Ice maker and refrigerator

Abstract

The ice maker of the present invention comprises: an upper tray assembly comprising an upper mold portion having at least one upper chamber; a lower tray assembly including a lower support and a lower mold portion, the lower mold portion having at least one lower chamber and having flexibility, the lower mold portion being separably supported by the lower support; and a lower ejector, the lower tray assembly being movable relative to the upper tray assembly between an open position in which the upper chamber and the lower chamber form at least one ice chamber for making ice, and a closed position in which the upper chamber and the lower chamber form at least one ice chamber for making ice, the lower ejector passes through a lower opening of the lower support such that the lower mold portion is partially separated from the lower support to remove ice from the lower chamber.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with the application number 2019111271743, the application date of November 18, 2019, and the invention title of "Ice Maker and Refrigerator". Technical Field

[0002] This specification relates to an ice maker and a refrigerator. Background Art

[0003] Generally, a refrigerator is a household appliance for storing food at a low temperature in an internal storage space shielded by a door.

[0004] The refrigerator uses cold air to cool the inside of the storage space, so that the stored food can be stored in a refrigerated or frozen state.

[0005] Generally, an ice maker for making ice is provided inside the refrigerator.

[0006] The ice maker is configured to make ice by accommodating water supplied from a water supply source or a water tank into a tray.

[0007] And, the ice maker is configured to transfer the made ice from the ice tray by a heating method or a twisting method.

[0008] An ice maker that automatically supplies water and transfers ice in the above-described manner is formed to open upward to take out the molded ice.

[0009] The ice made by the ice maker having the above-described structure has at least one flat surface such as a crescent shape or a diamond shape.

[0010] In addition, when the shape of the ice is formed into a spherical shape, the ice can be used more conveniently, and a different sense of use can be provided to the user. Also, when storing the made ice, the condensation of the ice can be minimized by minimizing the contact area between the ice.

[0011] As set forth in Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1850918, which is Document 1, an ice maker is provided.

[0012] The ice maker of Document 1 includes: an upper tray, in which a plurality of hemispherical upper housings are arranged, including a pair of link guide portions extending upward from both side ends; a lower tray, in which a plurality of hemispherical lower housings are arranged, and is rotatably connected to the upper tray; a rotating shaft, connected to the rear ends of the lower tray and the upper tray to rotate the lower tray relative to the upper tray; a pair of links, one end of which is connected to the lower tray and the other end is connected to the link guide portions; and an upper push pin assembly, both end portions of which are connected to the pair of links in a state of being inserted into the link guide portions and are lifted and lowered together with the links.

[0013] The lower tray includes: a tray body forming a lower housing; a lower frame forming a tray body placement portion for placing the tray body; and an upper frame fixed to the bottom surfaces of the tray body and the lower frame.

[0014] In the case of the existing document 1, the tray body is formed of a flexible plastic material whose shape can be deformed.

[0015] Moreover, the ice maker of the existing document 1 includes a lower push pin assembly, which is used to press the lower tray when the lower tray rotates.

[0016] When the lower tray is pressed by the lower push pin assembly, the ice on the lower tray separates from the lower tray.

[0017] However, in the case of the existing document 1, a part of the lower tray is pressed by the lower push pin, so even if it is pressed by the lower push pin, there is a disadvantage that the ice cannot be separated from the lower tray.

[0018] At this time, as the load applied to the lower push pin assembly increases, the lower push pin assembly may be deformed.

[0019] Moreover, due to the tolerance of the motor gear, the lower tray cannot reach the maximum ice transfer position, so there may also be a problem that not all the ice can be separated from the lower tray.

[0020] And at the same time, as most of the ice is removed, there is also a problem that the load applied to the motor for rotating the lower tray increases.

[0021] An automatic ice making device is disclosed in Japanese Registered Patent Gazette No. 4657626, which is the existing document 2.

[0022] The automatic ice making device includes: an ice making tray provided with holes in the lower part thereof; a film made of rubber material configured to block the holes in the ice making tray; and an ice pushing device that pushes the film through the holes to separate the ice from the ice making tray.

[0023] However, the ice pushing device of the existing document is configured to press a part of the film, so even if the film is pressed by the ice pushing device, there is a disadvantage that the ice cannot be separated from the film. Summary of the Invention

[0024] This embodiment provides an ice maker, in which during the ice transfer process, the pressing force of the lower pusher is effectively transmitted to the lower tray, so that the ice can be smoothly separated from the lower tray.

[0025] This embodiment provides an ice maker. The pressing force of the lower ejector on the lower tray acts on the central part of the lower tray, thereby improving the ice transfer performance.

[0026] This embodiment provides an ice maker that prevents ice from being broken or damaged during the process of the lower ejector pressing the lower tray.

[0027] This embodiment provides an ice maker that prevents interference between the lower ejector and the lower support member that supports the lower tray during the process of the lower ejector pressing the lower tray.

[0028] This embodiment provides an ice maker that distributes the load applied to the motor included in the drive unit that provides rotational power to the lower assembly by separating the time difference, thereby being able to reduce the load instantaneously applied to the motor.

[0029] This embodiment provides a refrigerator including the above ice maker.

[0030] An ice maker according to one aspect includes: an upper tray assembly including an upper mold part having at least one upper chamber; a lower tray assembly including a lower support member and a lower mold part, the lower mold part having at least one lower chamber and being flexible, and being supported by the lower support member in a separable manner; and a lower ejector.

[0031] The lower tray assembly is movable relative to the upper tray assembly between an open position and a closed position.

[0032] In the closed position, the upper chamber and the lower chamber can form at least one ice chamber for making ice.

[0033] In the open position, the lower ejector can penetrate a lower opening of the lower support member so that the lower mold part is partially separated from the lower support member to defrost the lower chamber.

[0034] The lower opening can be formed at a position corresponding to the center of the outer surface of the lower chamber.

[0035] The contact point of the lower mold part with the lower ejector can correspond to the center line of the lower mold part or the symmetric center line of the lower chamber.

[0036] The lower tray assembly is rotatable relative to the upper tray assembly about a rotation axis.

[0037] The lower ejector can be formed in a circular arc shape with its center corresponding to the rotation axis.

[0038] The end face of the lower ejector can be parallel to the tangent line or the perpendicular line of the outer peripheral face of the lower die part at the location where the lower ejector initially contacts the lower die part.

[0039] The lower die part can be formed of a flexible material or a silicon material.

[0040] The lower support can cover more than 1 / 2 of the outer peripheral face of the lower die part.

[0041] A part of the lower die part is fixed to the lower support, and the other part can be supported by the lower support in a separable manner.

[0042] It further includes a lower heater, which is accommodated in a heater accommodation groove formed at a position adjacent to the lower opening in the lower support, and the lower heater can contact the lower die part at least in the closed position.

[0043] It can further include an upper ejector for separating ice from the upper chamber. The upper die part can include an upper opening for the upper ejector to penetrate through.

[0044] The upper chamber and the lower chamber can be formed into a hemispherical shape to form a spherical ice chamber.

[0045] An ice maker according to another aspect can include: an upper tray and a lower tray forming an ice chamber; a lower support supporting the lower tray; and a lower ejector pressing the lower tray to separate ice from the lower tray.

[0046] The lower tray can rotate relative to the upper tray. The lower ejector can include a lower ejector pin.

[0047] During the rotation of the lower tray, the lower ejector pin can penetrate through the lower support to press the lower tray.

[0048] At least a part of the lower ejector pin can be formed into a curved shape in the length direction to smoothly separate ice from the lower tray.

[0049] The length of the lower ejector pin can be formed to be greater than the radius of the ice chamber.

[0050] The lower ejector pin can include a pressing part for pressing the lower tray.

[0051] The pressing part includes a pressing inclined part to increase the contact area between the pressing part and the lower tray during the ice transfer process, and during the ice transfer process, the upper end part of the pressing inclined part contacts the lower tray earlier than the lower end part.

[0052] When the rotation angle of the lower tray increases, the lower end of the pressing inclined portion also contacts the lower tray.

[0053] In a state where the lower tray rotates to the ice removal position, the pressing inclined portion is in surface contact with the central portion of the lower tray.

[0054] At the ice making position of the lower assembly, the first contact surface of the upper tray contacts the second contact surface of the lower tray. When a line passing through the first contact surface is referred to as a first imaginary line and a line passing through the second contact surface is referred to as a second imaginary line, in a state where the lower assembly rotates to the ice removal position, the angle formed by the first imaginary line and the second imaginary line can be 100 degrees or more.

[0055] The lower ejector may further include an ejector body having an inclined surface inclined with respect to the vertical line. The lower ejector pin may protrude from the inclined surface.

[0056] In a state where the lower assembly rotates to the ice removal position, the distance between the end of the lower ejector pin and the ejector body may be equal to or greater than the distance between the second imaginary line and the ejector body.

[0057] Moreover, in a state where the lower assembly rotates to the ice removal position, the distance between a part of the lower tray in contact with the end of the lower ejector pin and the ejector body may be greater than the distance between the second imaginary line and the ejector body.

[0058] Separate multiple ice chambers may be defined by the upper tray and the lower tray.

[0059] Multiple lower ejector pins may protrude from the ejector body.

[0060] Some of the multiple lower ejector pins may have a longer length than the other part.

[0061] The ice maker may further include a drive unit for rotating the lower assembly.

[0062] The length of the lower ejector pin located at the position closest to the drive unit among the multiple lower ejector pins may be formed to be longer than the length of at least one of the remaining lower ejector pins.

[0063] A refrigerator according to another aspect may include: an upper assembly including an upper tray defining an upper chamber that is part of an ice chamber; a lower assembly including a lower tray and a lower support, the lower tray defining a lower chamber that is another part of the ice chamber, the lower support supporting the lower tray and having a lower opening, the lower assembly being rotatable relative to the upper assembly; and a lower ejector provided with a lower eject pin that penetrates the lower opening to press the lower tray when the lower assembly rotates for an ice removal process.

[0064] At least a part of the lower eject pin is formed in a curved shape in the longitudinal direction, and the length of the lower eject pin may be formed to be greater than the radius of the ice chamber.

[0065] A refrigerator according to another aspect may include: a cabinet provided with a freezer compartment; and an ice maker that makes ice using cold air for cooling the freezer compartment.

[0066] The ice maker may include: an upper tray defining an upper chamber; a lower tray defining a lower chamber that forms an ice chamber together with the upper chamber; a lower support supporting the lower tray and having a lower opening; and a lower ejector provided with a lower eject pin that penetrates the lower opening to press the lower tray when the lower tray rotates forward during an ice removal process.

[0067] The lower tray may move from an ice making position to an ice removal position, and in a state where the lower tray rotates to the ice removal position, at least a part of a portion of the lower tray that contacts the lower eject pin may be located on the opposite side of the lower opening with respect to an imaginary line passing through a surface of the lower tray that contacts the upper tray.

[0068] Alternatively, the lower tray includes a contact surface that contacts the upper tray in the ice making position, and in a state where the lower tray rotates to the ice removal position, a part of the lower eject pin may intersect an imaginary line passing through the contact surface of the lower tray.

[0069] An ice maker according to still another aspect may include: an upper assembly including an upper tray defining an upper chamber that is part of an ice chamber; a lower assembly including a lower tray and a lower support, the lower tray defining a lower chamber that is another part of the ice chamber, the lower support supporting the lower tray and having a lower opening, and being rotatable relative to the upper assembly; and a lower ejector that penetrates the lower opening to press the lower tray when the lower assembly rotates forward during an ice removal process.

[0070] At least a part of the lower ejector pin is formed in a curved shape in the longitudinal direction, and the length of the lower ejector pin can be formed to be greater than the radius of the ice chamber.

[0071] The lower ejector pin may include a pressing portion for pressing the lower tray. The pressing portion includes a pressing inclined portion, and the pressing inclined portion includes: an upper end portion located near the upper tray; and a lower end portion located at a position lower than the position of the upper end portion.

[0072] During the ice transfer process, the upper end portion may contact the lower tray before the lower end portion.

[0073] In a state where the upper end portion contacts the lower tray, when the lower tray rotates additionally, the upper end portion and the lower end portion contact the lower tray together, so that the pressing inclined portion can be in surface contact with the lower tray.

[0074] The lower ejector pin can be introduced into the interior of the lower support through the lower opening.

[0075] The length of the portion of the lower ejector pin introduced into the interior of the lower support can be equal to or greater than the radius of the ice chamber.

[0076] The lower assembly can be rotated from the ice-making position to the ice-transfer position. In the ice-making position of the lower assembly, the first contact surface of the upper tray contacts the second contact surface of the lower tray, and a line passing through the first contact surface can be referred to as a first imaginary line, and a line passing through the second contact surface can be referred to as a second imaginary line.

[0077] In a state where the lower assembly is rotated to the ice-transfer position, the angle formed by the first imaginary line and the second imaginary line can be 100 degrees or more.

[0078] The lower ejector may further include an ejector body having an inclined surface inclined with respect to the vertical line. The lower ejector pin can protrude from the inclined surface.

[0079] In a state where the lower assembly is rotated to the ice-transfer position, the second imaginary line can be parallel to the inclined surface.

[0080] At a specific position before the lower assembly is rotated to the ice-transfer position, the second imaginary line can be parallel to the inclined surface.

[0081] The lower ejector further includes an ejector body, and the lower ejector pin can protrude from the ejector body.

[0082] In a state where the lower assembly is rotated to the ice transfer position, the distance between the end of the lower push pin and the ejector body may be equal to or greater than the distance between the second imaginary line and the ejector body.

[0083] In a state where the lower assembly is rotated to the ice transfer position, the distance between a part of the lower tray in contact with the end of the lower push pin and the ejector body may be greater than the distance between the second imaginary line and the ejector body.

[0084] The upper assembly may further include an upper housing that supports the upper tray.

[0085] The ejector body may be fixed to the upper housing.

[0086] A plurality of separate ice chambers may be defined by the upper tray and the lower tray. The lower ejector includes an ejector body, and a plurality of lower push pins may protrude from the ejector body.

[0087] Some of the plurality of lower push pins may be formed to have a longer length than the other part.

[0088] The ice maker may further include a drive unit for rotating the lower assembly.

[0089] The length of the lower push pin located at the position closest to the drive unit among the plurality of lower push pins may be longer than the length of at least one of the remaining lower push pins.

[0090] Each of the lower push pins may include: a pin body extending from the ejector body; and a pressing portion extending from the pin body and pressing the lower tray.

[0091] The pin body may be formed in a curved shape. A groove portion may be formed in the pressing portion. A groove portion extending in the longitudinal direction may be provided in the pin body.

[0092] An ice maker according to still another aspect may include: an upper assembly provided with an upper tray having a hemispherical upper chamber; and a lower assembly provided with a lower tray having a hemispherical lower chamber.

[0093] Spherical ice may be generated by the upper chamber and the lower chamber, and the generated ice may be separated from the upper chamber and the lower chamber by rotating the lower assembly.

[0094] Further, a lower ejector may be included, the lower ejector including a lower ejecting pin which, after ice making is completed, separates ice from the lower tray by pressing the lower tray when the lower assembly rotates and is spaced apart from the upper assembly.

[0095] Further, the lower ejector may include: an ejector body coupled to the upper assembly; and a plurality of lower ejecting pins protruding from the ejector body.

[0096] Further, the length of at least one of the plurality of lower ejecting pins may be formed to be less than the length of the lower ejecting pins disposed at the periphery.

