Refrigerator

Abstract

The refrigerator according to the present embodiment comprises: a refrigerator body forming a storage chamber; a door for opening and closing the storage chamber; the ice maker is arranged on the door or the storage chamber and is used for generating ice; the ice maker includes: a first tray forming a part of an ice making unit; a second tray forming another part of the ice-making unit and movable with respect to the first tray; a driving part for providing power for the movement of the second tray; and a transmission mechanism which transmits the moving force of the second tray or the power of the driving part to the first tray to move the first tray in the moving process of the second tray.

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 with a freezer compartment and a refrigerator compartment arranged side by side, or a top-freezer refrigerator with the freezer compartment located above the refrigerator compartment, or a bottom-freezer refrigerator with the refrigerator compartment located above the freezer compartment.

[0004] Generally, a freezer compartment of a refrigerator provides an ice maker for making ice. The ice maker accommodates water supplied from a water supply source or a water tank in a tray, and then generates ice by cooling water. The ice produced by the ice maker can be stored in an ice bucket.

[0005] 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.

[0006] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-00057839, as an existing document, discloses a refrigerator.

[0007] The refrigerator of the existing document may have a freezer compartment, a cooler for supplying cold air to the freezer compartment, and an ice maker provided in the freezer compartment.

[0008] The ice maker includes: a first tray that forms part of an ice-making unit that is a space for changing water into ice using the cold air (Cold); a second tray that forms another part of the ice-making unit; a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice-making unit; a first pusher that penetrates the first tray during the ice transfer process to separate the ice; a second pusher that pressurizes the second tray during the ice transfer process; an ice transfer heater that supplies heat to the ice-making unit during the ice transfer process; and a transparent ice heater that supplies heat to the ice-making unit during the ice-making process.

[0009] According to the existing document, since the first tray is supported by a first tray support and a first tray cover, there is a disadvantage in that the structure for supporting the first tray in the ice maker is complex.

[0010] According to the existing document, there is a first pusher that pressurizes the ice to separate the ice during the ice transfer process, and the first pusher receives the rotational force of the second tray through a pusher link. Therefore, there are disadvantages in that additional space is required for setting the first pusher, and an additional structure for transmitting power to the first pusher is required.

[0011] According to the existing literature, since the transparent ice heater and the ice transfer heater are distinguished, there are disadvantages of complex structure and the need for an additional control algorithm for controlling the two heaters. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0013] One embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of producing spherical ice through a simple structure.

[0014] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the produced ice can maintain a predetermined shape regardless of a change in the water supply amount.

[0015] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator that improves ice separation performance by moving each of a first tray and a second tray during the ice transfer process.

[0016] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which a heater can operate to generate highly transparent ice during the ice-making process, and the heater can operate to separate ice during the ice transfer process.

[0017] TECHNICAL SOLUTION FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

[0018] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet forming 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 disposed in the door or the storage compartment to generate ice.

[0019] The ice maker may include a first tray forming a part of an ice-making unit. The ice maker may further include a second tray that forms another part of the ice-making unit and is movable relative to the first tray.

[0020] The ice maker may further include a driving unit that provides power for the movement of the second tray. The ice maker may further include a transmission mechanism that transmits the movement force of the second tray or the power of the driving unit to the first tray to move the first tray during the movement of the second tray.

[0021] The ice maker may further include a bracket that supports the first tray to be movable. The first tray may be rotatably supported by the bracket.

[0022] The bracket may include a stopper that restricts the movement of the contacted part by contacting a part of the first tray.

[0023] The transmission mechanism may include a first transmission portion connected to the second tray. The transmission mechanism may further include a second transmission portion connected to the first tray. The driving portion may be connected to the first transmission portion. The first tray may include a shaft providing a rotation center. The second transmission portion may be connected to the shaft. Alternatively, the second transmission portion may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the shaft. The second transmission portion may be integrally formed with the first tray or combined with the first tray.

[0024] During the process of the second tray moving in the forward direction, the first tray may move in the reverse direction, which is the direction opposite to the forward direction.

[0025] The first transmission portion may further include an extension portion. The second transmission portion may include a contact portion that contacts the extension portion during the movement of the second tray.

[0026] The ice maker may further include a heater for supplying heat to the ice making unit. The ice maker may further include a heater housing for supporting the heater. A part of the first transmission portion may be disposed in the heater housing.

[0027] The first transmission portion may include a first part disposed in the heater housing. The first transmission portion may further include a second part that is separated from the first part and is connected to the heater housing and the second tray.

[0028] The first transmission portion may include a first cam surface for moving the first tray in the forward direction. The first transmission portion may further include a second cam surface for moving the first tray in the reverse direction. The first transmission portion may further include a third cam surface for causing the first tray to additionally rotate in the reverse direction.

[0029] The second tray may move from the ice making position to the ice transferring position in the forward direction and then move from the ice transferring position to the ice making position. During the process of the second tray moving from the ice transferring position to the ice making position and before the second tray moves to the ice making position, the first tray may move by using the transmission mechanism and then return to the initial position.

[0030] During the process of the second tray moving in the forward direction, the first tray may first move in the forward direction and then move in the reverse direction, which is the direction opposite to the forward direction.

[0031] The second tray may move from the ice making position to the ice transferring position in the forward direction. Before the second tray reaches the ice transferring position, the first tray may first move in the reverse direction to return to the initial position and then move additionally in the reverse direction.

[0032] The ice maker may further include a stopper that restricts movement of a part of the second tray during movement of the second tray.

[0033] The ice maker may further include a passage provided in at least one of the first tray and the second tray. The ice maker may further include a water storage unit provided in the second tray and storing water that overflows from the ice making unit through the passage. The ice maker may further include a pusher that pressurizes the water storage unit during movement of the second tray toward the ice transfer position.

[0034] The ice maker may further include: a passage provided in at least one of the first tray and the second tray; and a water guide member that guides water that overflows from the ice making unit through the passage. The ice maker may further include a water storage unit that stores water flowing along the guide member.

[0035] The ice maker of a refrigerator according to another aspect may include a driving unit that generates power. The ice maker may further include: a first tray that forms a part of the ice making unit; and a second tray that forms another part of the ice making unit and is movable relative to the first tray. The ice maker may include a first transmission unit that transmits the power of the driving unit to the first tray. The ice maker may further include a second transmission unit that transmits the power of the driving unit to the first tray.

[0036] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0037] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that ice in a spherical shape can be produced through a simple structure.

[0038] According to one embodiment, since a predetermined amount of water can be filled in the ice making unit even when the water supply amount changes, there is an advantage in that the produced ice can maintain a predetermined shape.

[0039] According to one embodiment, since each of the first tray and the second tray can be twisted by movement during ice transfer, there is an advantage in that ice separation performance can be improved.

[0040] According to one embodiment, since the heater can operate to generate ice with high transparency during ice making and the heater can operate to separate the ice during ice transfer, there is an advantage in that the installation structure and control algorithm of the heater become simple. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

[0042] Figure 2(a) is a view showing the state where the refrigerator door is separated from the refrigerator. Figure 2 (b) is a side view of the freezer door.

[0043] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the ice maker of the first embodiment.

[0044] Figure 4 is Figure 3 an exploded perspective view of the ice maker.

[0045] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the state where the first tray and the second tray are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0046] Figure 6 is a view of the bracket of the first embodiment observed from the lower side.

[0047] Figure 7 is a view showing the state where the first tray of the first embodiment is supported by the bracket.

[0048] Figure 8 is a view of the first transmission part of the first embodiment observed from one side.

[0049] Figure 9 is a view of the second transmission part of the first embodiment observed from one side.

[0050] Figure 10 is Figure 3 a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of

[0051] Figure 11 is a view showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice making process is completed.

[0052] Figure 12 is a view showing the first tray in a twisted state.

[0053] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the ice maker of the second embodiment.

[0054] Figure 14 is Figure 13 an exploded perspective view of the ice maker.

[0055] Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the state where the first tray and the second tray of the second embodiment are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0056] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment observed from one side.

[0057] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment observed from the rear side.

[0058] Figure 18 View of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment as observed from the upper side.

[0059] Figure 19 Side view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment.

[0060] Figure 20 Top view showing the state where the heater of the second embodiment is disposed in the heater housing.

[0061] Figure 21 Perspective view showing the state where the heater of the second embodiment is disposed in the heater housing.

[0062] Figures 22 to 24 View showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice making process is completed.

[0063] Figure 25 View showing the first tray in a twisted state.

[0064] Figure 26 Front view of the ice maker of the third embodiment.

[0065] Figure 27 Is Figure 26 Exploded perspective view of the ice maker.

[0066] Figure 28 Perspective view showing the state where the first tray and the second tray of the third embodiment are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0067] Figure 29 Perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment as observed from one side.

[0068] Figure 30 Perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment as observed from the rear side.

[0069] Figure 31 View of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment as observed from the rear side.

[0070] Figure 32 Side view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment.

[0071] Figure 33 Perspective view of the second tray of the third embodiment.

[0072] Figure 34 Is showing in Figure 33 View of the state where a water storage part and a fixing part are combined with the second tray.

[0073] Figure 35 It is a side view of the heater housing of the third embodiment.

[0074] Figure 36 It is a perspective view showing the state in which a heater is installed in the heater housing of the third embodiment.

[0075] Figure 37 It is a perspective view of the bracket of the third embodiment.

[0076] Figures 38 to 40 It is a view showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice-making process is completed.

[0077] Figure 41 It is a view showing the state in which the second tray is in contact with the stopper.

[0078] Figure 42 It is a view showing the second tray in a twisted state.

[0079] Figure 43 It is a view showing the relative positions of the ejector and the second tray during the operation of the ice maker of the third embodiment.

[0080] Figure 44 It is a perspective view of the ice maker of the fourth embodiment.

[0081] Figure 45 It is Figure 44 an exploded perspective view of the ice maker.

[0082] Figure 46 It is a perspective view showing the state in which the first tray and the second tray of the fourth embodiment are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0083] Figure 47 It is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment observed from one side.

[0084] Figure 48 It is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment observed from the rear side.

[0085] Figure 49 It is a view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment observed from the rear side.

[0086] Figure 50 It is a side view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment.

[0087] Figure 51 It is a top view showing the state in which a heater is installed in the heater housing of the fourth embodiment.

[0088] Figure 52 It is a perspective view showing the state in which a heater is installed in the heater housing of the fourth embodiment.

[0089] Figures 53 to 55 It is a view showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice making process is completed.

[0090] Figure 56 It is along Figure 46 A cross-sectional view taken along line 56-56.

[0091] Figure 57 It is along Figure 44 A cross-sectional view taken along line 57-57.

[0092] Figure 58 It is along Figure 46 A cross-sectional view taken along line 58-58.

[0093] Figure 59 It is a view showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray in the ice maker of the fifth embodiment.

[0094] Figure 60 It is a view showing the state where the heater of the sixth embodiment is provided in the heater housing.

