Capsule holder assembly

Abstract

Provided is a capsule holder assembly capable of being selectively installed to and used with a household appliance, the capsule holder assembly including a holder installation portion fixed to a periphery of a water outlet of the household appliance and a capsule holder provided with a space for accommodating a capsule and installed to the holder installation portion. Thus, even a household appliance without an extraction function for a capsule beverage can extract a capsule beverage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a novel capsule holder assembly that can be installed on a household appliance that does not have a capsule beverage extraction function, enabling the extraction of capsule beverages. Background Technology

[0002] Capsules, which are internally sealed and used to package raw materials for making beverages, are widely used.

[0003] These capsules preserve the beverage ingredients inside in a sealed state, and users can use a mechanical device to force water through the inside of the capsule to make the beverage.

[0004] Coffee machines are a prime example of beverage devices that utilize capsules in this way.

[0005] Recently, various technologies have been proposed to enable the extraction of the capsule beverage using common household appliances (e.g., refrigerators or water purifiers). Specifically, a capsule holder capable of holding the capsule is applied to the household appliance, thereby enabling the extraction of the capsule beverage.

[0006] Relatedly, it is provided in US Patent Publication No. US2020 / 0121122A1, Korean Utility Model Publication No. 20-2011-0006316, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0038906, and Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2015-0083335.

[0007] However, the aforementioned prior art household appliances with capsule holders are not structures provided separately by the capsule holder, but rather structures integrated into the manufacture of the household appliance. That is, the prior art is a technology that cannot be applied to existing household appliances but can only be provided integrated with new household appliances. Consequently, consumers with existing household appliances have the following dissatisfaction: they have to purchase a separate extraction machine to extract capsule beverages.

[0008] Furthermore, according to existing technology, the outlet for removing the capsule beverage and the outlet for supplying purified water or hot water are provided separately. That is, in existing technology, an additional outlet pipe for removing the capsule beverage is provided.

[0009] Therefore, in existing household appliances, the extraction area for capsule beverages must be provided separately from the area for providing drinking water, resulting in a drawback of having to increase the overall product size. At the same time, there is a disadvantage of needing to add extra hot water pipes and various valves for selectively supplying hot water to these pipes.

[0010] In addition, existing structures for providing capsules for extracting capsule beverages are implemented such that the capsules are provided in a capsule drawer-like manner at a specific location, or in a location where the capsules can be placed, the user can manually place the capsules and close the lid and puncture the capsules.

[0011] Therefore, the perforation structure for the capsule must be provided separately in the household appliance, which has the disadvantage that the design of the overall structure of the household appliance or the configuration of its individual components must be changed. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule holder assembly that can extract capsule beverages by being applied to existing household appliances.

[0014] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a capsule retainer assembly that can extract capsule beverages using a nozzle that supplies hot water when applied to existing household appliances.

[0015] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a capsule retainer assembly that can accurately perforate a capsule through simple operation and accurately attach it to a precise position.

[0016] Technical solutions to the problem

[0017] The capsule retainer assembly according to the present invention may include a retainer mounting portion incorporated into a household appliance and a capsule retainer mounted on the retainer mounting portion for holding a capsule.

[0018] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the retainer mounting part can be fixed around the water outlet of a household appliance.

[0019] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a protruding joint portion may be formed on the bottom surface of the retainer mounting portion.

[0020] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a water outlet nozzle can be provided for receiving drinking water discharged through the outlet of a household appliance.

[0021] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the water outlet nozzle can be configured to penetrate the retainer mounting portion and protrude into the protruding joint portion.

[0022] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer can be configured to provide a receiving space for accommodating a capsule.

[0023] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer may be formed with an outlet for discharging extracted beverage flowing into the containment space.

[0024] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the outlet of the capsule retainer can be formed on the bottom surface of the capsule retainer.

[0025] The capsule retainer assembly according to the invention may further include a clamping cap that attaches the capsule retainer to the retainer mounting portion, thereby clamping and perforating the capsule during rotational operation in the horizontal direction.

[0026] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the clamping cap can be configured to be received in the receiving space of the capsule retainer and surround the capsule.

[0027] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the water nozzle can be formed to be attached to the top surface of the clamping cap.

[0028] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the water outlet nozzle can apply pressure to the clamping cap when the capsule retainer is engaged with the retainer mounting part and moves upward.

[0029] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the clamping cap can clamp and perforate the capsule according to the lifting and lowering movement of the capsule retainer.

[0030] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a pressure-applying member for applying pressure to the clamping cap during the lifting and lowering movement of the capsule retainer may be provided in the retainer mounting part.

[0031] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the inner peripheral surface of the protruding joint and the outer peripheral surface of the water outlet nozzle can be separated.

[0032] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a connecting protrusion for accommodating the end of the water outlet nozzle can be formed on the top surface of the clamping cap.

[0033] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the connecting protrusion may be located inside the protruding connecting portion, and the water outlet nozzle may be configured to be inserted into the interior of the connecting protrusion.

[0034] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer can be raised and lowered along a lifting groove formed in the protruding joint.

[0035] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a guide protrusion may be formed in the capsule retainer, which moves along the lifting groove by a horizontal rotational operation of the capsule retainer as it is inserted into the lifting groove.

[0036] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a handle may be provided on the circumferential surface of the capsule retainer.

[0037] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the guide protrusion may be formed on the length-direction side of the handle in the inner peripheral surface of the capsule retainer.

[0038] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the lifting groove and the corresponding guide protrusion can be provided in two or more, i.e., multiple.

[0039] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a plurality of lifting grooves may be formed at positions symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of the protruding joint.

[0040] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the lower end of the lifting groove can be formed to open to the bottom surface of the protruding joint.

[0041] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a bracket for placing the capsule can be provided inside the receiving space.

[0042] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the opposing surfaces of the bracket and the clamping cap can be formed to interlock with each other.

[0043] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a receiving groove may be formed on the periphery of the top surface of the bracket, and a receiving protrusion that is received in and engages with the receiving groove may be formed on the bottom surface of the clamping cap.

[0044] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, an airtight member may be provided on the opposite surface between the clamping cap and the bracket.

[0045] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the airtight member can be formed to surround the lower end of the clamping cap and accommodate the protrusion.

[0046] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the airtight member can be formed to fit airtightly against the receiving groove of the bracket.

[0047] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a pressure-applying member for applying pressure to the clamping cap can be provided at the retainer mounting portion.

[0048] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the pressure-applying member may be located inside the protruding joint that constitutes the retainer mounting portion.

