Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment includes: a box forming a storage chamber; a door for opening and closing the storage chamber; an ice maker which is provided on the door or the cabinet and generates ice; and a dispenser which is provided on the door and which takes out ice generated by the ice maker. The distributor comprises a distributor cover body which forms an accommodating space; an ice tank which is formed in the dispenser cover and through which the ice passes; a cap duct for opening and closing the ice tank; and an ice guide for guiding ice passing through the ice tank, the ice guide includes: a first body forming an ice inlet; the second main body extends towards the lower side of the first main body; and a third main body which extends to the lower side of the second main body and forms an ice outlet. The first main body comprises a first extension wall; the second main body comprises a second extension wall which extends to the lower side of the first extension wall; and a third extension wall located on the opposite side of the second extension wall; the third extension wall is positioned closer to the ice tank than the second extension wall; the inclination angle of the second extending wall relative to the horizontal plane is smaller than that of the third extending wall relative to the horizontal plane.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to a refrigerator. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a household appliance that can store food at a low temperature in an internal storage space shielded by a door. The refrigerator cools the inside of the storage space using cold air, thereby enabling the stored food to be stored in a refrigerated or frozen state.

[0003] The refrigerator may be a side-by-side refrigerator in which a freezer compartment and a refrigerating compartment are arranged side by side, or a top-freezer refrigerator in which the freezer compartment is located above the refrigerating compartment, or a bottom-freezer refrigerator in which the refrigerating compartment is located above the freezer compartment.

[0004] Generally, a freezer compartment of a refrigerator provides an ice maker for making ice. The ice maker allows water supplied from a water supply source or a water tank to be received in a tray, and then generates ice through cooling water. The ice generated by the ice maker can be stored in an ice bucket. The ice stored in the ice bucket can be discharged through a dispenser provided on the door, or the user can open the freezer door and then approach the ice bucket to take out the ice in the ice bucket.

[0005] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659, as an existing document, discloses a refrigerator.

[0006] The refrigerator of the existing document includes: a cabinet body formed with a refrigerating compartment and a freezer compartment below the refrigerating compartment; a pair of refrigerating compartment doors configured to open and close the refrigerating compartment on the left and right sides, with an ice maker and a dispenser provided on either side; a main water tank provided in the refrigerating compartment to cool the supplied water; a water purification device provided in the cabinet body to purify the supplied water; a sub-water tank provided in the refrigerating compartment door to additionally cool the supplied water; a water supply flow path connecting the water purification device, the main water tank, the sub-water tank, the dispenser, and the ice maker; and a branch valve provided on the water supply flow path of the refrigerating compartment door to selectively supply the purified water to the dispenser or the ice maker.

[0007] However, in the case of the existing document, since components such as a sub-water tank and a branch valve are provided at the rear side of the dispenser, there is a disadvantage that the space at the rear side of the dispenser cannot be used as an additional storage space or an ice making room.

[0008] Even if an additional space is formed at the rear side of the dispenser in the case of the existing document, since the thickness of the door will become thicker, there is a disadvantage that the volume of the refrigerating compartment decreases by an amount corresponding to the increase in the thickness of the door. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Problems to be Solved

[0010] One embodiment provides a refrigerator with a thinner dispenser.

[0011] Optionally or additionally, an embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of reducing the width of the passage for ice discharged from an ice maker provided in a door while smoothly discharging the ice.

[0012] Optionally or additionally, an embodiment provides a refrigerator that prevents ice chips from accumulating on an ice guide that forms a passage for ice during the discharge of the ice.

[0013] Optionally or additionally, an embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of forming an ice making chamber or a storage space at the rear side of a thinner dispenser.

[0014] Technical solutions for solving the problems

[0015] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet. The cabinet may have a storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker for generating ice. The ice maker may be provided in the door or the cabinet.

[0016] The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided in the door and configured to take out ice generated by the ice maker. The dispenser may include a dispenser housing forming an accommodation space. The dispenser housing may include an ice trough through which ice passes.

[0017] The dispenser may further include a cap duct for opening and closing the ice trough. The dispenser may further include an ice guide for guiding ice. The ice guide may guide the ice that has passed through the ice trough.

[0018] The ice guide may include a first body. The first body may form an ice inlet. The ice guide may further include a second body. The second body may extend downward from the first body. The ice guide may further include a third body. The third body may extend downward from the second body. The third body may form an ice outlet.

[0019] The first body may include a first extension wall.

[0020] The second body may include a second extension wall. The second extension wall may extend downward from the first extension wall. The second body may further include a third extension wall. The third extension wall may be located on the opposite side of the second extension wall. The third extension wall may be located closer to the ice trough than the second extension wall.

[0021] The inclination angle of the second extension wall with respect to the horizontal plane may be smaller than the inclination angle of the third extension wall with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0022] The length of the ice outlet in the X-axis direction, which is the front-rear direction of the refrigerator door, may be less than the length of the ice outlet in the Y-axis direction, which is the left-right direction of the refrigerator door.

[0023] The vertical line passing through the center of the ice outlet is located closer to the third extension wall than the second extension wall.

[0024] The imaginary line E1 passing through the third extension wall may pass through the ice outlet. The imaginary line E2 passing through the second extension wall may not pass through the ice outlet.