[0095] Figure 61 It is a view showing the state where the heater of the seventh embodiment is provided in the heater housing. Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0096] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary drawings. It should be noted that when assigning reference numerals to the constituent elements of each drawing, for the same constituent elements, although the markings are on different drawings, the same symbols are assigned as much as possible. In addition, in the process of describing the embodiments of the present invention, when it is determined that the detailed description of the related well-known structure or function hinders the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0097] In addition, when describing the constituent elements of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. The above terms are only for distinguishing the said constituent elements from other constituent elements, and the essence, order or sequence of the corresponding constituent elements will not be limited by the above terms. When it is described that a certain constituent element "is connected", "is combined" or "is in contact" with another constituent element, it should be understood that the said constituent element can be directly connected or in contact with the above other constituent element, or there can be other constituent elements "connected", "combined" or "in contact" between the constituent elements.

[0098] In this specification, at least one of constituent element A and constituent element B can be interpreted as including constituent element A, constituent element B, and constituent element A + B.

[0099] In addition, at least one of Component A or Component B can be interpreted to include Component A, Component B, and Component A + B.

[0100] This specification describes multiple embodiments, and the present invention may also include embodiments derived by combining two or more of the embodiments. The present invention may also include embodiments derived by extracting and combining a part of each of two or more of the embodiments.

[0101] Figure 1 is a front view of the refrigerator of the first embodiment. Figure 2 In (a) of, it is a view showing the state where the refrigerator door is separated from the refrigerator, Figure 2 In (b) of, it is a side view of the refrigerating compartment door.

[0102] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the refrigerator 1 of this embodiment may include a cabinet 14 having a storage compartment. The refrigerator 1 may further include a refrigerator door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0103] The storage compartment may include a refrigerating compartment 18. Optionally or additionally, the storage compartment may include a freezing compartment 19. As an example, Figure 2 shows a case where the storage compartment includes a refrigerating compartment 18 and a freezing compartment 19.

[0104] In Figure 2 , a case where the refrigerator 1 is a bottom-freezer refrigerator is exemplarily shown. It should be clear that the idea of the present invention can also be similarly applied to a side-by-side refrigerator or a top-freezer refrigerator.

[0105] The refrigerator door may include a refrigerating compartment door 5 and a freezing compartment door 30. The refrigerating compartment 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating compartment doors 5. The freezing compartment 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing compartment doors 30. Hereinafter, a case where the refrigerating compartment 18 is opened and closed by a first refrigerating compartment door 10 and a second refrigerating compartment door 20 will be described as an example.

[0106] At least one of the first refrigerating compartment door 10 and the second refrigerating compartment door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for discharging at least one of water and ice. Of course, depending on the type of the refrigerator, the freezing compartment door 30 may have the dispenser 11.

[0107] The refrigerator 1 may further include an ice maker 200. The ice maker 200 may be disposed in the freezing compartment 19. Optionally or additionally, the ice maker 200 may be provided in the refrigerating compartment door 5. That is, the refrigerator 1 may include one ice maker 200 or may include a plurality of ice makers 200.

[0108] When the refrigerator 1 includes an ice maker 200, the ice maker 200 can be disposed in the storage compartment, or in the refrigerator door 5, or in the freezer door 30. When the refrigerator 1 includes a plurality of ice makers 200, 200a, the plurality of ice makers 200, 200a can be disposed in the storage compartment, or in the refrigerator door 5, or in the freezer door 30. Alternatively, one ice maker 200 can be disposed in the storage compartment and another ice maker 200a can be disposed in the refrigerator door 5 or the freezer door 30. Alternatively, a plurality of ice makers 200, 200a can also be disposed in the refrigerator door 5 or the freezer door 30.

[0109] As an example, the first refrigerator door 10 can include a single space, and the ice maker 200a can be accommodated in this space. Alternatively, the first refrigerator door 10 can include a separate first space 122 and a second space 124, and an ice maker 200, 200a can be provided in at least one of the two spaces 122, 124. Alternatively, an ice maker 200, 200a can be provided in each of the two spaces 122, 124. As an example, a second ice maker 200a can be provided in the first space 122, and a first ice maker 200 can be provided in the second space 124.

[0110] The ice produced by the second ice maker 200a can be stored in the second ice bucket 300a. The ice produced by the first ice maker 200 can be stored in the first ice bucket 300.

[0111] The ice stored in the second ice bucket 300a can be discharged to the outside by the dispenser 11. As another example, the dispenser 11 can also include a first dispenser for discharging the ice produced by the second ice maker 200a and a second dispenser for discharging the ice produced by the first ice maker 200.

[0112] In this embodiment, the first ice maker 200 can be omitted, and in this case, the second space 124 can also exist. At this time, the second space 124 can function as a door storage compartment for a specific purpose. Alternatively, the second ice maker 200a can be omitted. The shape of the ice produced by the second ice maker 200a can be the same as or different from the shape of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200. As an example, the first ice maker 200 can form ice in a spherical shape. The "spherical shape" mentioned in this specification not only refers to the geometric spherical shape, but also refers to a shape similar to the spherical shape.

[0113] 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 200a. As an example, the transparency of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be higher than the transparency of the ice formed by the second ice maker 200a. The size (or volume) of the ice produced by the second ice maker 200a may be different from the size (or volume) of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200. As an example, the size (or volume) of the ice produced by the first ice maker 200 may be larger than the size (or volume) of the ice formed by the second ice maker 200a.

[0114] The structure of the second ice maker 200a for generating ice and the manner of separating the produced ice may be the same as or different from the structure of the first ice maker 200 and the manner of separating the ice produced by the first ice maker 200.

[0115] In the case where there is a difference in at least one of the structure of the ice maker and the ice transfer manner, the form of the first space 122 where the second ice maker 200a is located may be different from the form of the second space 124 where the first ice maker 200 is located.

[0116] Hereinafter, as an example, an ice maker 200 capable of producing spherical ice will be described.

[0117] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the ice maker of the first embodiment, Figure 4 is Figure 3 an exploded perspective view of the ice maker. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a state where the first tray and the second tray are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0118] Referring to Figures 3 to 5 this, the ice maker 200 of the present embodiment may include a first tray 230 that forms part of the ice making unit. The ice maker 200 may include a second tray 240 that forms another part of the ice making unit. The ice making unit may be clearly understood by Figure 43 the reference numeral IC. As an example, the ice making unit formed by the first tray 230 and the second tray 240 may be spherical.

[0119] The second tray 240 may move relative to the first tray 230. At this time, the second tray 240 may rotate or linearly move relative to the first tray 230. Hereinafter, as an example, a case where the second tray 240 can rotate relative to the first tray 230 will be described.

[0120] The transmission mechanism described below can be applied in the same or similar manner to the case where the second tray 240 linearly moves in addition to the case where the second tray 240 rotates.

[0121] The ice maker 200 may further include a bracket 210 (or a tray housing) that supports the first tray 230. The bracket 210 may be mounted on the refrigerator door 5 or the freezer door 30. Alternatively, the bracket 210 may be mounted on the wall forming the storage compartment.

[0122] As an example, the bracket 210 may guide cold air toward the ice making unit side. The bracket 210 may include cold air holes 219. The bracket 210 may further include a plate 211. An opening 212 may be formed in the plate 211. The opening 212 may be aligned with at least a part of the first tray 230. Cold air may be supplied to the first tray 230 through the opening 212. The opening 212 may allow water to pass through.

[0123] The first tray 230 may be movably connected to the bracket 210. As an example, the first tray 230 may be rotatably or linearly or curvilinearly movably connected to the bracket 210. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the first tray 230 is rotatably connected to the bracket 210 will be described.

[0124] The bracket 210 may further include a motor support 213 that supports the driving unit 220. As an example, the driving unit 220 may include a motor, a power transmission unit that transmits the power of the motor, and a motor cover 222 that houses the motor.

[0125] The power transmission unit may include a connector 224. The connector 224 may penetrate through the motor support 213. The connector 224 may be connected to a transmission mechanism described later. If the motor operates in a state where the connector 224 is connected to the transmission mechanism, the power of the motor is transmitted to the transmission mechanism, so that the second tray 240 can move.

[0126] The first tray 230 may include a first unit wall 231. The first unit wall 231 may form a part of the ice making unit. A first opening 233 may be formed in the first unit wall 231. The first opening 233 may function as a passage through which at least one of water and air can flow.

[0127] The first tray 230 may include a first shaft 236 and a second shaft 237. The first shaft 236 and the second shaft 237 may provide the rotation center of the first tray 230. As an example, the first tray 230 may rotate about the first shaft 236 and the second shaft 237.

[0128] Alternatively, it is also possible that the first tray 230 includes a first shaft, and the bracket 210 includes a second shaft. In this case, it is also possible that the first shaft is rotatably connected to the bracket 210, and the second shaft is rotatably connected to the first tray 230. Alternatively, it is also possible that the bracket 210 includes a first shaft and a second shaft, and the first tray 230 includes a shaft connection portion for connecting the first shaft and the second shaft.

[0129] In the case where the first tray 230 includes the first shaft 236 and the second shaft 237, each of the first shaft 236 and the second shaft 237 can be rotatably supported by the bracket 210. Alternatively, it is also possible that the first shaft 236 is rotatably supported by the bracket 210, and the second shaft 237 is supported by an additional support portion 218. The support portion 218 can be coupled to the bracket 210 in a state of supporting the second shaft 237.

[0130] As an example, the first shaft 236 can extend from one side wall 231a of the first unit wall 231. The second shaft 237 can extend from the other side wall 231b of the first unit wall 231. The one side wall 231a and the other side wall 231b can face each other.

[0131] At least one of the one side wall 231a and the other side wall 231b can be provided with a protrusion 239. In Figure 5 As an example, a case where the protrusion 239 is provided on the one side wall 231a is shown. The protrusion 239 can be arranged at a distance from the first shaft 236.

[0132] A connection protrusion 238 for connecting to a transmission mechanism to be described later can be provided on the second shaft 237. The connection protrusion 238 can protrude radially from the second shaft 237. The connection protrusion 238 can be spaced apart from the other side wall 231b. As an example, a plurality of connection protrusions 238 can also protrude from the second shaft 237 at positions spaced apart from each other.

[0133] The second tray 240 can move to a first position, a second position, and a third position by receiving the power of the driving unit 220. The first position can be a water supply position. The second position can be an ice making position. The third position can be an ice transfer position. The first position can be located between the second position and the third position.

[0134] The second tray 240 can move from the second position in the positive direction to move to the first position. The second tray 240 can move from the first position to the third position by moving in the positive direction.

[0135] The second tray 240 can move from the third position in the reverse direction to move towards the first position. The second tray 240 can move from the first position to the second position by moving in the reverse direction. Depending on the situation, the water supply position and the ice-making position can be the same. In this case, the second tray 240 can move between the ice-making position and the ice-transfer position.

[0136] The ice maker 200 may further include a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism can move the second tray 240 by receiving the power of the driving unit 220. The transmission mechanism can move the first tray 230 during the movement of the second tray 240. As an example, the first tray 230 can rotate during the rotation of the second tray 240.

[0137] Depending on the situation, it can also be that the first tray 230 performs a linear motion or a curvilinear motion during the rotation of the second tray 240. Or, it can also be that the first tray 230 rotates or performs a linear motion or a curvilinear motion during the linear or curvilinear motion of the second tray 240.

[0138] The transmission mechanism can include a first transmission part 270 that transmits the power of the driving unit 220 to the second tray 240. The first transmission part 270 can be connected to the connector 224. The first transmission part 270 can be connected to the second tray 240. Thus, the second tray 240 can rotate together with the first transmission part 270.