[0049] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the pressure-applying member can be detachably coupled to the inner peripheral surface of the protruding joint.

[0050] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a locking portion may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the protruding joint, and a locking hook that selectively engages with the locking portion may be formed on the peripheral surface of the pressure member.

[0051] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the pressure-applying member can be configured to apply pressure to the periphery of the top surface of the clamping cap.

[0052] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a recovery member for pushing the pressure member downward may be provided between the bottom surface of the retainer mounting portion and the top surface of the pressure member.

[0053] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer may be provided with a structure to prevent residual water from falling through the outlet.

[0054] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the structure for preventing residual water may include a residual water prevention part that can be attached to and removed from the outlet of the capsule retainer.

[0055] The capsule retainer assembly according to the present invention includes a lifting guide, which is coupled to a retainer mounting portion and can be raised and lowered from the retainer mounting portion by a rotational operation along the horizontal direction, so that the capsule retainer can be raised and lowered together with the lifting guide.

[0056] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer can be configured to rotate the lifting guide by a rotational operation in the horizontal direction.

[0057] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the lifting guide can be configured to move up and down along the outer peripheral surface of the protruding joint of the retainer mounting portion during the rotation operation of the capsule retainer.

[0058] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the lifting guide may be provided with a guide member having a guide protrusion for moving along a lifting groove formed on the outer peripheral surface of the protruding joint.

[0059] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the lower end of the lifting groove can be formed so as not to reach the bottom surface of the protruding joint.

[0060] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the lifting guide and the capsule retainer may be provided with structures for engaging each other in a precise position.

[0061] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, a coupling protrusion may be formed on the outer surface of the lifting guide, and a coupling groove may be formed in the capsule retainer for the coupling protrusion to be inserted into.

[0062] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, an extended edge may be formed at the upper periphery of the capsule retainer, and a fixed guide for accommodating the extended edge may be provided at the lower end of the lifting guide.

[0063] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the extended edge of the capsule retainer can be drawn into the guide groove of the fixing guide.

[0064] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer can be integrated into the fixing guide in a drawer-like manner.

[0065] According to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, blocking platforms can be formed at both ends of the extended edge to prevent insertion into the guide groove of the fixing guide.

[0066] Invention Effects

[0067] The capsule retainer assembly of the present invention is not a structure provided integrally with a household appliance, but can be added to and installed in an existing household appliance. Therefore, even household appliances that do not have capsule beverage extraction functions can have capsule beverage extraction functions by applying the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention.

[0068] Furthermore, the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention can be applied to existing household appliances without changing the structure of existing household appliances, thus allowing users to install it directly.

[0069] Furthermore, in the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the retainer mounting portion installed in a conventional household appliance does not provide a beverage extraction nozzle at a position separate from the outlet of the household appliance, but is provided with a single structure. Therefore, even if a capsule retainer assembly is added, the size of the dispenser portion will not change. That is, it has the effect of not requiring changes to the structure of the existing household appliance.

[0070] Furthermore, the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention provides structures for perforating and tearing the capsule while securely holding it, as well as for forming a sealed space. This simplifies the structure of the retainer mounting portion, allowing it to be easily installed in household appliances. Attached Figure Description

[0071] Figure 1 This is a state diagram illustrating an example of a capsule retainer assembly applied to the dispenser section of a refrigerator door, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 2 This is a partial state diagram of an example of a capsule retainer assembly applied to the dispenser section of a refrigerator door, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of a capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view taken from the bottom to illustrate the state in which the retainer mounting portion of the capsule retainer assembly is attached to the outlet cover of the dispenser portion in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 5This is a main cross-sectional view of the capsule retainer assembly of an embodiment of the present invention, showing the retainer mounting portion.

[0076] Figure 6 This is an anatomical view of the capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 7 This is a top view of the capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which a clamping cap is provided in the capsule retainer.

[0078] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, showing the capsule retainer attached to the retainer mounting portion.

[0079] Figure 9 This is a partial state diagram of the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, showing the capsule retainer attached to the retainer mounting portion.

[0080] Figure 10 This is a partial state diagram of the capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the state in which the capsule retainer is rotated at the retainer mounting section.

[0081] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the capsule retainer fully engaged with the retainer mounting portion.

[0082] Figure 12 This is an example diagram of the state of a hot water supply module for extracting beverages using a capsule retainer assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 13 This is an example of the internal structure of a hot water supply module for extracting beverages using a capsule retainer assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an example of a capsule retainer assembly provided with a residual water prevention part according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of an example of a capsule retainer assembly provided with a residual water prevention section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of another example of a capsule retainer assembly provided with a residual water prevention section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of another example of a capsule retainer assembly provided with a residual water prevention part according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 19 This is a combined perspective view of another example of a capsule retainer assembly of the present invention having a residual water prevention part.

[0089] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of another example of a capsule retainer assembly provided with a residual water prevention part according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of an example of a storage box for storing a capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Figure 22 and Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view of a capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which an extension tube for preventing beverage splashing is provided.

[0092] Figure 24 This is an exploded perspective view of a capsule retainer assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 25 and Figure 26 This is a partial perspective view of a capsule retainer assembly in a capsule retainer according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view of a capsule retainer assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 28 and Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the capsule retainer assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing the capsule retainer being attached to the retainer mounting portion.

[0096] Figure 30 This is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, showing the state of the retainer mounting portion of the capsule retainer assembly attached to the outlet cover of the dispenser portion, viewed from the bottom.

[0097] Figure 31 This is an exploded view of a capsule retainer assembly for capsules according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Before describing the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that when assigning reference numerals to the constituent elements of each figure, the same constituent elements should be given the same reference numerals as much as possible, even if they are represented in different figures.

[0099] Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related well-known structures or functions will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions would hinder the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0100] Furthermore, when describing the constituent elements of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the constituent element from other constituent elements, and the nature, order, or sequence of the corresponding constituent elements are not limited by these terms. If it is described as a constituent element being "connected," "combined," or "linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that the constituent element may be directly connected or linked to another constituent element, but other constituent elements may also be "connected," "combined," or "linked" between each constituent element.

[0101] The following is with reference to the attached document. Figures 1 to 31 A preferred embodiment of the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention is described.

[0102] Attached Figure 1 This is a state diagram illustrating an example of a capsule retainer assembly applied to the dispenser section of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a partial state diagram of an example of a capsule retainer assembly applied to the dispenser section of a refrigerator door, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] in addition, Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of a capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view taken from the bottom to illustrate the state in which the retainer mounting portion of the capsule retainer assembly is attached to the outlet cover of the dispenser portion in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] As shown in these figures, the capsule retainer assembly of this invention can be selectively installed and used in household appliances. Thus, even household appliances that do not have capsule beverage extraction capabilities can extract capsule beverages.

