Refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention can include a tray having a circumferential surface or wall that receives water. The circumferential surface can include a space or surface that stores water. The tray can include a first circumferential surface that forms a space or surface that stores water, and a second circumferential surface that is connected to the first circumferential surface, to which water is not supplied. The tray can include a first circumferential surface that forms a contact surface with water, and a second circumferential surface that forms a non-contact surface that does not contact water. Thus, when ice making is performed in a state in which water is supplied to the first circumferential surface, the second circumferential surface is not immersed in the water of the water storage tank, and thus heat exchange between the low-temperature tray and the relatively high-temperature water storage tank can be prevented, so that the tray is heated and the water storage tank is cooled, thereby preventing a decrease in ice making performance and water supply performance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This instruction manual pertains to refrigerators. Background Technology

[0002] A refrigerator is typically a household appliance that stores food at low temperatures in an interior space enclosed by a door. It uses cold air to cool the interior space, thus preserving the stored food in either a refrigerated or frozen state.

[0003] Typically, a refrigerator's freezer compartment includes an ice maker. The ice maker holds water supplied from a water source or tank in a tray, and then produces ice by cooling the water. The ice produced in the ice maker can be stored in an ice bucket. The user can open the freezer door and approach the ice bucket to remove the stored ice.

[0004] On the other hand, because ice is relatively hard, it can cause discomfort for children, the elderly, or consumers with weak teeth when chewing it. Therefore, consumers have consistently demanded ice with a lower strength, that is, a strength that is easy to chew. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of producing ice with a strength that is chewable by consumers.

[0006] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator having a tray including a perimeter for generating ice, and capable of producing thin ice (ice in a first state) by cooling water supplied to the perimeter.

[0007] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of separating thin ice from the circumferential surface by providing a scraper on one side of the tray, and producing powdered ice (ice in a second state).

[0008] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of producing molded ice (ice in a third state) with a specified strength by compressing the powdered ice.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator whose tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material, so as to rapidly cool the tray by supplying cold air.

[0010] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a portion of the circumferential surface (first circumferential surface) of the tray has a space or surface for ice making, while another portion of the circumferential surface (second circumferential surface) does not have a space or surface for ice making, thereby improving the ice making performance of the tray.

[0011] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the circumferential surface of the tray includes a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface that are separated from each other, so as to improve the ice-making performance of the tray.

[0012] In particular, the purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the first circumferential surface of the tray forms a first center distance with the center of the tray, such that the first circumferential surface of the tray can be immersed in the water of the water storage tank, and the second circumferential surface of the tray forms a second center distance with the center of the tray, such that the second circumferential surface of the tray will not be immersed in the water of the water storage tank.

[0013] At this point, the objective is also to provide a refrigerator in which the second center distance is smaller than the first center distance.

[0014] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the second circumference of the tray facing the water tank has a cut-out shape when the tray is in the ice-making position (the position to be frozen), so that the second circumference will not be immersed in the water of the water tank, thereby preventing the tray from freezing while it is immersed in the water of the water tank at a low temperature.

[0015] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator that can optimally provide the area ratio of the first circumference and the second circumference based on the amount of ice required to be made in the tray.

[0016] In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the area of ​​the first circumference of the tray that forms an ice-making space or ice-making surface is in a set ratio to the area of ​​the second circumference of the tray that does not form an ice-making space or ice-making surface, thereby balancing the amount of ice produced on the first circumference and the amount of ice compressed in the compression section.

[0017] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator whose tray has a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface, the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface having different curvatures.

[0018] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the circumferential surface of the tray includes a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface, and the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface form different center distances relative to the center of the tray.

[0019] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the circumferential surface of the tray includes a plurality of first circumferential surfaces and a plurality of second circumferential surfaces, wherein the plurality of first circumferential surfaces and the plurality of second circumferential surfaces are alternately arranged with respect to the rotation direction of the tray.

[0020] The purpose of this invention is also to provide a refrigerator in which a protrusion is provided at the intersection of a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface, and the angle between the two surfaces defining the protrusion forms an acute angle of 90 degrees or less, so as to prevent water from freezing on the protrusion and forming unintended ice.

[0021] Here, the two surfaces include a first surface that forms at least a portion of the first circumferential surface and a second surface that forms at least a portion of the second circumferential surface.