[0097] Further, the lower ejecting pin may be formed in a curved shape.

[0098] Further, the lower ejecting pin may form a recessed groove portion at an end in contact with the lower tray.

[0099] Further, a lower opening may be formed in the lower support member for the lower ejecting pin to pass through.

[0100] Further, the lower ejector may be coupled to a vertical wall extending in the vertical direction on an upper side supporting the upper tray.

[0101] Further, the ejector body may form an inclined surface on a side where the lower ejecting pins are formed.

[0102] Further, the vertical wall may form a cavity recessed rearward.

[0103] Further, guide slot portions are formed on both sides of the cavity in the vertical direction, and guide protrusions may be formed on both sides of the ejector body, and the guide protrusions slide in the vertical direction and are inserted into the guide slot portions.

[0104] Further, the ejector body is provided with a fastening groove portion recessed rearward, a top surface of the fastening groove portion is in surface contact with a top surface of the cavity, and may be fastened by a fastening device.

[0105] Further, a coupling groove portion recessed upward is formed at a lower end of the vertical wall, the ejector body forms an extension portion protruding rearward at a lower end, a top surface of the coupling groove portion is in contact with a coupling step surface formed at an upper end of the extension portion, and may be fastened by a fastening device.

[0106] A refrigerator according to another aspect may include: a cabinet provided with a freezer compartment; a housing disposed in the freezer compartment; and an ice maker disposed within the housing.

[0107] The ice maker includes a lower ejector having a lower ejecting pin. After ice making is completed, when the lower assembly rotates to be separated from the upper assembly, the lower ejecting pin separates the ice from the lower tray by pressing the lower tray.

[0108] According to the proposed invention, since the lower ejecting pin is formed in a curved shape in the longitudinal direction and its length is longer than the radius of the ice chamber, during the ice transfer process, the pressing force of the lower ejector pin is sufficiently applied to the lower tray, so that the ice can be smoothly separated from the lower tray.

[0109] Moreover, the pressing portion of the lower ejecting pin includes a pressing inclined portion. Since the upper end portion of the pressing inclined portion first contacts the lower tray and then the lower end portion contacts the lower tray during the ice transfer process of the lower tray, when the lower tray moves to the ice transfer position, the pressing inclined portion presses the central portion of the lower tray, so that the ice can be smoothly separated from the lower tray.

[0110] Moreover, when the lower tray moves to the ice transfer position, the pressing inclined portion is in surface contact with the central portion of the lower tray, so that it is possible to prevent the ice from being broken due to local force being applied to the ice.

[0111] Moreover, the lower ejecting pin is formed in a curved shape in the longitudinal direction, so that interference with the lower support member that supports the lower tray during the rotation of the lower tray can be prevented.

[0112] Moreover, in the state where the lower tray moves to the ice transfer position, at least a part of the portion of the lower tray that contacts the lower ejecting pin is located on the opposite side of the lower opening with respect to the imaginary line passing through the surface that contacts the upper tray in the lower tray, so that the ice can be completely separated from the lower tray.

[0113] Moreover, since a part of the plurality of lower ejecting pins is formed to have a longer length than the other part, the load applied to the motor included in the drive unit that provides rotational power to the lower assembly is distributed with a time difference, so that there is an advantage of being able to reduce the load instantaneously applied to the motor. Description of the Drawings

[0114] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Figure 2 shows Figure 1 the state in which the refrigerator door is open.

[0116] Figure 3 and Figure 4 are perspective views of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Figure 6 is an upper perspective view of an upper housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Figure 7 is a lower perspective view of an upper housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Figure 8 is an upper perspective view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Figure 9 is a lower perspective view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] Figure 10 is a side view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Figure 11 is an upper perspective view of an upper support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Figure 12 is a lower perspective view of an upper support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Figure 13 is an enlarged view showing Figure 6 the heater coupling part in the upper housing.

[0126] Figure 14 is a view showing the state where the heater is coupled to Figure 6 the upper housing.

[0127] Figure 15 is a view showing the arrangement of wires connected to the heater in the upper housing.

[0128] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the state where the upper assembly is assembled.

[0129] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a lower assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] Figure 18 is an upper perspective view of a lower housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Figure 19 is a lower perspective view of a lower housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] Figure 20 is an upper perspective view of a lower tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] Figure 21 andFigure 22 Is a bottom perspective view of a lower tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Figure 23 Is a side view of a lower tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Figure 24 Is a top perspective view of a lower support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Figure 25 Is a bottom perspective view of a lower support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Figure 26 Is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the lower assembly is assembled.

[0138] Figure 27 Is a top view of a lower support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] Figure 28 Is a view showing that the lower heater is coupled to Figure 27 The state of the lower support.

[0140] Figure 29 Is a view showing the state in which the wire connected to the lower heater penetrates the upper housing in the state where the lower assembly is combined with the upper assembly.

[0141] Figure 30 Is along Figure 3 The cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of.

[0142] Figure 31 Is a view showing Figure 30 The state of completed ice making in.

[0143] Figure 32 Is a bottom perspective view showing the state in which the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention is separated from the lower ejector.

[0144] Figure 33 And Figure 34 Are perspective views of the lower ejector in Figure 32 Viewed from different directions.

[0145] Figure 35 Is a bottom perspective view showing the state in which the ice maker according to another embodiment of the present invention is separated from the lower ejector.

[0146] Figure 36 And Figure 37 Are perspective views of the lower ejector in Figure 35 Viewed from different directions.

[0147] Figure 38 Is a view of the lower ejector according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from below.

[0148] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B line Figure 3 in the water supply state.

[0149] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B line Figure 3 in the ice-making state.

[0150] Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B line Figure 3 in the state where ice-making is completed.

[0151] Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B line Figure 3 in the initial state of ice transfer.

[0152] Figure 43 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B line Figure 3 in the state where the lower push-out pin contacts the lower tray.

[0153] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B line Figure 3 in the state where ice transfer is completed. Detailed implementation mode

[0154] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a view showing Figure 1 the state where the refrigerator door is open.

[0155] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a cabinet 2 forming a storage space; and a door for opening and closing the storage space.

[0156] Specifically, the cabinet 2 forms an upper and lower separated storage space through a partition, and a refrigerating chamber 3 may be formed in the upper part and a freezing chamber 4 may be formed in the lower part.

[0157] Inside the refrigerating chamber 3 and the freezing chamber 4, storage members such as drawers, shelves, and baskets may be provided.

[0158] The door may include a refrigerating chamber door 5 covering the refrigerating chamber 3 and a freezing chamber door 6 covering the freezing chamber 4.

[0159] The refrigerating chamber door 5 may be composed of a pair of left and right doors and open and close by rotation. The freezing chamber door 6 may be configured to be pulled out and pushed in in a drawer type.

[0160] Of course, the configurations of the refrigerating chamber 3 and the freezing chamber 4 and the form of the door may vary according to the types of refrigerators, and the present invention can be applied to various types of refrigerators without being limited thereto. For example, the freezing chamber 4 and the refrigerating chamber 3 may be arranged side by side, or the freezing chamber 4 may also be located above the refrigerating chamber 3.

[0161] An ice maker 100 may be provided in the freezing chamber 4. The ice maker 100 is used to make ice from the supplied water and can generate spherical ice.

[0162] An ice bin 102 may also be provided below the ice maker 100. The ice made is stored in the ice bin 102 after being transferred from the ice maker 100.

[0163] The ice maker 100 and the ice bin 102 may also be installed inside the freezing chamber 4 in a state of being accommodated in a separate housing 101.

[0164] The user can obtain ice by opening the freezing chamber door 6 and approaching the ice bin 102.

[0165] As another example, a dispenser 7 may be provided on the refrigerating chamber door 5 for extracting purified water or made ice from the outside.

[0166] The ice made by the ice maker 100 or the ice made by the ice maker 100 and stored in the ice bin 102 is transferred to the dispenser 7 through a transfer device, so that the user can obtain ice from the dispenser 7.

[0167] Next, the ice maker will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0168] Figure 3 and Figure 4 are perspective views of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] Referring to Figures 3 to 5 , the ice maker 100 may include an upper component 110 (or upper tray component) and a lower component 200 (or lower tray component).

[0170] The lower component 200 may rotate relative to the upper component 110. As an example, the lower component 200 may be connected to the upper component 110 in a rotatable manner.

[0171] In a state of being in contact with the upper component 110, the lower component 200 may generate spherical ice together with the upper component 110.

[0172] That is, the upper component 110 and the lower component 200 form an ice chamber 111 for generating spherical ice. The ice chamber 111 is substantially a spherical chamber.

[0173] It should be clear that the "spherical or hemispherical" in the present invention includes not only the geometrically complete sphere or hemisphere shape, but also the shapes geometrically similar to the complete sphere or hemisphere.

[0174] The upper component 110 and the lower component 200 can form a plurality of separate ice chambers 111.

[0175] Below, an example of the case where three ice chambers 111 are formed by the upper component 110 and the lower component 200 is described. And it should be clear that the number of ice chambers 111 is not limited.

[0176] In the state where the ice chamber 111 is formed by the upper component 110 and the lower component 200, water can be supplied to the ice chamber 111 through the water supply unit 190.

[0177] The water supply unit 190 is coupled to the upper component 110 and guides the water supplied from the outside to the ice chamber 111.

[0178] After ice making, the lower component 200 can rotate in the forward direction. At this time, the spherical ice formed between the upper component 110 and the lower component 200 can be separated from the upper component 110 and the lower component 200.

[0179] The ice maker 100 may further include a driving unit 180 to enable the lower component 200 to rotate relative to the upper component 110.

[0180] The driving unit 180 may include: a driving motor; and a power transmission unit for transmitting the power of the driving motor to the lower component 200. The power transmission unit may include more than one gear.

[0181] The driving motor may be a motor capable of rotating bidirectionally. Therefore, the lower component 200 can rotate bidirectionally.

[0182] The ice maker 100 may further include an upper ejector 300 to enable the ice to be separated from the upper component 110.

[0183] The upper ejector 300 can separate the ice adhering to the upper component 110 from the upper component 110.

[0184] The upper ejector 300 may include: an ejector body 310; and a plurality of upper ejector pins 320 extending in a crossed direction from the ejector body 310.

[0185] The upper pushing pins 320 can be set to the same number as that of the ice chambers 111.

[0186] Separation-preventing protrusions 312 can be provided at both ends of the pusher body 310, and are used to prevent separation from the connection unit 350 described later when the pusher body 310 is combined with the connection unit 350.

[0187] As an example, a pair of separation-preventing protrusions 312 can protrude from the pusher body 310 in opposite directions.

[0188] During the process in which the upper pushing pins 320 penetrate through the upper assembly 110 and are introduced into the ice chambers 111, the ice in the ice chambers 111 can be pressed.

[0189] The ice pressed by the upper pushing pins 320 can be separated from the upper assembly 110.

[0190] Moreover, the ice maker 100 can further include a lower pusher 400 to separate the ice clinging to the lower assembly 200.

[0191] The lower pusher 400 can separate the ice clinging to the lower assembly 200 from the lower assembly 200 by pressing the lower assembly 200. As an example, the lower pusher 400 can be fixed to the upper assembly 110.

[0192] The lower pusher 400 can include: a pusher body 410; and a plurality of lower pushing pins 420 protruding from the pusher body 410. The lower pushing pins 420 can be set to the same number as that of the ice chambers 111.

[0193] During the rotation of the lower assembly 200 for ice transfer, the rotational force of the lower assembly 200 can be transmitted to the upper pusher 300.

[0194] For this purpose, the ice maker 100 can further include a connection unit 350 connecting the lower assembly 200 and the upper pusher 300. The connection unit 350 can include one or more linkages.

[0195] As an example, when the lower assembly 200 rotates in one direction, under the action of the connection unit 350, the upper pusher 300 descends, so that the upper pushing pins 320 can press the ice.

[0196] On the contrary, when the lower assembly 200 rotates in the other direction, under the action of the connection unit 350, the upper pusher 300 ascends and returns to its original position.

[0197] Next, the upper component 110 and the lower component 200 will be further described in detail.

[0198] The upper component 110 may include an upper tray 150 that forms a part of an ice chamber 111 for making ice. As an example, the upper tray 150 defines an upper side portion of the ice chamber 111. The upper tray 150 may be referred to as the first tray. Alternatively, the upper tray 150 may be referred to as an upper mold part.

[0199] The upper component 110 may further include an upper support member 170 for fixing the position of the upper tray 150.

[0200] As an example, the upper support member 170 may support the lower side of the upper tray 150 to restrict downward movement.

[0201] The upper component 110 may further include an upper housing 120 for fixing the position of the upper tray 150.

[0202] The upper tray 150 may be located below the upper housing 120. A part of the upper support member 170 may be located below the upper tray 150.

[0203] As described above, the upper housing 120, the upper tray 150, and the upper support member 170 aligned in the vertical direction may be fastened by fastening members.

[0204] That is, by fastening the fastening members, the upper tray 150 may be fixed to the upper housing 120.

[0205] As an example, the water supply unit 190 may be fixed to the upper housing 120.

[0206] The ice maker 100 may further include a temperature sensor 500 for sensing the temperature of the upper tray 150.

[0207] As an example, the temperature sensor 500 may be installed on the upper housing 120. When the upper tray 150 is fixed to the upper housing 120, the temperature sensor 500 may be in contact with the upper tray 150.

[0208] In addition, the lower assembly 200 may include a lower tray 250, and the lower tray 250 forms another part of the ice chamber 111 for ice making. As an example, the lower tray 250 defines the lower side portion of the ice chamber 111. The lower tray 250 may be referred to as the second tray. Alternatively, the lower tray 250 may be referred to as the lower mold part.

[0209] The lower assembly 200 may further include a lower support member 270 that supports the lower side of the lower tray 250.

[0210] The lower assembly 200 may further include a lower housing 210, and at least a part of the lower housing 210 covers the upper side of the lower tray 250.

[0211] The lower housing 210, the lower tray 250, and the lower support member 270 may be fastened by fastening members.

[0212] In addition, the ice maker 100 may further include a switch 600 for starting / stopping the ice maker 100. When the user operates the switch 600 to the start state, ice can be made by the ice maker 100.

[0213] That is, when the switch 600 is started, the following can be repeatedly executed: an ice making process, supplying water to the ice maker 100, and making ice using cold air; and an ice removing process, rotating the lower assembly 200 to separate the ice.

[0214] On the contrary, when the switch 600 is operated to the off state, ice cannot be made by the ice maker 100. As an example, such a switch 600 may be provided on the upper housing 120.

[0215] <Upper housing>

[0216] Figure 6 is the upper perspective view of the upper housing of an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 7 is the lower perspective view of the upper housing of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0217] Referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the upper housing 120 may be fixed to the outer shell 101 in the freezer 4 in a state where the upper tray 150 is fixed.

[0218] The upper housing 120 may include an upper plate 121 for fixing the upper tray 150.

[0219] The upper tray 150 may be fixed to the upper plate 121 in a state where a part of the upper tray 150 is in contact with the bottom surface of the upper plate 121.

[0220] An opening 123 for penetrating a part of the upper tray 150 may be provided in the upper plate 121.

[0221] As an example, in a state where the upper tray 150 is located below the upper plate 121, when the upper tray 150 is fixed to the upper plate 121, a part of the upper tray 150 may protrude above the upper plate 121 through the opening 123.