[0139] The ice maker 200 may further include a transmission shaft 280. The transmission shaft 280 transmits the rotational force of the first transmission part 270 connected to one side of the second tray 240 to the other side of the second tray 240. Thus, the entire second tray 240 can rotate stably. The first transmission part 270 can be connected to one end of the transmission shaft 280. A shaft connector 286 can be connected to the other end of the transmission shaft 280.

[0140] The first transmission part 270 can include a main body 271. The diameter of the main body 271 can change or be constant in the extending direction of the rotation center, but this is not limited thereto. The main body 271 can include a first extension part 273. The first extension part 273 can extend axially. The first extension part 273 can include a coupling part 274. The coupling part 274 can be coupled to the transmission shaft 280. A protruding part 275 can be provided radially at the coupling part 274. A plurality of protruding parts 275 can protrude at spaced positions, but this is not limited thereto.

[0141] The transmission mechanism may further include a second transmission part 290. The second transmission part 290 transmits the moving force of the second tray 240 to the first tray 230 by acting with the first transmission part 270.

[0142] The second transmission part 290 may be integrally formed with the first tray 230 or made into a configuration independent of the first tray 230 and combined with the first tray 230. Figure 5 The situation where the second transmission part 290 is combined with the first tray 230 is shown. As an example, the second transmission part 290 may be combined with the second shaft 237 of the first tray 230. The connecting protrusion 238 may be combined with the second transmission part 290.

[0143] The second transmission part 290 may include a contact part 295 for contacting the first transmission part 270 during the movement of the first transmission part 270. The second transmission part 290 may receive power from the first transmission part 270 in a state where the first transmission part 270 is in contact with the contact part 295.

[0144] The ice maker 200 may further include a heater 250. The heater 250 may supply heat to the ice making unit during the ice making process. If the heater 250 supplies heat to the ice making unit during the ice making process, a difference in ice making speed is generated in each area in the ice making unit, so the steam drum moves towards the part with water. If air bubbles gather in a part of the ice making unit, the transparency of the generated ice will be higher. Since generating ice with higher transparency based on the heater 250 can be achieved by known techniques, detailed description is omitted. However, in this embodiment, the heater 250 may also supply heat to the ice making unit during the ice moving process.

[0145] The heater 250 may be located at a position adjacent to the second tray 240. The heater 250 may supply heat to the second tray 240 during the ice moving process and the ice making process. Of course, the heat supplied to the second tray 240 can be transferred to the first tray 230.

[0146] The ice maker 200 may further include a heater housing 260 for supporting the heater 250. The heater housing 260 may be combined with the second tray 240 in a state where the heater 250 is placed in the heater housing 260. The heater 250 placed in the heater housing 260 may be in contact with the outer surface of the second tray 240.

[0147] The ice maker 250 may further include a pressing part 420 configured to additionally rotate the second tray 240 in the reverse direction in a state where the second tray 240 moves in the reverse direction to the ice-making position. The pressing part 420 may be connected to the first transmission part 270. Accordingly, the pressing part 420 may move together with the second tray 240.

[0148] In a state where the second tray 240 moves to the ice-making position, the second tray 240 may contact the first tray 230. In a state where the second tray 240 moves to the ice-making position, the first transmission part 270 may additionally rotate in the reverse direction. By the rotation of the first transmission part 270, the pressing part 420 may additionally rotate in the reverse direction, so that the pressing part 420 presses the second tray 240 toward the first tray 230 side. Accordingly, at the ice-making position, the first tray 230 and the second tray 240 may be kept in a close contact state.

[0149] On the other hand, the ice maker 200 may further include a rod 400 configured to sense full ice in the ice bucket 300. The rod 400 may be connected to the driving part 220 and rotate by receiving power of a motor. As an example, a sensor configured to sense the rotational position of the rod 400 may be used to sense whether the ice is full.

[0150] The ice maker 200 may further include a water supply part 410. The water supply part 410 may guide water supplied from an external water supply source or a water tank provided in the refrigerator to the ice-making unit. Accordingly, the water supply part 410 may also be referred to as a water supply guide. The water supply part 410 may be integrally formed with the bracket 210 or coupled to the bracket 210 as a configuration independent of the bracket 210.

[0151] Figure 6 FIG. is a view of the bracket of the first embodiment as viewed from below. Figure 7 FIG. is a view showing a state where the first tray of the first embodiment is supported by the bracket. In Figure 6 the motor support is omitted.

[0152] Referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 the bracket 210 may further include a first support part 214 configured to support the first tray 230 movably. As an example, a first shaft 236 of the first tray 230 may be rotatably connected to the first support part 214. As an example, the first support part 214 may extend downward from the plate 211.

[0153] The ice maker 200 may further include a second support portion 218 that supports the first tray 230 to be movable. The second support portion 218 may be integrally formed with the bracket 210 or coupled to the bracket 210 while supporting the first tray 230. In Figure 7 FIG., an additional second support portion 218 is shown coupled to the bracket 210 while supporting the first tray 230. The second support portion 218 may support a second shaft 237 of the first tray 230.

[0154] The first support portion 214 may include a hole 214a through which the first shaft 236 passes. After the first shaft 236 passes through the hole 214a, the second support portion 218 may be coupled to the bracket 210 while supporting the second shaft 237. For the second support portion 218 to support the second shaft 237 to be rotatable, as an example, the second support portion 218 may be formed in a shape like “U”.

[0155] The bracket 210 may further include a side wall 216 configured to face the motor support 213. The side wall 216 may extend from the plate 211. The side wall 216 may form the cold air hole 219.

[0156] A stopper 217 that contacts a protrusion 239 of the first tray 230 may be provided on the side wall 216. The stopper 217 may be integrally formed with the side wall 216 or coupled to the side wall 216. In a state where the first tray 230 stops, the protrusion 239 of the first tray 230 may be located above the stopper 217. If the protrusion 239 of the first tray 230 is located above the stopper 217, rotation of the protrusion 239 of the first tray 230 is restricted by the stopper 217 when the first tray 230 rotates. Therefore, there is a difference in the amount of rotation between a side wall 231a of the first unit wall 231 where the protrusion 239 is located and another side wall 231b located on the opposite side of the side wall 231a, so that the first unit wall 231 can be twisted. That is, the first unit wall 231 can be twisted, and ice can be separated from the first unit wall 231 by using the twist of the first unit wall 231.

[0157] The bracket 210 may further include a third support portion 215. As an example, a plurality of third support portions 215 may be arranged at intervals in the horizontal direction. The third support portion 215 may include a hole 215a. The third support portion 215 may support the second tray 240 or at least one of the first transmission portion 270 and the shaft connector 286 connected to the second tray 240. Accordingly, the bracket 210 may support the first tray 230 and the second tray 240 so as to be movable. Of course, through a structural change, the second tray 240 may also be supported by an additional structure.

[0158] On the other hand, the first unit wall 231 may form a first unit 232 that is part of the ice-making unit. As an example, the first unit 232 may be formed in a hemispherical shape. The first unit wall 231 may form a plurality of first units 232. The plurality of first units 232 may be arranged in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the rotation center C1 of the first tray 230. A part of the ice may be formed in the first unit 232.

[0159] Figure 8 It is a view of the first transmission portion of the first embodiment observed from one side, Figure 9 It is a view of the second transmission portion of the first embodiment observed from one side.

[0160] Referring to Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the main body 271 of the first transmission portion 270, a connection portion 272 for connecting the connector 224 may be provided. The connection portion 272 may be a groove for inserting the connector 224, but is not limited thereto. The first transmission portion 270 may further include a second extension portion 276. The second extension portion 276 may extend in a direction intersecting the first extension portion 274. The second extension portion 276 may extend radially from the main body 271. The second extension portion 276 may contact the contact portion 295 of the second transmission portion 290 during rotation.

[0161] The second transmission part 290 may include a shaft hole 292 for the second shaft 237 to be coupled. The shaft hole 292 may be located at a position adjacent to one of the two end parts of the second transmission part 290. The second transmission part 290 may further include a raised hole 293 extending from the shaft hole 292. The raised hole 293 may extend radially from the shaft hole 292. The connecting projection 238 may be located in the raised hole 293. Thus, the second transmission part 290 can be prevented from idling relative to the first tray 230 through the shaft hole 292 and the raised hole 293. That is, the second transmission part 290 may rotate together with the first tray 230.

[0162] The second transmission part 290 may further include the contact part 295. The contact part 295 may protrude from the second transmission part 290. As an example, the contact part 295 may extend from the second transmission part 290 in a direction parallel to the rotation center of the first tray 230. The contact part 295 may be located at a position adjacent to the other of the two end parts of the second transmission part 290. The rotation center of the first tray 230 passes through the shaft hole 292. If the contact part 295 is arranged at a distance from the shaft hole 292, the torque acting on the second transmission part 290 becomes larger, so that the first tray 230 can rotate (or twist) smoothly.

[0163] In this embodiment, the first tray 230 may be a plastic injection molding. In this case, the first tray 230 can be twisted so that the ice can be smoothly separated from the first tray 230. As an example, the second tray 240 may also be a plastic injection molding. During the rotation of the second tray 240, when the rotational force of the second tray 240 is transmitted to the first tray 230, a torsional force may also act on the second tray 240. At this time, the first tray 230 and the second tray 240 may be formed of the same material or different materials.

[0164] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 3 10-10 line.

[0165] Refer to Figure 4 and Figure 10, the second tray 240 may include a second unit wall 241. The second unit wall 241 may form a second unit 242 which is another part of the ice-making unit. Another part of the ice may be formed in the second unit 242. As an example, the second unit 242 may be formed in a hemispherical shape. The second unit wall 241 may form a plurality of second units 242. The plurality of second units 242 may be arranged in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the rotation center C2 of the second tray 240. During the ice-making process, the first unit 232 and the second unit 242 may be arranged in the vertical direction or in the horizontal direction.

[0166] The second tray 240 may further include a connecting portion 243 through which the rotation center C2 passes. As an example, a plurality of connecting portions 243 may extend while being spaced apart. As an example, a pair of connecting portions 243 may be located between a pair of pressing portions 420. The first transmission portion 270 may pass through one pressing portion 420 and then pass through one connecting portion 243. One end of the transmission shaft 280 may be coupled to the first transmission portion 270 passing through the one connecting portion 243. The shaft connector 286 may pass through the other pressing portion 420 and then pass through the other connecting portion 243. In the drawing, the other pressing portion 420 may be located on the left side of the one pressing portion 420. In the drawing, the other connecting portion 243 may be located on the left side of the one connecting portion 243. The other end of the transmission shaft 280 may be coupled to the shaft connector 286 passing through the other connecting portion 243.

[0167] A hole for coupling the first transmission portion 270 may be formed in the one pressing portion 420. A hole for coupling the first transmission portion 270 may also be formed in the one connecting portion 243. Each of the holes may be formed in a shape corresponding to the coupling portion 274 and the protruding portion 275 in the first transmission portion 270. A corresponding portion of the hole in the one connecting portion 243 corresponding to the protruding portion 275 may be formed larger than the protruding portion 275. Thus, the protruding portion 275 may move within the corresponding portion. On the contrary, a corresponding portion of the hole in the one pressing portion 420 corresponding to the protruding portion 275 may be formed in the same size as the protruding portion 275. With this structure, even in a state where the second tray 240 is moved to the ice-making position, the pressing portion 420 can perform an additional rotation corresponding to the size difference between the corresponding portion and the protruding portion 275 within the corresponding portion.