[0022] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the surface state of the ultimately supplied ice forms a quasi-liquid layer, thereby improving user chewing satisfaction. In particular, it is also intended to provide a refrigerator in which at least one of a recess and a protrusion is provided on the circumferential surface of the tray, so that the size of the ice detached from the tray is small, thereby facilitating the reassembly of the ice in the compression section.

[0023] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of alternately arranging a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions on the periphery of a tray.

[0024] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a concave-convex structure is provided on the first peripheral wall to increase the contact area between the tray and water and the contact area between the tray and cold air.

[0025] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which, when the tray is in the water supply position, the inner peripheral wall of the tray can be configured at the upper end of the water storage tank or at a position higher than the upper end of the water storage tank, so as to prevent water from the water storage tank from flowing into the inner peripheral wall of the tray.

[0026] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator, including a tray cover that shields the tray to prevent water from flowing into the inner peripheral wall of the tray.

[0027] The refrigerator of this invention may include a tray having a peripheral surface (or peripheral wall) for receiving water. However, other liquids besides water may also be supplied to said peripheral surface.

[0028] The circumferential surface may include spaces or surfaces for storing water.

[0029] The tray may include: a first circumferential surface supplied with water to generate the ice; and a second circumferential surface connected to the first circumferential surface, to which water is not supplied.

[0030] The tray may include: a first circumferential surface that forms a water contact surface; and a second circumferential surface that forms a non-contact surface so as not to come into contact with water.

[0031] The tray may include: a first circumferential surface having a first radius of curvature for contact with water; and a second circumferential surface having a second radius of curvature for not contacting water.

[0032] The second circumferential surface may have a different shape than the first circumferential surface.

[0033] The second circumferential surface can extend from the end of the first circumferential surface into a shape with a cut or slit.

[0034] The first circumferential surface may be formed with a first center distance relative to the center of the tray so as to be able to be immersed in the water of the water storage tank, and the second circumferential surface may be formed with a second center distance relative to the center of the tray to prevent immersion in the water of the water storage tank, and the second center distance may be different from the first center distance.

[0035] The second center distance can be smaller than the first center distance.

[0036] The tray may include a protrusion disposed at the junction of the first and second circumferential surfaces. The protrusion provides an interface between the first and second circumferential surfaces.

[0037] The angle between the two faces defining the protrusion is formed as an acute angle of 90 degrees or less, thereby preventing water from freezing on the protrusion and forming unintended ice. The two faces may include a first face forming at least a portion of a first circumferential surface and a second face forming at least a portion of a second circumferential surface.

[0038] The tray can be made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal material, so that it can be quickly cooled by cold air.

[0039] The tray may include a first circumferential surface having at least one of a recess and a protrusion.

[0040] At least one of the recess and the protrusion can form a space or surface for storing water.

[0041] The recessed portion and the protruding portion may include a plurality of recessed portions and a plurality of protruding portions, which may be alternately arranged in the thickness direction of the tray. As an example, the thickness direction of the tray may be axial.

[0042] The recessed portion may have a shape that is recessed to a set depth to define the depth of the ice formation space.

[0043] The recessed portion may include: a first portion having a first cross-sectional area (or a first width) based on the direction of the recess; and a second portion formed at a deeper location than the first portion, having a second cross-sectional area (or a second width).

[0044] The second cross-sectional area (or second width) of the second part may be smaller than the first cross-sectional area (or first width) of the first part.

[0045] The recessed portion may have a shape that is recessed in a trapezoidal shape between two protrusions.

[0046] The tray may be configured to be movable. As an example, the tray may be configured to be rotatable.

[0047] The refrigerator may include a scraper disposed on one side of the tray and removing ice generated on the circumference as the tray moves.

[0048] The tray may include a central support forming a center of rotation and an extension wall extending radially from the central support toward the circumferential surface.

[0049] The tray may include sidewalls disposed at both ends of the circumferential surface. The sidewalls may be connected to the extension wall.

[0050] The tray may include an inner peripheral wall forming the back side of the circumference.

[0051] At least one of the circumferential surface and the inner circumferential wall may include an axially extending portion to define the thickness of the tray.

[0052] The tray may include a tray hole, which is defined by the central support, the extension wall and the inner peripheral wall, through which cold air can pass.

