Ice maker and refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to the present embodiment may include a storage compartment in which articles are stored. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a first tray portion forming a portion of an ice-making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by the cold. The refrigerator may further include a second tray portion which forms another portion of the ice-making cell and is disposed to be in contact with the first tray portion during an ice-making process and to be spaced apart from the first tray portion during an ice-separating process. The refrigerator may further include a water supply portion for supplying water to the ice-making cell. The refrigerator may further include a controller controlling the supply of cold to the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a pusher spaced apart from the second tray portion by a predetermined distance.

Description

Ice makers and refrigerators

[0001] This specification relates to an ice maker and a refrigerator.

[0002] In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperatures in an internal storage space that is shielded by a refrigerator door. It is configured to store stored food in an optimal condition by cooling the interior of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with a refrigerant circulating in a refrigeration cycle.

[0003] The above refrigerator can be placed independently in a kitchen or living room, or stored in a kitchen cabinet.

[0004] The refrigerators mentioned above are gradually becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the trend of changing eating habits and higher-end products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices that take user convenience into consideration are being released.

[0005] Japanese Patent Publication No. 5687018, a prior art document, discloses an automatic ice maker.

[0006] The automatic ice maker may include an ice making room for forming ice, an evaporator disposed on the upper side of the ice making room, a water plate disposed on the lower side of the ice making room and rotatably supported by a support shaft, an ice making water tank assembled on the lower side of the water plate, a supply pump connected to the ice making water tank, a guide member positioned on one side of the ice making water tank and rotatable, and an ice storage room for storing ice.

[0007] During the ice-making process, water is supplied from a supply pump while the water dish closes the space of the ice-making room, and the water supplied to the ice-making cell can be cooled by an evaporator.

[0008] During the ice-making process, high-temperature gas is supplied to the evaporator, and the ice-making cell is heated, and at the same time, the water dish tilts downward, and during the process of the water dish tilting downward, the guide member rotates to cover the upper side of the water dish.

[0009] As the ice-making cell is heated, ice is separated from the ice-making cell, falls to the upper side of the guide member, and ultimately moves to the ice storage room.

[0010] However, in the case of the prior art, during the ice-making process, high-temperature gas is supplied to the evaporator to heat the ice-making cell, but a technology for separating ice from a water dish in case ice is not separated is not disclosed.

[0011] Prior art document, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0057604, discloses an ice maker capable of producing spherical ice.

[0012] The ice maker comprises an upper assembly comprising an upper tray defining an upper chamber which is part of an ice chamber; a lower assembly comprising a lower tray defining another part of the ice chamber as a lower chamber, and a supporter supporting the lower tray and having an opening, the lower assembly being rotatable relative to the upper assembly; and a lower ejector having a lower pushing bar penetrating the opening and pressing the lower tray when the lower assembly is rotated to an open position for ejecting ice.

[0013] However, in the case of the above ice maker, since the lower ejector pressurizes the lower tray during the ice-making process, a structure for supplying water to the supporter cannot be installed. Therefore, in the case of the above ice maker, the water supply unit must be installed in the upper assembly, and in order to produce transparent ice, a heater must be placed and operated during the ice-making process, which presents a drawback.

[0014] The present embodiment provides an ice making device and a refrigerator capable of producing ice with high transparency without the operation of a heater.

[0015] Optionally or additionally, an ice making device and refrigerator are provided which prevent the water supply installed on the supporter from interfering with the pusher during the ice making process.

[0016] Optionally or additionally, an ice making device and refrigerator are provided in which bending of a tube through which water flows is minimized during the movement of the second tray.

[0017] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a storage compartment in which items are stored. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage compartment.

[0018] The refrigerator may further include a first tray portion forming a portion of an ice-making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by the cold. The refrigerator may further include a second tray portion forming another portion of the ice-making cell, and arranged so as to be in contact with the first tray portion during the ice-making process and to be spaced apart from the first tray portion during the ice-removing process.

[0019] The refrigerator may further include a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice-making cell. The refrigerator may further include a driving unit connected to the second tray unit.

[0020] The refrigerator may further include a controller that controls the supply of cold to the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a pusher provided at a predetermined distance from the second tray section.

[0021] At least a portion of the above water supply unit may be provided to be movable to different locations during the ice making process and the ice separating process.

[0022] The controller can control the second tray to move in the first direction to the ice removal position and then in the second direction to remove ice from the ice removal cell after ice production in the ice removal cell is completed.

[0023] The first direction and the second direction may be defined as different directions. The first direction and the second direction may be defined as opposite directions.

[0024] At least a portion of the above water supply unit may be disposed on one side of the second tray unit.

[0025] The water supply unit may include a first through-hole through which water flows in. The water supply unit may further include a second through-hole through which water flows out. The water supply unit may further include a pipe connecting the first through-hole and the second through-hole.

[0026] The second through hole may be arranged so that water is supplied into the ice making cell through an opening formed on one side of the second tray portion.

[0027] The above second through hole may be provided to be movable so as to be positioned in different locations during the ice-making process and the ice-removing process.

[0028] The second through hole may be provided so that its position changes while the second tray section moves.

[0029] While the second tray part moves in the first direction, the second through hole can move in the same direction as the first direction. While the second tray moves in the second direction, the second through hole can move in the same direction as the second direction.

[0030] According to another aspect, a refrigerator may include a storage compartment in which items are stored. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage compartment.

[0031] The refrigerator may further include a first tray portion forming a portion of an ice-making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by the cold. The refrigerator may further include a second tray portion forming another portion of the ice-making cell, and arranged so as to be in contact with the first tray portion during the ice-making process and to be spaced apart from the first tray portion during the ice-removing process.

[0032] The refrigerator may further include a controller that controls the supply of cold to the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a pusher provided at a predetermined distance from the second tray section. The pusher may provide a path for the components to move.

[0033] The refrigerator may further include a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice-making cell. The refrigerator may further include a driving unit connected to the second tray unit. The component may be a part of the water supply unit.

[0034] The above pusher may be provided on one side of the second tray portion.

[0035] The above pusher may have a through hole formed therein to allow movement of a component therethrough.

[0036] The above through hole may include a first through hole that allows the component to enter the interior of the pusher. The through hole may further include an empty space that allows the component passing through the first through hole to pass through the interior of the pusher.

[0037] The above through hole may include a second through hole that provides a position at which a component passing through the empty space stops.

[0038] The pusher may include a wall that provides a position at which a component passing through the empty space stops.

[0039] The above pusher may have an opening formed therein to allow movement of a component therethrough. The opening may be formed on one side of the pusher.

[0040] At least a portion of the above components may be disposed on one side of the pusher, and the opening may be formed on one side of the pusher. At least a portion of the above components may be disposed on the other side of the pusher, and the opening may be formed on the other side of the pusher.

[0041] The above opening may be provided to face a non-opening wall.

[0042] According to another aspect, a refrigerator may include a storage compartment in which items are stored. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage compartment.

[0043] The refrigerator may further include a first tray portion forming a portion of an ice-making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by the cold. The refrigerator may further include a second tray portion forming another portion of the ice-making cell, and arranged so as to be in contact with the first tray portion during the ice-making process and to be spaced apart from the first tray portion during the ice-removing process.

[0044] The refrigerator may further include a controller that controls the supply of cold to the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a pusher provided at a predetermined distance from the second tray section.

[0045] At least a portion of the above pusher may be provided to be separated from the ice generated inside the ice-making cell during the ice-making process, and may be provided to come into contact with the ice generated inside the ice-making cell during the ice-removing process.

[0046] The controller can move the second tray unit in a state where ice generated inside the ice-making cell during the ice-making process is in contact with at least a portion of the water supply unit.

[0047] The controller may move the second tray portion so that the ice generated inside the ice-making cell comes into contact with at least a portion of the water supply portion, and then move the second tray portion so that the ice generated inside the ice-making cell or the second tray portion comes into contact with the pusher.

[0048] The controller can move the second tray portion so that ice generated inside the ice-making cell during the ice-making process comes into contact with at least a portion of the pusher.

[0049] The controller may move the second tray unit so that the ice generated inside the ice-making cell during the ice-breaking process comes into contact with at least a portion of the water supply unit after the ice has come into contact with at least a portion of the pusher. The controller may move the second tray unit so that the ice generated inside the ice-making cell comes into contact with at least a portion of the water supply unit after the ice has come into contact with the water supply unit, thereby moving the second tray unit away from the water supply unit again.

[0050] The controller may move the second tray unit so that the ice generated inside the ice-making cell during the ice-making process comes into contact with at least a portion of the water supply unit and at least a portion of the pusher. The controller may move the second tray unit so that it is separated from the water supply unit again after the ice generated inside the ice-making cell comes into contact with at least a portion of the water supply unit and at least a portion of the pusher.

[0051] According to another aspect, an ice-making device may include a first tray portion forming a portion of an ice-making cell for generating ice. The ice-making device may further include a second tray portion forming another portion of the ice-making cell, which may be brought into contact with the first tray portion during an ice-making process and which may be spaced apart from the first tray portion during an ice-removing process.

[0052] The ice making device may further include a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice making cell. The ice making device may further include a driving unit connected to the second tray unit. The ice making device may further include a pusher provided at a predetermined distance from the second tray.

[0053] The water supply unit may include a first through-hole through which water flows in. The water supply unit may further include a second through-hole through which water flows out. The water supply unit may further include a pipe connecting the first through-hole and the second through-hole.