[0168] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice-making process is completed. Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the first tray in a twisted state.

[0169] InFigure 11 In this figure, the state of the first tray rotating is shown, while the torsion of the first tray is not shown to simplify the drawing.

[0170] Referring to Figures 4 to 12 , Figure 11 The (a) of shows the case where the second tray 240 is in the ice-making position. After the water supply is completed, ice-making can be carried out at the ice-making position of the second tray 240. During the ice-making process, the heater 250 can operate to produce ice with high transparency. If the heater 250 operates, ice can be generated from the side of the first tray 230 to the side of the second tray 240.

[0171] The heater 250 can be turned off before the completion of the ice-making process. Or, after the completion of the ice-making process, the heater 250 can also remain on. In this case, the heater 250 can function as an ice-transfer heater during the ice-transfer process.

[0172] During the ice-transfer process, if the heater 250 operates, heat can be transferred to the first tray 230 and the second tray 240, thus helping the ice to separate from the first tray 230 and the second tray 240. Due to the heat of the heater 250, the ice can separate from the first tray 230 and the second tray 240. Or, due to the heat of the heater 250, a part of the ice can separate from the first tray 230 and the second tray 240, while the other part can remain attached to the first tray 230 and the second tray 240. However, since the heat of the heater 250 is first transferred to the second tray 240, the possibility of the ice completely separating from the second tray 240 is relatively high.

[0173] During the ice-transfer process, the first transmission part 270 can rotate in the positive direction ( Figure 11 the direction of arrow A in ) by the operation of the drive part 220. If the first transmission part 270 rotates in the positive direction, the second tray 240 also rotates in the positive direction. During the rotation of the second tray 240 in the positive direction, the first transmission part 270 contacts the second transmission part 290. As an example, the contact part 295 between the second extension part 276 and the second transmission part 290 contacts. If as Figure 11 shown in (b) of , in the state where the first transmission part 270 contacts the second transmission part 290, if the first transmission part 270 rotates additionally in the positive direction as Figure 11 shown in (c) of , the first tray 230 rotates in the reverse direction, so that the first tray 230 twists. As shown in (c) of Figure 11 , if the second tray 240 moves to the ice-transfer position, the torsion amount of the first tray 230 can be the largest. As an example, asFigure 12 As shown, as the change in the position of the other side wall 231b relative to the side wall 231a in the first unit wall 231 becomes larger, ice can be easily separated from the first tray 230.

[0174] As described above, in a state where the first transmission part 270 is in contact with the second transmission part 290, if the second tray 240 rotates, a torsional force can also act on the second tray 240.

[0175] As Figure 11 In (c) of, before the second tray 240 completely moves to the ice transfer position or moves to the ice transfer position, the ice can be separated from the first tray 230 due to the torsion of the first tray 230 and fall downward. Even if the ice is separated from the first tray 230 but not from the second tray 240, the ice can be separated from the second tray 240 by the torsion of the second tray 240.

[0176] On the other hand, after the second tray 240 moves to the ice transfer position, the second tray 240 can rotate in the reverse direction ( Figure 11 the direction of arrow B in) by the driving part 220. Then the first tray 240 rotates in the positive direction. During the process of the first tray 240 rotating in the positive direction, the first transmission part 270 and the second transmission part 290 are separated. In this way, the first tray 230 can stop in a state of moving to the initial position, while the second tray 240 can move to the water supply position or the ice transfer position.

[0177] Figure 11 (d) of shows a state where the pressing part 420 presses the second tray 240 by using the additional rotation of the first transmission part 270 in a state where the second tray 240 has moved to the ice making position.

[0178] According to this embodiment, an ice making unit is formed by the first tray and the second tray, and the first tray can be supported on the bracket, and the second tray can also be supported on the bracket. Therefore, it has the advantage of being able to form spherical ice with a simple structure.

[0179] In addition, during the ice transfer process, a torsional force acts on each of the first tray and the second tray. Therefore, it has the advantage of being able to easily separate ice from the first tray and the second tray. That is, it has the advantages of not needing to use a pusher as an additional structure and not needing a structure for moving the pusher.

[0180] In addition, since the moving force of the second tray is transmitted to the first tray through the transmission mechanism, it has the advantage of being able to move the first tray by using one driving part without using a plurality of driving parts.

[0181] In addition, since a single heater is used instead of a plurality of heaters to operate during the ice-making process and the ice-transferring process, the structure becomes simple and the control of the heater becomes simple.

[0182] Figure 13 It is a perspective view of the ice maker of the second embodiment. Figure 14 It is Figure 13 exploded perspective view of the ice maker. Figure 15 It is a perspective view showing a state where the first tray and the second tray of the second embodiment are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0183] In the second embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment will be mainly described. Therefore, in the description of the second embodiment, even if the components shown in the second embodiment do not have reference numerals, or the components not described in the description of the second embodiment, the reference numerals or descriptions of the first embodiment can be applied to the same components as those in the first embodiment in the same way.

[0184] Referring to Figures 13 to 15 , the ice maker 201 of this embodiment may also include a first tray 530 and a second tray 540. The first tray 530 may form a first unit, and the second tray 540 may form a second unit. The first unit and the second unit may form an ice-making unit.

[0185] In this embodiment, the water supply unit 411 may be combined with the bracket 210. The basic configuration of the bracket 210 in this embodiment may be the same as that of the bracket 210 in the first embodiment, so the detailed description is omitted.

[0186] The ice maker 201 may include a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism may include a first transmission part 570. The first transmission part 570 may be connected to the connector of the drive part 220. The first transmission part 570 may be connected to the second tray 540. Therefore, the second tray 540 may rotate together with the first transmission part 570.

[0187] The ice maker 201 may further include a transmission shaft 280. The transmission shaft 280 transmits the rotational force of the first transmission part 570 connected to one side of the second tray 540 to the other side of the second tray 540. The first transmission part 570 may be connected to one end of the transmission shaft 280. A shaft connector 586 may be connected to the other end of the transmission shaft 280.

[0188] The transmission mechanism may further include a second transmission part 590. The second transmission part 590 transmits the moving force of the second tray 540 to the first tray 530 by acting with the first transmission part 570. The second transmission part 590 may be integrally formed with the first tray 530 or manufactured as a structure independent of the first tray 530 and coupled to the first tray 530. Figure 15 Exemplarily, a case where the second transmission part 590 is integrally formed with the first tray 530 is shown.

[0189] The first tray 530 may include a first shaft 536 and a second shaft 537. The description of the deformable structure for the rotation of the first tray 230 in the first embodiment can also be directly applied to the first tray 530 of this embodiment.

[0190] The first tray 530 may further include a protruding part 539 for torsion. Since the function of the protruding part 539 is the same as that described in the first embodiment, detailed description is omitted.

[0191] The first tray 530 may further include the second transmission part 590. The second transmission part 590 may be spaced apart from the second shaft 537. That is, when the second transmission part 590 is located at a position spaced apart from the second shaft 537, the torque can be increased. The second transmission part 590 may be located on the opposite side of the protruding part 539.

[0192] The second tray 540 may include a contact protrusion 546. The contact protrusion 546 may protrude from the side surface of the second tray 540. The contact protrusion 546 may be pressed by the first transmission part 570 when the second tray 540 moves to the ice-making position. That is, in this embodiment, the first transmission part 570 may function as the pressing part in the first embodiment.

[0193] The ice maker 201 may further include a heater 550. The ice maker 201 may further include a heater housing 560 that supports the heater 550.

[0194] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment observed from one side, Figure 17 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment observed from the rear side, Figure 18 is a view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment observed from the upper side, Figure 19 is a side view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the second embodiment.

[0195] Refer to Figures 15 to 19, the first tray 530 may include a first unit wall 531. The second shaft 537 and the second transmission part 590 may be located on one side of the first unit wall 531. The first transmission part 570 may be located below the second transmission part 590 in a state of being connected to the second tray 540.

[0196] The first transmission part 570 may include a main body 571. A connection part 572 for connecting with a connector of the driving part 220 may be provided on the main body 571. The first transmission part 570 may further include a first extension part 573 extending from the main body 571. As an example, the first extension part 573 may be connected to the second tray 540. Therefore, the first extension part 573 may provide a rotation center for the second tray 540. The first extension part 573 may include a protruding part protruding in the radial direction.

[0197] The first transmission part 570 may include a first part 574 extending in a direction intersecting with the first extension part 573. The first part 574 may extend radially from the main body 571. The first transmission part 570 may further include a second part 574 extending in a direction intersecting with the first extension part 573. In this embodiment, the first part 574 and the second part 575 may be referred to as second extension parts. Therefore, the second extension part is a part that interacts with the second transmission part 590 for the rotation of the first tray 530.

[0198] The first part 574 and the second part 575 may be separated. As an example, the first part 574 and the second part 575 may be separated along the circumferential direction ( Figure 19 arrow C direction) of the main body 571. The first part 574 may extend from a first position of the main body 571. The second part 575 may extend from a second position of the main body 571 that is separated from the first position in the length direction ( Figure 18 arrow D direction) (or the extending direction of the rotation center).

[0199] The second transmission part 590 may protrude from the first unit wall 531. The second transmission part 590 may include a first area 591 protruding from the first unit wall 531. The first area 591 may contact the first part 574 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. The second transmission part 590 may further include a second area 595. The second area 595 may contact the second part 575 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. As an example, the second area 595 may protrude from the first area 591.

[0200] The first part 574 may include a first cam surface 574a. The first cam surface 574a may contact a part of the first area 591 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. The first part 574 may further include a second cam surface 574c. The second cam surface 574c may contact other parts of the first area 591 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. The first cam surface 574a may be formed in a straight line shape or with a curvature. When the first cam surface 574a has a curvature, the curvature of the first cam surface 574a may change. The second cam surface 574c may be formed in a straight line shape or with a curvature. When the second cam surface 574c has a curvature, the curvature of the second cam surface 574c may change. The connecting surface 574b between the first cam surface 574a and the second cam surface 574c may be a plane or an arc surface. At this time, the connecting surface 574b may also be absent.

[0201] The first area 591 may include a first contact surface 592. A part of the first part 574 may contact the first contact surface 592 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. As an example, the first cam surface 574a may contact the first contact surface 592. The connecting surface 574b may also contact the first contact surface 592. The first area 591 may further include a second contact surface 593. Another part of the first part 574 may contact the second contact surface 593 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. As an example, the second cam surface 574c may contact the second contact surface 593. The first contact surface 592 may be an arc surface, but is not limited thereto. The second contact surface 593 may be an inclined surface. As an example, the second contact surface 593 may be inclined with respect to the horizontal plane. The second part 575 may include a third cam surface 575a. The third cam surface 575a may contact the second area 595 during the rotation of the first transmission part 570. As an example, the third cam surface 575a may be an arc surface. The curvature of the third cam surface 575a may change. As an example, the curvature of the third cam surface 575a may increase as it moves away from the main body 571.

[0202] In the case of this embodiment, through the first part 574 and the second part 575, the moving direction of the first tray 530 may change multiple times during the ice transfer process. If the moving direction of the first tray 530 changes multiple times, the torsional force of the first tray 530 increases, thereby improving the ice separation performance.