[0053] The peripheral wall (circumferential surface) can be named the first wall, the side wall the second wall, the inner peripheral wall the third wall, the extended wall the fourth wall, and the central support the fifth wall. However, the order of the first to fifth walls is not limited to this, and different orders are possible within the scope of the inventive concept.

[0054] The tray can be located in an ice-making position (or a position to be frozen), where cold air is supplied to make ice on the first circumference. In the ice-making position of the tray, the end of the first circumference can be separated from the end of the opening of the water reservoir by a predetermined distance.

[0055] In the ice-making position of the tray, the second circumferential surface of the tray may face the end of the opening of the water storage tank.

[0056] The tray can be positioned at the water supply point where the first circumference is immersed in the water in the water storage tank.

[0057] The radial length (or width) of the sidewall can be formed to a predetermined length or more to prevent water from the water storage tank at the water supply position of the tray from flowing into the tray hole.

[0058] As an example, at the water supply position of the tray, the portion where the side wall and the inner peripheral wall connect can be located outside the end of the opening of the water storage tank, that is, at a position higher than the end of the opening.

[0059] The refrigerator may include a tray cover that shields the tray to prevent water from flowing into the inner peripheral wall of the tray.

[0060] From one perspective of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment, a door for opening and closing the cabinet, and a tray disposed on the cabinet or the door; the tray may include: a central portion; a first peripheral wall extending circumferentially about the central portion to receive water; and a second peripheral wall connected to the first peripheral wall and configured not to be supplied with water.

[0061] The first center distance between the first peripheral wall and the central portion can be greater than the second center distance between the second peripheral wall and the central portion.

[0062] The tray can be configured to rotate around the center, the first center distance can correspond to the rotation radius of the first peripheral wall, and the second center distance can correspond to the rotation radius of the second peripheral wall.

[0063] The refrigerator may include a water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray, and the first center distance of the first peripheral wall may be formed such that the first peripheral wall is immersed in the water stored in the water storage tank.

[0064] The refrigerator may include a water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray, and the second center distance of the second peripheral wall may be configured such that the second peripheral wall is not immersed in the water stored in the water storage tank.

[0065] The refrigerator may include a water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray. In a first position of the tray, the second peripheral wall may be configured to face the water storage tank, and in a second position of the tray, the first peripheral wall may be configured to face the water storage tank.

[0066] The first peripheral wall may include at least one of a recessed portion in the first peripheral wall and a protruding portion in the first peripheral wall.

[0067] The recessed portion can be formed as a recess on the outer peripheral surface of the first peripheral wall.

[0068] The protrusion may be formed to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the first peripheral wall.

[0069] The recess and the protrusion can be formed by extending along the circumferential direction of the tray.

[0070] When defining the axial direction of the central axis connected to the central portion, the at least one recess may include a plurality of recesses arranged along the axial direction.

[0071] It may include a scraper disposed on one side of the tray, the scraper may include a tip configured to face at least one of the recess and the protrusion and scrape out ice.

[0072] The tray may include: a plurality of extending walls that extend radially from the center toward the first peripheral wall; and an inner peripheral wall that forms the back side of the first peripheral wall and defines the inner peripheral surface of the tray.

[0073] The tray may include a tray hole, which is defined by the central portion, a plurality of the extended walls, and an inner peripheral wall, forming a flow path for cold air to pass through.

[0074] The tray hole can be formed in a plurality of ways, and the plurality of the tray hole can be formed along the circumferential direction with the center of the tray as a reference.

[0075] The tray may include sidewalls connected to both ends of at least one of the first peripheral wall and the second peripheral wall, the sidewalls extending a predetermined width from the first peripheral wall or the second peripheral wall to connect with the inner peripheral wall.

[0076] The inner peripheral wall may be provided with protruding protrusions to guide the drainage of water.

[0077] The first peripheral wall and the second peripheral wall may extend with different curvatures from each other, and the tray may include a protrusion disposed at the intersection of the first peripheral wall and the second peripheral wall.

[0078] The protrusion can be defined by a first surface of the first peripheral wall and a second surface of the second peripheral wall, and the first surface and the second surface can form an acute angle of 90 degrees or less.

[0079] With the center of the tray as a reference, the center angle of the first peripheral wall can be equal to or greater than the center angle of the second peripheral wall.

[0080] From another aspect of the invention, the refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment, a door for opening and closing the cabinet, and a tray rotatably disposed on the cabinet or the door; the tray may include a central support coupled to a shaft and a plurality of extending walls extending radially from the central support.