[0222] Alternatively, the upper tray 150 may be exposed above the upper plate 121 through the opening 123, rather than protruding above the upper plate 121 through the opening 123.

[0223] The upper plate 121 may include a recessed portion 122 formed by being recessed downward. The opening 123 may be formed at the bottom 122a of the recessed portion 122.

[0224] Therefore, the upper tray 150 penetrating through the opening 123 may be located in the space formed by the recessed portion 122.

[0225] A heater coupling portion 124 for coupling an upper heater (refer to Figure 14 148) may be provided in the upper housing 120 to perform ice removal, and the upper heater is used to heat the upper tray 150.

[0226] As an example, the heater coupling portion 124 may be provided on the upper plate 121. The heater coupling portion 124 may be located below the recessed portion 122.

[0227] The upper housing 120 may further include a pair of mounting ribs 128, 129 for mounting the temperature sensor 500.

[0228] The pair of mounting ribs 128, 129 are spaced apart and arranged in the Figure 7 direction of arrow B in. The pair of mounting ribs 128, 129 are arranged facing each other, and the temperature sensor 500 may be located between the pair of mounting ribs 128, 129.

[0229] The pair of mounting ribs 128, 129 may be provided on the upper plate 121.

[0230] The upper plate 121 may be provided with a plurality of slots 131, 132 for coupling with the upper tray 150.

[0231] A part of the upper tray 150 may be inserted into the plurality of slots 131, 132.

[0232] The plurality of slots 131, 132 may include: a first upper slot 131; and a second upper slot 132, which is located on the opposite side of the first upper slot 131 with respect to the opening 123.

[0233] The opening 123 may be located between the first upper slot 131 and the second upper slot 132.

[0234] The first upper slot 131 and the second upper slot 132 may be spaced apart Figure 7 in the direction of arrow B.

[0235] The plurality of first upper slots 131 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow A (referred to as the first direction), which intersects the direction of arrow B (referred to as the second direction), but is not limited thereto.

[0236] Moreover, the plurality of second upper slots 132 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow A.

[0237] In this specification, the direction of arrow A is the same as the arrangement direction of the plurality of ice chambers 111.

[0238] As an example, the first upper slot 131 may be formed in a curved shape. Accordingly, the length of the first upper slot 131 can be increased.

[0239] As an example, the second upper slot 132 may be formed in a curved shape. Accordingly, the length of the second upper slot 132 can be increased.

[0240] When the length of each of the upper slots 131, 132 is increased, the length of the protrusions (formed on the upper tray) inserted into each of the upper slots 131, 132 can be increased, thereby increasing the coupling force between the upper tray 150 and the upper housing 120.

[0241] The distance from the first upper slot 131 to the opening 123 and the distance from the second upper slot 132 to the opening 123 may be different. As an example, the distance from the second upper slot 132 to the opening 123 may be formed to be shorter than the distance from the first upper slot 131 to the opening 123.

[0242] When observing each of the upper slots 131, 132 from the opening 123, they may be arc-shaped in a shape protruding outward from each of the slots 131, 132 toward the opening 123.

[0243] The upper plate 121 may further include a sleeve 133 for inserting a fastening boss of the upper support 170 described below.

[0244] The sleeve 133 may be formed in a cylindrical shape and may extend upward from the upper plate 121.

[0245] As an example, a plurality of sleeves 133 may be provided on the upper plate 121. The plurality of sleeves 133 may be spaced apart and arranged in the direction of arrow A. Further, the plurality of sleeves 133 may be arranged in multiple columns in the direction of arrow B.

[0246] Some of the plurality of sleeves 133 may be located between two adjacent first upper slots 131.

[0247] Another part of the plurality of sleeves 133 may be disposed between two adjacent second upper slots 132, or may be configured to face the area between the two second upper slots 132.

[0248] The upper housing 120 may further include a plurality of hinge supports 135, 136 to enable the lower assembly 200 to rotate.

[0249] The plurality of hinge supports 135, 136 may be spaced apart in the direction of arrow A with Figure 7 a certain reference. A first hinge hole 137 may be formed on each of the hinge supports 135, 136.

[0250] As an example, the plurality of hinge supports 135, 136 may extend downward from the upper plate 121.

[0251] The upper housing 120 may further include a vertical extension 140 that extends vertically along the periphery of the upper plate 121. The vertical extension 140 may extend upward from the upper plate 121.

[0252] The vertical extension 140 may include one or more coupling hooks 140a. The upper housing 120 may be hooked to the outer housing 101 through the coupling hooks 140a.

[0253] The water supply unit 190 may be coupled to the vertical extension 140.

[0254] The upper housing 120 may further include a horizontal extension 142 that extends horizontally outward from the vertical extension 140.

[0255] The horizontal extension 142 may be provided with a threaded fastening portion 142a that protrudes outward to threadedly fasten the upper housing 120 to the outer housing 101.

[0256] The upper housing 120 may further include a side peripheral portion 143. The side peripheral portion 143 may extend downward from the horizontal extension 142.

[0257] The side peripheral portion 143 may be configured to surround the periphery of the lower component 200. That is, the side peripheral portion 143 functions to prevent the lower component 200 from being exposed to the outside.

[0258] As described above, the upper housing 120 has been described as being fastened to a separate outer shell 101 within the freezer compartment 4. However, alternatively, the upper housing 120 may also be directly fastened to the wall forming the freezer compartment 4.

[0259] <Upper tray>

[0260] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 10 is a side view of an upper tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0261] Referring to Figures 8 to 10 , the upper tray 150 may be formed of a flexible material that is a non-metallic material, such that it can return to its original shape after being deformed by an external force.

[0262] As an example, the upper tray 150 may be formed of a silicon material. As in this embodiment, when the upper tray 150 is formed of a silicon material, during the ice transfer process, even if an external force deforms the shape of the upper tray 150, the upper tray 150 can return to its original shape again. Therefore, even if ice-making is repeated, spherical ice can be formed.

[0263] In the case where the upper tray 150 is formed of a metallic material, if an external force is applied to the upper tray 150 to deform the upper tray 150 itself, the upper tray 150 cannot return to its original shape.

[0264] In this case, after the shape of the upper tray 150 is deformed, spherical ice cannot be generated. That is, spherical ice cannot be repeatedly generated.

[0265] On the contrary, as in this embodiment, when the upper tray 150 has a flexible material that can return to its original shape, this problem can be solved.

[0266] Moreover, when the upper tray 150 is formed of a silicon material, it is possible to prevent the upper tray 150 from melting or being thermally deformed due to the heat provided by the upper heater described later.

[0267] The upper tray 150 may include an upper tray body 151 that forms part of the ice chamber 111. The upper tray body 151 may also be referred to as an upper mold body.

[0268] The upper tray body 151 may define a plurality of upper chambers 152.

[0269] As an example, the plurality of upper chambers 152 may define a first upper chamber 152a, a second upper chamber 152b, and a third upper chamber 152c.

[0270] The upper tray body 151 may include three chamber walls 153 that form three independent upper chambers 152a, 152b, 152c, and the three chamber walls 153 may be formed integrally and connected to each other.

[0271] The first upper chamber 152a, the second upper chamber 152b, and the third upper chamber 152c may be arranged in a row. As an example, the first upper chamber 152a, the second upper chamber 152b, and the third upper chamber 152c may be arranged in the Figure 9 direction of arrow A with respect to a reference. Figure 9 The direction of arrow A is the same direction as the Figure 7 direction of arrow A.

[0272] The upper chamber 152 may be formed in a hemispherical shape. That is, the upper part of the spherical ice may be formed by the upper chamber 152.

[0273] An upper opening 154 for allowing water to flow into the upper chamber 152 may be formed on the upper side of the upper tray body 151. As an example, three upper openings 154 may be formed in the upper tray body 151. Cold air may be guided to the ice chamber 111 through the upper opening 154.

[0274] During the ice removal process, the upper pusher 300 may be introduced into the upper chamber 152 through the upper opening 154.

[0275] During the process in which the upper pusher 300 is introduced through the upper opening 154, an inlet wall 155 may be provided in the upper tray 150 to minimize deformation on the upper opening 154 side of the upper tray 150.

[0276] The inlet wall 155 is disposed along the periphery of the upper opening 154 and may extend upward from the upper tray body 151.

[0277] The entrance wall 155 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. Accordingly, the upper pusher 300 may pass through the inner space of the entrance wall 155 and penetrate the upper opening 154.

[0278] In the process of introducing the upper pusher 300 into the upper opening 154, one or more first connecting ribs 155a may be provided along the periphery of the entrance wall 155 to prevent deformation of the entrance wall 155.

[0279] The first connecting rib 155a may connect the entrance wall 155 and the upper tray body 151. As an example, the first connecting rib 155a may be formed integrally with the periphery of the entrance wall 155 and the outer surface of the upper tray body 151.

[0280] A plurality of first connecting ribs 155a may be arranged along the periphery of the entrance wall 155, but are not limited thereto.

[0281] Two entrance walls 155 corresponding to the second upper chamber 152b and the third upper chamber 152c may be connected by a second connecting rib 162. The second connecting rib 162 also serves to prevent deformation of the entrance wall 155.

[0282] A water supply guide 156 may be provided on the entrance wall 155 corresponding to any one of the three upper chambers 152a, 152b, 152c.

[0283] The water supply guide 156 may be formed on the entrance wall 155 corresponding to the second upper chamber 152b, but is not limited thereto.

[0284] The water supply guide 156 may be inclined from the entrance wall 155 in a direction that is further away from the second upper chamber 152b as it goes upward.

[0285] The upper tray 150 may further include a first accommodating portion 160. The recessed portion 122 of the upper housing 120 may be accommodated in the first accommodating portion 160.

[0286] A heater coupling portion 124 is provided in the recessed portion 122, and an upper heater (refer to Figure 14 148) is provided in the heater coupling portion 124. Accordingly, it can be understood that the upper heater (refer to Figure 14 148) is accommodated in the first accommodating portion 160.

[0287] The first accommodating portion 160 may be configured to surround the shape of the upper chambers 152a, 152b, 152c. The first accommodating portion 160 may be formed by recessing downward from the top surface of the upper tray body 151.

[0288] In the first accommodating part 160, a heater coupling part 124 coupled to the upper heater (refer to Figure 14 148) can be accommodated.

[0289] The upper tray 150 may further include a second accommodating part 161 (or may be referred to as a sensor accommodating part) that accommodates the temperature sensor 500.

[0290] As an example, the second accommodating part 161 may be provided on the upper tray main body 151. The second accommodating part 161 may be formed by being recessed downward from the bottom of the first accommodating part 160, but is not limited thereto.

[0291] The second accommodating part 161 may be located between two adjacent upper chambers. As an example, Figure 8 the situation where the second accommodating part 161 is located between the first upper chamber 152a and the second upper chamber 152b is shown.

[0292] Therefore, interference between the upper heater (refer to Figure 14 148) accommodated in the first accommodating part 160 and the temperature sensor 500 can be prevented.

[0293] In a state where the temperature sensor 500 is accommodated in the second accommodating part 161, the temperature sensor 500 may be in contact with the outer surface of the upper tray main body 151.

[0294] The chamber wall 153 of the upper tray main body 151 may include a vertical wall 153a and a curved wall 153b.

[0295] The curved wall 153b may be arc-shaped in a direction that is farther away from the upper chamber 152 as it goes upward.

[0296] The upper tray 150 may further include a horizontal extension part 164 that extends horizontally from the periphery of the upper tray main body 151. As an example, the horizontal extension part 164 may extend along the periphery of the upper end edge of the upper tray main body 151.

[0297] The horizontal extension part 164 may be in contact with the upper housing 120 and the upper support 170.

[0298] As an example, the bottom surface 164b (or may be referred to as the "first surface") of the horizontal extension part 164 may be in contact with the upper support 170, and the top surface 164a (or may be referred to as the "second surface") of the horizontal extension part 164 may be in contact with the upper housing 120.

[0299] At least a part of the horizontal extension portion 164 may be located between the upper housing 120 and the upper support member 170.

[0300] The horizontal extension portion 164 may include a plurality of upper protrusions 165, 166 for respectively inserting into the plurality of upper slots 131, 132.

[0301] The plurality of upper protrusions 165, 166 may include: a first upper protrusion 165; and a second upper protrusion 166, which is located on the opposite side of the first upper protrusion 165 with respect to the upper opening 154.

[0302] The first upper protrusion 165 may be inserted into the first upper slot 131, and the second upper protrusion 166 may be inserted into the second upper slot 132.

[0303] The first upper protrusion 165 and the second upper protrusion 166 may protrude upward from the top surface 164a of the horizontal extension portion 164.

[0304] The first upper protrusion 165 and the second upper protrusion 166 may be spaced apart in Figure 9 the direction of arrow B in. Figure 9 The direction of arrow B in is the same direction as Figure 7 the direction of arrow B in.

[0305] The plurality of first upper protrusions 165 may be arranged spaced apart in the direction of arrow A, but is not limited thereto.

[0306] And, the plurality of second upper protrusions 166 may be arranged spaced apart in the direction of arrow A.

[0307] As an example, the first upper protrusion 165 may be formed in a curved shape. And, as an example, the second upper protrusion 166 may be formed in a curved shape.

[0308] In the present embodiment, each of the upper protrusions 165, 166 not only couples the upper tray 150 to the upper housing 120, but also prevents the horizontal extension portion 164 from deforming during the ice-making process or the ice-transferring process.

[0309] At this time, when the upper protrusions 165, 166 are formed in a curved shape, the distance from the upper protrusions 165, 166 in the length direction is the same as or almost the same as the interval of the upper chamber 152, so that the deformation of the horizontal extension portion 164 can be effectively prevented.

[0310] As an example, the horizontal deformation of the horizontal extension part 164 is minimized, so that the horizontal extension part 164 can be prevented from being elongated and plastically deformed. If the horizontal extension part 164 is plastically deformed, the upper tray body cannot be located at an accurate position during ice making, and thus the ice shape is not spherical.

[0311] The horizontal extension part 164 may further include a plurality of lower protrusions 167, 168. The plurality of lower protrusions 167, 168 may be inserted into lower slots of the upper support member 170 described later.

[0312] The plurality of lower protrusions 167, 168 may include: a first lower protrusion 167; and a second lower protrusion 168, which is located on the opposite side of the first lower protrusion 167 based on the upper chamber 152.

[0313] The first lower protrusion 167 and the second lower protrusion 168 may protrude downward from the bottom surface 164b of the horizontal extension part 164.

[0314] The first lower protrusion 167 may be located on the opposite side of the first upper protrusion 165 based on the horizontal extension part 164. The second lower protrusion 168 may be located on the opposite side of the second upper protrusion 166 based on the horizontal extension part 164.

[0315] The first lower protrusion 167 may be arranged at a distance from the vertical wall 153a of the upper tray body 151. The second lower protrusion 168 may be arranged at a distance from the curved wall 153b of the upper tray body 151.

[0316] The plurality of lower protrusions 167, 168 may also be formed in a curved shape. By forming protrusions 165, 166, 167, 168 on the top surface 164a and the bottom surface 164b of the horizontal extension part 164 respectively, the horizontal deformation of the horizontal extension part 164 can be effectively prevented.

[0317] A through hole 169 for allowing a fastening boss of the upper support member 170 described later to pass through may be provided in the horizontal extension part 164.