[0203] The first transmission part 570 may further include a third part 577 extending from the main body 571. The third part 577 may extend in a direction intersecting with the first extension part 573. A pressing protrusion 578 may be formed at the end of the third part 577. The pressing protrusion 578 may press the contact protrusion 546 of the second tray 570.

[0204] Figure 20 is a top view showing the state where the heater of the second embodiment is disposed in the heater housing, Figure 21 is a perspective view showing the state where the heater of the second embodiment is disposed in the heater housing.

[0205] Refer to Figure 20 and Figure 21 , the heater 550 may be disposed in the heater housing 560. The heater housing 560 may be in contact with the second tray 540. As an example, the heater housing 560 may be coupled to the second tray 540.

[0206] The heater housing 560 may include a support part 561 formed in a shape corresponding to the second unit of the second tray 540. The heater housing 560 may further include an extension part 565 extending from an upper side part of the support part 561.

[0207] As an example, the support part 561 may be formed in a hemispherical shape. A heater placement groove 562 for placing the heater 550 may be formed in the support part 561. One end part of the heater 550 may be placed in the support part 561 through the extension part 565, and the other end part may extend from the support part 561 toward the extension part 565 side.

[0208] As an example, the heater 550 may include a first section 551 extending in the vertical direction (or the arrangement direction of the first tray and the second tray). The heater 550 may further include a second section 552 extending from the first section 551 in a direction intersecting with the first section 551. The second section 552 may extend in the horizontal direction with reference to the drawing. The heater 550 may further include a third section 553 extending in the vertical direction from the second section 552. As an example, the third section 553 may extend from the second section 552 in a direction away from the first section 551.

[0209] The heater 550 may further include a fourth section 554 extending from the third section 553 in a direction intersecting the third section 553. The fourth section 554 may extend in a horizontal direction with reference to the drawings. The fourth section 554 may be located closer to the first tray 530 than the second section 552. The length of the fourth section 554 may be greater than the length of the second section 552. The fourth section 554 may have a curvature. The second section 552 may have a curvature. The radius of the fourth section 554 may be greater than the radius of the second section 552.

[0210] During the ice transfer process, the heat of the fourth section 554 may assist in separating the first tray 530 and the second tray 540. The heat of the first to third sections may assist in separating the ice and the second tray 540.

[0211] The heater 550 may further include a fifth section 555 located at the boundary part of the connection of two adjacent units. In one unit, the first to fourth sections may be arranged in sequence.

[0212] Figures 22 to 24 It is a diagram showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice-making process is completed. Figure 25 It is a diagram showing the first tray in a twisted state.

[0213] Refer to Figures 22 to 25 , since the ice-making process may be the same as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0214] After ice-making is completed, the first transmission part 570 may move in the positive direction (A direction) by using the driving part 220 during or after the operation of the heater 550. As an example, in the state of (a) as shown in Figure 22 , the first transmission part 570 may rotate in the positive direction. If the first transmission part 570 rotates, the second tray 540 may rotate in the positive direction. During the process of the first transmission part 570 rotating in the positive direction, as shown in (b) of Figure 22 , the first part 574 may contact the first area 575. As an example, the first cam surface 574a may contact the first contact surface 592. In this state, if the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the positive direction, as shown in (c) of Figure 22 , the first tray 530 may rotate in the positive direction. As shown in Figure 22In (d), if the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the second cam surface 574c may contact the second contact surface 593. In this state, if the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the first tray 530 may rotate again in the reverse direction (arrow B direction). As Figure 22 In (d), the first tray 530 may rotate in the positive direction and then return to the initial position.

[0215] Next, as Figure 23 In (a), if the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the second part 575 contacts the second area 595. In this state, if as Figure 23 In (b), if the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the second part 575 presses the second area 595 downward, so that the first tray 530 rotates from the initial position in the reverse direction. After the second tray 540 moves to the ice transfer position, as Figure 23 In (c), the first transmission part 570 rotates in the reverse direction again. During the reverse rotation of the first transmission part 570, the first tray 530 rotates in the positive direction.

[0216] During the reverse rotation of the first transmission part 570, if the second area 595 and the second part 575 are separated, the rotation of the first tray 530 may stop at the initial position as Figure 23 In (d). If the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the reverse direction, then as Figure 24 In (a), the first part 574 contacts the first area 591, so that the first tray 530 rotates in the positive direction again. If the first transmission part 570 rotates additionally in the reverse direction, the first part 574 is separated from the first area 591, and the first tray 530 stops at the initial position.

[0217] In Figure 24 In (b), it shows a state where the pressing projection 578 of the third part 577 presses the contact projection 546 of the second tray 240 through the additional rotation of the first transmission part 570 in the state where the second tray 540 moves to the ice making position.

[0218] In the case of this embodiment, during the ice transfer process when the second tray 540 moves from the ice making position to the ice transfer position, the first tray 530 rotates in the positive direction and then rotates in the reverse direction again and stops at the initial position as an example. Then, the first tray 530 rotates in the reverse direction and then rotates in the positive direction again.

[0219] In addition, when the second tray 540 moves from the ice transfer position to the water supply position or the ice transfer position during the ice transfer process, the first tray 530 rotates in the reverse direction and stops at the initial position as an example. Then, after the first tray 530 rotates in the reverse direction, it rotates in the forward direction again and stops at the initial position. At this time, before the second tray 540 moves from the ice transfer position to the water supply position, the first part 574 is separated from the first area 591, so that the first tray 530 can move to the initial position.

[0220] As Figure 25 , the torsional force of the first tray 530 increases as the displacement of the other side wall 531b relative to the one side wall 531a in the first tray 530 increases, so that the ice can be easily separated from the first tray 539.

[0221] According to this embodiment, since the moving direction of the first tray 530 changes multiple times during the ice transfer process, the direction of the torsional force in the first tray 530 changes, so there is an advantage of being able to improve the ice separation performance.

[0222] In addition, since a single transmission part includes a plurality of separated parts, there is an advantage of being able to change the moving direction of the first tray 530 multiple times through a simple structure.

[0223] Figure 26 is the front view of the ice maker of the third embodiment, Figure 27 is Figure 26 the exploded perspective view of the ice maker. Figure 28 is the perspective view showing the state where the first tray and the second tray of the third embodiment are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0224] In the third embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be mainly described. Therefore, in the process of describing the third embodiment, even if the components shown in the third embodiment do not have reference numerals, or the components not described in the description of the third embodiment, for the components the same as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the reference numerals or descriptions of the first embodiment or the second embodiment can be applied in the same way.

[0225] Refer to Figures 26 to 28 , the ice maker 202 of this embodiment may also include a first tray 630 and a second tray 640. The first tray 630 may form a first unit, and the second tray 640 may form a second unit. The first unit and the second unit may form an ice making unit.

[0226] In this embodiment, the water supply part 410 may be combined with the bracket 210. Since the basic structure of the bracket 210 in this embodiment may be the same as that of the bracket 210 in the first embodiment, the detailed description is omitted.

[0227] The ice maker 202 may include a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism may include a first transmission part 664. A part of the first transmission part 664 may be connected to the second tray 640. The first transmission part 644 may include a first part 665. The first transmission part 644 may include a second part 670 separated from the first part 665. The second part 670 may be connected to a connector of the driving part 220. The second part 670 may be connected to the second tray 640.

[0228] The ice maker 202 may further include a transmission shaft 280. The transmission shaft 280 transmits the rotational force of the second part 670 connected to one side of the second tray 640 to the other side of the second tray 640. The second part 670 may be connected to one end of the transmission shaft 280. A shaft connector 670a may be connected to the other end of the transmission shaft 280.

[0229] The transmission mechanism may further include a second transmission part 690 that transmits the moving force of the second tray 640 to the first tray 630 by acting with the first transmission part 664. The second transmission part 690 may be integrally formed with the first tray 630 or manufactured as a structure independent of the first tray 630 and combined with the first tray 630. In Figure 28 it, a case where the second transmission part 690 is integrally formed with the first tray 630 is exemplarily shown.

[0230] The ice maker 202 may further include a heater 650. The ice maker 202 may further include a heater housing 660 that supports the heater 650. The ice maker 202 may further include a motor support 213a for arranging the driving part 220. The motor support 213a may be combined with the bracket 210.

[0231] The ice maker 202 may further include a stopper 610 that contacts the second tray 640 during the movement of the second tray 640. If the second tray 640 contacts the stopper 610 during the movement of the second tray 640, the movement of a part of the second tray 640 is restricted, while the other part can move, so that the second tray 640 can be twisted. Through the twisting of the second tray 640, ice can be easily separated from the second tray 640. The stopper 610 may be integrally formed with the bracket 210 or combined with the bracket 210.

[0232] The ice maker 202 may further include a water storage unit 680. The water storage unit 680 may store the overflowed water when a part of the water supplied to the ice making unit overflows from the ice making unit. As an example, the water storage unit 680 may be disposed on the second tray 640. The ice maker 202 may further include a fixing unit 688 for fixing the water storage unit 680 to the second tray 640 in a state where the water storage unit 680 is placed on the second tray 640.

[0233] The ice maker 202 may further include an ejector 620 for pressing the water storage unit 680 during the movement of the second tray 640. Even if the water stored in the water storage unit 680 turns into ice, the water storage unit 680 can be pressed by the ejector 620, whereby the ice in the water storage unit 680 can be separated from the water storage unit 680. The ejector 620 may be integrally formed with the bracket 210 or coupled to the bracket 210.

[0234] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment viewed from one side, Figure 30 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment viewed from the rear side, Figure 31 is a view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment viewed from the rear side, Figure 32 is a side view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the third embodiment.

[0235] Referring to Figures 29 to 32 , the first tray 630 may include a first shaft 636 and a second shaft 637. The description of the deformable structure for the rotation of the first tray 230 in the first embodiment may also be directly applied to the first tray 630 of this embodiment.

[0236] The first tray 630 may further include a protruding portion 639 for torsion. Since the function of the protruding portion 639 is the same as that described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0237] The first tray 630 may further include the second transmission part 690. The second transmission part 690 may be spaced apart from the second shaft 637. When the second transmission part 690 is spaced apart from the second shaft 637, the torque may be increased. The second transmission part 690 may be located on the opposite side of the protruding portion 639. The second transmission part 690 may protrude from the first tray 630.

[0238] The second transmission part 690 may include a first area 691 capable of contacting the first part 665. The second transmission part 690 may include a second area 695 capable of contacting the second part 670. The second area 695 may protrude from the first area 691.

[0239] The first part 665 may be disposed on the heater housing 660. As an example, the first part 665 may be integrally formed with the heater housing 660 or coupled to the heater housing 660.

[0240] The heater housing 660 may further include a coupling part 663 for coupling with the second part 670. A part of the second part 670 may penetrate through the coupling part 663 and be coupled to the second tray 640.

[0241] The first part 665 may include a first cam surface 665a. The first cam surface 665a may contact a part of the first area 691 during the rotation of the second tray 640. The first part 665 may further include a second cam surface 665c. The second cam surface 665c may contact another part of the first area 691 during the rotation of the second tray 640. The first cam surface 665a may be formed in a straight line shape or with a curvature. When the first cam surface 665a has a curvature, the curvature of the first cam surface 665a may change. The second cam surface 665c may be formed in a straight line shape or with a curvature. When the second cam surface 665c has a curvature, the curvature of the second cam surface 665c may change. The connection surface 665b between the first cam surface 665a and the second cam surface 665c may be a plane or an arc surface. At this time, the connection surface 665b may not exist.