[0054] The second through hole may be arranged so that water is supplied into the ice making cell through an opening formed on one side of the second tray portion.

[0055] The second through hole may be provided so as to be movable to different locations during the ice-making process and the ice-removing process. The second through hole may be provided so as to change location while the second tray section moves.

[0056] While the second tray part moves in the first direction, the second through hole can move in the same direction as the first direction. While the second tray part moves in the second direction, the second through hole can move in the same direction as the second direction.

[0057] The above pusher can provide a path for the part to move.

[0058] The above pusher may have a through hole formed therein to allow movement of a component therethrough.

[0059] The pusher may include a first through-hole for the component to enter the interior of the pusher, and a hollow space for the component passing through the first through-hole to pass through the interior of the pusher. The pusher may include a second through-hole for providing a position at which the component passing through the hollow space stops. The pusher may include a wall for providing a position at which the component passing through the hollow space stops.

[0060] The pusher may have an opening formed therein to allow movement of a component therethrough. The opening may be formed on one side of the pusher. At least a portion of the component may be disposed on one side of the pusher, and the opening may be formed on one side of the pusher. Alternatively, at least a portion of the component may be disposed on the other side of the pusher, and the opening may be formed on the other side of the pusher.

[0061] According to one embodiment, since water is supplied from the water supply unit to the ice-making cell during the ice-making process, there is an advantage in that ice with high transparency can be produced without the operation of the heater.

[0062] In one embodiment, the through hole of the water supply part is aligned with the opening of the second tray part at the ice making position, so that water can be supplied intensively to the ice making cell.

[0063] In one embodiment, the pusher pressurizes the ice or tray portion within the ice-making cell during the ice-making process, so that the ice can be completely separated within the ice-making cell.

[0064] In one embodiment, since the pusher provides a movement path of the water supply unit, interference between the water supply unit installed on the supporter and the pusher can be prevented during the ice-breaking process.

[0065] In one embodiment, the tube through which water flows is positioned adjacent to the center of rotation of the second tray section, so that bending of the tube can be minimized.

[0066] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ice making device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 2 is a front view showing an open state of a door of an ice making device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 3 is a cutaway view showing the interior of an ice making device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the inside of an ice making device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 5 is a refrigerant cycle diagram constituting a cooling unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a water supply path in an ice making device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figures 7 and 8 are drawings showing how water is supplied to the ice making unit.

[0073] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the first tray unit and the second tray unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] FIGS. 10 and 11 are perspective views showing an ice making unit and a cooler according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 12 is a bottom view of an ice making unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of Fig. 12.

[0077] Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of the second tray unit of the present embodiment.

[0078] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a supporter according to the present embodiment.

[0079] Fig. 16 is a drawing showing the second water supply unit of the present embodiment installed on the supporter.

[0080] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of Figure 16.

[0081] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the pusher of the present embodiment.

[0082] Fig. 19 is a control block diagram of the ice making device of the present embodiment.

[0083] Figure 20 is a drawing showing the process of supplying water to the ice making unit during the ice making process.

[0084] Figure 21 is a drawing showing an ice-making unit during the ice-making process.

[0085] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0086] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" between each component.

[0087] In the present specification, an ice-making device may include a tray that forms an ice-making cell, which is a space where water changes into ice. The ice-making device may further include a cooling unit for supplying cold to the ice-making cell. The ice-making device may further include a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice-making cell. The ice-making device may further include a controller.

[0088] The above cooling unit, as a source that supplies cold, can be referred to as a cold source.

[0089] The above ice making device may further include an ice unit.

[0090] The above tray may include a first tray. The above tray may further include a second tray.

[0091] The first tray and the second tray can produce different types of ice.

[0092] The water supply unit can independently supply water to each of the first tray and the second tray. The water supply unit can be configured to supply water to the first tray and the second tray simultaneously.

[0093] The above water supply unit may include a pump for pumping water.

[0094] The above cooling unit may be defined as a means for cooling the ice making cell, including an evaporator (or cooler) and at least one thermoelectric element. The evaporator may be positioned adjacent to the tray or in contact with the tray. Alternatively, cold air cooled by the cooling unit may be supplied to the tray to be transformed into ice in the water of the ice making cell.

[0095] The cooling unit can cool the first tray. The cooling unit can cool the second tray. The cooling unit can cool the first tray and the second tray independently or simultaneously.

[0096] The cooling unit may optionally include a valve for controlling the flow of refrigerant, a fan for controlling the flow of cold air, or a damper for controlling the flow of cold air within the two spaces.

[0097] The controller can control the cooling power (or output) of the cooling unit. The cooling power of the cooling unit can be the output of the thermoelectric element, the amount of cold supplied to the tray, the cooling power (output or frequency) of the compressor, or the amount of refrigerant flowing to the evaporator. The cold can include at least cold air.

[0098] The above-mentioned moving unit may include at least one of a heater for heating the tray, a pusher (or ejector) for pressurizing at least a portion of the tray, a refrigerant pipe through which a refrigerant flows to heat the tray, a water supply device for supplying water to the outside of the tray, and a driving unit for moving at least a portion of the tray.

[0099] The above-mentioned ice separating unit can separate ice independently from each of the first tray and the second tray or simultaneously separate ice from the first tray and the second tray.

[0100] For example, power from the drive unit may be simultaneously transferred to the first tray and the second tray, heat from a heater or refrigerant pipe may be simultaneously transferred to the first tray and the second tray, or water may be simultaneously transferred to the first tray and the second tray.

[0101] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing an open state of a door of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cutaway view showing the interior of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the interior of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a refrigerant cycle diagram constituting a cooling unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the ice making device (1) of the present embodiment can be installed independently to produce ice.

[0103] The above ice making device (1) may include a cabinet (10) forming an outer shape. The above ice making device (1) may further include a door (20) connected to the cabinet (10).

[0104] The cabinet (10) may include an ice-making chamber (12) for forming ice. The cabinet (10) may further include a storage chamber (13) for storing ice.

[0105] The ice making room (12) and the storage room (13) may be partitioned by a partition member. The ice making room (12) and the storage room (13) may be communicated by a communication hole of the partition member. Alternatively, the ice making room (12) and the storage room (13) may be communicated without a partition member.

[0106] Alternatively, it is also possible for the ice making room (12) to include the storage room (13), or for the storage room (13) to include the ice making room (12).

[0107] The cabinet (10) may include a front opening (102). The door (20) may open and close the front opening (102). The door (20) may open and close the front opening (102) by, for example, a rotational motion.

[0108] When the door (20) opens the front opening (102), the user can access the storage compartment (13) through the front opening (102). The user can take out ice stored in the storage compartment (13) through the front opening (102).

[0109] The above ice making device (1) may further include an ice making unit (40) located in the ice making room (12).

[0110] Ice generated in the ice making unit (40) can fall from the ice making unit (40) and be stored in the storage room (13).

[0111] The cabinet (10) may include an inner case (101) forming the ice making room (12). The cabinet (10) may further include an outer case (110) arranged on the outside of the inner case (101).

[0112] Although not shown, insulation may be provided between the inner case (101) and the outer case (100).

[0113] The above inner case (101) can additionally form the storage room (13).

[0114] The above ice making room (12) can be formed on one side inside the inner case (101).

[0115] The ice making unit (40) may be positioned close to the rear wall (101a) of the inner case (101). If the ice making unit (40) is positioned close to the rear wall (101a) of the inner case (101), the usability of the storage room (13) may be increased.

[0116] To make it easy for the user to access the storage room (13), the ice produced in the ice making unit (40) can fall in a direction closer to the door (20).

[0117] The above cabinet (10) may further include a machine room (18) partitioned from the storage room (13). The machine room (18) may be located, for example, on one side of the storage room (13).

[0118] Although not limited, a portion of the storage room (13) may be located between the ice making room (12) and the machine room (18). The volume of the storage room (13) may be larger than the volume of the ice making room (12) and the volume of the machine room (18).

[0119] The above machine room (18) can be placed on the outside of the inner case (101).

[0120] The inner case (101) may include a bottom wall (104) forming the bottom of the storage room (13). The machine room (18) may be located on one side of the bottom wall (104).

[0121] The above floor wall (104) may be provided with a drainage hole (105) for discharging water.

[0122] A portion of a cooling unit may be located in the above machine room (18). The cooling unit may be, for example, a refrigerant cycle for circulating refrigerant.

[0123] The above cooling unit may include a compressor (183), a condenser (184), an expander (186), and a cooler (50). The cooler (50) may be an evaporator through which refrigerant flows.

[0124] In the present embodiment, the refrigerant cycle may control the flow of refrigerant by a valve (188). The refrigerant cycle may include a bypass pipe (187) for bypassing the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (183) to the inlet side of the cooler (50). The valve (188) may be provided in the bypass pipe (187).

[0125] When the valve (188) is turned off, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (183) can flow directly to the condenser (184). When the valve (188) is turned on, some or all of the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (183) can be bypassed to the bypass pipe (187) and flow directly to the cooler (50). Although not limited, the refrigerant of the compressor (183) can flow to the evaporator during the separating process.

[0126] The refrigerant flowing through the above cooler (50) can flow to the compressor (183) after flowing through the accumulator (189).

[0127] The compressor (183) and the condenser (184) may be located in the machine room (18). The machine room (18) may be provided with a condenser fan (185) to allow air to pass through the condenser (184). The condenser fan (185) may be, for example, placed between the condenser (184) and the compressor (183).