[0105] Hereinafter, the capsule retainer assembly of this embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail according to its various components.

[0106] First, the capsule retainer assembly (hereinafter referred to as the "retainer assembly") of the present invention may include a retainer mounting portion 100.

[0107] The retainer mounting part 100 is integrated with a household appliance so that it can be used for the operation of the capsule retainer 300, which will be described later.

[0108] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the retainer mounting part 100 can be fixed to the part from which drinking water is discharged from the household appliance. For example, in the case of a refrigerator, it can be fixed around the water outlet 11 in the dispenser part 10 of the refrigerator door 50. In this case, the water outlet 11 can be formed as a hole or pipe for drinking water to pass through.

[0109] More specifically, in the distributor section 10, an outlet cover 12 is provided at the periphery of the outlet 11 to protect the outlet 11.

[0110] The retainer mounting portion 100 can be attached to the outlet cover 12 of the dispenser portion 10. In this case, the retainer mounting portion 100 can be shaped to surround the peripheral surface and bottom surface of the outlet cover 12, and can be fixed to the outlet cover 12 by threaded connection.

[0111] For example, preferably, the outlet cover 12 of the dispenser section 10 is provided with a fastening hole 12a for securing the retainer mounting section 100 during manufacturing. Thus, even if the refrigerator does not include a capsule beverage extraction function, the user can directly purchase the retainer assembly and assemble it onto the outlet cover 12 of the dispenser section 10 afterwards.

[0112] The retainer mounting part 100 and the outlet cover 12 can also be joined by adhesive, adhesive tape or hooks.

[0113] On the other hand, a through hole 101 may be formed in the retainer mounting portion 100. The through hole 101 is formed to penetrate the upper and lower parts of the retainer mounting portion 100 and is aligned with the outlet 11.

[0114] The through hole 101 may not be located at the center of the retainer mounting portion 100. That is, an outlet 11 may be provided on the front side of the bottom surface of the outlet cover 12, and an ice discharge chute may be provided on the rear side of the outlet 11 on the bottom surface of the outlet cover 12. In this case, the through hole 101 of the retainer mounting portion 100 may also be eccentrically positioned to align with the outlet 11 of the outlet cover 12.

[0115] The retainer mounting portion 100 may be provided with a protruding engagement portion 110 for engaging with the capsule retainer 300.

[0116] The protruding joint portion 110 can be integrally formed with the retainer mounting portion 100.

[0117] Specifically, the protruding joint 110 can be formed as a tube structure that protrudes downward from the bottom surface of the retainer mounting portion 100 and has a hollow interior.

[0118] The protruding joint portion 110 is located on the bottom surface of the retainer mounting portion 100 where the through hole 101 is formed. That is, the protruding joint portion 110 is formed to protrude downward from the peripheral side of the through hole 101. As a result, the internal space of the protruding joint portion 110 is in communication with the through hole 101.

[0119] A lifting groove 111 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the protruding joint 110. The lifting groove 111 is a structure provided for the lifting and lowering movement of the capsule holder 300.

[0120] The lifting groove 111 can be formed as a spiral structure that gradually tilts upward in the direction of rotation of the capsule holder 300. Therefore, the capsule holder 300 can move upward or downward along the lifting groove.

[0121] The lifting groove 111 can be two or more, i.e., a plurality of them. In this case, each lifting groove 111 can be formed in a symmetrical position relative to the axis of the protruding joint 110.

[0122] The lower end of the lifting groove 111 is formed to open towards the bottom surface of the protruding joint 110. Thus, after the receiving protrusion of the capsule holder 300 is inserted into the lifting groove 111 from the bottom of the protruding joint 110, the capsule holder 300 can be moved upward by pulling the capsule holder 300 upward, causing the receiving protrusion to move upward along the lifting groove 111.

[0123] Additionally, a pressure-applying member 120 for applying pressure to the clamping cap 400 (described later) may be provided inside the protruding joint portion 110 that constitutes the retainer mounting portion 100.

[0124] The pressure-applying member 120 can be configured to apply pressure to the periphery of the top surface of the clamping cap 400, and is formed as an annular block with a hollow interior and a constant length and height, so that a water outlet nozzle can be provided inside through the through hole of the retainer mounting portion 100.

[0125] The pressure-applying member 120 can be attached to the interior of the protruding joint 110. For this purpose, a locking portion 112 can be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the protruding joint 110, and a locking hook 122 that selectively engages with the locking portion 112 can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pressure-applying member 120.

[0126] Meanwhile, the pressure-applying member 120 can be configured to move elastically up and down, so that when the pressure is released, the clamping cap 400 can be pushed downward. Due to this structure, the clamping cap 400 is prevented from being unable to separate smoothly because the water outlet nozzle 200 described later is confined within the clamping cap 400.

[0127] To enable the pressure-applying member 120 to move elastically, a recovery member 130 can be provided between the bottom surface of the retainer mounting portion 100 and the top surface of the pressure-applying member 120. That is, the pressure-applying member 120 can be pushed downwards by the recovery member 130. In this case, the recovery member 130 can be an annular washer capable of elastic recovery, such as a spring washer or a wave washer.

[0128] Next, the capsule retainer assembly of this embodiment may include a water outlet nozzle 200.

[0129] The water outlet nozzle 200 is a nozzle used to guide drinking water provided for use through the outlet of a refrigerator (household appliance) into the clamping cap 400 described later in an airtight manner.

[0130] like Figure 3 As shown, the water nozzle 200 can be configured to connect to a guide pipe 14 that guides drinking water out of the water outlet 11 of the household appliance, and pass through the through hole 101 of the retainer mounting portion 100. In this case, the water nozzle 200 and the guide pipe 14 can be directly connected to each other or connected to each other using an additional connector (accessory) 15.

[0131] Meanwhile, the water nozzle 200 can be configured to pass through the water outlet 11 of the household appliance.

[0132] Although not shown in the figure, as long as the outlet 11 is formed by an additional pipe structure and combined with the outlet cover 12, the outlet 11 can be removed and the water nozzle 200 can be replaced at the location where the outlet 11 is provided.

[0133] The water nozzle 200 is configured to penetrate the through hole 101 of the retainer mounting portion 100 and extend to the extent that it can be exposed into the protruding joint portion 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100.

[0134] Next, the capsule retainer assembly of this embodiment may include a capsule retainer 300.

