitted to the ice to separate the ice from the lower tray 250. from the surface of the lower tray 250 may fall down and be stored in the ice pocket 102.

[00694] After the ice is separated from the lower tray 250, the lower node 200 can be rotated in the opposite direction by the drive unit 180.

[00695] When the lower ejector pin 420 is spaced apart from the lower tray 250 in a process in which the lower assembly 200 is reverse-rotated, the deformed lower tray 250 can be restored to its original shape. That is, the deformed convex portion 251b can be restored to its original shape.

[00696] In the reverse rotation process of the lower assembly 200, the rotational force is transmitted to the upper driver 300 via the coupling block 350 so that the upper driver 300 rises, and thus the upper driver pin 320 is removed from the upper chamber 152.

[00697] As described above, the lower assembly 200 is rotated by the reverse driving unit 180, and then the upper end of the right first link 352a is rotated to the first position (dashed line in Fig. 32a).

[00698] In this case, the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 are in contact with each other, but may not be fully in contact with each other.

[00699] In this state, when the driving unit 180 is further fired, the lower assembly is pulled upward by the tension force of the elastic member 360, so that the upper end of the right first link 352a rotates to the second position (the position shown by the dotted line in Fig. 32b), more high compared to the first position (shown by the dotted position in Fig. 32a), and, as a result, the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 are more fully connected.

[00700] When the lower node 200 reaches the water supply standby position, the driving unit 180 stops and then the water supply starts again.

Claims (19)

1. Refrigerator containing: a cabinet equipped with a freezing space; and an ice maker provided in the freezing space, the ice maker comprising: a tray configured to form an ice chamber; and a body connected to the tray, the body including a fixing part to be fixed on the fixed part located on the upper side of the freezing space, and the fixing part having an inclined surface for tilting with respect to the fixed part. 2. The refrigerator according to claim. 1, in which the fixed part is one of the upper wall defining the freezing space, or the upper surface of the casing fixed on the wall. 3. Refrigerator according to claim. 1, in which the tray includes a top tray and a bottom tray, while the case contains an upper case, configured to support the upper tray, and while the fixing part is formed on the upper case. 4. Refrigerator according to claim. 3, in which the upper case contains: the top plate, made with the possibility of fixing the top tray; a vertical expansion portion vertically extending along the periphery of the top plate; and a horizontal expansion part extending horizontally to the outside of the vertical expansion part. 5. The refrigerator according to claim. 4, in which the fixing part contains the first fixing part recessed from the horizontal expansion part for inserting the screw, and the surface with which the screw of the first fixing part is connected is inclined relative to the horizontal expansion part. 6. The refrigerator according to claim. 4, in which the fixing part includes a second fixing part protruding from the vertical expansion part to engage with the fixed part, while the second fixing part contains the first part extending upward from the vertical expansion part, and the second part, bent and extending from the first part to the outer side of the vertical expansion part, while the lower surface of the second part is inclined relative to the horizontal expansion part. 7. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein the fixed part further comprises a plate connected to the upper body, and wherein the fixing part includes a third fixing part protruding to the outside of the vertical expansion part to support the plate of the fixed part. 8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein the third fixing part comprises a vertical part extending in a direction vertical with respect to the horizontal expansion part, and an inclined part bent and extending from the vertical part to support the plate of the fixed part, while being inclined the part is inclined with respect to the horizontal expansion part. 9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein the fixing part comprises a second fixing part protruding from the vertical expansion part to engage with the fixed part, wherein the second fixing part comprises a first part extending upward from the vertical expansion part and a second part bent and extending from the first part to the outer side of the vertical expansion part, while the plate of the fixed part is inserted between the lower surface of the second part and the upper surface of the inclined part. 10. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein the upper body further comprises a pair of side peripheral walls extending upwardly from the edge of the horizontal expansion portion, and wherein the upper surface of the pair of side peripheral walls is inclined relative to the horizontal expansion portion. 11. Refrigerator according to claim. 3, in which the lower tray is connected with the possibility of rotation with the upper tray. 12. Refrigerator according to claim 11, containing: a bottom support configured to support the underside of the bottom tray; a driving unit disposed on one side of the lower support to rotate the lower tray; and a connecting block configured to connect the actuating unit and the lower leg, wherein the connecting block includes a pair of first links connected to both sides of the lower leg to transfer the power of the actuating unit to the lower leg. 13. Refrigerator according to claim. 12, in which the heights of the upper ends of the pair of first rods differ from each other in the water supply position. 14. Refrigerator according to claim 13, in which the height of the upper end of one first rod near the actuation unit between the pair of first rods is lower than the height of the upper end of the other first rod. 15. Refrigerator according to claim 12, in which the heights of the upper ends of the pair of first rods are equal to each other when making ice. 16. Refrigerator, containing: the top node containing the top tray, made with the possibility of forming a section of the chamber for ice; a bottom assembly comprising a bottom tray configured to form another section of the ice chamber; a driving unit disposed on one side of the lower assembly to rotate the lower assembly; a connecting block configured to connect the actuating unit and the lower node, wherein the connecting block includes a pair of first links connected to both sides of the lower node to transfer the power of the actuating block to the lower node. 17. Refrigerator according to claim 16, in which the heights of the upper ends of the pair of first rods differ from each other in the water supply position. 18. Refrigerator according to claim 17, in which the height of the upper end of one first rod near the actuation unit between the pair of first rods is lower than the height of the upper end of the other first rod. 19. Refrigerator according to claim. 16, in which the heights of the upper ends of the pair of first rods are equal to each other when making ice.

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