[0128] The front of the cabinet (10) may be provided with a front grill (180) in which air holes (182) are formed. A plurality of air holes (182) may be formed in the front grill (180). The front grill (180) may be positioned on one side of the front opening (102). When the door (20) closes the front opening (102), the door (20) may cover a portion of the front grill (180).

[0129] The above cooler (50) may include a refrigerant pipe (510, 520) through which refrigerant flows. At least a portion of the cooler (50) may be located in the ice making room (12).

[0130] At least a portion of the cooler (50) may be in contact with the ice making unit (40). That is, water supplied to the ice making unit (40) may be phase-changed into ice by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing through the cooler (50). Alternatively, the cooler (50) may be positioned adjacent to the ice making unit (40).

[0131] The method in which the above cooler (50) directly contacts the above ice-making unit (40) to create ice can be called a direct cooling method.

[0132] As another example, the air that has exchanged heat with the cooler (50) may be supplied to the ice making unit (40), so that the water in the ice making unit (40) may be phase-changed into ice by the cooling air. The method of producing ice by supplying cooling air may be called an indirect cooling method or an air cooling method. In the case of the indirect cooling method, the cooler (50) may not be located in the ice making room (12). However, additionally, a guide duct may be provided to guide the cooling air that has exchanged heat with the cooler (50) to the ice making room (12).

[0133] In this embodiment, the ice making unit (40) can produce a single type of ice or at least two different types of ice.

[0134] Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the ice making unit (40) produces at least two different types of ice.

[0135] The ice making unit (40) may include a first tray unit (410) for forming a first type of first ice (I1). The ice making unit (40) may further include a second tray unit (450) for forming a second type of second ice (I2) different from the first type.

[0136] Of course, the above ice making unit (40) may also include only one of the first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) described later.

[0137] The first ice (I1) and the second ice (I2) may differ in at least one of shape, size, transparency, etc.

[0138] Hereinafter, it will be explained by way of example that the first ice (I1) is polygonal ice and the second ice (I2) is spherical ice.

[0139] The storage room may include a first storage space (132). The storage room may further include a second storage space (134).

[0140] Ice produced in the first tray unit (410) can be stored in the first storage space (132). Ice produced in the second tray unit (450) can be stored in the second storage space (134).

[0141] Although not limited, the second storage space (134) may be defined by the ice bin (14). That is, the internal space of the ice bin (14) may serve as the second storage space (134). The ice bin (14) may be fixedly or detachably coupled to the inner case (101).

[0142] The above ice bin (14) can also be referred to as a partition member that partitions the storage room (13) into the first storage space (132) and the second storage space (134).

[0143] The volume of the first storage space (132) may be larger than the volume of the second storage space (134). Although not limited, the size of the first ice (I1) stored in the first storage space (132) may be smaller than the size of the second ice (I2) stored in the second storage space (134).

[0144] The front of the ice bin (14) may be positioned spaced apart from one side of the front opening (102). The bottom surface of the ice bin (14) may be spaced apart from the bottom wall (104) of the storage room (13).

[0145] Accordingly, the first ice (I1) may be positioned on one side of the ice bin (14). The first ice (I1) may also be positioned on the other side of the ice bin (14). The first ice (I1) stored in the first storage space (132) may surround the ice bin (14).

[0146] The bottom wall (104) of the above storage room (13) can form the bottom of the second storage space (134).

[0147] The bottom wall (104) of the storage room (13) may be positioned lower than one end (102a) of the front opening (102). The bottom surface of the ice bin (14) may be positioned higher than one end (102a) of the front opening (102).

[0148] The ice bin (14) may be positioned adjacent to one side (the left side in the drawing) among the left and right sides of the inner case (101). The second tray unit (450) may be positioned adjacent to the one side. Accordingly, ice separated from the second tray unit (450) may be stored in the second storage space (134) of the ice bin (14). Ice separated from the first tray unit (410) may be stored in the first storage space (132) outside the second storage space (134).

[0149] When the amount of first ice stored in the first storage space (132) increases, the cabinet (10) may further include an opening cover (16) to prevent the first ice from being unintentionally discharged through the front opening (102) when the door (20) is opened. The opening cover (16) may be rotatably arranged on the inner case (101). The opening cover (16) may cover one side of the front opening (102).

[0150] The above opening cover (16) can be accommodated inside the storage compartment (13) while the door (20) is closed. When the door (20) is opened, one end of the opening cover (16) can be rotated so that the other end protrudes outward from the storage compartment (13).

[0151] The above opening cover (16) may be elastically supported, for example, by an elastic member (not shown). When the door (20) is opened, the opening cover (16) may be rotated by the elastic member.

[0152] The above opening cover (16) may be formed in a convex shape toward the door (20). Accordingly, although not limited, the first ice may be filled in the first storage space (132) up to one end (16a) of the opening cover (16).

[0153] When the opening cover (16) is rotated, a portion of the first ice is pulled outward from the storage chamber (13) while being positioned within the convex portion of the opening cover (16), so there is an advantage in that the user can easily obtain the first ice.

[0154] Of course, it is also possible to omit the opening cover (16) by varying the height of one end (102a) of the front opening (102).

[0155] The above cabinet (10) may further include a guide (70) that guides ice separated from the ice making unit (40) to the storage room (13).

[0156] The above guide (70) can be arranged spaced apart from the ice making unit (40). The guide (70) can guide the first ice (I1) separated from the first tray unit (410). The guide (70) can guide the second ice (I2) separated from the second tray unit (450).

[0157] For example, the guide (70) may include a first guide (710). The guide (70) may further include a second guide (730).

[0158] The first ice (I1) separated from the first tray unit (410) can fall to the first guide (710). The first ice (I1) can be moved to the first storage space (132) by the first guide (710).

[0159] The second ice (I2) separated from the second tray unit (450) can fall to the second guide (730). The second ice (I2) can be moved to the second storage space (134) by the second guide (730).

[0160] One end of the ice bin (14) can be positioned adjacent to one end of the second guide (730) so that the second ice (I2) can be moved to the second storage space (134).

[0161] To prevent the first ice and the second ice that fall through the guide (70) from being mixed, the ice making device (1) may further include a partition plate (80). The partition plate (80) extends in the vertical direction and may be coupled to the guide (70) or the ice making unit (40).

[0162] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a water supply path in an ice making device according to the present embodiment, and FIGS. 7 and 8 are drawings showing how water is supplied to an ice making unit.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the ice making device (1) may include a water supply path for guiding water supplied from a water source (302) to the ice making unit (40).

[0164] The above water supply path may include a first path (303) connected to the water supply source (302). A water supply valve (304) may be provided in the first path (303). By the operation of the water supply valve (304), the supply of water from the water supply source (302) to the ice maker (1) may be controlled. By the operation of the water supply valve (304), the supply flow rate when water is supplied to the ice maker (1) may be controlled.

[0165] The above water supply path may further include a second path (305) connected to the water supply valve (304). The second path (305) may be connected to a filter (306). The filter (306) may be located, for example, in the machine room (18).

[0166] The above water supply path may further include a third path (308) that guides water that has passed through the filter (306).

[0167] The above ice making device (1) may further include a water supply device (320). The water supply device (320) may be connected to the third flow path (308).

[0168] The above water supply device (320) can supply water to the ice making unit (40) during the water supply process.

[0169] The above ice making device (1) may further include a water supply unit (330). The water supply unit (340) may supply water to the ice making unit (40) during the ice making process. The water supply unit (330) may store water supplied from the water supply device (320) and supply it to the ice making unit (40).

[0170] In this embodiment, the water supply device (320) may be referred to as a first water supply unit. The water supply unit (730) may be referred to as a second water supply unit.

[0171] The above water supply device (320) may be located on one side of the ice making unit (40). Water supplied from the water supply device (320) may fall onto the ice making unit (40).

[0172] The above water supply unit (330) may be located on the other side of the above ice making unit (40).

[0173] The water supply unit (330) may be separated from the water supply device (320). The water supply unit (330) may store water supplied from the water supply device (320) and supply it to the ice making unit (40).

[0174] In FIGS. 6 to 8, the dotted line shows the flow of water supplied from the water supply device (320), and the solid line shows the flow of water supplied from the water supply unit (330).

[0175] The water supply unit (330) may include a water storage unit (350) in which water is stored. The ice making unit (40) may include one or more through holes (426) through which water passes. Water supplied from the water supply device (320) and dropped toward the ice making unit (40) may be stored in the water storage unit (350) after passing through the through holes (426). The guide (70) may be provided with a plurality of through holes through which water passing through the ice making unit (40) passes.

[0176] When the water supply valve (304) is turned on, water supplied from the water supply device (320) can fall to the ice making unit (40) and then pass through the ice making unit (40) to be stored in the water storage unit (350).

[0177] The water storage unit (350) may be equipped with a water level detection unit (356) that detects the water level. When the water level of the water storage unit (350) detected by the water level detection unit (356) reaches a reference water level, the water supply valve (304) may be turned off.

[0178] In this specification, the process from when the water supply valve (304) is turned on until the water supply valve (304) is turned off may be referred to as a water supply process. For example, the water supply valve (304) may be turned off when the water level of the water storage unit (350) detected by the water level detection unit (356) reaches a reference water level.

[0179] The above water supply unit (330) may further include a water supply pump for pumping water stored in the water storage unit (350).

[0180] In the ice-making process in this embodiment, the water stored in the water storage unit (350) can be pumped by the water supply pump and supplied to the ice-making unit (40).