[0135] The capsule holder 300 can be defined as a device or assembly for containing the capsule 1 and extracting a beverage from the capsule 1.

[0136] Figure 6 This is an anatomical view of the capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a top view of the capsule retainer assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the capsule retainer with a clamping cap provided. Figure 8 and Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, showing the capsule retainer attached to the retainer mounting portion.

[0137] As shown in these figures, the capsule holder 300 can be configured to provide a receiving space for accommodating the capsule 1. The receiving space can be configured to open upwards, thereby accommodating the capsule 1 from the open upper portion.

[0138] Meanwhile, a protruding joint 110 for accommodating the retainer mounting portion 100 can be added to the accommodating space. That is, the capsule 1 is accommodated at the bottom of the accommodating space, and the protruding joint 110 is provided at the upper part of the accommodating space.

[0139] The capsule holder 300 may be provided with a guide protrusion 301 that moves within a lifting groove 111 formed in the protruding engagement portion 110 of the holder mounting portion 100. The guide protrusion 301 can be formed radially protruding from the inner peripheral surface of the receiving space provided by the capsule holder 300. Thus, when the protruding engagement portion 110 is received within the receiving space of the capsule holder 300, the guide protrusion 301 is received within the lifting groove 111. When the capsule holder 300 is rotated in this state, the guide protrusion 301 moves upward along the lifting groove 111, thereby causing the capsule holder 300 to move upward.

[0140] A discharge port 302 for discharging beverage extracted from the containing space is formed on the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300. Preferably, the bottom surface inside the containing space can be formed to gradually slope downwards towards the location of the discharge port 302.

[0141] On the other hand, a handle 310 may be provided on the circumferential surface of the capsule holder 300. Thus, the capsule holder 300 can be easily rotated by operating the handle 310.

[0142] In particular, the longitudinal position of the handle 310 is preferably configured to coincide with the position of the guide protrusion 301 formed on the inner circumferential surface of the capsule holder 300. Therefore, based on the position of the handle 310, the position of the guide protrusion 301 can be accurately identified, thus ensuring accurate alignment with the lifting groove 111 even if the guide protrusion 301 is formed inside the capsule holder 300.

[0143] Additionally, a bracket 340 for placing the capsule 1 can be provided within the receiving space of the capsule holder 300. The bracket 340 enables the capsule 1 to be held in a precise position and is used to break the film 1a sealing the capsule 1. In this case, the capsule 1 is provided with the film 1a placed on the top surface of the bracket 340.

[0144] A tearing protrusion 341 may be formed on the top surface of the bracket 340. The tearing protrusion 341 is provided to tear the film 1a of the capsule 1 placed on the top surface of the bracket 340. The tearing protrusion 341 may be formed to become sharper towards the top.

[0145] Meanwhile, a plurality of extraction holes 342 extending through the top and bottom of the bracket 340 may be formed. The extraction holes 342 are provided to guide the extracted beverage flowing out of the capsule 1 down to the bottom surface of the receiving space of the capsule holder 300.

[0146] For this purpose, the bottom surface of the bracket 340 is configured separately from the bottom surface within the receiving space, thereby providing space between them for the beverage to flow.

[0147] The bracket 340 is preferably configured to not rotate left or right when placed within the receiving space of the capsule holder 300.

[0148] As an example, although not illustrated, at least a portion of the inner surface of the receiving space and the outer surface of the bracket 340 may be formed as interlocking planes.

[0149] As another example, although not illustrated, interlocking protrusions and grooves may be formed on the inner surface of the receiving space and the outer surface of the bracket 340.

[0150] Next, the capsule retainer assembly of this embodiment may include a clamping cap 400.

[0151] The clamping cap 400 is a component provided for clamping and perforating the capsule 1.

[0152] like Figure 3 , Figures 6 to 8 As shown, this clamping cap 400 is formed as a cap structure that is housed within the receiving space of the capsule holder 300 and surrounds the capsule 1 within the receiving space.

[0153] The inner surface of the clamping cap 400 is formed identically to the outer surface of the capsule 1, and is in close contact with the outer surface of the capsule 1. At this time, the top surface inside the clamping cap 400 is configured to separate from the capsule 1. Drinking water for extraction is supplied to the space formed by this separation.

[0154] A water nozzle 200 is attached to the top surface of the clamping cap 400. For this purpose, a connecting protrusion 410 for connecting the water nozzle 200 is formed on the top surface of the clamping cap 400.

[0155] The connecting protrusion 410 is formed to accommodate the end of the water outlet nozzle 200 and communicates with the interior of the clamping cap 400. At this time, the portion of the connecting protrusion 410 that accommodates the connecting water outlet nozzle 200 is formed to communicate with the interior space of the clamping cap 400 through the communicating hole 411.

[0156] The connecting protrusion 410 can be formed at the center of the top surface of the clamping cap 400. Thus, drinking water sprayed from the water outlet nozzle 200 can be supplied to the upper center of the clamping cap 400 through the connecting protrusion 410.

[0157] Additionally, one or more perforation protrusions 420 for perforating the capsule 1 are formed on the top surface inside the clamping cap 400. The perforation protrusions 420 can provide peripheral portions of the connecting holes 411 in the top surface inside the clamping cap 400 that connect the connecting protrusion 410 and the space inside the clamping cap 400.

[0158] A rib 430 may be formed on the top surface of the clamping cap 400. The rib 430 prevents damage to the engaging protrusion 410 and provides a location for pressure to be applied by the pressure member 120. The rib 430 is formed radially around the engaging protrusion 410 to prevent bending deformation of the engaging protrusion 410.

[0159] In particular, the pad 430 can be configured to be pressed by a pressure member 120 provided in the retainer mounting portion 100. That is, when the capsule retainer 300 is placed in the retainer mounting portion 100 and the capsule moves upward, the bottom surface of the pressure member 120 presses against the top surface of the pad 430, thereby causing the perforation protrusion 420 of the clamping cap 400 to perforate the outer surface of the capsule 1. Of course, although not shown, the pressure member 120 can also be configured to press against the top surface of the clamping cap 400 instead of the pad 430.

[0160] On the other hand, during the supply of drinking water through the engaging protrusion 410 of the clamping cap 400, a high-pressure state must be maintained inside the clamping cap 400. That is, considering that pressure extraction from the beverage extracted from the capsule 1 may be an important factor, it is preferable to prevent pressure leakage.

[0161] To prevent pressure leakage during beverage extraction, at least one of the outer peripheral surface of the water nozzle 200 and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting protrusion 410 can be provided with an airtight ring 210. That is, when the end of the water nozzle 200 is inserted into the connecting protrusion 410, the connecting parts can achieve an airtight state due to the airtight ring 210.