[0025] The vertical length of the second main body may be less than the vertical length of the third main body.

[0026] The dispenser cover may include an inclined wall forming the ice chute. The second main body may further include a flange extending from the upper end of the third extension wall in a direction away from the second extension wall. The flange may be in contact with the lower end of the inclined wall.

[0027] The first main body may further include a fixing portion. The fixing portion may be fixed to the dispenser cover.

[0028] When observing the ice guide member from the upper side, the horizontal distance between the fixing portion and the first extension wall may be greater than the horizontal distance between the center of the ice outlet and the first extension wall.

[0029] In a state where the cap duct closes the ice chute, a part of the cap duct may overlap with the second extension wall in the vertical direction.

[0030] The third main body may include a fourth extension wall. The fourth extension wall may extend downward from the second extension wall. The third main body may further include a fifth extension wall. The fifth extension wall may extend downward from the third extension wall. The imaginary line E2 passing through the second extension wall may pass through the fifth extension wall.

[0031] In a state where the cap duct opens the ice chute, the lowermost end portion of the cap duct may overlap with the fourth extension wall in the vertical direction.

[0032] In a state where the cap duct opens the ice chute, the lowermost end portion of the cap duct may overlap with the ice outlet in the vertical direction.

[0033] The dispenser may further include a drain port located between the front surface of the refrigerator door and the fourth extension wall.

[0034] The dispenser may further include a component located between the front surface of the refrigerator door and the fourth extension wall. The component may be a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). The component may overlap with the second extension wall in the vertical direction.

[0035] A refrigerator according to another aspect may include an ice guide forming a passage for ice. An ice chute is provided in the dispenser housing. The ice guide may guide the ice that has passed through the ice chute.

[0036] The ice guide may include a first body forming an ice inlet.

[0037] The ice guide may further include a second body extending downward from the first body. The ice guide may further include a third body extending downward from the second body and forming an ice outlet.

[0038] The ice chute may be opened and closed by a cap duct. In a state where the cap duct closes the ice chute, a part of the cap duct may overlap with the second body in the vertical direction.

[0039] In a state where the cap duct closes the ice chute, the lowermost end portion of the cap duct may overlap with the third body in the vertical direction or overlap with the ice outlet in the vertical direction.

[0040] The first body may include a first extension wall. The second body may include a second extension wall extending downward from the first extension wall. The second body may include a third extension wall located on the opposite side of the second extension wall. The third body may include a fourth extension wall extending downward from the second extension wall. The third body may further include a fifth extension wall extending downward from the third extension wall.

[0041] The third extension wall may be located closer to the ice chute than the second extension wall. In a state where the cap duct closes the ice chute, the lowermost end portion of the cap duct may overlap with the fourth extension wall in the vertical direction.

[0042] Technical Effects

[0043] According to one embodiment, while reducing the passage for ice formed by the ice guide, the length in the thickness direction of the door is reduced, thereby enabling the dispenser to be thinned.

[0044] According to one embodiment, since the inclination of the wall adjacent to the ice chute through which ice is supplied is sufficiently large, ice can be smoothly discharged even if the width of the ice passage is reduced.

[0045] According to one embodiment, it is possible to prevent ice chips from accumulating in the ice guide forming the passage for ice during the process of discharging ice.

[0046] According to an embodiment, through a thinner dispenser, an ice making chamber or a storage space can be formed at the rear side of the dispenser without increasing the thickness of the door or with as little increase in the thickness of the door as possible. Description of the Drawings

[0047] Figure 1 (A) of is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 1 (B) of is a view showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator is separated.

[0049] Figure 2 (A) of is a perspective view seen from the front of a first cold storage chamber door according to a first embodiment.

[0050] Figure 2 (B) of is a perspective view seen from the back of a first cold storage chamber door according to a first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 2 (C) of is a side view of a first cold storage chamber door according to a first embodiment.

[0052] Figure 3 is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of (A) of.

[0053] Figure 4 is a view showing a cold air flow path in a first cold storage chamber door according to a first embodiment.

[0054] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a dispenser according to a first embodiment.

[0055] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an ice guide member of the present embodiment seen from above.

[0056] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an ice guide member of the present embodiment seen from one side.

[0057] Figure 8 is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of.

[0058] Figure 9 is a top view of an ice guide member of the present embodiment.

[0059] Figure 10 is a bottom view of an ice guide member of the present embodiment.

[0060] Figure 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first cold storage chamber door showing the configuration of a cap duct and an ice guide member in a state where an ice passage of the present embodiment is closed.

[0061] Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerator door showing the configuration of the cap duct and the ice guide in a state where the ice passage in the present embodiment is open. Detailed Description

[0062] Figure 1 (A) of is a front view of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment, Figure 1 (B) of is a view showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator is separated. Figure 2 (A) of is a perspective view seen from the front of the first refrigerator door of the first embodiment, Figure 2 (B) of is a perspective view seen from the back of the first refrigerator door of the first embodiment. Figure 2 (C) of is a side view of the first refrigerator door of the first embodiment.

[0063] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a cabinet 2 having a storage compartment. The refrigerator 1 may further include a refrigerator door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0064] The storage compartment may include a refrigerating compartment 18. The storage compartment may selectively or additionally include a freezing compartment 19. As an example, Figure 1 shows a case where the storage compartment includes a refrigerating compartment 18 and a freezing compartment 19.