[0318] As an example, a plurality of through holes 169 may be provided in the horizontal extension part 164.

[0319] Some of the plurality of through holes 169 may be located between two adjacent first upper protrusions 165 or between two adjacent first lower protrusions 167.

[0320] Another part of the plurality of through-holes 169 may be disposed between the two second lower protrusions 168, or may be disposed to face the region between the two second lower protrusions 168.

[0321] <Upper support member>

[0322] Figure 11 is a top perspective view of the upper support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 12 is a bottom perspective view of the upper support member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0323] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the upper support member 170 may include a support plate 171 that contacts the upper tray 150.

[0324] As an example, the top surface of the support plate 171 may contact the bottom surface 164b of the horizontal extension portion 164 of the upper tray 150.

[0325] A plate opening 172 for passing through the upper tray body 151 may be provided in the support plate 171.

[0326] A peripheral wall 174 formed by bending upward may be provided at the edge of the support plate 171. As an example, the peripheral wall 174 may contact at least a part of the side periphery of the horizontal extension portion 164.

[0327] The top surface of the peripheral wall 174 may contact the bottom surface of the upper plate 121.

[0328] The support plate 171 may include a plurality of lower slots 176, 177.

[0329] The plurality of lower slots 176, 177 may include a first lower slot 176 into which the first lower protrusion 167 is inserted and a second lower slot 177 into which the second lower protrusion 168 is inserted.

[0330] A plurality of first lower slots 176 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow A in the support plate 171. And, a plurality of second lower slots 177 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow A in the support plate 171.

[0331] The support plate 171 may further include a plurality of fastening bosses 175. The plurality of fastening bosses 175 may protrude upward from the top surface of the support plate 171.

[0332] Each of the fastening bosses 175 may pass through the through-hole 169 of the horizontal extension portion 164 to be introduced into the inside of the sleeve 133 of the upper housing 120.

[0333] In a state where the fastening boss 175 is introduced into the inside of the sleeve 133, the top surface of the fastening boss 175 may be at the same height as the top surface of the sleeve 133, or may be at a lower height.

[0334] As an example, the fastening member fastened to the fastening boss 175 may be a bolt ( Figure 3 B1). The bolt B1 may include a body portion and a head formed to have a diameter larger than that of the body portion. The bolt B1 may be fastened to the fastening boss 175 from above the fastening boss 175.

[0335] During the process of fastening the body portion of the bolt B1 to the fastening boss 175, when the head contacts the top surface of the sleeve 133 or when the head contacts the top surfaces of the sleeve 133 and the fastening boss 175, the assembly of the upper assembly 110 may be completed.

[0336] The upper support member 170 may further include a plurality of unit guides 181, 182 for guiding a connection unit 350 connected to the upper pusher 300.

[0337] As an example, the plurality of unit guides 181, 182 may be Figure 12 disposed at intervals in the direction of arrow A with reference to

[0338] The unit guides 181, 182 may extend upward from the top surface of the support plate 171. Each of the unit guides 181, 182 may be connected to the peripheral wall 174.

[0339] Each of the unit guides 181, 182 may include a guide slot 183 extending in the vertical direction.

[0340] With the pusher body 310 of the upper pusher 300 passing through the guide slots 183 at both ends, the connection unit 350 is connected to the pusher body 310.

[0341] Therefore, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, when the rotational force is transmitted from the connection unit 350 to the pusher body 310, the pusher body 310 may move up and down along the guide slots 183.

[0342] <Upper heater coupling structure>

[0343] Figure 13 is an enlarged view showing Figure 6 the heater coupling portion in the upper housing of Figure 14 is a view showing the heater coupled to Figure 6View of the state of the upper housing Figure 15 It is a view showing the arrangement of the wires connected to the heater in the upper housing.

[0344] Referring to Figures 13 to 15 , the heater coupling part 124 may include a heater receiving groove 124a for receiving the upper heater 148.

[0345] As an example, the heater receiving groove 124a may be formed by recessing a part of the bottom surface of the recess 122 of the upper housing 120 upward.

[0346] The heater receiving groove 124a may extend along the periphery of the opening 123 of the upper housing 120.

[0347] As an example, the upper heater 148 may be a wire-type heater. Therefore, the upper heater 148 can be bent and bent to correspond to the shape of the heater receiving groove 124a to accommodate the upper heater 148 in the heater receiving groove 124a.

[0348] The upper heater 148 may be a DC heater that receives DC power supply. The upper heater 148 can be activated to remove ice. The upper heater 148 may be referred to as an ice-removing heater. When the heat of the upper heater 148 is transferred to the upper tray 150, the ice can be separated from the surface (inner surface) of the upper tray 150. At this time, the stronger the heat of the upper heater 148, the less opaque the part of the spherical ice facing the upper heater 148 is compared to other parts. That is, an opaque band corresponding to the upper heater is formed on the periphery of the ice.

[0349] However, in the case of this embodiment, by using a DC heater with a low output itself, the heat transferred to the upper tray 150 is reduced, so that an opaque band can be prevented from being formed on the periphery of the ice.

[0350] The upper heater 148 may be configured to surround the periphery of a plurality of upper chambers 152 so that the heat of the upper heater 148 can be evenly transferred to each of the plurality of upper chambers 152 of the upper tray 150.

[0351] The upper heater 148 may be in contact with the periphery of each of the plurality of chamber walls 153 that respectively form the plurality of upper chambers 152. At this time, the upper heater 148 may be located at a position lower than the upper opening 154.

[0352] The heater receiving groove 124a is recessed in the recessed portion 122. Therefore, the heater receiving groove 124a can be defined by an outer wall 124b and an inner wall 124c.

[0353] In a state where the upper heater 148 is received in the heater receiving groove 124a, the diameter of the upper heater 148 can be formed to be larger than the depth of the heater receiving groove 124a, such that the upper heater 148 can protrude outward from the heater coupling portion 124.

[0354] In a state where the upper heater 148 is received in the heater receiving groove 124a, a part of the upper heater 148 protrudes outward from the heater receiving groove 124a. Therefore, the upper heater 148 can contact the upper tray 150.

[0355] One or more of the outer wall 124b and the inner wall 124c may be provided with anti - detachment protrusions 124d to prevent the upper heater 148 received in the heater receiving groove 124a from detaching from the heater receiving groove 124a.

[0356] As an example, Figure 13 The case where a plurality of anti - detachment protrusions 124d are provided on the inner wall 124c is shown.

[0357] The anti - detachment protrusion 124d may protrude from an end of the inner wall 124c toward the outer wall 124b.

[0358] At this time, the protruding length of the anti - detachment protrusion 124d can be formed to be less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the interval between the outer wall 124b and the inner wall 124c, such that the insertion of the upper heater 148 is not obstructed by the anti - detachment protrusion 124d and the upper heater 148 is prevented from easily detaching from the heater receiving groove 124a.

[0359] As Figure 14 shown, in a state where the upper heater 148 is received in the heater receiving groove 124a, the upper heater 148 can be divided into an upper arc portion 148c and a straight portion 148d.

[0360] That is, the heater receiving groove 124a includes an upper arc portion and a straight portion. Corresponding to the upper arc portion and the straight portion of the heater receiving groove 124a, the upper heater 148 can be divided into an upper arc portion 148c and a straight portion 148d.

[0361] The upper arc portion 148c is a portion disposed along the periphery of the upper chamber 152 and is a portion curved in an arc shape in the horizontal direction.

[0362] The straight portion 148d is a portion connecting the upper arc portions 148c corresponding to each upper chamber 152.

[0363] The position of the upper heater 148 is lower than the upper opening 154. Thus, a line connecting two separated points of the upper arc portion can pass through the upper chamber 152.

[0364] In the upper heater 148, the upper arc portion 148c is likely to disengage from the heater receiving groove 124a. Thus, the anti-disengagement protrusion 124d can be configured to contact the upper arc portion 148c.

[0365] A through opening 124e can be provided on the bottom surface of the heater receiving groove 124a. When the upper heater 148 is received in the heater receiving groove 124a, a part of the upper heater 148 can be located at the through opening 124e. As an example, the through opening 124e can be located at a portion facing the anti-disengagement protrusion 124d.

[0366] When the upper heater 148 is bent in an arc shape in the horizontal direction, the upper heater 148 may break due to an increase in tension, and the upper heater 148 is likely to disengage from the heater receiving groove 124a.

[0367] However, as in this embodiment, when the through opening 124e is formed in the heater receiving groove 124a, a part of the upper heater 148 can be located at the through opening 124e, thereby reducing the tension of the upper heater 148 and preventing the upper heater from disengaging from the heater receiving groove 124a.

[0368] As Figure 15 As shown, the power input terminal 148a and the power output terminal 148b of the upper heater 148 can pass through a heater through hole 125 formed in the upper housing 120 in a side-by-side configuration.

[0369] The upper heater 148 is received under the upper housing 120. Thus, the power input terminal 148a and the power output terminal 148b of the upper heater 148 can extend upward and pass through the heater through hole 125.

[0370] The power input terminal 148a and the power output terminal 148b passing through the heater through hole 125 can be connected to a first connector 129a.

[0371] The first connector 129a can be connected to the second connector 129c, and two wires 129d are connected to the second connector 129c in a manner corresponding to the power input terminal 148a and the power output terminal 148b.

[0372] On the upper plate 121 of the upper housing 120, the upper heater 148, the first connector 129a, the second connector 129c, and the first guiding portion 126 for guiding the wire 129d can be provided.

[0373] As an example, Figure 15 It is shown in the figure that the first guiding portion 126 guides the first connector 129a.

[0374] The first guiding portion 126 extends upward from the top surface of the upper plate 121, and the upper end portion can be bent in the horizontal direction.

[0375] Therefore, the bent portion on the upper side of the first guiding portion 126 restricts the upward movement of the first connector 129a.

[0376] After the wire 129d is bent into a substantially "U" shape to prevent interference with the surrounding structure, it can be led out to the outside of the upper housing 120.

[0377] The wire 129d extends in a state of being bent more than once. Therefore, the upper housing 120 can further include wire guides 127 and 128 for fixing the position of the wire 129d.

[0378] The wire guides 127 and 128 can include a first guide 127 and a second guide 128 that are arranged at intervals in the horizontal direction. The first guide 127 and the second guide 128 can be bent in a direction corresponding to the bending direction of the wire 129d to minimize damage to the bent wire 129d.

[0379] That is, the first guide 127 and the second guide 128 can each include a curved portion.

[0380] One or more of the first guide 127 and the second guide 128 can include an upper guide 127a extending toward the other guide to restrict the upward movement of the wire 129d located between the first guide 127 and the second guide 128.

[0381] Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the upper component is assembled.

[0382] Referring to Figure 16, in a state where the upper heater 148 is coupled to the heater coupling part 124 of the upper housing 120, the upper housing 120, the upper tray 150, and the upper support member 170 can be coupled to each other.

[0383] Insert the first upper protrusion 165 of the upper tray 150 into the first upper slot 131 of the upper housing 120. And insert the second upper protrusion 166 of the upper tray 150 into the second upper slot 132 of the upper housing 120.

[0384] Then, insert the first lower protrusion 167 of the upper tray 150 into the first lower slot 176 of the upper support member 170, and insert the second lower protrusion 168 of the upper tray into the second lower slot 177 of the upper support member 170.

[0385] At this time, the fastening boss 175 of the upper support member 170 is received into the sleeve 133 of the upper housing 120 through the through hole 169 of the upper tray 150. In this state, the bolt B1 can be fastened to the fastening boss 175 from above the fastening boss 175.

[0386] In a state where the bolt B1 is fastened to the fastening boss 175, the position of the head of the bolt B1 is higher than the upper plate 121.

[0387] On the contrary, the positions of the hinge support members 135, 136 are lower than the upper plate 121. Therefore, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, interference between the upper assembly 110 or the connection unit 350 and the head of the bolt B1 can be prevented.

[0388] During the assembly of the upper assembly 110, the plurality of unit guides 181, 182 of the upper support member 170 protrude above the upper plate 121 through the through openings 139a, 139b ( Figure 6 located on both sides of the upper plate 121 in the upper housing 120).

[0389] The upper pusher 300 passes through the guide slots 183 of the unit guides 181, 182 that protrude above the upper plate 121 in the above-described manner.

[0390] Therefore, the upper pusher 300 descends while being located on the upper side of the upper plate 121 and is introduced into the interior of the upper chamber 152, so that the ice in the upper chamber 152 is separated from the upper tray 150.

[0391] When the upper assembly 110 is assembled, the heater coupling part 124 combined with the upper heater 148 is received in the first receiving part 160 of the upper tray 150.

[0392] With the heater coupling part 124 received in the first receiving part 160, the upper heater 148 contacts the bottom surface 160a of the first receiving part 160.

[0393] As in this embodiment, when the upper heater 148 is received in the recessed heater coupling part 124 and contacts the upper tray body 151, the heat transferred from the upper heater 148 to other parts other than the upper tray body 151 can be minimized.

[0394] At least a part of the upper heater 148 may be configured to overlap with the upper chamber 152 in the vertical direction so that the heat of the upper heater 148 is smoothly transferred to the upper chamber 152.

[0395] In this embodiment, the upper arc part 148c of the upper heater 148 may overlap with the upper chamber 152 in the vertical direction.

[0396] That is, with the upper chamber 152 as a reference, the maximum distance between two points of the upper arc part 148c located on opposite sides of each other is formed to be less than the diameter of the upper chamber 152.

[0397] <Lower housing>

[0398] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a lower assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 18 is an upper perspective view of a lower housing according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 19 is a lower perspective view of a lower housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0399] Referring to Figures 17 to 19 , the lower assembly 200 may include a lower tray 250. The lower assembly 200 may further include a lower support 270 and a lower housing 210.

[0400] The lower tray 250 may form the ice chamber 111 together with the upper tray 150.

[0401] The lower assembly 200 may further include a lower support 270 that supports the lower tray 250. With the lower tray 250 placed on the lower support 270, the lower support 270 and the lower tray 250 may rotate together.

[0402] The lower assembly 200 may further include a lower housing 210 for fixing the position of the lower tray 250.

[0403] The lower housing 210 may surround the periphery of the lower tray 250, and the lower support 270 may support the lower tray 250.

[0404] The connection unit 350 may be coupled to the lower support 270.

[0405] The connection unit 350 may include: a first link 352 that receives the power of the drive unit 180 and is used to rotate the lower support 270; and a second link 356 that is connected to the lower support 270 so as to transmit the rotational force of the lower support 270 to the upper ejector 300 when the lower support 270 rotates.

[0406] The first link 352 and the lower support 270 may be connected by an elastic member 360. As an example, the elastic member 360 may be a helical spring.

[0407] One end of the elastic member 360 is connected to the first link 352, and the other end is connected to the lower support 270.

[0408] The elastic member 360 provides an elastic force to the lower support 270 to maintain the state where the upper tray 150 is in contact with the lower tray 250.

[0409] In this embodiment, the first link 352 and the second link 356 may be provided on both sides of the lower support 270.

[0410] Any one of the two first links 352 is connected to the drive unit 180 to receive a rotational force from the drive unit 180.

[0411] The two first links 352 may be connected by a connecting shaft ( Figure 5 370).

[0412] A hole 358 may be formed at the upper end of the second link 356 through which the ejector body 310 of the upper ejector 300 can pass through.