[0181] The above water supply pump may include a first pump (360). The above water supply pump may further include a second pump (362). When the first pump (360) operates, water may be supplied to the first tray unit (410). When the second pump (362) operates, water may be supplied to the second tray unit (450).

[0182] The first pump (360) and the second pump (362) can operate independently. The pumping capacities of the first pump (360) and the second pump (362) can be the same or different.

[0183] The above water supply unit (330) may further include a first connecting pipe (352, 354) connecting each of the above pumps (360, 362) and the water storage unit (350).

[0184] The above first connecting pipe (352, 354) can be connected to the water storage unit (350) at a height equal to or similar to the bottom of the water storage unit (350).

[0185] The above water supply unit (330) may further include a first water supply unit (380) for supplying water pumped by the first pump (360) to the first tray unit (410).

[0186] The above water supply unit (330) may further include a second water supply unit (see 382 in FIG. 12) for supplying water pumped by the second pump (362) to the second tray unit (450).

[0187] The above first water supply unit (380) can supply water to the first tray unit (410) from one side of the first tray unit (410).

[0188] The second water supply unit (382) can supply water to the second tray unit (450) from one side of the second tray unit (450).

[0189] The first water supply unit (380) may be located on one side of the guide (70). The second water supply unit (380) may be provided in the second tray unit (450).

[0190] The above water supply unit (330) may further include a second connecting pipe (370, 372) connecting each pump (360, 362) and each water supply unit (380, 382).

[0191] The water supplied from the first water supply unit (380) to the first tray unit (410) can be used to create ice. The water that falls again from the first tray unit (410) can be stored in the water storage unit (350) after passing through the guide (70).

[0192] The water supplied from the second water supply unit (382) to the second tray unit (450) can be used to create ice. The water that falls again from the second tray unit (450) can be stored in the water storage unit (350) after passing through the guide (70).

[0193] A drain pipe (360) may be connected to the water storage unit (350). The drain pipe (360) may extend through the drain hole (105) to the machine room (18). The machine room (18) may be provided with a drain tube (362) connected to the drain pipe (360). The drain tube (362) may ultimately discharge water to the outside of the ice making device (1).

[0194] A water supply tube (373) connected to the second water supply unit (382) may be connected to the second connecting pipe (372). The water supply tube (373) may be formed of a material whose shape can be changed.

[0195] Below, the ice making unit (40) will be described in detail.

[0196] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of a first tray unit and a second tray unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 10 and 11 are perspective views showing an ice making unit and a cooler according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0197] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of an ice making unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12.

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13, the cooler (50) may be in contact with the ice making unit (40). The cooler (50) may be located, for example, on one side of the ice making unit (40).

[0199] The above ice making unit (40) may include a first tray unit (410) and a second tray unit (450) as described above.

[0200] The first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) can be arranged horizontally. The first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) can also be arranged vertically. The first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) can be installed in the cabinet (10) while being connected to each other. That is, the first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) can be modularized.

[0201] As another example, the first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) may be installed in the cabinet (10) in a separated state. The first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450) may be positioned close to each other in the horizontal direction.

[0202] The above first tray unit (410) may include a first ice-making cell (440).

[0203] In this embodiment, the ice-making cell refers to a space where ice is created. One ice can be created in one ice-making cell.

[0204] The first tray unit (410) may include a first tray. The first tray may include a first tray body (420). The first tray may further include a second tray body (430) coupled to the first tray body (420).

[0205] The above first tray may form, for example, a plurality of first ice-making cells (440). A plurality of second tray bodies (430) may be coupled to the first tray body (420).

[0206] The first ice-making cell (440) may be defined by one cell or may be defined by a plurality of cells. For example, the first ice-making cell (440) may include a first one-side cell (442) and a first other-side cell (441). Although not limited, the first one-side cell may be either the first lower cell or the first upper cell. The first other-side cell may be another one of the first lower cell and the first upper cell. The first one-side cell may be either the first left cell or the first right cell. The first other-side cell may be another one of the first left cell or the first right cell. Although not limited, it is also possible that the terms of the first one-side cell and the first other-side cell are opposite.

[0207] The first other side cell (441) can be formed by the first tray body (420). The first one side cell (442) can be formed by the second tray body (430).

[0208] For example, the first tray body (420) may form a plurality of first side cells (441). Each of the plurality of second tray bodies (430) may form a first side cell (442).

[0209] Therefore, when the plurality of second tray bodies (430) are combined into a single first tray body (420), a plurality of first ice-making cells (440) can be formed.

[0210] The first tray body (420) may include a first opening (423). The first opening (423) is in communication with the first other side cell (441).

[0211] The number of the first openings (423) may be the same as the number of the first ice-making cells (440).

[0212] The first one-side cell (444) can form one side of the first ice, and the first other-side cell (441) can form the other side of the first ice.

[0213] After the second tray body (430) is coupled to the first tray body (420), the separation of the second tray body (430) from the first tray body (420) may be restricted.

[0214] Water supplied from the first water supply unit (380) can pass through the first opening (423) and be supplied to the first ice-making cell (440). Therefore, the first opening (423) can serve as a water supply opening during the ice-making process.

[0215] A portion of the water supplied to the first ice-making cell (440) may fall to the lower portion of the first tray unit (410) through the first opening (423). Therefore, the first opening (423) may serve as a water discharge opening during the ice-making process.

[0216] The ice generated in the first ice-making cell (440) can be separated from the first tray unit (410) through the first opening (423) during the ice-breaking process. Therefore, the first opening (423) can serve as an ice discharge opening during the ice-breaking process.

[0217] Each of the first other-side cell (441) and the first one-side cell (442) may be formed in a hexahedral shape, for example. The volume of the first other-side cell (441) and the volume of the first one-side cell (442) may be the same or different.

[0218] After the first ice is created in the first ice-making cell (440), the horizontal circumference (or horizontal cross-sectional area) of the first other-side cell (441) may be larger than the horizontal circumference (or horizontal cross-sectional area) of the first one-side cell (442) so that the ice can be discharged through the first opening (423).

[0219] That is, during the water supply process, ice-making process, or ice-breaking process, the second tray body (430) and the first tray body (420) are maintained in a combined state so that the shape of the first ice-making cell (440) can be maintained.

[0220] The cooler (50) can be brought into contact with the second tray body (430) so that ice is first generated in the first side cell (442).

[0221] The above first tray body (420) may include a passage hole (421, 425) for water to pass through.

[0222] The second tray unit (450) may include a second tray forming a second ice-making cell (451).

[0223] The second tray may be defined by one tray or by multiple trays. For example, the second tray may include a first tray (460) and a second tray (470). Although not limited, the first tray may be an upper tray, a left tray, or a first tray section. The second tray (470) may be a lower tray, a right tray, or a second tray section. It is also possible that the terms for the first tray (460) and the second tray (470) are opposite to each other.

[0224] The second ice-making cell (451) may be defined by one cell or by multiple cells. For example, the second ice-making cell (451) may include a second one-side cell (462) and a second other-side cell (472).

[0225] The above-mentioned one-sided tray (460) can form the second one-sided cell (462). The above-mentioned other-sided tray (470) can form the second other-sided cell (472). Each of the second one-sided cell (462) and the second other-sided cell (272) can be formed in a hemispherical shape, for example.

[0226] For example, the second tray can form a plurality of second ice-making cells (451). Accordingly, the one-side tray (460) can form a plurality of second one-side cells (462). The other-side tray (470) can form a plurality of second other-side cells (472).

[0227] A portion of the first ice-making cell (440) may be positioned at the same height as the second ice-making cell (451). For example, at least a portion of the first ice-making cell (440) may be arranged to overlap the second ice-making cell (451) in the horizontal direction.

[0228] The second ice-making cell (451) may be positioned between the rotation center (C1) of the other tray (470) and the first ice-making cell (440). The other tray (470) may be connected to the driving unit (690) by a shaft (489). The shaft (489) may provide the rotation center (C1) of the other tray (470).

[0229] The heights of one end of the first ice-making cell (440) and one end of the second ice-making cell (451) may be different. For example, one end of the first ice-making cell (440) may be positioned lower than one end of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0230] The heights of the other end of the first ice-making cell (440) and the other end of the second ice-making cell (451) may be different. For example, the other end of the first ice-making cell (440) may be positioned higher than the other end of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0231] The contact surface of the one-side tray (460) and the other-side tray (470) may have a different height from the joining portion of the first tray body (420) and the second tray body (430). For example, the contact surface of the one-side tray (460) and the other-side tray (470) may be positioned higher than the joining portion of the first tray body (420) and the second tray body (430).

[0232] The height of the first ice-making cell (440) and the height of the second ice-making cell (451) may be different. For example, the height of the first ice-making cell (440) may be smaller than the height of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0233] The maximum horizontal circumference of the first ice-making cell (440) may be different from the maximum horizontal circumference of the second ice-making cell (451). For example, the maximum horizontal circumference of the first ice-making cell (440) may be smaller than the maximum horizontal circumference of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0234] The number of the first ice-making cells (440) may be different from the number of the second ice-making cells (451). For example, the number of the first ice-making cells (440) may be greater than the number of the second ice-making cells (451).

[0235] The volume of the first ice-making cell (440) may be different from the volume of the second ice-making cell (451). The volume of the first ice-making cell (440) may be smaller than the volume of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0236] The sum of the volumes of the plurality of first ice-making chambers (440) may be different from the sum of the volumes of the plurality of second ice-making cells (451). For example, the sum of the volumes of the plurality of first ice-making chambers (440) may be greater than the sum of the volumes of the plurality of second ice-making cells (451).