[0162] In addition, to prevent pressure leakage during beverage extraction, the opposing surfaces of the bracket 340 and the clamping cap 400 can be formed to interlock with each other.

[0163] For example, a receiving groove 343 may be formed on the periphery of the top surface of the bracket 340, and a receiving protrusion 440 may be formed on the bottom surface of the clamping cap 400, which is received within the receiving groove 343 and engages with the receiving groove 343. In particular, an airtight member 441 may be provided on the clamping cap 400, which surrounds the lower end of the clamping cap 400 and the receiving protrusion 440 and is airtightly fitted to the receiving groove 343 of the bracket 340.

[0164] The process of installing the retainer mounting part 100 of the retainer assembly of the aforementioned embodiment of the present invention into a household appliance will be described below.

[0165] First, when intending to apply the retainer assembly of this embodiment to a household appliance, a retainer mounting portion 100 is prepared. At this time, the retainer mounting portion 100 is provided with a pressure member 120 engaged within a protruding joint portion 110, and with a water outlet nozzle 200 provided in the through hole of the protruding joint portion 110. The water outlet nozzle 200 penetrates the through hole 101 and is thus fixed with a portion protruding into the protruding joint portion 110.

[0166] Furthermore, the prepared retainer mounting part 100 is attached to the part that provides the water outlet 11 of the household appliance.

[0167] For example, the retainer mounting portion 100 is attached to the outlet cover 12 of the dispenser section 10 provided in the refrigerator. At this time, the retainer mounting portion 100 can be attached to the outlet cover 12 by means of screws, adhesive or adhesive tape.

[0168] When the retainer mounting portion 100 is attached to the outlet cover 12, the water nozzle 200 is configured to pass through the outlet 11 of the distributor portion. If the outlet 11 is formed as a pipe structure and interferes with the water nozzle 200, the outlet 11 can be separated from the outlet cover 12 and removed.

[0169] Meanwhile, the water nozzle 200 is connected to a guide pipe 14 that supplies drinking water to the water outlet 11.

[0170] Therefore, due to the engagement of the retainer mounting portion 100, the household appliance is in a state capable of extracting the capsule beverage. This is as follows: Figure 5 As shown.

[0171] Next, the process of extracting capsule beverages using the retainer mounting part 100 combined with the household appliance will be described.

[0172] First, the beverage capsule 1 to be extracted is installed in the receiving space of the capsule holder 300. At this time, the beverage capsule 1 is inserted into the receiving space of the capsule holder 300 with the sealed portion of the film 1a facing downwards. Thus, the film 1a of the beverage capsule 1 rests on the top surface of the bracket 340 provided in the receiving space.

[0173] Once the capsule installation is complete, a clamping cap 400 is added. At this time, the clamping cap 400 is installed to cover the capsule 1 placed in the capsule holder 300. Consequently, the engagement protrusion 410 formed on the outer surface of the clamping cap 400 protrudes upwards.

[0174] Next, the capsule retainer 300, on which the capsule 1 and the clamping cap 400 are mounted, is placed at the bottom of the protruding joint 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100.

[0175] In the capsule retainer 300, a guide protrusion 301 formed on its inner circumferential surface is located directly below the lifting groove 111 formed in the protruding joint portion 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100. At this time, considering that the guide protrusion 301 is located axially on the handle 310 of the capsule retainer 300, the guide protrusion and the lifting groove 111 are aligned vertically based on the axial position of the handle 310. This is as follows... Figure 2 As shown.

[0176] Then, the capsule retainer 300 is moved upward. As a result, the receiving space of the capsule retainer 300 accommodates the protruding joint 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100, and the guide protrusion of the capsule retainer 300 is accommodated within the lifting groove 111 of the protruding joint 110. This is as follows... Figure 9 As shown.

[0177] Next, with the capsule retainer 300 engaged with the retainer mounting portion 100, the handle 310 is operated as follows: Figure 10 That would cause the capsule holder 300 to rotate in the horizontal direction.

[0178] When the capsule holder 300 is rotated horizontally by operating the handle 310, the guide protrusion 301 of the capsule holder 300 is guided by the lifting groove 111 formed in the protruding joint 110 and gradually moves upward, thereby causing the capsule holder 300 to rotate and move upward relative to the protruding joint 110.

[0179] Furthermore, by rotating and moving the capsule holder 300 upward, the end of the water nozzle 200 gradually inserts into the engaging protrusion 410 formed in the center of the top surface of the clamping cap 400.

[0180] Simultaneously, as the capsule holder 300 rotates and moves upward, the padding ribs 430 formed around the top surface of the clamping cap 400 are pressed downward by the pressure applying member 120 located within the protruding joint 110 of the holder mounting portion 100. As a result, the outer surface of the capsule 1 gradually comes into close contact with the inner surface of the clamping cap 400. During this process, the perforated protrusions 420 within the clamping cap 400 perforate the outer surface of the capsule 1. At the same time, the tearing protrusions 341 formed on the top surface of the bracket 340 tear the film 1a of the capsule 1.

[0181] Furthermore, if the capsule holder 300 is moved completely upward relative to the engaging protrusion 410, the receiving protrusion 440 formed on the bottom surface of the clamping cap 400 is received into the receiving groove 343 formed on the top surface of the bracket 340, and is kept in airtight contact by the airtight member 441. At this time, the water nozzle 200 is fully inserted into the engaging protrusion 410 of the clamping cap 400, thereby maintaining an airtight connection by the airtight ring 210. This is as follows: Figure 11 As shown.

[0182] Furthermore, with the capsule holder 300 fully engaged, the cup is provided to the dispenser section 10. At this time, the cup is located directly below the discharge port 302 of the capsule holder 300. Of course, the cup may also be provided to the dispenser section 10 before the capsule holder 300 is installed into the holder mounting section 100.

[0183] Furthermore, if an operation for supplying drinking water for extracting beverages occurs after the cup is provided (e.g., operation of a button, etc.), the drinking water is supplied to the water nozzle 200 along the guide tube 14.

[0184] Next, after passing through the water outlet nozzle 200, the drinking water is supplied into the clamping cap 400 via the connecting hole 411 in the connecting protrusion 410. At this time, the inside of the clamping cap 400 is in a sealed state relative to the external environment, so the drinking water supplied into the clamping cap 400 flows into the capsule 1 through the perforation in the capsule 1 within the clamping cap 400. Thus, the raw material stored in the capsule 1 is extracted by the drinking water.