[0065] The refrigerating compartment 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerator doors 5. The freezing compartment 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezer doors 30.

[0066] Hereinafter, a case where the refrigerating compartment 18 is opened and closed by a first refrigerator door 10 and a second refrigerator door 20 will be described as an example.

[0067] At least one of the first refrigerator door 10 and the second refrigerator door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for discharging water and / or ice. Of course, depending on the type of the refrigerator, the freezer door 30 may have the dispenser 11.

[0068] At least one of the first refrigerator door 10 and the second refrigerator door 20 may include one or more ice makers.

[0069] Hereinafter, a case where an ice maker is provided in the first refrigerator door 10 will be described as an example. Of course, depending on the need, an ice maker may be provided in the second refrigerator door 20 or the freezer door 30. At this time, the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be provided on the same door.

[0070] Hereinafter, the case where the first refrigerator compartment door 20 includes a plurality of ice makers will be described as an example. However, it is not limited thereto, and the second refrigerator compartment door 20 may also include a plurality of ice makers.

[0071] Figure 1 Fig. schematically shows the case where the refrigerator 1 is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. However, it should be clearly understood that, differently, the idea of the present invention can be equally applied to a side-by-side refrigerator or a top-freezer refrigerator. In the case of a side-by-side or top-freezer refrigerator, the freezer door may include a plurality of ice makers or the refrigerator compartment door may include a plurality of ice makers.

[0072] The dispenser 11 may be located on the front surface of the first refrigerator compartment door 10, and a part thereof may be recessed backward, so as to provide a space capable of placing a container.

[0073] The plurality of ice makers may be arranged in the vertical direction. As an example, the plurality of ice makers may include a first ice maker 200. The plurality of ice makers may further include a second ice maker 500. The second ice maker 500 may be located below the first ice maker 200. Of course, this embodiment does not exclude the plurality of ice makers 200 and 500 being arranged in the left-right direction.

[0074] The dispenser 11 can at least discharge the ice generated in the first ice maker 200. For this purpose, the first ice maker 200 may be located at a position higher than the dispenser 11.

[0075] In the case where the dispenser 11 can discharge the ice generated in the second ice maker 500, the second ice maker 500 may also be located at a position higher than the dispenser 11. Or, even if the second ice maker 500 is located at the same or lower position as the dispenser 11, the ice generated in the second ice maker 500 can be transferred to the dispenser 11 through an additional transfer mechanism. As another example, the dispenser 11 may also include a first dispenser for discharging the ice generated in the first ice maker 200 and a second dispenser for discharging the ice generated in the second ice maker 500.

[0076] The second ice maker 500 may be located at the rear side of the dispenser 11.

[0077] The first refrigerator compartment door 10 may include an outer housing 101 for forming the front appearance. The first refrigerator compartment door 10 may further include a door inner liner 102 coupled to the outer housing 101. The door inner liner 102 can open and close the refrigerator compartment 18.

[0078] In a state where the outer casing 101 and the door inner liner 102 are combined, a heat insulation space may be formed in the space between the outer casing 101 and the door inner liner 102. A heat insulation member may be provided in the heat insulation space.

[0079] The door inner liner 102 may include a first space 122 for disposing the first ice maker 200. The first space 122 may also be referred to as a first ice making chamber. The door inner liner 102 may further include a second space 124 for disposing the second ice maker 500. The second space 124 may also be referred to as a second ice making chamber.

[0080] In this embodiment, the second ice maker 500 may be omitted. In this case, the second space 124 may also exist. At this time, the second space 124 may function as a door storage room for specific use. Or, in this embodiment, the position of the second ice maker 500 may change. According to the type of refrigerator, the second ice maker 500 may also be located in the storage space. In this case, the second space 124 may exist or the second space 124 may be omitted.

[0081] The first space 122 may be formed as one surface of the door inner liner 102 is recessed toward the outer casing 101 side. The second space 124 may be formed as one surface of the door inner liner 102 is recessed toward the outer casing 101 side. As an example, the second space 124 may be recessed toward the dispenser 11 side.

[0082] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a first ice bucket 280 for storing ice produced by the first ice maker 200. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a second ice bucket 600 for storing ice produced by the second ice maker 500. Of course, in the case where the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second ice bucket 600 may also be omitted.

[0083] The first ice bucket 280 may be accommodated in the first space 122 together with the first ice maker 200. The second ice bucket 600 may be accommodated in the second space 124 together with the second ice maker 500.

[0084] The first space 122 may be supplied with cold air generated by a cooler. The cooler may be defined as a mechanism for cooling the storage chamber by including at least one of a refrigerant cycle and a thermoelectric element. As an example, the first space 122 may be supplied with cold air for cooling the freezer 19. The second space 124 may be supplied with cold air generated by a cooler. As an example, the second space 124 may be supplied with cold air for cooling the freezer 19.

[0085] The refrigerator 1 may include a supply flow path 2a that guides the cold air of the freezer compartment 19 or the cold air of the space where the evaporator that generates the cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 19 to the first refrigerator compartment door 10. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge flow path 2b that guides the cold air discharged from the first refrigerator compartment door 10 to the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located. The supply flow path 2a and the discharge flow path 2b may be provided in the cabinet 2.