[0237] The above-mentioned other side tray (470) may include a second opening (473).

[0238] The water supply process and the ice making process can be performed while the one-sided tray (460) and the other-sided tray (470) are in contact to form the second ice making cell (451).

[0239] The second water supply unit (382) may be located on one side of the second opening (473). Alternatively, a portion of the second water supply unit (382) may be located in the second opening (473).

[0240] Water supplied from the second water supply unit (382) can pass through the second opening (473) and be supplied to the second ice-making cell (451).

[0241] Therefore, the second opening (473) can serve as a water supply opening during the ice making process.

[0242] A portion of the water supplied to the second ice-making cell (451) may fall to the lower portion of the second tray unit (450) through the second opening (473). Therefore, the second opening (473) may serve as a water discharge opening during the ice-making process.

[0243] During the moving process, the other side tray (470) can be moved relative to the one side tray (460).

[0244] The first opening (423) and the second opening (473) may be positioned at different heights. For example, the first opening (423) may be positioned higher than the second opening (473).

[0245] The second tray unit (450) may further include a bracket (452) that supports the one-sided tray (460). The bracket (452) may be fixed in position within the ice making room (12).

[0246] The above bracket (452) can be supported on a wall forming the ice making room (12). For example, the above bracket (452) can be supported on the inner case (101).

[0247] The second tray unit (450) may further include a supporter (480) that supports the other tray (470).

[0248] With the other side tray (470) secured to the supporter (480), the supporter (480) and the other side tray (470) can be moved together. For example, the supporter (480) can be movably connected to the one side tray (460).

[0249] The above second water supply unit (382) can be installed on the supporter (480).

[0250] The above supporter (480) may include a supporter opening (482a) for water to pass through. The supporter opening (482a) may be aligned with the second opening (473).

[0251] The diameter of the above supporter opening (482a) may be larger than the diameter of the second opening (473).

[0252] The above first ice can be discharged from the first ice-making cell through the first opening (423). On the other hand, the above second ice cannot be discharged from the second ice-making cell through the second opening (473).

[0253] In the present embodiment, in the case of the first tray, since the first ice can be discharged from the first ice-making cell through the first opening (423) during the freezing process, the first tray can be called an open type tray.

[0254] For open type trays, the diameter or size of the opening may be equal to or larger than the diameter or size of the first ice making cell.

[0255] On the other hand, in the case of the second tray, since the second ice cannot be discharged to the outside from the second ice-making cell through the second opening (473), the second tray can be called a closed type tray.

[0256] In the case of a closed type tray, for ice separation, at least one of the one-side tray (460) and the other-side tray (470) may be configured to move or the one-side tray (460) and the other-side tray (470) may be configured to separate from each other. In the present embodiment, the movement of the other-side tray (470) is described as an example.

[0257] The second tray unit (450) may further include a case (498) that supports the other tray (470) from one side. The case (498) may be mounted on the other tray (470). At the ice-making position, the one-side tray (460) may penetrate the case (498) and come into contact with the other-side tray (470).

[0258] For example, the fastening member can be fastened to the supporter (480) by penetrating the case (498) and the other side tray (470).

[0259] The second tray unit (450) may further include a pusher (490) for separating ice from the other tray (470) during the separating process. The pusher (490) may pressurize the other tray (470) or pressurize the second ice during the separating process.

[0260] The above pusher (490) may include a pushing bar (492). When the other side tray (470) and the supporter (480) are moved during the ice-making process, the pushing bar (492) may penetrate the supporter opening (482a) of the supporter (480) to pressurize the other side tray (470) or the second ice.

[0261] When the other side tray (470) is pressed by the pushing bar (492), the shape of the other side tray (470) is deformed, and the second ice can be separated from the other side tray (470). To enable deformation of the other side tray (470), the other side tray (470) can be formed of a non-metallic material. In terms of ease of deformation, the other side tray (470) can be formed of a flexible material.

[0262] The structure of the above pusher (490) will be described later with reference to the drawings.

[0263] Meanwhile, the cooler (50) may include a first refrigerant pipe (510) that is in contact with the first tray unit (410) or positioned adjacent to the first tray unit (410).

[0264] The above cooler (50) may further include a second refrigerant pipe (520) positioned adjacent to or in contact with the second tray unit (450).

[0265] The above first refrigerant pipe (510) and the above second refrigerant pipe (520) can be connected in series or in parallel.

[0266] The first refrigerant pipe (510) may include the first inlet pipe (511). The first inlet pipe (511) may be located at one side of the first tray body (420). The first inlet pipe (511) may extend from a position adjacent to the driving unit (690). The first inlet pipe (511) may extend from the rear of the driving unit (690). That is, the first inlet pipe (511) may extend in a space between the driving unit (690) and the rear wall (101a) of the inner case (101).

[0267] The above first refrigerant pipe (510) may further include a first bent pipe (512) extending from the first inlet pipe (511).

[0268] The above first refrigerant pipe (510) may further include a first cooling pipe (513) extending from the first bent pipe (512).

[0269] The first cooling tube (513) can be in contact with one surface of the second tray body (430). Therefore, the second tray body (430) can be cooled by the refrigerant flowing through the first cooling tube (513).

[0270] The first cooling tube (513) may include a plurality of straight sections (513a). The first cooling tube (513) may further include a curved connecting section (513b) connecting the ends of two adjacent straight sections (513a).

[0271] The first inlet pipe (511) may be positioned adjacent to a boundary portion between the first tray unit (410) and the second tray unit (450). The first cooling pipe (513) may extend from the boundary portion in a direction away from the second tray unit (450).

[0272] One straight section can contact one surface of a plurality of second tray bodies (430).

[0273] The above plurality of straight sections (513a) can be arranged at substantially the same height.

[0274] The first refrigerant pipe (510) may further include a first connecting pipe (514) extending from an end of the first cooling pipe (513). The first connecting pipe (514) may be extended to have a lower height than the first cooling pipe (513).

[0275] The first refrigerant pipe (510) may further include a second cooling pipe (515) connected to the first connecting pipe (514). The second cooling pipe (515) may be positioned lower than the first cooling pipe (513).

[0276] The above second cooling tube (515) can contact the side of the second tray body (430).

[0277] The second cooling tube (515) may include a plurality of straight sections (515a, 515b). The second cooling tube (515) may further include a curved connecting section (515c) connecting two adjacent straight sections (515a, 515b).

[0278] The above plurality of second tray bodies (430) can be arranged in a plurality of columns and rows.

[0279] Some of the straight portions (515a, 515b) among the plurality of straight portions (515a, 515b) may be in contact with one side of the second tray body (430) of one row. Other of the straight portions (515b) among the plurality of straight portions (515a, 515b) may be in contact with the second tray bodies (430) of two adjacent rows, respectively.

[0280] For example, some of the straight portions (515a) may contact, for example, the first side of the second tray body in the first row. Other of the straight portions (515b) may contact, for example, the second side of the second tray body in the first row and the first side of the second tray body in the second row.

[0281] The first refrigerant pipe (510) may further include a first discharge pipe (516). The first discharge pipe (516) may extend from an end of the second cooling pipe (515). The first discharge pipe (516) may extend toward the second tray unit (450). The height of the first discharge pipe (516) may be variable in the extension direction.

[0282] The second refrigerant pipe (520) can receive refrigerant from the first discharge pipe (516). The second refrigerant pipe (520) can be a pipe formed integrally with the first discharge pipe (516) or a pipe connected to the second discharge pipe (516).

[0283] The second refrigerant pipe (520) may include a second inlet pipe (522) connected to the first discharge pipe (516). The second inlet pipe (522) may be located on the opposite side of the driving unit (690) in the second tray unit (450).

[0284] The second refrigerant pipe (520) may further include a third cooling pipe (523). The third cooling pipe (523) may extend from the second inlet pipe (522).

[0285] A part of the second refrigerant pipe (520) (for example, the third cooling pipe (523)) may be positioned higher than one end of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0286] The third cooling pipe (523) may be in contact with the one-sided tray (460). Therefore, the one-sided tray (460) may be cooled by the refrigerant flowing through the third cooling pipe (523). For example, the third cooling pipe (523) may be in contact with one surface of the one-sided tray (460).

[0287] The above water supply device (320) may be positioned higher than the third cooling pipe (523).

[0288] The third cooling tube (523) may include a plurality of straight sections (523a). The third cooling tube (523) may further include a curved connecting section (523b) connecting two adjacent straight sections (523a).

[0289] At least one of the plurality of straight sections (523a) may extend in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the plurality of second ice-making cells (451). The plurality of straight sections (523a) may overlap the second ice-making cells (451) in a first direction. Some of the plurality of straight sections (523a) may overlap the second opening (473) in the first direction. The first direction may be the arrangement direction of one side cell and the other side cell forming the second ice-making cells (451).

[0290] The third cooling pipe (523) may be positioned higher than the first cooling pipe (513). The third cooling pipe (523) may be positioned higher than the second cooling pipe (515).

[0291] The second refrigerant pipe (520) may further include a second bent pipe (524) extending from an end of the third cooling pipe (523). A portion of the second bent pipe (524) may extend along one side of the driving unit (690) from the end of the third cooling pipe (523).

[0292] Another part of the second bending tube (524) may extend in the other direction.

[0293] The second refrigerant pipe (520) may further include a second discharge pipe (525) connected to the second bent pipe (524). At least a portion of the second discharge pipe (525) may extend parallel to the first inlet pipe (511). The second discharge pipe (525) may be positioned at the rear of the driving unit (690). That is, the second discharge pipe (525) may extend in the space between the driving unit (690) and the rear wall (101a) of the inner case (101).