[0185] Furthermore, the extracted beverage flows through the torn film 1a of the capsule 1 and through the plurality of extraction holes 342 formed in the holder 340 into the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300, and then falls through the discharge port 302, thereby being filled into a cup placed in the dispenser section 10.

[0186] After the extraction of the capsule beverage is completed, the capsule holder 300 is rotated in the opposite direction to the engagement direction. As a result, the guide protrusion 301 of the capsule holder 300 rotates along the lifting groove 111 formed in the protruding engagement portion 110 of the holder mounting portion 100, causing the capsule holder 300 to gradually move downward.

[0187] Furthermore, as the capsule holder 300 moves downward, the pressure member 120 within the protruding joint 110 uses the restoring force of the restoring member 130 to push the clamping cap 400 attached to the water outlet nozzle 200.

[0188] This prevents the clamping cap 400 from failing to detach from the water outlet nozzle 200, and allows the clamping cap 400 and the capsule retainer 300 to be separated from the retainer mounting portion 100 together.

[0189] Then, if the capsule holder 300 separates, the clamping cap 400 is separated from the capsule holder 300. Thus, the capsule within the capsule holder 300 becomes dischargeable, and the user can detach and discharge the capsule from the capsule holder 300.

[0190] On the other hand, if one does not want to extract the capsule beverage but wants to receive hot water or purified drinking water, the capsule holder 300 can be used after being detached from the holder mounting part 100.

[0191] Of course, the capsule holder 300 can also be used in a state where the capsule holder 300 does not provide a capsule, by combining the capsule holder 300 with the holder mounting part 100.

[0192] As described above, the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention is not a structure provided integrally with a household appliance, but can be added to and installed in an existing household appliance. Therefore, even household appliances that do not have a capsule beverage extraction function can have a capsule beverage extraction function by applying the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention.

[0193] Furthermore, the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention can be applied to existing household appliances without changing the structure of existing household appliances, so users can install it directly.

[0194] Furthermore, in the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the retainer mounting portion 100 installed in a conventional household appliance does not provide a beverage extraction nozzle at a position separate from the outlet 11 of the household appliance, but is provided with a single structure. Therefore, even if a capsule retainer assembly is added, the size of the dispenser portion 10 will not change. That is, it has the advantage of not requiring changes to the structure of the conventional household appliance.

[0195] Furthermore, in the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, the capsule retainer 300 provides a structure for perforating and tearing the capsule 1 and firmly clamping it, as well as for forming a sealed space. Therefore, the structure of the retainer mounting portion 100 can be relatively simplified, and thus the retainer mounting portion 100 can be easily installed in household appliances.

[0196] On the other hand, various modules or devices not mentioned in the foregoing embodiments can be added to the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention.

[0197] As an example, a hot water supply module 500 may be additionally provided in the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention.

[0198] That is, if the existing household appliance does not provide a structure for supplying hot water or a structure for supplying drinking water at high pressure, an additional hot water supply module 500 capable of supplying hot water at high temperature and high pressure can be added to the household appliance.

[0199] In this case, such as Figure 13 As shown, the hot water supply module 500 may include a water pump 510 and a heater 520 that receive, pump, and heat drinking water supplied from the household appliance. That is, by additionally providing the hot water supply module 500 with the water pump 510 and heater 520, drinking water with a set temperature and pressure can be supplied, thereby enabling a wider variety of capsule beverage extraction.

[0200] Additionally, the hot water supply module 500 can be provided in a spare space within a household appliance. For example, in the case of a refrigerator, such as... Figure 12 As shown, it can be provided on the top surface of the refrigerator door 50. Although not shown, the hot water supply module 500 can be provided on the top surface of the refrigerator body.

[0201] As another example, in order to prevent residual water from flowing down inside the capsule holder 300, a residual water prevention part 600 may be additionally provided in the capsule holder assembly of the present invention.

[0202] The residual water prevention part 600 is detachably provided on the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300, thereby preventing residual water flowing down through the outlet 302 of the capsule holder 300 from falling. For this residual water prevention part 600 to be integrated, the portion of the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300 with the outlet 302 can be configured as a nozzle structure that can be inserted into the residual water prevention part 600.

[0203] The residual water prevention section 600 can be formed by a pipe structure having a space for storing residual water. For example, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown, the residual water prevention section 600 can be formed from a pipe structure having a flow path 601 that bends repeatedly up and down. Thus, the residual water is contained within the flow path 601, thereby preventing accidental spillage.

[0204] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the residual water prevention part 600 can be formed by a structure having a flow path for residual water flow and capable of cutting off the flow path. For example, the residual water prevention part 600 may include a fixed tube 620 attached to the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300 and a movable tube 630 attached to the outer peripheral surface of the fixed tube 620 and moving up and down.

[0205] At this time, a vertical flow path 621 is formed inside the fixed tube 620 for the beverage or residual water discharged to the outlet 302 of the capsule holder 300 to flow vertically, and a horizontal flow path 622 is formed connecting the beverage or residual water from a portion of the vertical flow path 621 in a horizontal direction. An extension groove 631, which is more extended than other parts, can be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the moving tube 630, and its bottom is open to allow the beverage to be discharged from the horizontal flow path 622 by the lifting and lowering movement of the moving tube 630.

[0206] That is, such as Figure 16 As shown, when the beverage is flowing, the horizontal flow path 622 of the fixed tube 620 and the expansion slot 631 of the moving tube 630 are connected by moving the moving tube 630 upward. On the other hand, as Figure 17 As shown, after beverage extraction is complete, the horizontal flow path 622 of the fixed tube 620 is blocked outside the expansion groove 631 of the moving tube 630 by moving the moving tube 630 downward. This prevents leakage of residual water.

[0207] In addition, such as Figures 18 to 20 As shown, the residual water prevention section 600 can also be formed by a cup structure surrounding the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300. For example, the residual water prevention section 600 can be formed by a structure that is detachable from the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300 and has a storage space between it and the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300.

[0208] In this case, a handle 610 may be additionally formed on the residual water prevention part 600 to facilitate the operation of attaching and detaching from the capsule holder 300. In this case, the handle may be formed to extend along the bottom surface of the handle 310 extending in the capsule holder 300.

[0209] Additionally, the handle 610 may be provided with a magnetic component 611 to prevent accidental separation from the capsule retainer 300 and to allow for easy separation. That is, due to the magnetic component 611, a portion of the handle 610 can be attached to a portion of the capsule retainer 300.

[0210] As another example, a storage box 700 may be additionally provided in the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention.