[0242] The second part 670 may include a main body 671. A connection part 672 for connecting with the connector of the driving part 220 may be provided on the main body 671. The second part 670 may further include a first extension part 673 extending from the main body 671. As an example, the first extension part 673 may be connected to the coupling part 663 and the second tray 640. Thus, the first extension part 673 may provide the rotation center of the second tray 640. The first extension part 673 may include a protruding part protruding in the radial direction. The second part 670 may further include a second extension part 675 extending in a direction intersecting with the first extension part 673. The second extension part 675 is a part that interacts with the second area 695 for the rotation of the first tray 630.

[0243] The first region 691 may include a first contact surface 691a. During the rotation of the second tray 640, a part of the first portion 665 may contact the first contact surface 691a. As an example, the first cam surface 665a may contact the first contact surface 691a. The connecting surface 665b may also contact the first cam surface 665a. The first region 691 may further include a second contact surface 691b. During the rotation of the second tray 640, another part of the first portion 665 may contact the second contact surface 691b. As an example, the second cam surface 665c may contact the second contact surface 691b. The first contact surface 691a may be an arc surface, but is not limited thereto. The second contact surface 691b may be an inclined surface. As an example, the second contact surface 691b may be inclined with respect to the horizontal plane. The second portion 675 may include a third cam surface 675a. The third cam surface 675a may contact the second region 695 during the rotation of the second tray 640. As an example, the third cam surface 675a may be an arc surface. The curvature of the third cam surface 675a may change.

[0244] In the case of this embodiment, due to the first portion 665 and the second portion 670, the moving direction of the first tray 630 may change multiple times during the ice transfer process. If the moving direction of the first tray 630 changes multiple times, the torsional force of the first tray 630 increases, thereby improving the ice separation performance.

[0245] In the case of this embodiment, since the heater housing 660 is connected to the second portion 670, the heater housing 660 may also rotate through the second portion 670 when the second portion 670 rotates.

[0246] As described in the first embodiment, if the hole of the engaging portion 663 corresponding to the protrusion of the first extension portion 673 formed on the second portion 670 is formed to be larger than the protrusion, the heater housing 660 may rotate relative to the second tray 640. With this structure, the heater housing 660 may additionally rotate in a state where the second tray 640 moves to the ice making position, thereby pressing the second tray 640. That is, the heater housing 660 itself may function as the pressing portion mentioned in the first embodiment.

[0247] Figure 33 is a perspective view of the second tray of the third embodiment, Figure 34 is showing in Figure 33 the state where a water storage portion and a fixing portion are combined with the second tray.

[0248] Refer toFigure 33 and Figure 34 , the second tray 640 may include a second unit wall 641. The second unit wall 641 may form a second unit 642. Of course, the first tray 630 may include a first unit wall, and the first unit wall may form a first unit.

[0249] The second tray 640 may include a plurality of spaced-apart connection portions 646. One of the plurality of connection portions 646 may be connected to the second portion 670. Another one of the plurality of connection portions 646 may be connected to the shaft connector 670a.

[0250] The second tray 640 may further include a connection body 647 connecting the plurality of connection portions 646. Due to the plurality of connection portions 646, the connection body 647 may be spaced apart from the second unit wall 641. The second unit wall 641, the plurality of connection portions 646, and the connection body 647 may form a space 648. The water storage portion 680 may be located in the space 648. A part of the water storage portion 680 may penetrate the space 648, and another part may be disposed on one or more of the second unit wall 641, the plurality of connection portions 646, and the connection body 647. The water storage portion 680 may be formed of a deformable material. The water storage portion 680 may form a storage space 682 capable of storing water.

[0251] The fixing portion 688 may be disposed on the periphery of the water storage portion 680 in a state where the water storage portion 680 is disposed in the second tray 640. As an example, the fixing portion 688 may be hooked to the second tray 640. The second tray 640 may further include a guiding groove 643 for guiding water overflowing from the ice making unit to flow toward the water storage portion 680 side. The guiding groove 643 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the water storage portion 680 in the second tray 640. The guiding groove 643 may be formed by a depression of a part of the second unit wall 641. Each of the plurality of connection portions 646 may include a hole 646a for the second portion 670 to penetrate. The connection portion 646 may further include a protruding groove 646b extending from the hole 646a. The protruding groove 646b may extend radially from the hole 646a. A protruding portion of the first extension portion 673 provided on the second portion 670 may be located in the protruding groove 646b.

[0252] Figure 35 is a side view of the heater housing of the third embodiment. Figure 36 is a perspective view showing a state where a heater is disposed in the heater housing of the third embodiment.

[0253] Refer toFigure 36 The heater housing 660 may include a support portion 661. The heater 650 may be disposed on the support portion 661. The support portion 661 may be in contact with the second tray 640. The support portion 661 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the second unit of the second tray 640. As an example, the support portion 661 may be formed in a hemispherical shape. A heater placement groove 662 for placing the heater 650 may be formed in the support portion 661.

[0254] The heater housing 660 may further include a coupling portion 663 extending from the support portion 661. A plurality of coupling portions 663 may extend from the support portion 661 in a spaced-apart state from each other. A first portion 665 may extend from one of the plurality of coupling portions 663. The one coupling portion is a portion for coupling the second portion. Each of the plurality of coupling portions 663 may include a hole 663a through which the second portion 670 penetrates. Each of the plurality of coupling portions 663 may further include a raised groove 663b extending from the hole 663a. The raised groove 663b may extend radially from the hole 663. A protruding portion of the first extension portion 673 provided on the second portion 670 may be located in the raised groove 663b.

[0255] The raised groove 663b of the heater housing 660 may be formed in the same size as the protruding portion of the first extension portion 673. The raised groove 663b of the second tray 640 may be larger than the protruding portion of the first extension portion 673. Therefore, the heater housing 660 may rotate relative to the second tray 640.

[0256] Figure 37 is a perspective view of the bracket of the third embodiment.

[0257] Referring to Figure 27 and Figure 37 The bracket 210 may further include a support member coupling portion 616 for coupling the motor support member 213a. The motor support member 213a may be coupled to the support member coupling portion 616 by at least one of a screw and a hook.

[0258] The bracket 210 may further include a first coupling portion 612 for coupling the stopper 610. In a state where the stopper 610 is coupled to the first coupling portion 612, the stopper 610 may protrude outward from the first coupling portion 612. The bracket 210 may further include a second coupling portion 614 for coupling the ejector 620. A plurality of ejectors 620 may be coupled to the bracket 210, but is not limited thereto.

[0259] The stopper 610 can be located on the moving trajectory of the second tray 640 when the second tray 640 moves. The stopper 610 can contact a portion near one end of the two end portions of the second tray 640, so that the second tray 640 can be twisted.

[0260] Figures 38 to 40 It is a diagram showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice making process is completed. Figure 41 It is a diagram showing the state where the second tray contacts the stopper. Figure 42 It is a diagram showing the second tray in a twisted state.

[0261] Refer to Figures 38 to 42 , since the ice making process can be the same as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0262] After ice making is completed, the second part 670 and the heater housing 660 can move in the positive direction (direction A) by the driving unit 220 during or after the operation of the heater 650. At this time, as Figure 38 in (b) of Figure 38 , the second tray 640 remains in the state of stopping at the ice making position. If the heater housing 660 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the second tray 640 can rotate in the positive direction together with the heater housing 660. During the process of the second tray 640 and the heater housing 660 rotating in the positive direction, as Figure 38 in (c) of

[0263] As Figure 39 in (a) of Figure 39 , if the heater housing 660 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the second cam surface 665c can contact the second contact surface 691b. In this state, if the heater housing 660 rotates additionally in the positive direction, the first tray 630 can rotate in the reverse direction. As

[0264] Then, as Figure 39 in (b) of Figure 39In (c) thereof, if the second tray 640 rotates additionally in the forward direction, the second part 670 presses downward on the second area 695, so that the first tray 630 rotates in the reverse direction from the initial position.

[0265] Before the second tray 640 reaches the ice transfer position, as Figure 41 , a part of the second tray 640 contacts the stopper 610. In this state, the second tray 640 may twist during the movement of the second tray 640 toward the ice transfer position. As Figure 42 , as the second tray 640 is twisted, the relative positions of one side wall 641a and the other side wall 641b of the second tray 640 change, and ice can be easily separated from the second tray 640.

[0266] When water equivalent to the reference amount is supplied to the ice making unit, since the ice exists in a spherical shape, the possibility that the ice adheres to the first tray 630 is relatively high. The ice adhering to the first tray 630 can be easily separated from the first tray 630 during the twisting of the first tray 630.

[0267] On the contrary, when less than the reference amount of water is supplied to the ice making unit, since the ice is produced in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere, and there is a possibility that the ice adheres only to the second tray 640. In this case, the ice can be separated from the second tray 640 by using the twisting of the second tray 640.

[0268] After the second tray 640 moves to the ice transfer position, the second tray 640 rotates again in the reverse direction as Figure 39 in (d). During the reverse rotation of the second tray 640, the first tray 630 rotates in the forward direction. If the second area 695 and the second part 670 are separated during the reverse rotation of the second tray 630, as Figure 40 in (a), the rotation of the first tray 630 stops at the initial position.

[0269] If the second tray 630 rotates additionally in the reverse direction, as Figure 40 in (b), the first part 665 contacts the first area 691, so that the first tray 630 rotates in the forward direction again. If the second tray 630 rotates additionally in the reverse direction, the first part 665 is separated from the first area 691, and the first tray 630 stops at the initial position.

[0270] Figure 40Figure (d) shows a state where, with the second tray 640 moved to the ice-making position, the heater housing 660 presses on the second tray 640 by additional rotation of the heater housing 660.

[0271] In the case of the present embodiment, during the ice transfer process, when the second tray 640 moves from the ice-making position to the ice transfer position, the first tray 630 rotates forward and then rotates backward again, and stops at the initial position as an example. After that, the first tray 630 rotates backward and then rotates forward again.

[0272] In addition, during the ice transfer process, when the second tray 640 moves from the ice transfer position to the water supply position or the ice transfer position, the first tray 630 rotates backward and then stops at the initial position as an example. Then, the first tray 630 rotates backward and then rotates forward again, and stops at the initial position. At this time, before the second tray 640 moves from the ice transfer position to the water supply position, the first part 665 is separated from the first area 691, so that the first tray 630 can move to the initial position.

[0273] Figure 43 It is a diagram showing the relative positions of the ejector and the second tray during the operation of the ice maker according to the third embodiment.

[0274] Refer to Figure 43 Figure (b), at least one of the first tray 630 and the second tray 640 may be provided with a channel CH through which water flows.

[0275] The channel CH may be formed by a part of the contact surface of the first tray 630 that contacts the second tray 640 being recessed upward. Alternatively, the channel CH may be formed by a part of the contact surface of the second tray 640 that contacts the first tray 630 being recessed downward. Alternatively, the channel CH may be formed by recesses in the contact surfaces of the first tray 630 and the second tray 640 respectively. In any case, the channel CH may be formed in a part of the second tray 640 adjacent to the rotation center of the second tray 640 or in a part adjacent to the water storage unit 680.