[0294] At least a portion of the second discharge pipe (525) may be arranged in the first direction with the first inlet pipe (511).

[0295] At least a portion of the second discharge pipe (525) may overlap the first inlet pipe (511) in the first direction. At least a portion of the second discharge pipe (525) may be located on one side of the first inlet pipe (511).

[0296] In this embodiment, the water supply device (320) can supply water to the ice making unit (40) during the water supply process. The water supply device (320) can supply water to the ice making unit (40) during the ice-making process.

[0297] When ice making is completed in the ice making unit (40), the ice making unit (40) can be maintained at a sub-zero temperature. The water supply mechanism (320) can supply water supplied from an external water source (302) to the ice making unit (40). Since the water supplied from the external water source (302) is at room temperature or a temperature similar to room temperature, water can be supplied from the water supply mechanism (320) to the ice making unit (40) during the ice-making process to increase the temperature of the ice making unit (40).

[0298] Fig. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the second tray unit of the present embodiment, and Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a supporter according to the present embodiment. Fig. 16 is a drawing showing the second water supply unit of the present embodiment installed on the supporter, and Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of Fig. 16.

[0299] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 17, the second water supply unit (382) is installed on the supporter (480) and can be moved together with the supporter (480).

[0300] The other side tray (470) may include a tray body (471) forming a second other side cell (472). The other side tray (470) may further include a tray extension portion (475) extending from the tray body (471).

[0301] The above supporter (480) may include a supporter body (481) that forms a receiving portion (482) for receiving the tray body (471).

[0302] The supporter body (481) may include a body wall (481a) forming the receiving portion (482). The body wall (481a) may be formed, for example, in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere. The supporter opening (482a) may be formed in the body wall (481a).

[0303] The supporter body (481) may further include a body extension (481b) extending from the body wall (481a). The tray extension (475) may be mounted on the body extension (481b).

[0304] The case (498) may be mounted on the tray extension (475) mounted on the body extension (481b). The case (498) may include a case opening (498a) through which the one-sided tray (460) passes.

[0305] The case (498) may further include a fastening hole (498b) through which a fastening member may pass. The fastening member may pass through the fastening hole (498b) and the tray extension (475) and be fastened to the supporter (480).

[0306] The supporter body (481) may further include a peripheral wall (481c) extending from the body wall (481b). The peripheral wall (481c) may be spaced apart from the body wall (481a). Accordingly, a space (485) for accommodating the second water supply unit (382) may be formed between the peripheral wall (481c) and the body wall (481a).

[0307] The above-mentioned peripheral wall (481c) may be provided with an inclined surface (481d) to prevent interference with the guide (70) during the movement of the supporter (480) during the icing process.

[0308] The supporter (480) may further include an opening wall (482b) extending around the supporter opening (482a). The opening wall (482b) may be formed in a ring shape or an arc shape.

[0309] The above supporter (480) may further include a hinge body (483, 483a) to which the shaft (489) is coupled. A plurality of hinge bodies (483, 483a) may be spaced apart in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the shaft (489).

[0310] The above hinge body (483, 483a) may include a shaft hole (484) for the shaft (489) to pass through.

[0311] Meanwhile, the second water supply unit (382) may include an inlet pipe (384). The inlet pipe (384) may be connected to the water supply tube (373). Although not limited, the inlet pipe (384) may be formed in a straight shape or may be bent one or more times.

[0312] The inlet of the above inlet pipe (384) can be referred to as the first through hole.

[0313] The above second water supply unit (382) may further include a common pipe (385) connected to the inlet pipe (384).

[0314] The above common pipe (385) may, for example, extend in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the second ice-making cell (451).

[0315] The above common pipe (385) can be fastened to the above supporter (480).

[0316] For example, the common pipe (385) may be located in the space (485) between the peripheral wall (481c) and the body wall (481a).

[0317] The common pipe (385) may be formed to have a fastening rib (387) protruding horizontally. The supporter (480) may be provided with a fastening portion (486) for fastening to the fastening rib (387). The fastening portion (486) may be positioned, for example, between two adjacent second side cells (472).

[0318] The above-mentioned fastening portion (486) may protrude from the supporter (480). A fastening protrusion (486a) aligned with the fastening rib (387) may be provided at the end of the above-mentioned fastening portion (486). A portion of the fastening protrusion (486a) may be inserted into the fastening rib (387). In this state, a fastening member may be fastened to the fastening rib (387) and the fastening protrusion (486a).

[0319] The above peripheral wall (481c) may be provided with a pipe opening (481e) for the inlet pipe (384) to pass through.

[0320] The second water supply unit (382) may further include one or more discharge pipes (386) extending from the common pipe (385).

[0321] The number of the above discharge pipes (386) may be the same as the number of the second ice-making cells (251).

[0322] The above discharge pipe (386) may extend from the common pipe (385) and be aligned with the supporter opening (482a). The above discharge pipe (386) may be aligned with the second opening (473).

[0323] Although not limited, the discharge pipe (386) may be located in the center of the second opening (473).

[0324] A slot (482c) may be formed in the above opening wall (482b) for the discharge pipe (386) to pass through. The slot (482c) may prevent the discharge pipe (386) from interfering with the above opening wall (482b).

[0325] The above discharge pipe (386) may include a discharge hole (386c). The discharge hole (386c) may be referred to as a second through hole.

[0326] The above discharge hole (386c) can be arranged so that water is supplied into the second ice-making cell (251) via the second opening (473) formed in the other tray (470).

[0327] For example, the discharge hole (386c) may be located in the support opening (482a) or in the second opening (473).

[0328] The diameter of the discharge hole (386c) may be smaller than the diameter of the second opening (473). Therefore, a portion of the water supplied to the second ice-making cell (251) may flow downward through the outer region of the discharge hole (386c) from the second opening (473). In addition, the water supplied through the discharge hole (386c) may be prevented from interfering with the water discharged from the second ice-making cell (251) through the second opening (473).

[0329] In addition, when the discharge hole (386c) is located in the support opening (482a) or the second opening (473), water can be stably supplied into the second ice-making cell (251), so the size of the second opening (473) can be reduced.

[0330] In this embodiment, the position of the supporter (480) can be changed during the ice-making and ice-removing processes. Accordingly, the position of the discharge pipe (386) mounted on the supporter (480) can also be changed.

[0331] Since the other side tray (470) is mounted on the supporter (480), the discharge pipe (386) can move in the same direction as the movement direction of the other side tray (470).

[0332] The discharge pipe (386) may include, but is not limited to, a first portion (386a) extending from the common pipe (385). The discharge pipe (386) may further include a second portion (386b) extending from the first portion (386a) and bent at one point.

[0333] In another aspect, the second water supply unit (382) of the present embodiment may be understood to include a first through hole (inlet of the inlet pipe), a second through hole (386c), and a connecting pipe connecting the first through hole and the second through hole (386c). In this case, the connecting pipe may include at least a portion of the inlet pipe, a common pipe, and at least a portion of the discharge pipe.

[0334] Meanwhile, the water supply tube (373) connected to the inlet pipe (384) can extend in a direction parallel or nearly parallel to the arrangement direction of the second ice-making cells (251).

[0335] Among the plurality of hinge bodies (483, 483a), one hinge body (483a) may be provided with a rib (484a) for fixing the position of the water supply tube (373). The rib (484a) may extend from the hinge body (483a). The water supply tube (373) may be positioned between the hinge body (483a) and the rib (484a). The rib (484a) may be extended to be rounded or bent one or more times to form a space in which the water supply tube (373) may be positioned.

[0336] According to the present embodiment, when the supporter (480) moves, the water supply tube (373) also moves together, and if the water supply tube (373) is positioned close to the hinge body (483a) that provides the center of rotation of the supporter (480), the bending phenomenon of the water supply tube (373) can be minimized.

[0337] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the pusher of the present embodiment.

[0338] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 18, the pusher (490) of the present embodiment can be mounted on a bracket (452).

[0339] The above bracket (452) may include an inclined wall (455). The pusher (490) may be mounted on the inclined wall (455), for example.

[0340] A mounting groove (455a) for mounting the pusher (490) may be formed on the inclined wall (455).

[0341] The above pusher (490) may include a plate (491) that is seated in the seating groove (455a). The pushing bar (492) may extend from the plate (491).

[0342] A fastening protrusion (456) may be formed in the above-mentioned fixing groove (455a). The above-mentioned plate (491) may be provided with a protrusion hole (495) through which the fastening protrusion (456) passes. Although not limited, the protrusion hole (495) may be located between two adjacent pushing bars (492).

[0343] A fastening boss (457) may be formed in the above-mentioned fixing groove (455a). A boss engaging portion (496) to which the fastening boss (457) is engaged may be provided in the above-mentioned plate (491). The boss engaging portion (496) may protrude from the above-mentioned plate (491). The fastening boss (457) may be inserted into the boss engaging portion (496). In this state, a fastening member may be fastened to the boss engaging portion (496) and the fastening boss (457).

[0344] The above pusher (490) may be positioned on one side of the other tray (470). The pusher (490) may provide a path through which a component may move through the interior.

[0345] For example, the pusher (490) may include a through hole (492) that allows a component to move through the interior. For example, the through hole (493) may be provided in the pushing bar (492).

[0346] The above through hole (493) may include a first through hole (493a) that allows the component to enter the interior of the pusher (490).