[0413] The lower housing 210 may include a lower plate 211 for fixing the lower tray 250.

[0414] The lower tray 250 may be fixed in a state where a part thereof is in contact with the bottom surface of the lower plate 211.

[0415] An opening 212 for allowing a part of the lower tray 250 to pass through may be provided in the lower plate 211.

[0416] As an example, in a state where the lower tray 250 is located below the lower plate 211, when the lower tray 250 is fixed to the lower plate 211, a part of the lower tray 250 may protrude above the lower plate 211 through the opening 212.

[0417] The lower housing 210 may further include a peripheral wall 214 (or covering wall) that penetrates the lower plate 211 and surrounds the lower tray 250.

[0418] The peripheral wall 214 may include a vertical wall 214a and a curved wall 215.

[0419] The vertical wall 214a is a wall that extends vertically upward from the lower plate 211. The curved wall 215 is an arcuate wall that moves farther away from the opening 212 upward from the lower plate 211.

[0420] The vertical wall 214a may include a first coupling slot 214b for coupling with the lower tray 250. The first coupling slot 214b may be formed by being recessed downward from the upper end of the vertical wall 214a.

[0421] The curved wall 215 may include a second coupling slot 215a for coupling with the lower tray 250.

[0422] The second coupling slot 215a may be formed by being recessed downward from the upper end of the curved wall 215.

[0423] The lower housing 210 may further include a first fastening boss 216 and a second fastening boss 217.

[0424] The first fastening boss 216 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the lower plate 211. As an example, a plurality of first fastening bosses 216 may protrude downward from the lower plate 211.

[0425] The plurality of first fastening bosses 216 may be spaced apart and arranged in the direction of arrow A with Figure 18 as a reference.

[0426] The second fastening boss 217 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the lower plate 211. As an example, a plurality of second fastening bosses 217 may protrude from the lower plate 211. The plurality of second fastening bosses 217 may be spaced apart and arranged in the direction of arrow A with Figure 18 as a reference.

[0427] The first fastening boss 216 and the second fastening boss 217 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow B.

[0428] In this embodiment, the lengths of the first fastening boss 216 and the second fastening boss 217 may be formed differently. As an example, the length of the second fastening boss 217 may be formed longer than the length of the first fastening boss 216.

[0429] The first fastening member may be fastened to the first fastening boss 216 from above the first fastening boss 216. On the contrary, the second fastening member may be fastened to the second fastening boss 217 from below the second fastening boss 217.

[0430] During the process of fastening the first fastening member to the first fastening boss 216, the curved wall 215 is provided with a moving groove 215b for the fastening member so that the first fastening member does not interfere with the curved wall 215.

[0431] The lower housing 210 may further include a slot 218 for engaging with the lower tray 250.

[0432] A part of the lower tray 250 may be inserted into the slot 218. The slot 218 may be located near the vertical wall 214a.

[0433] As an example, a plurality of slots 218 may be arranged at intervals in Figure 18 the direction of arrow A. Each of the slots 218 may be formed in a curved shape.

[0434] The lower housing 210 may further include a receiving groove 218a for inserting a part of the lower tray 250. The receiving groove 218a may be formed by a part of the lower plate 211 recessing toward the curved wall 215.

[0435] The lower housing 210 may further include an extension wall 219 which, in a state of being combined with the lower tray 250, contacts a part of the outer periphery of the side surface of the lower plate 211. The extension wall 219 may extend in a straight line shape in the direction of arrow A.

[0436] <Lower tray>

[0437] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the upper part of the lower tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 21 and Figure 22 is a perspective view of the lower part of the lower tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 23 is a side view of the lower tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0438] Refer toFigures 20 to 23 The lower tray 250 may be formed of a flexible material that is a non-metal, and the lower tray 250 may return to its original shape after being deformed by an external force.

[0439] As an example, the lower tray 250 may be formed of a silicon material. In this embodiment, when the lower tray 250 is formed of a silicon material, during the ice transfer process, even if an external force is applied to the lower tray 250 to deform the shape of the lower tray 250, the lower tray 250 can return to its original shape again. Therefore, even if ice-making is repeated, spherical ice can be generated.

[0440] If the lower tray 250 is formed of a metal material, when an external force is applied to the lower tray 250 to deform the lower tray 250 itself, the lower tray 250 cannot return to its original shape again.

[0441] In this case, after the shape of the lower tray 250 is deformed, spherical ice cannot be generated. That is, spherical ice cannot be generated repeatedly.

[0442] On the contrary, as in this embodiment, when the lower tray 250 has a flexible material that can return to its original shape, this problem can be solved.

[0443] Moreover, when the lower tray 250 is formed of a silicon material, it is possible to prevent the lower tray 250 from melting or being thermally deformed due to the heat provided by the lower heater described later.

[0444] The lower tray 250 may include a lower tray body 251 that forms a lower chamber 252 which is part of the ice chamber 111. The lower tray body 251 may also be referred to as a lower mold body.

[0445] The lower tray body 251 may define a plurality of lower chambers 252.

[0446] As an example, the plurality of lower chambers 252 may include a first lower chamber 252a, a second lower chamber 252b, and a third lower chamber 252c.

[0447] The lower tray body 251 may include three chamber walls 252d that form three independent lower chambers 252a, 252b, and 252c, and the three chamber walls 252d may be formed integrally to form the lower tray body 251.

[0448] The first lower chamber 252a, the second lower chamber 252b, and the third lower chamber 252c may be arranged in a row. As an example, the first lower chamber 252a, the second lower chamber 252b, and the third lower chamber 252c may be arranged inFigure 20 are arranged in the direction of arrow A with respect to the reference.

[0449] The lower chamber 252 may be formed in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere. That is, the lower part of the spherical ice may be formed by the lower chamber 252.

[0450] The lower tray 250 may further include a first extension portion 253 extending in a horizontal direction from an upper end edge of the lower tray body 251. The first extension portion 253 may be continuously formed along the periphery of the lower tray body 251.

[0451] The lower tray 250 may further include a peripheral wall 260 extending upward from a top surface of the first extension portion 253.

[0452] A bottom surface of the upper tray body 151 may be in contact with a top surface 251e of the lower tray body 251. The top surface 251e of the lower tray body 251 may also be referred to as an end surface.

[0453] The peripheral wall 260 may surround the upper tray body 151 disposed on the top surface 251e of the lower tray body 251.

[0454] The peripheral wall 260 may include: a first wall 260a surrounding a vertical wall 153a of the upper tray body 151; and a second wall 260b surrounding a curved wall 153b of the upper tray body 151.

[0455] The first wall 260a is a vertical wall vertically extending from the top surface of the first extension portion 253. The second wall 260b is a curved wall formed in a shape corresponding to the upper tray body 151. That is, the second wall 260b may be arcuate in a direction away from the lower chamber 252 upward from the first extension portion 253.

[0456] The lower tray 250 may further include a second extension portion 254 extending in a horizontal direction from the peripheral wall 260.

[0457] The second extension portion 254 may be located at a higher position than the first extension portion 253. Therefore, the first extension portion 253 and the second extension portion 254 form a step.

[0458] The second extension portion 254 may include a first upper protrusion 255 for insertion into a slot 218 of the lower housing 210. The first upper protrusion 255 may be disposed at a horizontal interval from the peripheral wall 260.

[0459] As an example, the first upper protrusion 255 may protrude upward from the top surface of the second extension portion 254 at a position adjacent to the first wall 260a.

[0460] A plurality of first upper protrusions 255 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow A with Figure 20 as a reference, but are not limited thereto. As an example, the first upper protrusion 255 may extend in a curved shape.

[0461] The second extension portion 254 may further include a first lower protrusion 257 for insertion into a protrusion groove of a lower support member 270 described later. The first lower protrusion 257 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second extension portion 254.

[0462] A plurality of first lower protrusions 257 may be arranged at intervals in the direction of arrow A, but are not limited thereto.

[0463] The first upper protrusion 255 and the first lower protrusion 257 may be located on opposite sides with respect to the upper and lower portions of the second extension portion 254. At least a part of the first upper protrusion 255 may overlap with the first lower protrusion 257 in the vertical direction.

[0464] A plurality of through holes 256 may be formed in the second extension portion 254.

[0465] The plurality of through holes 256 may include: a first through hole 256a through which a first fastening boss 216 of the lower housing 210 passes; and a second through hole 256b for passing a second fastening boss 217 of the lower housing 210.

[0466] As an example, a plurality of first through holes 256a may be arranged at intervals in Figure 20 the direction of arrow A.

[0467] And a plurality of second through holes 256b may be arranged at intervals in Figure 20 the direction of arrow A.

[0468] The plurality of first through holes 256a and the plurality of second through holes 256b may be located on opposite sides with respect to the lower chamber 252.

[0469] A part of the plurality of second through holes 256b may be located between two adjacent first upper protrusions 255. And a part of the plurality of second through holes 256b may be located between two first lower protrusions 257.

[0470] The second extension portion 254 may further include a second upper protrusion 258. The second upper protrusion 258 may be located on the opposite side of the first upper protrusion 255 with respect to the lower chamber 252.

[0471] The second upper protrusion 258 may be disposed at a horizontal distance from the peripheral wall 260. As an example, the second upper protrusion 258 may protrude upward from the top surface of the second extension portion 254 at a position adjacent to the second wall 260b.

[0472] A plurality of second upper protrusions 258 may be disposed at intervals in Figure 20 the direction of arrow A, but is not limited thereto.

[0473] The second upper protrusion 258 may be received in the receiving groove 218a of the lower housing 210. In a state where the second upper protrusion 258 is received in the receiving groove 218a, the second upper protrusion 258 may contact the curved wall 215 of the lower housing 210.

[0474] The peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250 may include a first coupling protrusion 262 for coupling with the lower housing 210.

[0475] The first coupling protrusion 262 may protrude horizontally from the first wall 260a of the peripheral wall 260. The first coupling protrusion 262 may be located at the upper side portion of the side surface of the first wall 260a.

[0476] The first coupling protrusion 262 may include a neck portion 262a having a diameter smaller than other portions. The neck portion 262a may be inserted into a first coupling slot 214b formed in the peripheral wall 214 of the lower housing 210.

[0477] The peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250 may further include a second coupling protrusion 260c for coupling with the lower housing 210.

[0478] The second coupling protrusion 260c may protrude horizontally from the second wall 260b of the peripheral wall 260. The second coupling protrusion 260c may be inserted into a second coupling slot 215a formed in the peripheral wall 214 of the lower housing 210.

[0479] The second extension portion 254 may further include a second lower protrusion 266. The second lower protrusion 266 may be located on the opposite side of the first lower protrusion 257 with respect to the lower chamber 252.

[0480] The second lower protrusion 266 may protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second extension portion 254. As an example, the second lower protrusion 266 may extend in a linear shape.

[0481] A part of the plurality of first through holes 256a may be located between the second lower protrusion 266 and the lower chamber 252.

[0482] The second lower protrusion 266 may be received in a guide groove formed in a lower support member 270 described later.

[0483] The second extension portion 254 may further include a side limiting portion 264. The side limiting portion 264 limits the lower tray 250 from moving in the horizontal direction when the lower tray 250 is combined with the lower housing 210 and the lower support member 270.

[0484] The side limiting portion 264 protrudes from the second extension portion 254 to the side, and the vertical length of the side limiting portion 264 is formed to be greater than the thickness of the second extension portion 254. As an example, a part of the side limiting portion 264 is located at a position higher than the top surface of the second extension portion 254, and another part is located at a position lower than the bottom surface of the second extension portion 254.

[0485] Therefore, a part of the side limiting portion 264 may contact the side surface of the lower housing 210, and another part may contact the side surface of the lower support member 270.

[0486] <Lower support member>

[0487] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the upper part of the lower support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 25 is a perspective view of the lower part of the lower support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the lower assembly is assembled.

[0488] Referring to Figures 24 to 26 , the lower support member 270 may include a support member main body 271 that supports the lower tray 250.

[0489] The support member main body 271 may include three chamber accommodating portions 272 for accommodating three chamber walls 252d of the lower tray 250. The chamber accommodating portions 272 may be formed in a hemispherical shape.

[0490] The support member main body 271 may include a lower opening 274 through which the lower pusher 400 penetrates during the ice removal process. As an example, three lower openings 274 may be provided in the support member main body 271 corresponding to the three chamber accommodating portions 272.

[0491] Reinforcing ribs 275 for enhancing strength may be provided along the periphery of the lower opening 274.

[0492] Moreover, two adjacent chamber accommodating portions 272 among the three chamber accommodating portions 272 may be connected by a connecting rib 273. Such a connecting rib 273 can enhance the strength of the chamber accommodating portion 272.

[0493] The lower support member 270 may further include a first extension wall 285 extending horizontally from the upper end of the support member body 271.

[0494] The lower support member 270 may further include a second extension wall 286, and a step is formed between the edge of the first extension wall 285 and the first extension wall 285.

[0495] The top surface of the second extension wall 286 may be located at a higher position than the first extension wall 285.

[0496] The first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250 may be placed on the top surface 271a of the support member body 271, and the second extension wall 286 may surround the side surface of the first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250. At this time, the second extension wall 286 may be in contact with the side surface of the first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250.

[0497] The lower support member 270 may further include a raised groove 287 for accommodating the first lower protrusion 257 of the lower tray 250.

[0498] The raised groove 287 may extend in a curved shape. As an example, the raised groove 287 may be formed in the second extension wall 286.

[0499] The lower support member 270 may further include a first fastening groove 286a, and a first fastening member B2 passing through the first fastening boss 216 of the upper housing 120 is fastened to the first fastening groove 286a.

[0500] As an example, the first fastening groove 286a may be provided in the second extension wall 286.

[0501] A plurality of first fastening grooves 286a may be arranged at intervals in the second extension wall 286 in the direction of arrow A. A part of the plurality of first fastening grooves 286a may be located between two adjacent raised grooves 287 adjacent to the first fastening groove 286a.

[0502] The lower support member 270 may further include a boss through-hole 286b for allowing the second fastening boss 217 of the upper housing 120 to pass through.

[0503] As an example, the boss through-hole 286b may be provided in the second extension wall 286. A sleeve 286c surrounding the second fastening boss 217 and passing through the boss through-hole 286b may be provided in the second extension wall 286. The sleeve 286c may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open bottom.

[0504] The first fastening member B2 may pass through the first fastening boss 216 from above the lower housing 210 and then be fastened to the first fastening groove 286a.

[0505] The second fastening member B3 may be fastened to the second fastening boss 217 from below the lower support member 270.

[0506] The lower end of the sleeve 286c may be at the same height as the lower end of the second fastening boss 217, or may be at a position lower than the lower end of the second fastening boss 217.

[0507] Therefore, during the fastening process of the second fastening member B3, the head of the second fastening member B3 may contact the bottom surface of the second fastening boss 217 and the sleeve 286c, or may contact the bottom surface of the sleeve 286c.

[0508] The lower support member 270 may further include an outer wall 280 that is disposed to surround the lower tray body 251 in a state of being spaced apart from the outside of the lower tray body 251.

[0509] As an example, the outer wall 280 may extend downward along the edge of the second extension wall 286.

[0510] The lower support member 270 may further include a plurality of hinge bodies 281, 282 for connecting to each of the hinge support members 135, 136 of the upper housing 120.