[0276] As Figure 43 Figure (a), at the water supply position, the water supply unit 410 can supply water to the ice-making unit IC. After the water supply is completed, as Figure 43In (b) thereof, the second tray 640 can move toward the ice-making position. During the process of the second tray 640 moving from the water supply position to the ice-making position or in a state where the second tray 640 has moved to the ice-making position, water of the ice-making unit IC can be discharged from the ice-making unit IC through the passage CH.

[0277] A water passage WP can be formed between the first tray 630 and the second tray 640. As an example, the water passage WP can be formed by separating a part of the second tray 640 from the first tray 630. Alternatively, the water passage WP can be formed by at least one of the first tray 630 and the second tray 640 being recessed.

[0278] Therefore, a part W1 of the water W supplied to the ice-making unit IC can be discharged from the ice-making unit IC, runoff through the water passage WP, and then stored in the water storage unit 680.

[0279] Due to the water pressure difference in each region or the air present in the filter or the water flow path after replacing the filter for purifying water, there is a possibility that the reference amount of water cannot be supplied to the ice-making unit IC during the water supply process. Depending on the actual water supply amount, the shape of the ice produced may be different.

[0280] In the case of supplying too much water, there are protrusions on the outside of the spherical ice. In the case of insufficient water supply, an incomplete spherical ice may be formed.

[0281] In the case of this embodiment, the reference amount can be set to be greater than the amount theoretically required to form spherical ice. In this case, since part of the water is discharged from the ice-making unit IC after the water is supplied to the ice-making unit IC, the amount of water remaining in the ice-making unit IC after the water supply is completed can be less than the water supply amount. In this case of this embodiment, the amount of water in the ice-making unit IC after the water supply is completed can be constant regardless of the water supply environment or the replacement of the filter.

[0282] Considering the expansion of water, it can be set that water equivalent to a volume smaller than the volume of the ice-making unit IC is supplied to the ice-making unit IC.

[0283] If the ice-making is completed, then as Figure 43 in (c), spherical ice can be formed. As described before in Figures 38 to 40 , the ice formed in the ice-making unit IC can be separated from the ice-making unit IC during the ice transfer process.

[0284] On the other hand, the water stored in the water storage unit 680 can be frozen when the ice-making process is completed. The ice I1 present in the water storage unit 680 can be separated from the water storage unit 680 by the pusher 620 pressing the water storage unit 680 during the movement of the second tray 640 to the ice-transfer position. The pusher 620 can penetrate the second tray 640 and press the water storage unit 680.

[0285] The water storage unit 680 pressed by the pusher 620 can be deformed and can return to its original shape when separated from the pusher 620.

[0286] Figure 44 is a perspective view of an ice maker according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 45 is Figure 44 an exploded perspective view of the ice maker. Figure 46 is a perspective view showing a state where the first tray and the second tray of the fourth embodiment are aligned in the vertical direction.

[0287] In the fourth embodiment, the parts different from the first to third embodiments will be mainly described. Therefore, during the description of the fourth embodiment, even if the components illustrated in the fourth embodiment do not have reference numerals, or are components not described in the description of the fourth embodiment, for the components that are the same as those in at least one of the first to third embodiments, the reference numerals or descriptions of the first to third embodiments can be applied in the same way.

[0288] Referring to Figures 44 to 46 , the ice maker 202 of this embodiment may also include a first tray 730 and a second tray 740. The first tray 730 may form a first unit, and the second tray 740 may form a second unit. The first unit and the second unit may form an ice-making unit.

[0289] In this embodiment, the water supply unit 410 may be coupled to the bracket 210. Since the basic configuration of the bracket 210 in this embodiment may be the same as that of the bracket 210 in the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0290] The ice maker 203 may include a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism may include a first transmission part 770. The first transmission part 770 may be connected to the connector of the drive part 220. The first transmission part 770 may be connected to the second tray 740.

[0291] The ice maker 203 may further include a transmission shaft 280. The transmission shaft 280 transmits the rotational force of the first transmission part 770 connected to one side of the second tray 740 to the other side of the second tray 740. The first transmission part 770 may be connected to one end of the transmission shaft 280. A shaft connector 770a may be connected to the other end of the transmission shaft 280.

[0292] The transmission mechanism may further include a second transmission part 739. The second transmission part 739 transmits the moving force of the second tray 740 to the first tray 730 by acting with the first transmission part 770. The second transmission part 739 may be integrally formed with the first tray 730 or manufactured as a configuration independent of the first tray 730 and coupled to the first tray 730. Figure 46 The case where the second transmission part 739 is integrally formed with the first tray 30 is exemplarily shown therein.

[0293] The ice maker 203 may further include a motor support 213a for disposing the driving part 220. The motor support 213a may be coupled to the bracket 210. The ice maker 203 may further include a heater 750. The ice maker 203 may further include a heater housing 760 for supporting the heater 750.

[0294] The ice maker 203 may further include an elastic member 768. One end of the elastic member 768 may be connected to the first transmission part 770, and the other end may be connected to the second tray 740. The elastic member 768 provides an elastic force to the second tray 740 at the ice-making position of the second tray 740 so that the second tray 740 maintains a state of being in contact with the first tray 730.

[0295] Figure 47 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment viewed from one side, Figure 48 is a perspective view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment viewed from the rear side, Figure 49 is a view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment viewed from the rear side, Figure 50 is a side view of the first tray and the first transmission part of the fourth embodiment.

[0296] Referring to Figures 47 to 50 the first tray 730 may include a first shaft 736 and a second shaft 737. The description of the deformable structure for the rotation of the first tray 230 in the first embodiment may also be directly applied to the first tray 730 of this embodiment.

[0297] The first tray 730 may further include a protruding portion 738 for torsion. Since the function of the protruding portion 738 is the same as that described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0298] The first tray 730 may further include the second transmission portion 739. The second transmission portion 739 may be spaced apart from the second shaft 747. That is, when the second transmission portion 590 is spaced apart from the second shaft 537, the torque may be increased. The second transmission portion 739 may be located on the opposite side of the protruding portion 738. The first transmission portion 770 may be located below the second transmission portion 739 in a state of being connected to the second tray 740.

[0299] The first transmission portion 770 may include a main body 771. A connecting portion 772 for connecting to the connector may be provided on the main body 771. The first transmission portion 770 may further include a first extension portion 773 extending from the main body 771. As an example, the first extension portion 773 may be connected to the second tray 740. The first extension portion 773 may include a protruding portion protruding radially. The first transmission portion 770 may include a first portion 774 extending in a direction intersecting with the first extension portion 773. The first portion 774 may extend radially from the main body 771. The first transmission portion 770 may further include a second portion 775 extending in a direction intersecting with the first extension portion 773. In the present embodiment, the first portion 774 and the second portion 775 may be referred to as a second extension portion. Therefore, the second extension portion is a portion that interacts with the second transmission portion 739 for the rotation of the first tray 730. The first portion 774 and the second portion 775 may be spaced apart. Since the separation direction of the first portion 774 and the second portion 775 is the same as that described in the second embodiment, a detailed description thereof is omitted. The second transmission portion 739 may protrude from a side wall of the first tray 730.

[0300] The first part 774 may include a first cam surface 774a. The first cam surface 774a may contact a part of the second transmission part 739 during the rotation of the first transmission part 770. The first part 774 may further include a second cam surface 774c. The second cam surface 774c may contact another part of the second transmission part 739 during the rotation of the first transmission part 770. The first cam surface 774a may be formed in a straight line shape or with a curvature. When the first cam surface 774a has a curvature, the curvature of the first cam surface 774a may change. The second cam surface 774c may be formed in a straight line shape or with a curvature. When the second cam surface 774c has a curvature, the curvature of the second cam surface 774c may change. The second part 775 may include a third cam surface 775a. The third cam surface 775a may contact another part of the second transmission part 739 during the rotation of the first transmission part 770. As an example, the third cam surface 775a may be an arc surface. The curvature of the third cam surface 775a may change.

[0301] In the case of this embodiment, due to the first part and the second part, the moving direction of the first tray 730 may change multiple times during the ice transfer process. If the moving direction of the first tray 730 changes multiple times, the torsional force of the first tray 730 increases, thereby improving the ice separation performance.

[0302] The first transmission part 770 may further include a third part 777 extending from the main body 771. The third part 777 may extend in a direction intersecting the first extension part 773. The elastic member 768 may be connected to the end of the third part 777.

[0303] Figure 51 is a top view showing the state in which the heater is installed in the heater housing of the fourth embodiment, Figure 52 is a perspective view showing the state in which the heater is installed in the heater housing of the fourth embodiment.

[0304] Refer to Figure 51 and Figure 52 , in this embodiment, since the shape of the heater 750 in the state where the heater 750 is installed in the heater housing 660 is the same as or similar to the shape of the heater 550 described in the second embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0305] The heater housing 760 may include a support portion 761 capable of contacting the second tray 740. The heater housing 760 may further include an extension portion 765 extending from an upper side portion of the support portion 761. As an example, the support portion 761 may be formed in a hemispherical shape, or a part thereof may be cut to form a groove. A heater placement groove 762 for placing the heater 750 may be formed in the support portion 761. A hook 767 for coupling with the second tray 740 may be provided in the extension portion 765.

[0306] Figures 53 to 55 FIG. is a diagram showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray during the ice transfer process after the ice making process is completed.

[0307] Refer to Figures 53 to 55 , since the ice making process may be the same as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0308] After ice making is completed, the first transmission portion 770 may move in the positive direction (A direction) by the driving portion 220 during or after the operation of the heater 750.

[0309] As an example, in the state of (a) as shown in Figure 53 , the first transmission portion 770 may rotate in the positive direction. If the first transmission portion 770 rotates, the second tray 740 may rotate in the positive direction. During the process of the first transmission portion 770 rotating in the positive direction, as shown in (b) of Figure 53 , a first portion 774 may contact the second transmission portion 739. As an example, the first cam surface 774a may contact the second transmission portion 739. In this state, if the first transmission portion 770 additionally rotates in the positive direction, as shown in (c) of Figure 53 , the first tray 730 may rotate in the positive direction.

[0310] As shown in Figure 53 (d), if the first transmission portion 770 additionally rotates in the positive direction, the second cam surface 774c may contact the second transmission portion 739. In this state, if the first transmission portion 770 additionally rotates in the positive direction, the first tray 730 may rotate in the reverse direction (arrow B direction) again. As shown in (d) of Figure 53 , the first tray 730 may rotate in the positive direction and then return to the initial position.

[0311] Next, as shown in (a) of Figure 54 , if the first transmission portion 770 additionally rotates in the positive direction, the second portion 775 contacts the second transmission portion 739. In this state, if as shown in Figure 54In (b) thereof, when the first transmission part 770 additionally rotates in the positive direction, the second part 775 presses the second transmission part 739 downward, so that the first tray 730 rotates in the reverse direction from the initial position.

[0312] After the second tray 740 moves to the ice transfer position, as Figure 54 shown in (c) thereof, the first transmission part 770 rotates in the reverse direction again. During the reverse rotation of the first transmission part 770, the first tray 730 rotates in the positive direction. If the second part 775 separates from the second transmission part 739 during the reverse rotation of the first transmission part 770, then as Figure 54 shown in (d) thereof, the rotation of the first tray 530 stops at the initial position.