[0211] like Figure 21 As shown, the storage box 700 is a box used to store the capsule holder 300.

[0212] The storage box 700 can be configured to be stored in a part of a household appliance. For example, although not shown, in the case of a refrigerator, the storage box 700 can be stored at the bottom of the dispenser section 10, and the capsule holder 300 or capsule 1 can be stored in the storage box 700.

[0213] As another example, an extension tube 710 may be additionally provided in the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention.

[0214] The extension tube 710 is a structure used to prevent beverage (or drinking water) from splashing when it falls from the outlet 302 of the capsule holder 300 into the cup 20 due to the distance between them.

[0215] That is, depending on the type of cup 20 (based on height), the extension tube 710 can be selectively extended, thereby preventing beverage from splashing.

[0216] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the extension tube 710 can be vertically and vertically disposed in the bottom surface of the capsule holder 300, extending from the outlet 302 into the outlet tube 350.

[0217] In particular, the extension tube 710 can be configured to selectively release the restriction on the outlet tube 350 by means of the operation part 711, thereby enabling it to move up and down.

[0218] On the other hand, the structure of the retainer assembly of the present invention can also be changed to more conveniently and easily realize the combination between the capsule retainer 300 and the retainer mounting part 100.

[0219] That is, in the aforementioned embodiment of the retainer assembly of the present invention, it is necessary to operate by lifting and rotating the capsule retainer 300 upwards while it is located at the bottom of the protruding engagement portion 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100. However, during this operation, if the capsule retainer 300 cannot achieve accurate horizontal alignment and tilts forward or backward or left or right, the guide protrusion 301 of the capsule retainer 300 may not accurately engage with the lifting groove 111 of the protruding engagement portion 110.

[0220] In view of this, in another embodiment of the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention, it is proposed that by moving the capsule retainer 300 back and forth, the engaging protrusion 410 of the clamping cap 400 disposed in the capsule retainer 300 and the water outlet nozzle 200 are accurately aligned vertically.

[0221] The following is with reference to the attached document. Figures 24 to 30 Further detailed explanations will be provided for each component.

[0222] First, another embodiment of the capsule retainer assembly of the present invention includes a retainer mounting part 100, a water outlet nozzle 200, a capsule retainer 300, and a clamping cap 400.

[0223] The basic structure of this retainer mounting part 100, water outlet nozzle 200, capsule retainer 300 and clamping cap 400 is the same as that of the capsule retainer assembly of the aforementioned embodiment of the present invention.

[0224] The capsule retainer assembly of another embodiment of the present invention differs from the capsule retainer assembly of one embodiment of the present invention in that the lifting guide 810 is raised and lowered from the protruding joint portion 110 while rotating through the rotation operation of the capsule retainer 300.

[0225] That is, in another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule retainer assembly also provides a lifting guide 810 coupled to the protruding coupling portion 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100, and the capsule retainer 300 may be configured to allow the lifting guide 810 to rotate.

[0226] Here, the lifting guide 810 is formed to be coupled to the protruding joint 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100, and is lifted and lowered along the protruding joint 110 by a rotation operation on the horizontal side.

[0227] To allow the lifting guide 810 to rotate, a connecting protrusion 811 is formed on the outer surface of the lifting guide 810, and a connecting groove 303 is formed in the capsule holder 300 for the connecting protrusion 811 to be inserted into. Thus, by rotating the capsule holder 300 with the connecting protrusion 811 of the lifting guide 810 engaged in the connecting groove 303 of the capsule holder 300, the lifting guide 810 rotates. At this time, the connecting groove 303 is formed on the axial side of the handle 310 of the capsule holder 300. Therefore, the user can easily engage the connecting protrusion 811 into the connecting groove 303.

[0228] Furthermore, the lifting guide 810 is rotatably and vertically movable in the retainer mounting portion 100. That is, the lifting guide 810 is provided with a guide protrusion 801 that moves along the lifting groove 111 formed on the outer surface of the protruding joint portion 110 of the retainer mounting portion 100, so that the lifting guide 810 can be moved vertically by rotation.

[0229] The guide protrusion 801 protrudes from the guide member 820, which is separately provided from the lifting guide 810. The guide member 820 is attached to a part of the lifting guide 810. Thus, by rotating the lifting guide 810, the guide protrusion 801 moves along the lifting groove 111, thereby enabling the lifting guide 810 to rotate and rise.

[0230] In particular, the lifting groove 111 is formed such that its lower end does not reach the bottom surface of the protruding joint 110. That is, the lifting groove 111 does not open to the bottom surface of the protruding joint 110, thereby preventing the guide protrusion 801 from disengaging from the lifting groove 111.

[0231] In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule retainer assembly may include a fixing guide 830 for preventing tilting of the capsule retainer 300. In this case, an outwardly bent extended edge 304 is formed at the upper periphery of the capsule retainer 300, and guide grooves 831 are formed on both sides of the fixing guide 830 to guide the extended edge 304 of the capsule retainer 300 to be received in the front-rear direction. The guide grooves 831 can be formed by bending the end periphery of the fixing guide 830 in multiple segments.

[0232] That is, the extended edge 304 can be drawn into the guide groove 831 in a drawer-like manner, so that the engagement protrusion 811 of the lifting guide 810 can easily and accurately engage with the engagement groove 303 of the capsule retainer 300, and prevent the capsule retainer 300 from tilting.

[0233] The fixed guide 830 can be attached to the lower end of the lifting guide 810. The upper end of the fixed guide 830 and the lower end of the lifting guide 810 can be threaded together. That is, a spiral protrusion 832 can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the upper end of the fixed guide 830, and a spiral groove 812 can be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the lower end of the lifting guide 810, thereby achieving a threaded connection between them.

[0234] At this time, an insertion groove 833 is formed at the upper end of the fixed guide 830 for inserting a part of the guide member 820, and a through groove 834 is formed on the top surface of the fixed guide 830 for the guide protrusion 801 protruding from the guide member 820 to pass through. Due to this structure, even if the two ends of the lifting groove 111 formed in the protruding joint 110 are not open, the guide protrusion 801 can be inserted into the lifting groove 111.

[0235] On the other hand, blocking platforms 305 may be formed at both ends of the extended edge 304 formed in the capsule retainer 300 to prevent excessive insertion into the guide groove 831 of the fixing guide 830. The blocking platforms 305 are formed to have a wider or higher width than the guide groove 831. Thus, the capsule retainer 300 can be prevented from engaging in a state of rotation to one side.