[0511] The plurality of hinge bodies 281, 282 may be arranged at intervals in Figure 24 the direction of arrow A. Each of the hinge bodies 281, 282 may further include a second hinge hole 281a.

[0512] The shaft connection portion 353 of the first link 352 may pass through the second hinge hole 281a. The connecting shaft 370 may be connected to the shaft connection portion 353.

[0513] The interval between the plurality of hinge bodies 281, 282 is smaller than the interval between the plurality of hinge support members 135, 136. Therefore, the plurality of hinge bodies 281, 282 may be located between the plurality of hinge support members 135, 136.

[0514] The lower support member 270 may further include a coupling shaft 283, to which the second link 356 is rotatably coupled. The coupling shaft 283 may be provided on both surfaces of the outer wall 280, respectively.

[0515] The lower support member 270 may further include an elastic member coupling portion 284 for coupling the elastic member 360. The elastic member coupling portion 284 may form a space capable of accommodating a part of the elastic member 360. The elastic member 360 is accommodated in the elastic member coupling portion 284, thereby preventing interference between the elastic member 360 and surrounding structures.

[0516] The elastic member coupling portion 284 may include a locking portion 284a for locking the lower end of the elastic member 360.

[0517] <Combined Structure of Lower Heater>

[0518] Figure 27 is a top view of a lower support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 28 is a perspective view showing a state in which a lower heater is coupled to Figure 27 the lower support member, Figure 29 is a view showing a state in which a wire connected to the lower heater penetrates through the upper housing in a state where the lower assembly and the upper assembly are coupled.

[0519] Referring to Figures 27 to 29 , the ice maker 100 of the present embodiment may further include a lower heater 296 for applying heat to the lower tray 250 during the ice making process.

[0520] The lower heater 296 provides heat to the lower chamber 252 during the ice making process, so that ice starts to freeze from the upper side in the ice chamber 111.

[0521] Moreover, since the lower heater 296 generates heat during the ice making process, bubbles in the ice chamber 111 move downward during the ice making process, and when the ice making is completed, parts other than the lowermost end portion of the spherical ice can be made transparent. That is, according to the present embodiment, substantially transparent spherical ice can be generated.

[0522] As an example, the lower heater 296 may be a wire-type heater.

[0523] The lower heater 296 may be provided on the lower support member 270. The lower heater 296 may be in contact with the lower tray 250 to provide heat to the lower chamber 252.

[0524] As an example, the lower heater 296 may be in contact with the lower tray body 251. The lower heater 296 may be configured to surround three chamber walls 252d of the lower tray body 251.

[0525] The lower support member 270 may further include a heater coupling portion 290 for coupling the lower heater 296.

[0526] The heater coupling portion 290 may include a heater receiving groove 291 recessed downward from a chamber receiving portion 272 of the lower tray body 251.

[0527] Due to the recess of the heater receiving groove 291, the heater coupling portion 290 may include an inner wall 291a and an outer wall 291b.

[0528] As an example, the inner wall 291a may be formed in an annular shape, and the outer wall 291b may be configured to surround the inner wall 291a.

[0529] When the lower heater 296 is received in the heater receiving groove 291, the lower heater 296 may surround at least a part of the inner wall 291a.

[0530] The lower opening 274 may be located in a region formed by the inner wall 291a. Therefore, when the chamber wall 252d of the lower tray 250 is received in the chamber receiving portion 272, the chamber wall 252d may be in contact with the top surface of the inner wall 291a. The top surface of the inner wall 291a is an arcuate surface corresponding to the hemispherical chamber wall 252d.

[0531] In a state where the lower heater 296 is received in the heater receiving groove 291, the diameter of the lower heater 296 may be formed to be greater than the recess depth of the heater receiving groove 291, so that a part of the lower heater 296 protrudes to the outside of the heater receiving groove 291.

[0532] One or more of the outer wall 291b and the inner wall 291a may be provided with anti - detachment protrusions 291c to prevent the lower heater 296 received in the heater receiving groove 291 from detaching from the heater receiving groove 291.

[0533] Figure 27 The anti - detachment protrusion 291c is shown provided on the inner wall 291a.

[0534] The diameter of the inner wall 291a is smaller than the diameter of the chamber accommodating portion 272. Therefore, during the assembly of the lower heater 296, the lower heater 296 moves along the surface of the chamber accommodating portion 272 and is accommodated in the heater accommodating groove 291.

[0535] That is, the lower heater 296 is accommodated in the heater accommodating groove 291 from above the outer wall 291b toward the inner wall 291a. Therefore, the anti - detachment protrusion 291c is preferably formed on the inner wall 291a to prevent interference with the anti - detachment protrusion 291c during the process of accommodating the lower heater 296 in the heater accommodating groove 291.

[0536] The anti - detachment protrusion 291c may protrude from the upper end portion of the inner wall 291a toward the outer wall 291b.

[0537] The protruding length of the anti - detachment protrusion 291c may be formed to be less than 1 / 2 of the interval between the outer wall 291b and the inner wall 291a.

[0538] As Figure 28 shown, in the state where the lower heater 296 is accommodated in the heater accommodating groove 291, the lower heater 296 can be divided into a lower arc portion 296a and a straight portion 296b.

[0539] The lower arc portion 296a is the portion arranged along the periphery of the lower chamber 252 and is the portion curved in an arc shape in the horizontal direction.

[0540] The straight portion 296b is the portion connecting the lower arc portions 296a corresponding to the respective lower chambers 252.

[0541] In the lower heater 296, the lower arc portion 296a is likely to be detached from the heater accommodating groove 291. Therefore, the anti - detachment protrusion 291c can be arranged to contact the lower arc portion 296a.

[0542] A through - opening 291d may be provided on the bottom surface of the heater accommodating groove 291. When the lower heater 296 is accommodated in the heater accommodating groove 291, a part of the lower heater 296 may be located in the through - opening 291d. As an example, the through - opening 291d may be located in the portion facing the anti - detachment protrusion 291c.

[0543] When the lower heater 296 is curved in an arc shape in the horizontal direction, the lower heater 296 may be broken due to an increase in tension, and the lower heater 296 is very likely to be detached from the heater accommodating groove 291.

[0544] However, as in this embodiment, when the through opening 291d is formed in the heater receiving groove 291, a part of the lower heater 296 may be located in the through opening 291d, thereby reducing the tension of the lower heater 296 and preventing the lower heater 296 from detaching from the heater receiving groove 291.

[0545] The lower support member 270 may include: a first guide groove 293 for guiding the power input terminal 296c and the power output terminal 296d of the lower heater 296 received in the heater receiving groove 291; and a second guide groove 294 extending in a direction intersecting with the first guide groove 293.

[0546] As an example, the first guide groove 293 may extend from the heater receiving groove 291 in the direction of arrow B.

[0547] The second guide groove 294 may extend from the end of the first guide groove 293 in the direction of arrow A. In this embodiment, the direction of arrow A is a direction parallel to the extending direction of the rotation center axis C1 of the lower assembly 200.

[0548] Referring to Figure 28 , the first guide groove 293 may extend from any one of the left and right chamber receiving portions except the central portion among the three chamber receiving portions.

[0549] As an example, Figure 28 shows a case where the first guide groove 293 extends from the left chamber receiving portion among the three chamber receiving portions.

[0550] As Figure 28 shown, the power input terminal 296c and the power output terminal 296d of the lower heater 296 may be received in the first guide groove 293 in a side-by-side configuration.

[0551] The power input terminal 296c and the power output terminal 296d of the lower heater 296 may be connected to a first connector 297a.

[0552] The first connector 297a may be connected to a second connector 297b, and two wires 298 are connected to the second connector 297b in a manner corresponding to the power input terminal 296c and the power output terminal 296d.

[0553] In this embodiment, in a state where the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are connected, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are received in the second guide groove 294.

[0554] The wire 298 connected to the second connector 297b is led out of the lower support member 270 through the lead-out slot 295 formed in the lower support member 270 from the end of the second guide groove 294.

[0555] According to this embodiment, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are received in the second guide groove 294. Therefore, when the assembly of the lower assembly 200 is completed, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b have the advantage of not being exposed to the outside.

[0556] As described above, if the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are not exposed to the outside, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, interference between the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b and the surrounding structure can be prevented, and separation between the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b can be prevented.

[0557] Moreover, the first connector 297a and the second connector 297b are received in the second guide groove 294. Therefore, a part of the wire 298 is located inside the second guide groove 294, and the other part is located outside the lower support member 270 through the lead-out slot 295.

[0558] At this time, the second guide groove 294 extends in a direction parallel to the rotation center axis C1 of the lower assembly 200. Therefore, a part of the wire 298 also extends in a direction parallel to the rotation center axis C1.

[0559] The other part of the wire 298 extends from the outside of the lower support member 270 in a direction intersecting the rotation center axis C1.

[0560] According to this arrangement of the wire 298, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, almost no tensile force is applied to the wire 298, but a torsional force is applied.

[0561] Compared with the case where a tensile force is applied to the wire 298, in the case where the torsional force is applied, the possibility of the wire 298 breaking is very low.

[0562] In the case of this embodiment, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, the lower heater 296 remains in a fixed position and applies a torsional force to the wire 298. Therefore, damage to the lower heater 296 can be prevented, and breakage of the wire 298 can be prevented.

[0563] One or more of the first guide groove 293 and the second guide groove 294 may be provided with an anti-separation projection 293a for preventing the lower heater 296 or the wire 298 accommodated therein from separating.

[0564] The power input terminal 296c and the power output terminal 296d of the lower heater 296 are located in the first guide groove 293. At this time, heat is also generated at the power input terminal 296c and the power output terminal 296d. Therefore, the heat provided to the chamber accommodation part on the left side where the first guide groove 293 extends is greater than the heat provided to other chamber accommodation parts.

[0565] In this case, if the amount of heat provided to each chamber accommodation part is different, after ice making and ice transfer are completed, the transparency of the spherical ice formed may also vary depending on the ice.

[0566] Therefore, a detour accommodation groove 292 may also be provided in the chamber accommodation part that is farthest from the first guide groove 293 among the three chamber accommodation parts (for example, the right chamber accommodation part) to minimize the situation where the difference in the transparency of each ice becomes large.

[0567] As an example, the detour accommodation groove 292 may be configured in a shape that extends outward from the heater accommodation groove 291, bends, and then connects to the heater accommodation groove 291.

[0568] When a part 296e of the lower heater 296 is additionally accommodated in the detour accommodation groove 292, the contact area between the chamber wall of the chamber accommodation part on the right side and the lower heater 296 can be increased.

[0569] Therefore, a projection 292a for fixing the position of the lower heater accommodated in the detour accommodation groove 292 may be additionally provided in the chamber accommodation part on the right side.

[0570] Refer to Figure 29 , in a state where the lower assembly 200 is combined with the upper housing 120 of the upper assembly 110, the wire 298 led out to the outside of the lower support 270 penetrates through the wire through slot 138 formed in the upper housing 120, so that it can extend upward above the upper housing 120.

[0571] A restricting guide 139 for restricting the movement of the wire 298 penetrating through the wire through slot 138 may be provided in the wire through slot 138. The restricting guide 139 is formed in a shape that bends multiple times, and the wire 298 can be located within the area formed by the restricting guide.

[0572] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of Figure 3 , and Figure 31 is a view showing Figure 30 the state of completed ice generation in

[0573] Figure 30 The state where the upper tray and the lower tray are in contact is shown in

[0574] First, referring to Figure 30 , the ice chamber 111 is completed by the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250 coming into contact with each other in the vertical direction.

[0575] The bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151 comes into contact with the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251. In this embodiment, the bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151 is referred to as the first contact surface, and the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251 is referred to as the second contact surface.

[0576] At this time, in the state where the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251 is in contact with the bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151, the elastic force of the elastic member 360 is applied to the lower support member 270.

[0577] The elastic force of the elastic member 360 is applied to the lower tray 250 through the lower support member 270, so that the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251 presses the bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151.

[0578] Therefore, in the state where the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251 is in contact with the bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151, the close contact force is increased due to the mutual pressing of each surface.

[0579] As described above, when the close contact force between the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251 and the bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151 increases, since there is no gap between the two surfaces, it is possible to prevent the formation of a thin strip-shaped ice along the periphery of the spherical ice after ice making is completed.

[0580] The first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250 is placed on the top surface 271a of the support member main body 271 of the lower support member 270. The second extension wall 286 of the lower support member 270 is in contact with the side surface of the first extension portion 253 of the lower tray 250.

[0581] The second extension portion 254 of the lower tray 250 can be placed on the second extension wall 286 of the lower support member 270.

[0582] In a state where the bottom surface 151a of the upper tray main body 151 is placed on the top surface 251e of the lower tray main body 251, the upper tray main body 151 can be received in the inner space of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250.

[0583] At this time, the vertical wall 153a of the upper tray main body 151 is arranged to face the vertical wall 260a of the lower tray 250, and the curved wall 153b of the upper tray main body 151 is arranged to face the second wall 260b of the lower tray 250.

[0584] The outer surface of the chamber wall 153 of the upper tray main body 151 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250. That is, a space is formed between the outer surface of the chamber wall 153 of the upper tray main body 151 and the inner surface of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250.

[0585] The water supplied through the water supply unit 190 is received in the ice chamber 111. When the amount of the supplied water is greater than the volume of the ice chamber 111, the water that cannot be received in the ice chamber 111 is stored in the space between the outer surface of the chamber wall 153 of the upper tray main body 151 and the inner surface of the peripheral wall 260 of the lower tray 250.

[0586] Therefore, according to this embodiment, even when the amount of the supplied water is greater than the volume of the ice chamber 111, it is possible to prevent water from overflowing from the ice maker 100.

[0587] In addition, the lower tray main body 251 may further be provided with a heater contact portion 251a for increasing the contact area with the lower heater 296.

[0588] The heater contact portion 251a may protrude from the bottom surface of the lower tray main body 251. As an example, the heater contact portion 251a may be formed in an annular shape on the bottom surface of the lower tray main body 251. The bottom surface of the heater contact portion 251a may be a flat surface.

[0589] The lower tray main body 251 may further include a convex portion 251b formed by protruding a part of the lower side upward. That is, the convex portion 251b may be arranged to protrude toward the inside of the ice chamber 111.

[0590] A recessed portion 251c is formed on the lower side of the convex portion 251b so that the thickness of the convex portion 251b is substantially the same as the thickness of the other parts of the lower tray main body 251.

[0591] In this specification, "substantially the same" means a concept including exactly the same and similar with almost no difference although not exactly the same.

[0592] The convex portion 251b can be configured to face the lower opening 274 of the lower support member 270 in the vertical direction.

[0593] The lower opening 274 can be located directly below the lower chamber 252. That is, the lower opening 274 can be located directly below the convex portion 251b.

[0594] The diameter D1 of the convex portion 251b can be formed to be smaller than the diameter D2 of the lower opening 274.

[0595] In a state where water is supplied to the ice chamber 111, when cold air is supplied to the ice chamber 111, the liquid water changes phase into solid ice. At this time, during the process of water changing into ice, the water expands, and the expansion force of the water is transmitted to the upper tray body 151 and the lower tray body 251 respectively.

[0596] In the case of this embodiment, another part of the lower tray body 251 is surrounded by the support body 271, and the part corresponding to the lower opening 274 of the support body 271 (hereinafter referred to as the "corresponding part") is not surrounded.