[0086] The first refrigerator compartment door 10 may include a cold air inlet 123a. If the first refrigerator compartment door 10 is closed, the cold air inlet 123a may communicate with the supply flow path 2a. The first refrigerator compartment door 10 may further include a cold air outlet 123b. If the first refrigerator compartment door 10 is closed, the cold air outlet 123b may communicate with the discharge flow path 2b.

[0087] The cold air inlet 123a may be formed on one side surface of the door liner 102. Although not limited, one side surface of the door liner 102 is the surface facing the wall where the supply flow path 2a is located in the refrigerator compartment 18 when the first refrigerator compartment door 10 is closed.

[0088] The cold air outlet 123b may be formed on one side surface of the door liner 102. Although not limited, one side surface of the door liner 102 is the surface facing the wall where the discharge flow path 2b is located in the refrigerator compartment 18 when the first refrigerator compartment door 10 is closed.

[0089] The form of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be the same as or different from the form of the ice produced by the second ice maker 200. As an example, the second ice maker 200 may form ice in a spherical form. The "spherical form" mentioned in this specification not only refers to the geometric spherical form, but also refers to a form similar to the spherical form.

[0090] The transparency of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be the same as or different from the transparency of the ice produced by the second ice maker 500. As an example, the transparency of the ice produced by the second ice maker 500 may be higher than the transparency of the ice formed by the first ice maker 200. The size (or volume) of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be different from the size (or volume) of the ice produced by the second ice maker 500. As an example, the size (or volume) of the ice produced by the second ice maker 500 may be larger than the size (or volume) of the ice formed by the first ice maker 200.

[0091] The structure of the first ice maker 200 for generating ice and the manner of separating the generated ice may be the same as or different from the structure of the second ice maker 500 and the manner of separating the ice generated in the second ice maker 500. In the case where there are differences in the structure of the ice maker and / or the ice removal method, the form of the first space 122 where the first ice maker 200 is located may be different from the form of the second space 124 where the second ice maker 500 is located.

[0092] As an example, the depth of the second space 124 may be deeper than the depth of the first space 122. Due to the depth difference between the first space 122 and the second space 124, the one side surface of the door liner 102 may include a first side surface portion 102a and a second side surface portion 102b having different widths in the front-rear direction. The width of the second side surface portion 102b may be greater than the width of the first side surface portion 102a. At least one of the cold air inlet 123a and the cold air outlet 123b may be formed in the second side surface portion 102b of the door liner 102. The second side surface portion 102b may protrude more toward the refrigerator compartment 18 side than the first side surface portion 102a.

[0093] The first refrigerator compartment door 10 may further include a first door 130 (or first space door) for opening and closing the first space 122. The first door 130 may be a heat-insulated door having a heat-insulating member inside. The first refrigerator compartment door 10 may further include a second door 132 (or second space door) for opening and closing the second space 124. The second door 132 may be a heat-insulated door having a heat-insulating member inside. Even if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second door 132 may exist.

[0094] The first door 130 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerator compartment door 10 through a hinge. The second door 132 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerator compartment door 10 through a hinge. The rotation directions of the first door 130 and the second door 132 may be the same or different.

[0095] On the other hand, by changing the thickness of the first refrigerator compartment door 10, a basket 136 for storing food may be connected to the first door 130.

[0096] A filter (not shown) may be installed on one side surface 103 of the first refrigerator compartment door 10, and the filter may be covered by a filter cover 142.

[0097] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the 3-3 line of (A) of Figure 1 and is a diagram showing the cold air flow path in the first refrigerator compartment door of the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the cold air flow path in the first refrigerator compartment door of the first embodiment.

[0098] Refer toFigure 3 and Figure 4 The first refrigerator door 10 may further include a cold air flow path for cold air flow. The flow path may be formed by a cold air duct (not shown). As an example, the cold air duct may be provided in the door inner liner 102.

[0099] The cold air flow path may guide cold air to at least one of the first space 122 and the second space 124.

[0100] The cold air flow path may include a first cold air flow path P1. The first cold air flow path P1 may guide the cold air received from the cabinet 2 to the first space 122. The cold air guided by the first cold air flow path P1 may flow toward the first ice maker 200.

[0101] The cold air flow path may further include a second cold air flow path P2. The second cold air flow path P2 may guide the cold air in the first space 122 to the second space 124. The cold air at the lower side of the first space 122 may be discharged to the second cold air flow path P2. The cold air may descend in the second cold air flow path P2 and be supplied to the second space 124.

[0102] The cold air flow path may further include a third cold air flow path P3. The third cold air flow path P3 may guide the cold air in the second space 124 to the outside of the first refrigerator door 10.

[0103] On the other hand, the first ice maker 200 may include an ice tray 210 that forms an ice making unit. The first ice maker 200 may further include a driving unit that provides power for automatically rotating the ice tray 210 to separate ice from the ice tray 210. The first ice maker 200 may further include a power transmission unit that transmits the power of the driving unit to the ice tray 210.

[0104] The ice tray 210 may include a plurality of ice making units. The water discharged from a water supply unit (not shown) and falling onto the ice tray 210 may be distributed to the plurality of ice making units.

[0105] When ice generation is completed in the ice tray 210, the ice may be separated from the ice tray 210 as the ice tray 210 rotates (twists) by the driving unit. The ice separated from the ice tray 210 may be stored in the first ice bucket 280.