[0236] On the other hand, the capsule holder 300 constituting the capsule holder assembly of the present invention can be configured to correspond to various types of capsules 1. That is, if the capsule holder 300 has the same internal size, there is a disadvantage that it cannot correspond to various types of capsules 1 from many capsule manufacturers, and can only extract one type of capsule beverage. With this in mind, the capsule holder 300 is preferably provided in a variety of ways according to the types of capsules 1.

[0237] In particular, the capsule holder 300 can be configured such that the handle 310 and the part connected thereto are shared, and only the part that holds the capsule 1 is replaced for use.

[0238] Therefore, the capsule holder 300 may include a handle 310, a cylindrical holder body 320, and a receiving cup 330 for receiving the capsule 1. This is as follows... Figure 31 As shown.

[0239] Here, the handle 310 and the retainer body 320 are shared, and the receiving cup 330 is formed to be inserted into the retainer body 320. That is, depending on the type of capsule 1 that is to be extracted, only the receiving cup 330 can be replaced from the retainer body 320 for use.

[0240] Preferably, a plurality of grooves 321 with open top surfaces are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical holder body 320, and protrusions 331 that insert into the grooves 321 and can engage with each other are formed on the outer circumference of the receiving cup 330. Thus, when the holder body 320 rotates, the receiving cup 330 can also rotate together.

[0241] Thus, the refrigerator of the present invention can be implemented in various ways.

[0242] The foregoing has described how all the constituent elements constituting the embodiments of the present invention are combined into one or more actions, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to such embodiments. That is, within the scope of the present invention, all the constituent elements may also be selectively combined into more than one action. Furthermore, unless specifically stated to the contrary, the terms "comprising," "consisting of," or "having" used above refer to the inclusion of the corresponding constituent element, and should therefore be interpreted as including other constituent elements rather than excluding them. Unless otherwise defined, all terms including technical or scientific terms have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Commonly used terms, such as those defined in dictionaries, should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with the context of the relevant art, and are not to be interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning unless explicitly defined in this invention.

[0243] The above description is merely an exemplary illustration of the technical concept of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this invention are used to illustrate the technical concept of the invention and are not intended to limit it. The scope of the technical concept of the invention is not limited by such embodiments. The scope of protection of this invention should be interpreted through the claims, and should be interpreted as including all technical concepts within the equivalent scope within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A capsule retainer assembly, characterized in that, include: The retainer mounting part is fixed around the water outlet of the household appliance and has a through hole running vertically through it. A protruding joint part is formed on the bottom surface of the retainer mounting part. A water nozzle, connected to receive drinking water discharged from the outlet of the household appliance, is configured as a through hole penetrating the retainer mounting portion; A capsule holder, providing a receiving space for accommodating a capsule, having a discharge port formed on its bottom surface; and A clamping cap is configured to surround the capsule located in the receiving space of the capsule holder. The water outlet nozzle is attached to the top surface of the clamping cap. The capsule is clamped and perforated according to the lifting and lowering movement of the capsule holder.

2. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protruding joint of the retainer mounting part is formed by a tube structure that exposes a portion of the water outlet nozzle and is hollow inside.

3. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, A connecting protrusion is formed on the top surface of the clamping cap to accommodate the end of the water outlet nozzle.

4. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, A lifting groove is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the protruding joint; The capsule holder has a guide protrusion that moves along the lifting groove as it is inserted into the lifting groove, thereby raising and lowering the capsule holder.

5. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, A handle is also provided on the circumferential surface of the capsule retainer; The guide protrusion is formed on the length-direction side of the handle on the inner circumferential surface of the capsule retainer.

6. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lifting slots are configured in two or more, i.e., multiple; The plurality of the lifting grooves are respectively formed at positions symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of the protruding joint.

7. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The lower end of the lifting groove is formed to open to the bottom surface of the protruding joint.

8. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, A bracket for placing the capsule is provided inside the accommodating space; A receiving groove is formed on the periphery of the top surface of the bracket; A receiving protrusion is formed on the bottom surface of the clamping cap, the receiving protrusion being accommodated in the receiving groove and engaging with the receiving groove.

9. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, An airtight component is provided at the lower end of the clamping cap, and the airtight component is airtightly attached to the receiving groove of the bracket.

10. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The airtight component is formed to surround the lower end of the clamping cap and to accommodate the protrusion.

11. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, A pressure-applying member for applying pressure to the periphery of the top surface of the clamping cap is provided inside the protruding joint portion that constitutes the retainer mounting portion.

12. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, A locking portion is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the protruding joint; A locking hook is formed on the circumferential surface of the pressure-applying member, which selectively engages with the locking portion.

13. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, A recovery member for pushing the pressure member downward is provided between the bottom surface of the retainer mounting portion and the top surface of the pressure member.

14. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, A residual water prevention part is detachably provided on the bottom surface of the capsule retainer to prevent residual water from falling out of the outlet.

15. A capsule retainer assembly, characterized in that, include: The retainer mounting part is fixed around the water outlet of the household appliance and has a through hole running vertically through it. A protruding joint part is formed on the bottom surface of the retainer mounting part. A water nozzle, connected to receive drinking water discharged to the outlet of the household appliance, is configured as a through hole penetrating the retainer mounting portion; The lifting guide, which is connected to the protruding joint of the retainer mounting part, moves up and down along the protruding joint by rotating it in the horizontal direction. A capsule holder provides a receiving space for accommodating a capsule, and the lifting guide is rotated by a horizontal rotational operation, with a discharge port formed on the bottom surface of the capsule holder; as well as A clamping cap is configured to surround the capsule located in the receiving space of the capsule holder. The water outlet nozzle is attached to the top surface of the clamping cap. The capsule is clamped and perforated according to the lifting and lowering movement of the capsule holder.

16. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, A lifting groove is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the protruding joint; The lifting guide is provided with a guide member, which has a guide protrusion that moves along the lifting groove.

17. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, The lower end of the lifting groove is positioned higher than the bottom surface of the protruding joint.

18. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, A connecting protrusion is formed on the outer surface of the lifting guide; The capsule holder has a coupling groove for the coupling protrusion to be inserted into, so that by rotating the capsule holder, the lifting guide can be rotated and moved upward.

19. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, Also includes: An extended edge is formed at the upper periphery of the capsule retainer; as well as A fixed guide, coupled to the lower end of the lifting guide, provides a guide groove to receive the extended edge of the capsule retainer in the front-rear direction and engages in a drawer-like manner.

20. The capsule retainer assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that, Blocking platforms are formed at both ends of the extended edge, which block insertion into the guide groove of the fixed guide.

Images