[0597] If the lower tray body 251 is formed into a complete hemispherical shape, when the expansion force of the water is applied to the part of the lower tray body 251 corresponding to the lower opening 274, the corresponding part of the lower tray body 251 deforms toward the lower opening 274 side.

[0598] In this case, before ice making, the water supplied to the ice chamber 111 exists in a spherical shape. However, after the generation of ice is completed, due to the deformation of the corresponding part of the lower tray body 251, additional ice in a convex shape corresponding to the space generated by the deformation of the corresponding part is generated on the spherical ice.

[0599] Therefore, in this embodiment, considering the deformation of the lower tray body 251, a convex portion 251b is formed on the lower tray body 251 so that the made ice is as close as possible to a complete spherical shape.

[0600] In the case of this embodiment, before ice making, the water supplied to the ice chamber 111 does not have a spherical shape. However, after ice making is completed, the convex portion 251b of the lower tray body 251 deforms toward the lower opening 274 side, so spherical ice can be generated.

[0601] In the present embodiment, the diameter D1 of the convex portion 251b is formed to be smaller than the diameter D2 of the lower opening 274. Therefore, the convex portion 251b can be deformed and located inside the lower opening 274.

[0602] Figure 32 FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view showing a state where an ice maker and a lower ejector are separated according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 33 and Figure 34 FIGS. 5A to 5D are perspective views of the lower ejector in FIG. 4 viewed from different directions. Figure 32 FIGS. 6A to 6D are perspective views of the lower ejector in FIG. 4 viewed from different directions.

[0603] Figure 35 FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view showing a state where an ice maker and a lower ejector are separated according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 36 and Figure 37 FIGS. 8A to 8D are perspective views of the lower ejector in FIG. 7 viewed from different directions. Figure 35 FIG. 9 is a view of the lower ejector according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from below. And, Figure 38 FIG. 10 is a view of the lower ejector according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from below.

[0604] <Lower Ejector>

[0605] As described above, the ice maker 100 may further include a lower ejector 400 to separate the ice adhering to the lower assembly 200.

[0606] Specifically, after ice making is completed, when the lower assembly 200 is separated from the upper assembly 110 and rotated, the lower ejector 400 can separate the ice adhering to the lower assembly 200 by pressing the lower assembly 200. At this time, the lower ejector 400 may press the lower tray 250.

[0607] As an example, the lower ejector 400 may be fixed to the upper assembly 110.

[0608] The lower ejector 400 may include: a lower ejector body 410; and a plurality of lower ejector pins 420 protruding from the lower ejector body 410. The number of the lower ejector pins 420 may be the same as that of the ice chamber 111.

[0609] As an example, the lower ejector 400 may be coupled to the upper housing 120.

[0610] The lower ejector body 410 may be coupled to a support wall 120a extending in a vertical direction from the upper housing 120. The lower ejector body 410 may be assembled to the support wall 120a in a separable manner.

[0611] Moreover, the lower pusher body 410 may include a surface parallel to the support wall 120a.

[0612] Moreover, the lower pusher body 410 may include an inclined surface 410a which is formed to be inclined with respect to the support wall 120a on a side facing the lower tray 250. The lower pusher pin 420 may extend from the inclined surface 410a.

[0613] As an example, the inclined surface 410a may be inclined with respect to a vertical line.

[0614] In addition, in a state where the lower assembly 200 is rotated to the side of the lower pusher 400, the inclined surface 410a may be inclined by an angle corresponding to the inclination of the lower assembly 200 to perform ice separation.

[0615] As an example, in a state where the lower assembly 200 is moved to an ice separation position, the inclined surface 410a may be substantially parallel to a second imaginary line ( Figure 44 L2 in) passing through the top surface 251e (or the second contact surface) of the lower tray 250 to perform ice separation.

[0616] In a state where the lower assembly 200 is moved to the ice separation position, the lower pusher pin may intersect the second imaginary line to perform ice separation.

[0617] Alternatively, at a predetermined angle before the lower assembly 200 is moved to the ice separation position, the inclined surface 410a may be parallel to a second imaginary line ( Figure 44 L2 in) passing through the top surface 251e (or the second contact surface) of the lower tray 250 to perform ice separation.

[0618] In addition, the support wall 120a may be formed integrally with the upper housing 120, or may be provided independently of the upper housing 120.

[0619] Moreover, the support member body 271 may include a lower opening 274 through which the lower pusher 400 passes during ice separation. The lower opening 274 may be formed in each chamber accommodating portion 272.

[0620] Moreover, the lower pusher pins 420 may be formed in the same number as the lower chambers 252 formed in the lower tray 250, the chamber accommodating portions 272 accommodating the lower chambers 252, and the lower openings 274 formed in the chamber accommodating portions 272.

[0621] As an example, the lower tray 250 may be formed with three lower chambers 252. Three chamber accommodating portions 272 are formed in the support member main body 271 to respectively accommodate the three lower chambers 252, and lower openings 274 may be provided in each of the chamber accommodating portions 272. The lower pushing pins 420 may also be provided in three, so that they press the three lower chambers 252 through each of the lower openings 274.

[0622] Therefore, in a state where the lower pusher 400 is fixed, when the lower assembly 200 rotates to the side of the lower pusher 400, the lower pushing pins 420 penetrate through the lower openings 274 and can press the lower tray 250. The lower tray 250 is deformed by the pressing force of the lower pushing pins 420, and the ice in the lower chambers 252 can be separated from the lower tray 250.

[0623] The plurality of lower pushing pins 420 may include a first pushing pin 421, a second pushing pin 422, and a third pushing pin 423.

[0624] The length of any one of the first to third pushing pins 421, 422, 423 may be longer than that of another.

[0625] As an example, the length of the third pushing pin 423 located closer to the drive unit 180 among the first to third pushing pins 421, 422, 423 may be formed to be longer than that of the first pushing pin 421 and the second pushing pin 422.

[0626] As described above, if the length of any one of the plurality of pushing pins 421, 422, 423, such as the pushing pin 423, is formed to be longer, the load applied to the motor can be reduced during ice transfer.

[0627] Specifically, when the length of the third pushing pin 423 among the plurality of pushing pins 421, 422, 423 is formed to be longer, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, the lower tray 250 first contacts the third pushing pin 423, and then contacts the remaining two pushing pins 421, 422.

[0628] When the lower assembly 200 continues to rotate, the third pushing pin 423 presses the lower tray 250, and the remaining two pushing pins 421, 422 then press the lower tray 250.

[0629] After the ice on the lower tray 250 first pressed by the third pushing pin 423 is separated from the surface of the lower tray 250, the ice on the lower tray 250 then pressed by the two pushing pins 421, 422 can be separated from the surface of the lower tray 250.

[0630] That is, the ice on the lower tray 250 can be sequentially separated from the surface of the lower tray 250.

[0631] Therefore, by distributing the load applied to the motor included in the drive unit 180 that provides rotational power to the lower assembly 200 with a time difference, the load instantaneously applied to the motor can be reduced.

[0632] In particular, since the third push pin 423 among the first to third push pins 421, 422, 423, which is located close to the drive unit 180, presses the ice first, an increase in the load applied to the motor at the initial stage of motor operation can be prevented.

[0633] On the contrary, when the lengths of the three push pins 421, 422, 423 are formed to be the same, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, the lower tray 250 may simultaneously contact the three lower push pins 421, 422, 423.

[0634] When the lower assembly 200 continuously rotates, the three push pins 421, 422, 423 simultaneously press the lower tray 250, deforming the lower tray 250, and the pressing force of the three push pins 421, 422, 423 is transmitted to the ice, enabling the three pieces of ice to be separated from the surface of the lower tray 250 almost simultaneously.

[0635] At this time, the load applied to the motor included in the drive unit 180 can only increase.

[0636] The lower push pin 420 may include: a pin body 420a protruding from the lower pusher body 410; and a pressing portion 420b extending from the pin body 420a.

[0637] As an example, the pin body 420a and the pressing portion 420b may be formed in a shape that bends at a specified angle, and the pressing portion 420b may extend from the pin body 420a to press the central portion of the lower tray 250.

[0638] As an example, the pin body 420a may be formed in a curved shape and may be formed to slope downward from one side connected to the lower pusher body 410 toward the other side.

[0639] As another example, the pin body 420a may slope downward from one side connected to the lower pusher body 410 toward the other side and may be formed such that at least a part of it is curved in an arc shape.

[0640] As another example, the pin body 420a may be inclined downward from one side connected to the lower ejector body 410 toward the other side, and at least a part thereof may be formed in an arc shape in a curved shape so as to be located on an extension line of the rotation locus of the lower assembly 200.

[0641] The center of curvature of at least a part in the longitudinal direction of the lower ejector pin 420 may coincide with the rotation center C2 of the lower assembly 200.

[0642] The pressing portion 420b extends from the pin body 420a, and may be formed to contact and press the central portion of the lower tray 250 when the lower assembly 200 is rotated for ice transfer.

[0643] Specifically, the pressing portion 420b may be connected to the pin body 420a at a predetermined angle so as to widen the area of contact with the central portion of the lower tray 250.

[0644] In addition, the pressing portion 420b may include a pressing inclined portion 420c that contacts the lower tray 250.

[0645] For example, the length of the upper end portion 420d of the pressing portion 420b is formed to be longer than the length of the lower end portion 420e, so that the pressing inclined portion 420c can be formed.

[0646] The upper end portion 420d is located closer to the upper tray 150 than the lower end portion 420e.

[0647] The pressing inclined portion 420c may be formed such that the upper end portion of the pressing inclined portion 420c contacts the lower tray 250 first during the ice transfer process.

[0648] If the lower tray 250 rotates when the pressing inclined portion 420c is not formed in the pressing portion 420b, the lower end portion of the pressing portion 420b contacts the lower tray 250 first.

[0649] In this case, when only a part of the pressing portion 420b presses the lower tray 250 or the lower tray 250 rotates to the ice transfer position, deformation of the lower tray 250 occurs at a position separated from the central portion of the lower tray 250, which may reduce the ice transfer performance.

[0650] However, as in the present embodiment, when the pressing inclined portion 420c is formed in the pressing portion 420b, the upper end portion 420d of the pressing inclined portion 420c contacts the lower tray 250 first during the rotation of the lower tray 250.

[0651] The end face of the pressing part 420b can be parallel to the tangent line or perpendicular line of the outer peripheral surface of the lower tray 250 at the location where the pressing part 420b initially contacts the lower tray 250.

[0652] Although the upper end portion 420d contacts a position of the upper tray 150 separated from the central portion, when the rotation angle of the lower tray 250 increases, the upper end portion 420d and the lower end portion 420e contact the lower tray 250 together. When the upper end portion 420d and the lower end portion 420e contact the lower tray 250 together, the pressing inclined portion 420c contacts the central portion surface of the lower tray 250.

[0653] As described above, when the pressing inclined portion 420c contacts the central portion surface of the lower tray 250, the ice transfer performance can be improved.

[0654] Moreover, as described above, in a state where the pressing part 420b contacts the center of the lower tray 250, when the lower assembly 200 is additionally rotated, a pressing force is continuously applied to the center of the lower tray 250, which has the advantage of being beneficial to ice transfer.

[0655] In addition, the pressing part 420b can form a recessed groove portion 424 at the end contacting the lower tray 250.

[0656] Therefore, the strength of the lower push pin 420 can be increased. And when the pressing part 420b presses the spherical lower tray 250, that is, the protruding lower side of the lower chamber 252, for ice transfer, it can be stably contacted by the groove portion 424, thereby preventing the problem of ice breakage due to force concentration at one place.

[0657] If the end of the pressing part 420b is a plane, the lower push pin 420 contacts the spherical lower chamber 252 at a point. Since the contact area is reduced, there is a concern that the pressing force cannot be normally transmitted. Or, there is a concern that the ice may break due to force concentration at one place.

[0658] On the contrary, in the case of the present invention, the lower push pin 420 can be brought into surface contact with the spherical lower chamber 252 by forming a recessed groove portion 424 in the pressing part 420b. Since the contact area is increased, there is an advantage that the pressing force is normally transmitted. And as the force is dispersed, the problem of ice breakage can also be prevented.

[0659] In addition, a reinforcing groove portion 425 can be provided on the bottom surface of the pin body 420a of the lower push pin 420. The groove portion 425 can extend in the length direction of the pin body 420a.

[0660] Further, by extending the length of the lower push pin 420, when the lower assembly 200 is rotated for ice removal, even if the lower assembly 200 cannot reach the ice removal position due to the tolerance of the motor gear included in the drive unit 180, the pressing force can be sufficiently transmitted to the lower chamber 252.

[0661] In addition, the lower pusher 400 can be coupled to the support wall 120a in various ways.

[0662] Referring Figure 32 and Figure 35 When the lower assembly 200 is rotated for ice removal, a protruding portion 121a protruding forward toward the lower tray 250 side can be formed on the side of the support wall 120a facing the lower tray 250.

[0663] A cavity 122a recessed rearward can be formed at the lower end of the protruding portion 121a. The lower pusher body 410 of the lower pusher 400 can be received in the cavity 122a. Therefore, the lower pusher body 410 can be located below the protruding portion 121a.

[0664] In addition, the protruding portion 121a can include guide slot portions 123a disposed on both sides of the cavity 122a.

[0665] Guide protrusions 415 that slide and are inserted into the guide slot portions 123a can be formed on both sides of the lower pusher body 410.

[0666] Therefore, the lower pusher body 410 can be slid and coupled upward from below the support wall 120a. At this time, the guide protrusions 415 on both sides of the lower pusher body 410 are inserted into the guide slot portions 123a formed on both sides of the cavity 122a.

[0667] Referring Figure 32 and 33 When the lower pusher body 410 is in the state of being slidably coupled to the support wall 120a as described above, it can be coupled to the top surface 122b of the cavity 122a by using a fastening device 430 such as a bolt or a screw.

[0668] To this end, the lower pusher body 410 can include a fastening groove portion 416 recessed from the front to the rear. A fastening hole 416a through which the fastening device 430 passes can be formed on the top surface of the fastening groove portion 416.

[0669] In addition, the fastening groove portion 416 can be formed on an inclined surface 410a. The fastening groove portion 416 can have a shape in which the width in the front-rear direction gradually decreases from the upper part to the lower part.

[0670] Further, fastening grooves 416 may be formed between the lower ejector pins 420.

[0671] As described above, when the fastening grooves 416 are formed, with the top surface of the fastening grooves 416 in surface contact with the top surface 122b of the cavity 122a, the fastening device 430 is used to fasten the top surface of the fastening grooves 416 and the top surface 122b of the cavity 122a from below the fastening grooves 416, so that the lower ejector body 410 can be more easily fixed to the support wall 120a. Moreover, the lower ejector 400 can be coupled to the support wall 120a without the fastening part being exposed to the outside.

[0672] Refer to Figure 35 In the lower end of the support wall 120a, a coupling groove part 122c recessed upwardly may be additionally formed.

[0673] In a state where the lower ejector body 410 is slidably coupled to the support wall 120a, a fastening device 430 such as a bolt or a screw may be used to couple to the top surface 122d of the coupling groove part 122c.

[0674] For this purpose, the lower ejector body 410 may form an extension part 417 protruding rearwardly at the lower end. Through the extension part 417, a coupling step 418 facing the top surface of the coupling groove part 122c may be formed at the lower end of the back surface of the lower ejector body 410. A fastening boss 417b may be formed on the extension part 417, and a fastening hole 417a is formed in the fastening boss 417b.