[0106] The second ice maker 500 may include a first tray 510. The second ice maker 500 may further include the second tray 550. The first tray 510 and the second tray 550 may form an ice-making unit 501. The second tray 550 may move relative to the first tray 510. As an example, the second tray 550 may rotate relative to the first tray 510, move linearly relative to the first tray 510, or may move linearly and rotate.

[0107] In the case where the second tray 550 is of a rotary type, water may be supplied at the water supply position of the second tray 550. After the water supply is completed, the second tray 550 may rotate to the ice-making position. In the case where the second tray 550 is of a linear movement type, water may be supplied at the ice-making position of the second tray 550.

[0108] In the case where the second tray 550 is of a rotary type, at the water supply position, at least a part of the second tray 550 may be separated from at least a part of the first tray 510. The part of the second tray 550 that is separated from the first tray 510 at the water supply position may contact the first tray 510 at the ice-making position, thereby completing the ice-making unit 501.

[0109] The dispenser 11 may include a dispenser cover 11a. The dispenser cover 11a may form an accommodation space. A container such as a cup may be located in the accommodation space. Water or ice may be discharged into the accommodation space. At least a part of the dispenser cover 11a may be configured to overlap with the second space 124 in the front-rear direction.

[0110] Due to the dispenser cover 11a, the shortest horizontal distance between the front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and the second space 124 is greater than the shortest horizontal distance between the front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and the first space 122.

[0111] The vertical length of the first space 122 may be greater than the vertical length of the second space 124. At least a part of the second space 124 may overlap with the first space 122 in the vertical direction. The ice-making unit 501 of the second ice maker 500 may overlap with the dispenser cover 11a in the front-rear direction.

[0112] An ice chute 700 may be disposed below the first space 122. The ice chute 700 may be opened and closed through a cap duct 900. An ice guide 800 may be located below the ice chute 700. The ice chute 700 may guide the ice discharged from the first ice bucket 280 to the ice guide 800. The ice guide 800 may guide the ice and finally discharge the ice. At least a part of the ice chute 700 may overlap at least a part of the first space 122 in the vertical direction. At least a part of the ice chute 700 may overlap the second space 124 in the vertical direction. The water tank 340 may be detachably mounted on the first refrigerator door 10. The ice guide 800 may overlap at least a part of the second space 124 in the horizontal direction.

[0113] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the dispenser of the first embodiment.

[0114] Referring to Figure 5 , the dispenser 11 of the present embodiment may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space 11c. The receiving space 11c may be formed as the front face of the dispenser housing 11a is recessed backward.

[0115] The dispenser 11 may further include a pad 1010. The pad 1010 may be movably disposed on the dispenser housing 11a. A user may operate the pad 1010 to take out ice and / or water. As an example, the user may push or press the pad 1010. The pad 1010 may also be referred to as an operating member.

[0116] A rod 1070 actuated by the pad 1010 may be provided on the dispenser housing 11a. A switch 1050 selectively opened or closed by the rod 1070 may be provided on the dispenser housing 11a.

[0117] As an example, when the pad 1010 is not operated, the switch 1050 is closed. When the pad 1010 is operated, the operating force of the pad 1010 is transmitted to the rod 1070, so that the rod 1070 may open the switch 1050.

[0118] The dispenser housing 11a may further include an ice trough 111 through which the ice guided by the ice chute 700 passes. As an example, the ice trough 111 may be formed on an inclined wall 111a of the dispenser housing 11a. The ice chute 700 may be located outside the dispenser housing 11a.

[0119] The ice guide 800 may be located in the accommodation space 11c. The ice guide 800 may guide the ice that has passed through the ice chute 111. The ice guide 800 may be located on the lower side of the inclined wall 111a.

[0120] The ice chute 111 may be opened and closed by the cap pipe 900. The cap pipe 900 may open and close the ice chute 111 in the accommodation space 11c. The cap pipe 900 may be driven by a pipe driving unit 990 to open and close the ice chute 111. As an example, the pipe driving unit 990 may include a motor. The cap pipe 900 may be rotated by the driving of the motor to open the ice chute 111.

[0121] The dispenser 11 may further include a drain port 870 for discharging water. The drain port 870 may be located in the accommodation space 11c. The drain port 870 may be located at a position adjacent to the ice guide 800.

[0122] The dispenser 11 may further include a support member 890 for supporting the drain port 870. The dispenser 11 may further include a sterilization device 880 for sterilizing the drain port 870. As an example, the sterilization device 880 may sterilize the water flow path formed by the drain port 870 by irradiating ultraviolet rays.

[0123] The dispenser 11 may further include a display device. The display device may include a display 1100. The display 1100 may display the operating state of the refrigerator. The display 1100 may perform the function of an input unit capable of receiving user instructions. The user may select or change the temperature or various functions, etc. by operating or touching the buttons displayed on the display 1100.

[0124] The display device may further include a display frame 1120 for supporting the display 1100. The display frame 1120 may be accommodated in the accommodation space 11c.

[0125] The display frame 1120 may include a first frame 1121, and the first frame 1121 includes an opening 1122, and at least a part of the display 1100 is located in the opening 1122. The display 1100 may be exposed to the outside through the opening 1122.