[0347] The above through hole (493) may further include an empty space (493b) provided so that a component passing through the first through hole (493a) passes through the interior of the pusher (490).

[0348] The above through hole (493) may further include a second through hole (493c) that provides a position at which a component passing through the empty space (493b) stops.

[0349] The pusher (490) may further include a wall (493d) that provides a position at which a component passing through the empty space (493b) stops. The wall (493d) may include a hole (494).

[0350] Although not limited, the component may be a part of the second water supply unit (382). For example, the component may be the discharge pipe (486).

[0351] In another aspect, the pusher (490) may include an opening through which a component may move.

[0352] The above opening may be formed on one side of the pusher (490). At least a portion of the above component may be disposed on one side of the pusher (490), and the above opening may be formed on one side of the pusher (490).

[0353] Alternatively, at least a portion of the component may be disposed on the other side of the pusher (490), and the opening may be formed on the other side of the pusher (490).

[0354] The above opening may be provided to face a non-opening wall, so that the part may be stopped by the wall.

[0355] Fig. 19 is a control block diagram of an ice-making device of the present embodiment, Fig. 20 is a drawing showing a process in which water is supplied to an ice-making unit during an ice-making process, and Fig. 21 is a drawing showing an ice-making unit during an ice-making process.

[0356] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 19, the ice making device (1) of the present embodiment may further include a controller (190). The controller (190) may control the water supply valve (304) during the water supply process.

[0357] The controller (190) can control the supply of cold during the ice-making process. For example, the controller (190) can control the cooling unit during the ice-making process. For example, the controller (190) can vary the cooling capacity of the cooling unit.

[0358] Although not limited, the controller (190) may variably control the output of one or more of the compressor (183) and condenser fan (185) (or fan drive).

[0359] For example, the compressor (183) may be an inverter compressor capable of variable frequency.

[0360] The controller (190) can control the first pump (360) and / or the second pump (362) during the ice-making process. The controller (190) can independently control the first pump (360) and the second pump (362).

[0361] The controller (190) can control the ice unit during the ice-making process. For example, the ice unit can include one or more of the water supply device (320) and the refrigerant pipes (510, 520). The controller (190) can control the water supply valve (304) during the ice-making process to control the discharge of water from the water supply device (320). The controller (190) can control the valve (188) to allow high-temperature refrigerant to flow into the refrigerant pipes (510, 520) during the ice-making process.

[0362] The controller (190) can control the driving unit (690) during the ice-making process. By controlling the driving unit (690), the controller (190) can control the position of the second water supply unit (382). That is, the position of the second water supply unit (382) during the ice-making process may be different from the position of the second water supply unit (382) during the ice-making process. The reason why the position of the second water supply unit (382) is variable is because the second water supply unit (382) is positioned to be movable. For example, since the second water supply unit (382) is installed on the supporter (480), the position of the second water supply unit (382) may be variable.

[0363] The above ice making device (1) may further include a first temperature sensor (191) for detecting the temperature of the first ice making cell (440) or the temperature around the first ice making cell (440).

[0364] The above ice making device (1) may further include a second temperature sensor (192) for detecting the temperature of the second ice making cell (451) or the temperature around the second ice making cell (441).

[0365] The controller (190) can determine whether ice making is complete in the first tray unit (410) based on the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor (191).

[0366] The controller (190) can determine whether ice making is complete in the second tray unit (450) based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor (192).

[0367] Below, the series of processes by which ice is created in the ice making unit will be described.

[0368] The process for creating ice may include a water supply process. The process for creating ice may further include an ice-making process. The process for creating ice may further include an ice-breaking process.

[0369] When the above water supply process starts, the water supply valve (304) is turned on and water supplied from an external water source (302) flows along the water supply path. The water flowing along the water supply path is supplied to the ice making unit (40) through the water supply mechanism (320).

[0370] The water supplied to the ice making unit (40) falls to the lower side of the ice making unit (40) and is stored in the water storage unit (350). When the water level stored in the water storage unit (350) reaches the reference level, the water supply valve (304) is turned off, thereby ending the water supply process.

[0371] After the above water supply process is completed, the ice making process begins.

[0372] During the above ice-making process, the cooling unit may operate to allow low-temperature refrigerant to flow into the cooler (50). For example, the compressor (183) may be turned on. Of course, the condenser fan (185) may also be turned on. Alternatively, the compressor (183) and the condenser fan (185) may be turned on before the ice-making process and remain turned on during the ice-making process. The valve (188) may be turned off.

[0373] In the above ice-making process, water can be supplied to the ice-making unit (40) by the water supply unit (330).

[0374] The controller described later can turn on the pumps (360, 362) simultaneously or sequentially.

[0375] For example, when the first pump (360) is operated, water can be supplied to the first tray unit (410) through the first water supply unit (380).

[0376] Water sprayed from the first water supply unit (380) can be supplied to the first ice-making cell (440) through the first opening (423) of the first tray body (420).

[0377] The water supplied to the first ice-making cell (440) flows toward the upper surface of the second tray body (430). Some of the water within the first ice-making cell (440) may be frozen by the first refrigerant pipe (510). The unfrozen water falls downward again through the first opening (423). The water falling downward through the first opening (423) is stored again in the water storage unit (350).

[0378] During the above ice-making process, ice is created on one side of the first ice-making cell (440) and grows toward the other side. As water is sprayed into the first ice-making cell (440), some of the water freezes. As the water is sprayed onto the ice created in the first tray body (420) or the second tray body (420), air bubbles in the water may be discharged from the water.

[0379] When the second pump (362) is operated, water can be supplied to the second tray unit (450) through the second water supply unit (382).

[0380] Water sprayed from the second water supply unit (382) can be supplied to the second ice-making cell (451) through the supporter opening (482a) of the supporter (480) and the second opening (473) of the other tray (470).

[0381] The water supplied to the second ice-making cell (451) flows toward the interior of the one-side tray (460). Some of the water within the second ice-making cell (451) may be frozen by the second refrigerant pipe (520). The unfrozen water falls downward again through the second opening (473). The water falling downward through the second opening (473) is stored again in the water storage unit (350).

[0382] During the above ice making process, the controller can determine whether ice making is completed in the tray unit.

[0383] The above ice making process can be judged to be completed when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of each tray unit reaches the end reference temperature.

[0384] Once the ice-making process is complete, the ice-breaking process can be performed.

[0385] Depending on the amount of water supplied controlled during the ice-making process, the second ice (I2) produced in the second ice-making cell (451) may come into contact with the second water supply unit (382) or be spaced apart from the second water supply unit (382). That is, since the end of the second water supply unit (382) is positioned adjacent to the second opening (473) or on the second opening (473), in the ice-making state, the second ice (I2) may come into contact with the second water supply unit (382).

[0386] Of course, even if the second ice (I2) remains in contact with the second water supply unit (382) after the completion of the ice-making process, the second ice (I2) may be separated from the second water supply unit (382) during the ice-making process.

[0387] When the above-described ice-making process begins, the valve (188) may be turned on. When the valve (188) is turned on, the high-temperature refrigerant compressed in the compressor (183) may flow to the cooler (50). The high-temperature refrigerant flowing to the cooler (50) may exchange heat with the ice-making unit (40). When the high-temperature refrigerant flows to the cooler (50), heat may be transferred to the ice-making unit (40).

[0388] The first ice (I1) can be separated from the first tray unit (410) by the heat transferred to the ice making unit (40). When the first ice (I1) is separated from the first tray unit (410), the first ice (I1) can fall to the guide (70). The first ice (I1) that falls to the guide (70) can be stored in the first storage space (132).

[0389] The second ice (I2) can be separated from the surface of at least one tray (460) by the heat transferred to the ice making unit (40).

[0390] Over time, or when the temperature of each tray unit reaches a set temperature, the flow of high temperature refrigerant to the cooler (50) can be blocked.

[0391] Next, the driving unit (690) can be operated so that the second ice (I2) is separated from the second tray unit (450).

[0392] That is, after the second ice is created in the second ice-making cell (251), the controller (190) can control the other tray (470) to move in the first direction (clockwise with reference to FIG. 13) to the ice-removing position and then move in the second direction to remove the ice from the second ice-making cell (251). The second direction may be a different direction from the first direction. For example, the second direction may be the opposite direction to the first direction.

[0393] When the second ice (I2) is separated from the one-side tray (460) and the other-side tray (470) by the high-temperature refrigerant flowing to the cooler (50), the other-side tray (470) can be moved while the second ice (I2) is supported on the other-side tray (470). In this case, when the other-side tray (470) moves at an angle of approximately 90 degrees, the second ice (I2) can fall from the other-side tray (470).

[0394] On the other hand, if the second ice (I2) is separated from the one-side tray (460) by the high-temperature refrigerant flowing to the cooler (50) but is not yet separated from the other-side tray (470), the pusher (490) presses the other-side tray (470) while the other-side tray (470) moves by the ice-breaking angle, so that the second ice (I2) can be separated from the other-side tray (470) and fall.

[0395] Alternatively, depending on the size of the second opening (473), the pusher (490) may penetrate the other side tray (470) to directly press the second ice (I2). Alternatively, the pusher (490) may contact both the other side tray (470) and the second ice (I2).

[0396] For example, after ice making is completed, when the second ice (I2) generated inside the second ice making cell (451) comes into contact with the second water supply unit (382), the other tray (470) can be moved while the second ice (I2) is in contact with the second water supply unit (382).