[0675] As described above, when the coupling groove part 122c and the extension part 417 are formed, with the top surface 122d of the coupling groove part 122c in surface contact with the coupling step 418, the fastening device 430 is used to fasten the top surface 122d of the coupling groove part 122c and the extension part 417 from below the extension part 417, so that the lower ejector body 410 can be more easily fixed to the support wall 120a. Moreover, the lower ejector 400 can be coupled to the support wall 120a without the fastening part being exposed to the outside.

[0676] As described above, when the lower ejector 400 is provided, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200 for ice transfer, even if the ice does not separate from the lower tray 250 due to its own weight, the lower ejector 400 can be used to press the lower tray 250. As a result, the ice in the lower chamber 252 can be separated from the lower tray 250.

[0677] Specifically, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200 toward the lower ejector 400 side, the lower tray 250 contacts the lower ejector pins 420.

[0678] When the lower assembly 200 continuously rotates toward the lower ejector 400, the lower ejector pin 420 presses the lower tray 250, deforming the lower tray 250, and the pressing force of the lower ejector pin 420 is transmitted to the ice, enabling the ice to separate from the surface of the lower tray 250. The ice separated from the surface of the lower tray 250 drops downward and is stored in the ice bin 102.

[0679] As described above, when the lower assembly 200 is rotated to transfer ice, the lower assembly 200 may not reach the ice transfer position due to the tolerance of the motor gear included in the drive unit 180. In this case, there is a problem that ice transfer cannot be sufficiently performed. Therefore, control can be performed to additionally rotate the motor included in the drive unit 180 so that the lower assembly 200 reaches the ice transfer position, enabling reliable ice transfer.

[0680] Next, the ice-making process of the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0681] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B Figure 3 in the water supply state, Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B Figure 3 in the ice-making state.

[0682] Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B Figure 3 in the state where ice-making is completed, Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B Figure 3 in the initial state of ice transfer, Figure 43 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B Figure 3 in the state where the lower ejector pin contacts the lower tray.

[0683] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B Figure 3 in the state where ice transfer is completed.

[0684] Referring to Figures 39 to 44 , first, the lower assembly 200 rotates to the water supply position.

[0685] In the following description, an imaginary line passing through the bottom surface 151a (or the first contact surface) of the upper tray main body 151 will be referred to as the first imaginary line L1, and an imaginary line passing through the top surface 251e (or the second contact surface) of the lower tray main body 251 will be referred to as the second imaginary line L2.

[0686] In this embodiment, the rotation angle of the lower assembly 200 (or the lower tray 250) is assumed to be the angle formed by the first imaginary line L1 and the second imaginary line L2.

[0687] At the water supply position of the lower assembly 200, the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 is spaced apart from the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150. The bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 may be referred to as an end surface.

[0688] At the water supply position, the first imaginary line L1 and the second imaginary line L2 may form a first angle θ1. The first angle may be approximately about 8 degrees, but is not limited thereto.

[0689] The bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 may be located at the same or similar height as the rotation center C2 of the lower assembly 200, but is not limited thereto.

[0690] In the present embodiment, the direction in which the lower assembly 200 is rotated for ice removal (counterclockwise direction with reference to the drawings) is referred to as the forward direction, and the opposite direction (clockwise direction) is referred to as the reverse direction.

[0691] In the state as described above, water supplied from the outside is guided by the water supply unit 190 and supplied to the ice chamber 111.

[0692] At this time, the water may be supplied to the ice chamber 111 through one of the plurality of upper openings 154 of the upper tray 150.

[0693] In the state where the water supply is completed, a part of the water fills the lower chamber 252, and another part of the water may be stored in the space between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250.

[0694] Another part of the water may be stored in the upper chamber 152. Of course, depending on the angle formed by the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 or the volumes of the lower chamber 252 and the upper chamber 152, after the water supply is completed, the water may not be in the upper chamber 152.

[0695] In the case of the present embodiment, the lower tray 250 does not have a passage for communicating between the three lower chambers 252 with each other.

[0696] As described above, even if the lower tray 250 does not have a passage for water to move, since the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 is spaced apart from the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150, during the water supply process, when a specific lower chamber is filled with water, the water can flow along the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 to other lower chambers.

[0697] Therefore, the plurality of lower chambers 252 of the lower tray 250 can be filled with water respectively.

[0698] Moreover, in the case of this embodiment, since the lower tray 250 does not have a passage for communicating the lower chambers 252, after ice making is completed, it is possible to prevent additional ice in a convex shape from being formed around the ice.

[0699] In a state where water supply is completed, as Figure 40 shown, the lower assembly 200 rotates in the reverse direction. When the lower assembly 200 rotates in the reverse direction, the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 approaches the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150.

[0700] At this time, the water between the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 is distributed into the interiors of the respective plurality of upper chambers 152.

[0701] When the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 and the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 are completely in contact, the upper chambers 152 are filled with water.

[0702] The position of the lower assembly 200 in a state where the top surface 251e of the lower tray 250 is in contact with the bottom surface 151e of the upper tray 150 can be referred to as an ice making position. Alternatively, the ice making position can be referred to as a closed position.

[0703] At the ice making position, the first imaginary line L1 coincides with the second imaginary line L2.

[0704] Ice making starts in a state where the lower assembly 200 has moved to the ice making position.

[0705] During ice making, the pressing force of the water is less than the force for deforming the convex portion 251b of the lower tray 250. Therefore, the convex portion 251b does not deform and maintains its original shape.

[0706] When ice making starts, the lower heater 296 is activated. When the lower heater 296 is activated, the heat of the lower heater 296 is transferred to the lower tray 250.

[0707] Therefore, if ice making is performed in a state where the lower heater 296 is activated, ice making starts from the upper left side in the ice chamber 111.

[0708] That is, in the ice chamber 111, water starts to turn into ice from the upper opening 154 side. Ice is generated from the upper side in the ice chamber 111. Therefore, the air bubbles in the ice chamber 111 move downward.

[0709] The ice chamber 111 is formed in a spherical shape, and thus, the horizontal cross-sectional area is different according to the height of the ice chamber 111.

[0710] Therefore, the output of the lower heater 296 can vary according to the mass per unit height in the ice chamber 111.

[0711] The mass per unit height of the water in the ice chamber 111 increases from the upper side toward the lower side, and increases to the maximum at the boundary between the upper tray 150 and the lower tray 250, and then decreases toward the lower side.

[0712] The output of the lower heater 296 can be decreased at the initial output and then increased at a specific output based on the mass per unit height of the water in the ice chamber 111.

[0713] In the ice chamber 111, during the process of ice generation from the upper side toward the lower side, the ice contacts the top surface of the convex portion 251b of the lower tray 250.

[0714] In this state, if ice continues to be generated, as Figure 41 shown, the convex portion 251b is pressed and deformed, and when ice making is completed, spherical ice can be generated.

[0715] A control unit (not shown) can determine whether ice making is completed based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 500.

[0716] When ice making is completed or before ice making is completed, the lower heater 296 can be turned off.

[0717] When ice making is completed, the upper heater 148 is first started to transfer the ice. When the upper heater 148 is started, the heat of the upper heater 148 is transferred to the upper tray 150, so that the ice can be separated from the surface (inner surface) of the upper tray 150.

[0718] When the upper heater 148 operates for a set time, the upper heater 148 is turned off, and the lower assembly 200 can be rotated forward by operating the drive unit 180.

[0719] As Figure 44 shown, when the lower assembly 200 rotates forward, the lower tray 250 moves away from the upper tray 150 and is separated.

[0720] The rotational force of the lower assembly 200 is transmitted to the upper pusher 300 through the connection unit 350. At this time, the upper pusher 300 descends through the unit guides 181 and 182, so that the upper push pin 320 is introduced into the upper chamber 152 through the upper opening 154.

[0721] During the ice transfer process, before the upper push pin 320 presses the ice, the ice can be separated from the upper tray 150. That is, the ice can be separated from the surface of the upper tray 150 by the heat of the upper heater 148.

[0722] In this case, the ice can rotate together with the lower assembly 200 while being supported by the lower tray 250.

[0723] Alternatively, there may also be a case where even if the heat of the upper heater 148 is applied to the upper tray 150, the ice does not separate from the surface of the upper tray 150.

[0724] Therefore, when the lower assembly 200 rotates forward, the ice can be separated from the lower tray 250 while being in close contact with the upper tray 150.

[0725] In this state, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, the upper push pin 320 passing through the upper opening 154 presses the ice in close contact with the upper tray 150, whereby the ice can be separated from the upper tray 150.

[0726] As an example, when the angle formed by the first imaginary line and the second imaginary line becomes a second angle θ2 greater than the first angle, the upper push pin 320 presses the ice in close contact with the upper tray 150, so that the ice can be separated from the upper tray 150.

[0727] However, Figure 42 the second angle θ2 in

[0728] is exemplary, and the ice may also be separated from the upper tray 150 when the angle is less than or greater than the second angle.

[0729] The ice separated from the upper tray 150 can be supported by the lower tray 250 again.

[0730] When the ice rotates together with the lower assembly 200 while being supported by the lower tray 250, even if no external force is applied to the lower tray 250, the ice may be separated from the lower tray 250 due to its own weight. Figure 44As shown, when the lower tray 250 is pressed by the lower pusher 400, ice can also be separated from the lower tray 250.

[0731] Specifically, during the rotation of the lower assembly 200, the lower tray 250 contacts the lower push pin 420.

[0732] When the lower push pin 420 contacts the lower tray 250, the third angle θ3 formed by the first imaginary line L1 and the second imaginary line L2 can be approximately 90 degrees.

[0733] When the lower tray 250 rotates by the third angle θ3, the third push pin 423 among the plurality of lower push pins 421, 422, 423 first contacts the lower tray 250.

[0734] At this time, the upper end portion 420d of the pressing portion 420b of the third push pin 423 first contacts the lower tray 250.

[0735] When the rotation angle of the lower tray 250 increases, the upper end portion 420d and the lower end portion 420e of the pressing portion 420b of the third push pin 423 contact the lower tray 250 together.

[0736] Moreover, in a state where the third push pin 423 contacts the lower tray 250, when the rotation angle of the lower tray 250 increases, the first push pin 421 and the second push pin 422 contact the lower tray 250.

[0737] In a state where the lower push pin 420 contacts the lower tray 250, when the lower tray 250 continuously rotates in the positive direction, the lower push pin 420 presses the lower tray 250 to deform the lower tray 250, and the pressing force of the lower push pin 420 is transmitted to the ice, so that the ice can be separated from the surface of the lower tray 250.

[0738] As an example, the ice can be separated from the lower tray 250 starting from a position adjacent to the second imaginary line L2 in the lower tray 250.

[0739] When the lower tray 250 continuously rotates in the positive direction, the contact area between the ice and the lower tray 250 decreases, so that the ice can finally be separated from the lower tray 250.

[0740] The lower tray 250 can be rotated to the ice transfer position under the action of the drive unit 180. The ice transfer position can also be referred to as the open position.

[0741] At the ice removal position, the fourth angle θ4 between the first imaginary line L1 and the second imaginary line L2 may be greater than 100 degrees, but is not limited thereto. In this embodiment, as an example, the fourth angle may be approximately set to 115 degrees.

[0742] In a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, the second imaginary line L2 of the lower tray 250 may be substantially parallel to the inclined surface 410a of the lower pusher body 410.

[0743] In a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, the amount of deformation of the lower tray 250 is the largest.

[0744] As an example, in a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, the pressing inclined portion 420c of the pressing portion 420b of the lower push pin 420 may maintain a state of surface contact with the lower tray 250.

[0745] In a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, the distance between the pressing portion 420b of the lower push pin 420 and the lower pusher body 410 (for example, the inclined surface 410a) may be equal to or greater than the distance between the second imaginary line L2 and the inclined surface 410a.

[0746] Described from another aspect, in a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, at least a part of the portion of the lower tray 250 that contacts the lower push pin 420 may be located on the opposite side of the lower opening 274 with respect to the second imaginary line L2.

[0747] In this case, considering the thickness of the lower tray 250, in a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, the distance between the portion 252f of the lower tray 250 that contacts the lower push pin 420 and the lower pusher body 410 (for example, the inclined surface 410a) may be greater than the distance between the second imaginary line L2 and the inclined surface 410a.

[0748] As an example, in a state where the lower tray 250 is rotated to the ice removal position, more than 3 / 4 of the length of the lower push pin 420 may be introduced into the lower support member 270. The length of the portion of the lower push pin 420 that is introduced into the lower support member 270 may be equal to or greater than the radius of the ice chamber 111.

[0749] As described above, the length of the lower push pin 420 may be greater than the radius of the ice chamber 111 so as to increase the amount of deformation of the lower tray 250 caused by the lower push pin 420.

[0750] According to this structure, during the ice transfer process, the ice can be completely separated from the lower tray 250, thereby improving the ice transfer performance.

[0751] After the ice is separated from the lower tray 250, the lower assembly 200 rotates in the reverse direction again under the action of the drive unit 180.

[0752] During the reverse rotation of the lower assembly 200, when the lower push pin 420 is separated from the lower tray 250, the deformed lower tray can return to its original shape.

[0753] During the reverse rotation of the lower assembly 200, the rotational force is transmitted to the upper pusher 300 through the connection unit 350, causing the upper pusher 300 to rise and the upper push pin 320 to disengage from the upper chamber 152.

[0754] When the lower assembly 200 reaches the waiting water supply position, the drive unit 180 stops and water supply starts again.

Claims

1. An ice maker, wherein, Comprising: A first tray, forming part of an ice chamber for ice making; A second tray, forming another part of the ice chamber for ice making; And An ejector, pressing the second tray to separate ice from the second tray, The ejector comprising: An ejector body; and A plurality of ejector pins protruding from the ejector body.

2. The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein, It further includes a housing for fixing the position of the first tray, The ejector is coupled to the housing.

3. The ice maker according to claim 2, wherein, The housing includes a support wall extending in a vertical direction, The ejector body is coupled to the support wall.

4. The ice maker according to claim 3, wherein, The ejector body includes an inclined surface formed inclined with respect to the support wall on a side facing the second tray, The ejector pins extend from the inclined surface.

5. The ice maker according to claim 4, wherein, In a state where the second tray is moved to an ice transfer position, the inclined surface is substantially parallel to an imaginary line passing through a contact surface in the second tray that contacts the first tray.

6. The ice maker according to claim 3, wherein, A protrusion protruding from a surface of the support wall facing the second tray is formed on the support wall, A cavity for accommodating the ejector body is formed at a lower end of the protrusion.

7. The ice maker according to claim 6, wherein, The protrusion includes guide slot portions disposed on both sides of the cavity, Guide protrusions slidably inserted into the guide slot portions are formed on both sides of the ejector body.

8. The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of ejector pins includes: A pin body protruding from the ejector body; and A pressing portion extending from the pin body, The pressing portion includes a pressing inclined portion, and in a state where the second tray is rotated to an ice transfer position, the pressing inclined portion maintains a state of surface contact with the second tray.

9. The ice maker according to claim 8, wherein, The pressing portion includes a first end portion and a second end portion located at a position closer to the first tray than the first end portion, The second end portion is formed longer than the first end portion to form the pressing inclined portion.

10. A refrigerator comprising the ice maker according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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