[0126] The display frame 1120 may further include a second frame 1124 extending from the first frame 1121. The second frame 1124 may be inclined with respect to the first frame 1121.

[0127] An input module 1160 may be provided in the second frame 1124. The type of ice can be selected through the input module 1160. Alternatively, the state of the ice to be discharged can be selected through the input module 1160. As an example, transparent ice or opaque ice can be selected through the input module 1160. Alternatively, ice of different sizes can be distinguished and selected through the input module 1160.

[0128] As an example, the input module 1160 may include buttons. A part of the input module 1160 may be exposed to the outside while being provided in the second frame 1124.

[0129] The form of the display frame 1120 is not limited to the above description, and the input module 1160 may also be provided or supported by other components outside the display frame 1120. Of course, the display 1110 may additionally perform the function of the input module without an additional input module 1160.

[0130] The display device may further include a display support 1140 located at the rear side of the display frame 1120. The display support 1140 may support the display 1100 passing through the opening 1122. Of course, the display support 1140 may be omitted.

[0131] On the other hand, the dispenser cover 11a may be coupled to the door lining 102. The door lining 102 may include a space forming wall 124g that forms the second space 124. The dispenser cover 11a may be located in front of the space forming wall 124g. An installation bracket 480 for guiding water to the second space 124 may be provided in the space forming wall 124g. The installation bracket 480 may be located behind the ice guide 800. That is, the installation bracket 480 may be configured to overlap the ice guide 800 in the front-rear direction.

[0132] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the ice guide of this embodiment viewed from above. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the ice guide of this embodiment viewed from one side. Figure 8 is along Figure 6 a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of. Figure 9 is a top view of the ice guide of this embodiment. Figure 10 is a bottom view of the ice guide of this embodiment.

[0133] Referring to Figures 6 to 10 the ice guide 800 may form a passage for ice.

[0134] The upper side portion of the ice guide 800 may provide a passage 801 for ice. The upper side portion of the ice guide 800 may provide a movement path for the cap duct 900. The passage width of the upper side portion of the ice guide 800 may be greater than that of the lower side portion to prevent interference with the cap duct 900.

[0135] The ice guide 800 may include a first body 810. The first body 810 may form the upper side portion of the ice guide 800. The height of the upper end portion of the first body 810 may vary.

[0136] The first body 810 may form an ice inlet 813.

[0137] With Figure 8 reference to, the first body 810 may include a first extension wall 812. The first extension wall 812 may be located on the opposite side of the ice inlet 813. The first extension 812 may be located closer to the front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 than the ice inlet 813.

[0138] The ice guide 800 may further include a second body 830. The second body 830 may be located below the first body 810.

[0139] The passage width of at least a part of the second body 830 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the passage width of the first body 810 in the X-axis direction. As an example, the X-axis direction may be the front-rear direction of the refrigerator or the thickness direction of the first refrigerating chamber door.

[0140] A part of the second body 830 may form the ice inlet 813. That is, the ice inlet 813 may be formed in the first body 810 and the second body 830. Of course, it may also be that only the first body 810 forms the ice inlet 813.

[0141] The second body 830 may include a second extension wall 832. With Figure 8 reference to, the second extension wall 832 may be located below the first extension wall 812.

[0142] The second body 830 may further include a third extension wall 834. The third extension wall 834 may be located below the ice inlet 813.

[0143] The third extension wall 834 may be located on the opposite side of the second extension wall 832. The third extension wall 834 may be located closer to the ice chute 111 than the second extension wall 832. The distance between the second extension wall 832 and the third extension wall 834 may become smaller as it approaches the lower side. The second extension wall 832 and the third extension wall 834 may be inclined walls.

[0144] The inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 with respect to the horizontal plane may be different from the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 with respect to the horizontal plane. As an example, the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 with respect to the horizontal plane may be greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0145] The third extension wall 834 may also be referred to as a guiding wall. If the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 is large, the discharge of ice can be made smooth. Although not limited, the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 with respect to the horizontal plane may be 55 degrees or more. Preferably, the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 may be 60 degrees or more.

[0146] The second main body 830 may further include a flange 836. The flange 836 may extend from the upper end portion of the third extension wall 834 in a direction away from the second extension wall 832. As an example, the flange 836 may extend horizontally from the second extension wall 832.

[0147] The ice guide 800 may further include a third main body 850. The third main body 850 may be located below the second main body 830. The third main body 850 may include an ice outlet 851.

[0148] The passage width of the third main body 850 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the passage width of the second main body 830 in the X-axis direction. The vertical length L1 of the third main body 850 may be greater than the vertical length L2 of the second main body 830. Due to the structural characteristics of the second main body 830 and the third main body 830, the overall width of the ice guide 800 in the X-axis direction can be reduced. Thus, the ice guide 800 can contribute to the thinning of the dispenser 11.

[0149] The third main body 850 may further include a fourth extension wall 852. The fourth extension wall 852 may extend from the second extension wall 832. The third main body 850 may further include a fifth extension wall 853. The fifth extension wall 853 may extend from the third extension wall 834. At least a part of the third extension wall 834 may be an arc-shaped wall. At least a part of the fifth extension wall 853 may be an arc-shaped wall.