[0313] If the first transmission part 770 additionally rotates in the reverse direction, then Figure 55 in (a) thereof, the first part 774 contacts the second transmission part 739, so that the first tray 730 rotates in the positive direction again. If the first transmission part 770 additionally rotates in the reverse direction, the first part 774 separates from the second transmission part 739, and the first tray 730 stops at the initial position.

[0314] Figure 55 (b) thereof shows a situation where, in a state where the second tray 740 moves to the ice making position, due to the additional rotation of the first transmission part 770, the elastic force of the elastic member 768 acts on the second tray 740.

[0315] Figure 56 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 46 line 56-56 of Figure 57 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 44 line 57-57 of Figure 57 However, the bracket is omitted in Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 46 line 58-58 of

[0316] Refer to Figures 56 to 58, at least one of the first tray 730 and the second tray 740 may be provided with a channel CH for water flow. The channel CH may be formed by a part of the contact surface of the first tray 730 in contact with the second tray 740 being recessed upward. Alternatively, the channel CH may be formed by a part of the contact surface of the second tray 740 in contact with the first tray 730 being recessed downward. Alternatively, the channel CH may be formed by being recessed from the respective contact surfaces of the first tray 730 and the second tray 740. In any case, the channel Ch may be formed in a portion of the second tray 740 adjacent to the rotation center of the second tray 740.

[0317] A water passage WP may be formed between the first tray 730 and the second tray 740. That is, the water passage WP may be formed as a part of the second tray 740 is separated from the first tray 730. Alternatively, the water passage WP may be formed as at least one of the first tray 730 and the second tray 730 is recessed. Therefore, a part of the water supplied to the ice making unit may be discharged from the ice making unit and flow in the water passage.

[0318] The second tray 740 may further include a water guide 746 that guides the flowing water to an additional water storage unit 800 provided below the second tray 740. The second tray 740 may further include a guide groove 744 that guides the water overflowing from the ice making unit to flow toward the water guide 746 side. The guide groove 744 may be disposed at a position of the second tray 740 adjacent to the water guide 746. In this embodiment, the bottom surface 746a of the water guide 746 may be inclined so that water can flow smoothly to one side.

[0319] In this embodiment, the structure for discharging water from the ice making unit and the technical effects thereof are the same as those described in the third embodiment, so detailed description is omitted.

[0320] Figure 59 FIG. is a view showing the relative positions of the first tray and the second tray in the ice maker according to the fifth embodiment. In the fifth embodiment, the parts different from the first to fourth embodiments are mainly described.

[0321] Therefore, in the process of describing the fifth embodiment, even if the components illustrated in the fifth embodiment do not have reference numerals, or are components not described in the description of the fifth embodiment, for components that are the same as those in at least one of the first to fourth embodiments, the reference numerals or descriptions of the first to fourth embodiments can be similarly applied.

[0322] Refer toFigure 59 The ice maker 204 of this embodiment may also include a first tray 830 and a second tray 840.

[0323] The ice maker 204 may include a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism may include a first transmission part 870. The first transmission part 870 may be connected to a connector of the driving part 220. The first transmission part 870 may be connected to the second tray 840. The transmission mechanism may further include a second transmission part 880. The second transmission part 880 transmits the moving force of the second tray 840 to the first tray 830 by acting on the first transmission part 870. The second transmission part 880 may be integrally formed with the first tray 830 or manufactured as a structure independent of the first tray 830 and combined with the first tray 830. In Figure 59 an example, a case where the second transmission part 880 is integrally formed with the first tray 730 is exemplarily shown.

[0324] The first transmission part 870 may include a main body 871. Although not shown, a structure for the main body 871 to be combined with the second tray 840 may apply the same structure as that described in the previous embodiment. The first transmission part 870 may include a first gear 872 formed on a part of the periphery of the main body 871. The second transmission part 880 may be combined with a shaft 837 of the first tray 830. The shaft 837 may provide a rotation center of the first tray 830. The second transmission part 880 may include a second gear 883 that meshes with the first gear. As an example, the second transmission part 880 may include a main body 881 combined with the shaft 837. The second transmission part 880 may include an extension part 882 extending from the main body 881. The extension part 882 may extend in the radial direction of the main body 881. The second gear 883 may be provided on the extension part 882.

[0325] After ice making is completed, the first transmission part 870 may move in the positive direction (A direction) through the driving part 220 during or after the operation of the heater. As an example, in the state of Figure 59 as shown in (a), the first transmission part 870 may rotate in the positive direction. If the first transmission part 870 rotates, the second tray 840 may rotate in the positive direction. During the process of the first transmission part 870 rotating in the positive direction, as shown in Figure 59 (b), the first gear 872 may be connected to the second gear 883 of the second transmission part 880. In this state, if the first transmission part 870 additionally rotates in the positive direction, then as shown in Figure 59In (c) thereof, the first tray 830 can rotate in the reverse direction. After the second tray 840 moves to the ice transfer position, the first transmission part 870 can move in the reverse direction. If the first transmission part 870 rotates in the reverse direction, the second tray 840 can also rotate in the reverse direction. During the process of the first transmission part 870 moving in the reverse direction, in a state where the first gear 872 meshes with the second gear 883 of the second transmission part 880, the first tray 830 can rotate in the forward direction. As Figure 59 In (d) thereof, if the first transmission part 870 additionally rotates in the forward direction, the meshing of the first gear 872 and the second gear 883 can be disengaged. In this way, the first tray 840 can stop at the initial position, while the second tray 840 can move to the water supply position or the ice making position.

[0326] Figure 60 FIG. is a diagram showing a state where a heater according to a sixth embodiment is disposed in a heater housing. Figure 61 FIG. is a diagram showing a state where a heater according to a seventh embodiment is disposed in a heater housing.

[0327] First, referring to Figure 60 , the heater 850 can be disposed in the heater housing 860. The heater 850 can include a first section 851. The heater 850 can further include a second section 852 that extends from the first section 851 in a direction intersecting the first section 851. The first section 851 can extend in the vertical direction. The heater 850 can further include a third section 853 that extends from the second section 852 in a direction intersecting the second section 852. The third section 853 can extend in the horizontal direction with reference to the drawing. In one ice making unit, two third sections 853 (or more than that) can be configured to face each other. The heater 850 can further include a fourth section 854 that extends from the third section 853 in a direction intersecting the third section 853. The fourth section 854 can extend in the vertical direction.

[0328] The first section 851 can be located closer to the first tray than the third section 853. The length of the first section 851 can be greater than the length of the third section 853. The first section 851 can have a curvature. The third section 853 can have a curvature. The radius of the first section 851 can be greater than the radius of the third section 851.

[0329] During the ice transfer process, the heat of the first section 851 can help separate the first tray and the second tray. The heat of the second to fourth sections can help separate the ice and the second tray.

[0330] The heater 850 may further include a fifth section 855 located at the boundary between two adjacent units.

[0331] In an ice-making unit, two or more third sections 853 may be symmetrically arranged. At this time, the line connecting the plurality of third sections 853 may be circular.

[0332] Refer to Figure 61 , the heater 860b may be disposed in the heater housing 860a. The basic form of the heater 860b of the seventh embodiment may be the same as that of the heater 860a of the sixth embodiment. However, when comparing the sixth embodiment and the seventh embodiment, the diameter D1 of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853 in the sixth embodiment may be smaller than the diameter D2 of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853a in the seventh embodiment.

[0333] In the case of the sixth embodiment, the diameter D1 of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853a may be smaller than the radius of the first section 851. On the contrary, in the case of the seventh embodiment, the diameter D2 of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853a may be greater than or equal to the radius of the first section 851.

[0334] Compared with the case where the diameter of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853, 853a is large, the transparency may be higher when the diameter of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853, 853a is small. On the contrary, compared with the case where the diameter of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853, 853a is small, the ice-transfer performance may be higher when the diameter of the circle formed by the plurality of third sections 853, 853a is large.

[0335] As another embodiment, the power of the driving unit 220 may also be directly transmitted to the first tray. As an example, the ice maker may include a first transmission unit for transmitting the power of the driving unit to the first tray and a second transmission unit for transmitting the power of the driving unit to the second tray.

[0336] Alternatively, the transmission mechanism may include a crankshaft and one or more connecting rods. Alternatively, the transmission mechanism may include a plurality of connecting rods.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, Comprising: A box body, forming a storage chamber; A door, opening and closing the storage chamber; And An ice maker, disposed on the door or the storage chamber, for generating ice; The ice maker includes: A first tray, forming part of the ice making unit; A second tray, forming another part of the ice making unit, capable of moving relative to the first tray; A driving part, providing power for the movement of the second tray; and A transmission mechanism, during the movement of the second tray, transmitting the movement force of the second tray or the power of the driving part to the first tray to move the first tray.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein It further includes a bracket for supporting the first tray to be movable.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein The first tray is rotatably supported on the bracket.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein The bracket includes a stopper for restricting the movement of the contacted part by contacting a part of the first tray.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein It further includes a stopper for restricting the movement of a part of the second tray during the movement of the second tray.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The transmission mechanism includes: A first transmission part, connected to the second tray; and A second transmission part, connected to the first tray.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein The driving part is connected to the first transmission part.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein The first tray includes a shaft providing a rotation center; The second transmission part is connected to the shaft.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein The first transmission part includes an extension part; The second transmission part includes a contact part contacting the extension part during the movement of the second tray.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein The first tray includes a shaft providing a rotation center; The second transmission part is disposed at a position spaced apart from the shaft.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein The second transmission part is integrally formed with the first tray or combined with the first tray.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein It further includes: A heater, for heating the ice making unit; and A heater housing, supporting the heater; A part of the first transmission part is disposed in the heater housing.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein The first transmission part includes: A first part, disposed in the heater housing; and A second part, separated from the first part, connected to the heater housing and the second tray.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein The first transmission part includes: A first cam surface, for moving the first tray in the forward direction; A second cam surface, for moving the first tray in the reverse direction; and A third cam surface, for causing the first tray to additionally rotate in the reverse direction in a state where the first tray moves in the reverse direction and stops.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein During the forward movement of the second tray, the first tray moves in the reverse direction, which is the direction opposite to the forward direction.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the second tray moves from the ice-making position to the ice-transfer position in the forward direction and then moves from the ice-transfer position to the ice-making position; when the second tray moves from the ice-transfer position to the ice-making position, before the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the first tray moves by using the transmission mechanism and then returns to the initial position.

17. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein during the forward movement of the second tray, the first tray first moves in the forward direction and then moves in the reverse direction, which is the direction opposite to the forward direction.

18. The refrigerator according to claim 17, wherein the second tray moves from the ice-making position to the ice-transfer position in the forward direction; before the second tray moves to the ice-transfer position, the first tray first moves in the reverse direction to return to the initial position and then moves additionally in the reverse direction.

19. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein further comprising: a channel provided in at least one of the first tray and the second tray; a water storage part provided in the second tray for storing water overflowing from the ice-making unit through the channel; and a pusher for pressing the water storage part during the movement of the second tray to the ice-transfer position.

20. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein further comprising: a channel provided in at least one of the first tray and the second tray; a water guide for guiding water overflowing from the ice-making unit through the channel; and a water storage part for storing water flowing along the guide.

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