[0397] Next, when the other side tray is moved at an angle greater than the angle at which one end of the second water supply unit (382) passes the end of the pusher (490) or when the other side tray (470) is moved to the extent that a part of the second water supply unit (382) is inserted into the pusher (490), the second water supply unit (382) can be spaced apart from the second ice (I2). That is, the other side tray (470) can be additionally moved so that the second water supply unit (382) is spaced apart from the second ice (I2).

[0398] Alternatively, at least a portion of the pusher (490) may come into contact with the second ice (I2) or the other side tray (470). That is, the other side tray (470) may be further moved so that at least a portion of the pusher (490) comes into contact with the second ice (I2) or the other side tray (470).

[0399] As another example, after ice making is completed, if the second ice (I2) generated inside the second ice making cell (451) is not in contact with the second water supply unit (382), the other tray (470) can be moved while the second ice (I2) is not in contact with the second water supply unit (382).

[0400] When the other tray (470) is moved beyond a position where one end of the second water supply unit (382) passes the end of the pusher (490), or when the other tray (470) is moved to the extent that a part of the second water supply unit (382) is inserted into the pusher (490), the pusher (490) can come into contact with the second ice (I2).

[0401] After the pusher (490) comes into contact with the second ice (I2), it is also possible for the second water supply unit (382) to come into contact with the second ice (I2) during the movement of the other tray (470). In this case, it may be the case that relative movement between the second water supply unit (382) and the other tray (470) is possible. If the material or structure of the second water supply unit (382) is changed so that the second water supply unit (382) moves together with the supporter (480), and relative movement between the second water supply unit (382) and the other tray (470) or the supporter (480) is possible in at least a part of the section in which the supporter (480) moves, it is also possible for the second water supply unit (382) to come into contact with the second ice (I2) while being spaced apart from it.

[0402] Additionally, the second water supply unit (382) can be separated from the second ice (I2) by additional movement of the other side tray (470).

[0403] As another example, for example, after ice making is completed, when the second ice (I2) generated inside the second ice making cell (451) comes into contact with the second water supply unit (382), the other tray (470) can be moved while the second ice (I2) is in contact with the second water supply unit (382). In this state, during the movement of the other tray (470), the pusher (490) can also come into contact with the second ice (I2).

[0404] Next, the second water supply unit can be separated from the second ice (I2) by further movement of the other side tray (470).

[0405] As described above, since the pusher (490) includes a through hole or an opening, the second water supply unit (382) can move without interference with the pusher (490) during the ice-making process. For example, the discharge pipe (386) can move while being accommodated in the pushing bar (492).

[0406] When the second ice (I2) is separated from the second tray unit (450), the second ice (I2) can fall to the guide (70). The second ice (I2) that falls to the guide (70) can be stored in the second storage space (134).

[0407] After the other side tray (470) is moved in the first direction, the other side tray (470) can be moved in the second direction (counterclockwise in the drawing) by the driving unit (690) to come into contact with the one side tray (460).

[0408] When the ice-making process is performed once or a set number of times, the water in the water storage unit (350) can be discharged to the outside through the drain pipe (390) and the drain tube (392) (drain process). That is, the drain valve can be turned on for a certain period of time when the water drain condition is satisfied.

[0409] The next water supply process may begin after the drain process has been performed. When the drain process is performed intermittently, if the drain condition is not satisfied, the water supply process may be performed immediately after the ice removal process. If the drain condition is satisfied, the drain process may be performed after the ice removal process, and the water supply process may be performed after the drain process has been completed.

[0410] Meanwhile, it is also possible to apply the technology applied to the ice making device (1) to a refrigerator. That is, the refrigerator may include some or all of the components of the ice making device (1).

[0411] First, the ice-making unit (40) of the ice-making device (1) can be applied to the refrigerator. The refrigerator can include a cabinet having a storage compartment where items are stored, and a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. The ice-making compartment can be provided in the cabinet or the door.

[0412] The ice making unit (40) having the same structure or similar form as the ice making unit (40) of the present embodiment may be provided in the storage room or ice making room.

[0413] In the case of the above refrigerator, it is also possible to include only one of the first tray unit and the second tray unit. Depending on the number of tray units, the number of corresponding pumps or water supply units may also vary.

[0414] The refrigerator can supply cold to the storage room. The storage room may be equipped with a storage room temperature sensor. If the ice making room is located in the storage room, the ice making room may be part of the storage room or may be separated from the storage room to receive cold. The controller can control the supply of cold to the storage room or control the supply of cold to the ice making room.

[0415] In the present embodiment, the cooling unit in the ice making device (1) may be replaced with a cooling unit or refrigerant cycle that cools the storage compartment in the refrigerator.

[0416] The guide (70), water supply mechanism (320) and water supply unit (330) provided in the above ice making device (1) may be the same as or applied to the refrigerator, or may be applied with the shape, size, position or number modified to suit the characteristics of the refrigerator.

Claims

2023231005   22 Jul 2026[CLAIMS]1. A refrigerator comprising:a storage chamber where an item is stored;a cooler configured to supply cold to the storage chamber;one tray that defines a portion of a cell that is a space in which liquid is phase-changed into ice by the cold;another tray that defines another portion of the cell and is arranged to be in contact with the one tray during an ice making process and to be spaced apart from the one tray during an ice separation process;a sub liquid supplier configured to supply the liquid to the cell; anda pusher spaced apart from the another tray by a predetermined distance,wherein the another tray includes an opening to which the liquid is supplied,the pusher provides a path for the sub liquid supplier to move,the pusher is configured to press the another tray in the ice separation process, anda liquid supply process and the ice making process are performed in a state in which the one tray and the another tray are in contact to form the cell.

2. A refrigerator comprising:a storage chamber where an item is stored;a cooler configured to supply cold to the storage chamber;one tray that defines a portion of a cell that is a space in which liquid is phase-changed into ice by the cold;2023231005   22 Jul 2026another tray that defines another portion of the cell and is arranged to be in contact with the one tray during an ice making process and to be spaced apart from the one tray during an ice separation process;a sub liquid supplier configured to supply the liquid to the cell; anda pusher spaced apart from the another tray by a predetermined distance,wherein the another tray includes an opening to which the liquid is supplied,the pusher provides a path for the sub liquid supplier to move,the pusher is configured to press the ice in the another tray through the opening in the ice separation process, anda liquid supply process and the ice making process are performed in a state in which the one tray and the another tray are in contact to form the cell.

3. The refrigerator of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sub liquid supplier is positioned at a lower side of the another tray.

4. The refrigerator of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a supporter configured to support the another tray,wherein the sub liquid supplier is moved together with the supporter.

5. The refrigerator of any one of claims 1 to 4,wherein a position of the another tray in the liquid supply process is the same as a position of the another tray in the ice making process.2023231005   22 Jul 20266. The refrigerator of any one of claims 1 to 5,wherein the sub liquid supplier comprises:a first through hole through which the liquid is introduced,a second through hole through which the liquid is discharged, anda pipe connecting the first through hole and the second through hole.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6,wherein the second through hole is arranged to supply the liquid into the cell through the opening of the another tray.

8. The refrigerator of claim 6 or claim 7,wherein the second through hole is movably provided to be located at different positions during the ice making process and the ice separation process.

9. A refrigerator comprising:one tray that defines a portion of a cell that is a space in which liquid is phase-changed into ice by cold;another tray that defines another portion of the cell and is arranged to be in contact with the one tray during an ice making process and to be spaced apart from the one tray during an ice separation process;a sub liquid supplier configured to supply the liquid to the cell; anda pusher spaced apart from the another tray by a predetermined distance,wherein the pusher provides a path for the sub liquid supplier to move, and2023231005   22 Jul 2026a liquid supply process and the ice making process are performed in a state in which the one tray and the another tray are in contact to form the cell.

10. The refrigerator of claim 9,wherein the pusher is disposed at one side of the another tray.

11. The refrigerator of any one of claims 1 to 10,wherein the pusher comprises a through hole that allows the sub liquid supplier to move through an interior of the pusher.

12. The refrigerator of claim 11,wherein the through hole of the pusher comprises a first through hole for the sub liquid supplier to enter an inside of the pusher; anda hollow space provided for the sub liquid supplier passing through the first through hole of the pusher to pass through an inside of the pusher.

13. The refrigerator of claim 12,wherein the through hole of the pusher comprises a second through hole that provides a position at which the sub liquid supplier passing through the hollow space stops, orthe pusher comprises a wall that provides a position at which the sub liquid supplier passing through the hollow space stops.

14. The refrigerator of claim 11,2023231005   22 Jul 2026wherein the pusher comprises an opening formed therein so that the sub liquid supplier moves therethrough.

15. The refrigerator of claim 14,wherein the opening of the pusher is formed at one side of the pusher.

16. The refrigerator of claim 15,wherein at least a portion of the sub liquid supplier is disposed at one side of the pusher and the opening of the pusher is formed at the one side of the pusher, orat least a portion of the sub liquid supplier is disposed at another side of the pusher, and the opening of the pusher is formed at the another side of the pusher.

17. The refrigerator of claim 15 or claim 16,wherein the opening of the pusher is provided to face an unopened wall.

18. The refrigerator of claim 9, further comprising a supporter configured to support the another tray,wherein the sub liquid supplier is moved together with the supporter.

19. The refrigerator of claim 4 or 18,wherein the sub liquid supplier is installed on the supporter.2023231005   22 Jul 202620. The refrigerator of claim 9, wherein a position of the another tray in the liquid supply process is the same as a position of the another tray in the ice making process.

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