[0150] An imaginary line E1 passing through the third extension wall 834 may pass through the ice outlet 851. In contrast, an imaginary line E2 passing through the second extension wall 832 may not pass through the ice outlet 851. The imaginary line E2 passing through the second extension wall 832 may pass through the fifth extension wall 853. The inclination angle of the fourth extension wall 852 with respect to the horizontal plane may be greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0151] An opening 854 may be formed in the fourth extension wall 852. Through the opening 854, interference with surrounding structures can be prevented. The surrounding structures of the ice guide 800 may be located at the opening 854.

[0152] Referring to Figure 9 , the ice outlet 851 may be formed in a non-circular shape. The center C of the ice outlet 851 may be located closer to the fifth extension wall 853 than the fourth extension wall 852. Alternatively, a vertical line passing through the center C of the ice outlet 851 may be located closer to the third extension wall 834 than the second extension wall 832.

[0153] The ice guide 800 may further include a first fixing portion 814 for fixing the ice guide 800. As an example, the first fixing portion 814 may protrude from the first main body 810. Although not limited, the first fixing portion 814 may protrude from at least two portions of the first main body 810. The first fixing portion 814 may be fixed to the dispenser cover 11a.

[0154] Based on Figure 9 , when the ice guide 800 is viewed from above, the horizontal distance between the first fixing portion 814 and the first extension wall 812 may be smaller than the horizontal distance between the center C of the ice outlet 851 and the first extension wall 812.

[0155] The ice guide 800 may further include a second fixing portion 838 for fixing the ice guide 800. The second fixing portion 838 may be spaced apart from the first fixing portion 814 in the vertical direction.

[0156] As an example, the second fixing portion 838 may protrude from the second main body 830. Although not limited, the second fixing portion 838 may protrude from at least two portions of the second main body 830. The second fixing portion 838 may be fixed to the dispenser cover 11a.

[0157] On the other hand, the horizontal length of the ice guide 800 in the X-axis direction can be smaller than the horizontal length of the portion of the ice guide 800 other than the first fixing portion 814 in the Y-axis direction. If the horizontal length of the ice guide 800 in the X-axis direction is reduced, the thickness of the dispenser 11 can be reduced.

[0158] The length of the ice outlet 851 in the X-axis direction can be smaller than the length of the ice outlet 851 in the Y-axis direction. The morphological change of the ice outlet 851 can contribute to reducing the horizontal length of the ice guide 800 in the X-axis direction.

[0159] If the length of the ice outlet 851 in the X-axis direction is reduced, the scattering of ice passing through the ice outlet 851 can be reduced.

[0160] Figure 11 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerator compartment door showing the configuration of the cap duct and the ice guide in the state where the ice passage in this embodiment is closed. Figure 12 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerator compartment door showing the configuration of the cap duct and the ice guide in the state where the ice passage in this embodiment is open.

[0161] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The dispenser cover 11a can include a cover wall 110 surrounding the ice guide 800. The cover wall 110 can include the inclined wall 111a.

[0162] In the cover wall 110a, a coupling wall 112 can extend from the periphery of the ice trough 111. The ice chute 700 can be coupled to the coupling wall 112. As an example, a part of the ice chute 700 can be inserted into the coupling wall 112.

[0163] In a state where the position of the ice guide 800 is fixed, the flange 836 can contact the lower end of the inclined wall 111a. Therefore, it is possible to prevent ice chips from accumulating on the ice passage during the process of discharging ice.

[0164] As an example, the state where the cap duct 900 closes the ice trough 111 of the dispenser cover 11a is a state where the ice passage through the ice chute 700 is interrupted. Therefore, the state where the cap duct 900 closes the ice trough 111 can be a state where the cap duct 900 closes the ice passage upstream of the ice guide 800. In a state where the cap duct 900 closes the ice trough 111, a part of the cap duct 900 can overlap with the second extension wall 832 in the vertical direction.

[0165] To open the ice chute 111, the cap duct 900 can be rotated in a direction closer to the first extension wall 812. In a state where the cap duct 900 opens the ice chute 111, a part of the cap duct 900 may overlap with the fourth extension wall 852 in the vertical direction. As an example, a part of the cap duct 900 may be the lowermost end portion 901 of the cap duct 900.

[0166] Since the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 with respect to the horizontal plane is smaller than the inclination angle of the fourth extension wall 852 with respect to the horizontal plane, there is a possibility that ice chips accumulate on the upper side of the second extension wall 832 during the process of discharging ice. However, according to this embodiment, when the lowermost end portion 901 of the cap duct 900 overlaps with the fourth extension wall 852 in the vertical direction, the movement of ice chips to the upper side of the second extension wall 832 can be restricted.

[0167] It may also be that in a state where the cap duct 900 opens the ice chute 111, the lowermost end portion 901 of the cap duct 900 overlaps with the ice outlet 851 in the vertical direction.

[0168] In a state where the cap duct 900 opens the ice chute 111, the cap duct 900 may contact the first extension wall 812. Or, in a state where the cap duct 900 opens the ice chute 111, the cap duct 900 may also be spaced apart from the first extension wall 812. Or in a state where the cap duct 900 opens the ice chute 111, the cap duct 900 may also contact the second extension wall 832.

[0169] On the other hand, the drain port 870 may be located between the ice guide 800 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerator door 10. As an example, the drain port 870 may be located between the fourth extension wall 852 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerator door 10.

[0170] The sterilization module 880 may be located between the ice guide 800 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerator door 10. As an example, the sterilization module 880 may be arranged between the fourth extension wall 852 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerator door 10.

[0171] As in this embodiment, if the ice outlet 851 of the ice guide 800 is formed in a non-circular shape to reduce the length of the ice outlet 851 in the X-axis direction, the space between the ice guide 800 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerator door 10 can be increased, so that components can be located in this space.

[0172] If the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 is smaller than that of the third extension wall 834, the horizontal distance between the vertical extension line of the first extension wall 832 and the fourth extension wall 852 can be increased. In this case, a space for arranging components can be ensured below the second extension wall 832.

[0173] The PCB (printed circuit board) 1162 of the input module 1160 may be located between the ice guide 800 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The PCB 1162 may be located between the fourth extension wall 852 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. Of course, other components or other PCBs other than the input module 1160 may also be arranged between the fourth extension wall 852 and the front surface 10a of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The second extension wall 832 may overlap with the component in the vertical direction.

[0174] According to this embodiment, since the inclination of the wall adjacent to the ice chute opened by the capped pipe is sufficiently large, there is an advantage that ice can be smoothly discharged even if the width of the ice passage is reduced.

[0175] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent ice shavings from accumulating on the ice guide that forms the ice passage during the process of discharging ice.

[0176] According to this embodiment, with the thinner dispenser, there is an advantage that an ice making chamber or a storage space can be formed at the rear side of the dispenser without increasing the thickness of the door or with as little increase in the thickness of the door as possible.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, comprising: a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the storage compartment; an ice maker disposed on the door or the cabinet to generate ice; and a dispenser disposed on the door for taking out the ice generated by the ice maker; the dispenser includes: a dispenser cover forming an accommodation space; an ice chute formed in the dispenser cover for the ice to pass through; a cap pipe for opening and closing the ice chute; and an ice guide for guiding the ice passing through the ice chute; the ice guide includes: a first body forming an ice inlet; a second body extending downward from the first body; and a third body extending downward from the second body to form an ice outlet; the first body includes a first extension wall; the second body includes: a second extension wall extending downward from the first extension wall; and a third extension wall located on the opposite side of the second extension wall; the third extension wall is located closer to the ice chute than the second extension wall; the inclination angle of the second extension wall with respect to the horizontal plane is less than the inclination angle of the third extension wall with respect to the horizontal plane.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, the length of the ice outlet in the X-axis direction, which is the front-back direction of the door, is less than the length of the ice outlet in the Y-axis direction, which is the left-right direction of the door.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, a vertical line passing through the center of the ice outlet is located closer to the third extension wall than the second extension wall.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, a imaginary line (E1) passing through the third extension wall passes through the ice outlet.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, a imaginary line (E2) passing through the second extension wall does not pass through the ice outlet.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, the vertical length of the second body is less than the vertical length of the third body.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, the dispenser cover includes an inclined wall forming the ice chute; the second body further includes a flange extending from the upper end of the third extension wall in a direction away from the second extension wall; the flange contacts the lower end of the inclined wall.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, the first body includes a fixing portion for fixing to the dispenser cover; when observing the ice guide from above, the horizontal distance between the first fixing portion and the first extension wall is less than the horizontal distance between the center of the ice outlet and the first extension wall.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, in a state where the cap pipe closes the ice chute, a part of the cap pipe overlaps with the second extension wall in the vertical direction.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, the third body includes: a fourth extension wall extending downward from the second extension wall; and a fifth extension wall extending downward from the third extension wall.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein, in a state where the cap pipe opens the ice chute, the lowermost end portion of the cap pipe overlaps with the fourth extension wall in the vertical direction, or The lowermost end of the cap duct overlaps with the ice outlet in the vertical direction.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein, it further includes a drain port located between the front surface of the door and the fourth extension wall.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein, it further includes a component located between the front surface of the door and the fourth extension wall.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 13, wherein, the component overlaps with the second extension wall in the vertical direction.

15. A refrigerator, wherein, it includes: a cabinet that forms a storage chamber; a door that opens and closes the storage chamber; an ice maker disposed on the door or the cabinet to generate ice; and a dispenser disposed on the door for taking out the ice generated by the ice maker; the dispenser includes: a dispenser cover that forms an accommodation space; an ice chute formed in the dispenser cover for the ice to pass through; a cap duct that opens and closes the ice chute; and an ice guide that guides the ice passing through the ice chute; the ice guide includes: a first body that forms an ice inlet; a second body that extends downward from the first body; a third body that extends downward from the second body and forms an ice outlet; In a state where the cap duct closes the ice chute, a part of the cap duct overlaps with the second body in the vertical direction; In a state where the cap duct opens the ice chute, the lowermost end of the cap duct overlaps with the third body in the vertical direction or overlaps with the ice outlet in the vertical direction.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 15, wherein, the first body includes a first extension wall; the second body includes: a second extension wall that extends downward from the first extension wall; and a third extension wall located on the opposite side of the second extension wall; the third body includes: a fourth extension wall that extends downward from the second extension wall; and a fifth extension wall that extends downward from the third extension wall; the third extension wall is located closer to the ice chute than the second extension wall; In a state where the cap duct closes the ice chute, the lowermost end of the cap duct overlaps with the fourth extension wall in the vertical direction.

Images