[0081] The refrigerator may include: a first peripheral wall connected to a plurality of the extended walls and extending with a first curvature; and a second peripheral wall connected to the first peripheral wall and extending with a second curvature different from the first curvature.

[0082] The refrigerator may include a water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray; when the tray rotates from a first position to a second position, the first peripheral wall may move from the outside to the inside of the water storage tank and form a contact surface that contacts the water in the water storage tank.

[0083] The second peripheral wall can be configured to face the interior space of the water storage tank at a first position on the tray, forming a non-contact surface that does not come into contact with the water in the water storage tank.

[0084] The second curvature of the second peripheral wall can be formed such that the second peripheral wall has a shape that is cut or slit from the first peripheral wall.

[0085] According to embodiments of the present invention, ice with a strength that is chewable by consumers can be produced, thereby improving consumer satisfaction.

[0086] According to an embodiment of the invention, a tray is provided with a peripheral surface for generating ice, and thin ice (ice in the first state) can be easily produced by cooling the water supplied to the peripheral surface.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the invention, a scraper is provided on one side of the tray, thereby enabling easy separation of the thin ice from the circumferential surface and the production of powdered ice (ice in a second state).

[0088] According to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to easily manufacture molded ice (ice in the third state) with a specified strength by compressing the powdered ice.

[0089] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the circumferential surface of the tray (the first circumferential surface) forms a space or surface for ice making, while another portion of the circumferential surface (the second circumferential surface) does not form a space or surface for ice making, thereby improving the ice making performance of the tray.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the circumferential surface of the tray includes a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface that are separated from each other, thereby improving the ice-making performance of the tray.

[0091] The purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the first circumferential surface of the tray forms a first center distance relative to the center of the tray, thereby allowing it to be immersed in water in a water tank, and the second circumferential surface of the tray forms a second center distance relative to the center of the tray, thereby preventing it from being immersed in water in the water tank.

[0092] At this point, the objective is to provide a refrigerator in which the second center distance is smaller than the first center distance.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second circumferential surface has a cut shape so that when the tray is in the ice-making position (the position to be frozen), the second circumferential surface facing the water tank will not be immersed in the water of the water tank, so that the phenomenon of the tray freezing when the tray is immersed in the water tank at a low temperature will not occur.

[0094] That is, when ice is made at the ice-making position of the tray with water supplied to the first circumference, the second circumference will not be immersed in the water in the water tank. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the heat exchange between the low-temperature tray and the relatively high-temperature water tank from heating the tray and cooling the water tank, thereby preventing a decrease in ice-making performance and water supply performance.

[0095] According to embodiments of the present invention, an optimal area ratio between the first and second circumferences can be determined based on the amount of ice to be made on the tray.

[0096] In particular, the amount of ice produced on the tray and the amount of ice compressed in the compression section can be balanced by forming the area of ​​the first circumference of the ice-forming space or surface of the tray and the area of ​​the second circumference of the tray without ice-forming space or surface at a set ratio.

[0097] According to an embodiment of the invention, the circumferential surface of the tray includes a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface, the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface forming different curvatures from each other, thereby facilitating water supply from the water tank to the first circumferential surface, and preventing the second circumferential surface from contacting the water in the water tank.

[0098] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the circumferential surface of the tray includes a first circumferential surface and a second circumferential surface, the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface forming different center distances relative to the center of the tray, so that water can be easily supplied from the water tank to the first circumferential surface, while the second circumferential surface will not come into contact with the water in the water tank.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the circumferential surface of the tray includes a plurality of first circumferential surfaces and a plurality of second circumferential surfaces, which are alternately arranged with respect to the rotation direction of the tray, thereby improving ice-making performance and making it easy to adjust the amount of ice made.

[0100] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a protrusion is provided at the intersection of the first circumferential surface and the second circumferential surface, and the angle between the two surfaces defining the protrusion forms an acute angle of 90 degrees or less, thereby preventing water from condensing on the protrusion and causing unintended freezing.

[0101] According to an embodiment of the invention, the surface state of the finally supplied ice is such that a quasi-liquid layer is formed, thereby improving the user's chewing satisfaction. In particular, at least one of a recess and a protrusion is provided on the circumferential surface of the tray, thus facilitating the recombination of the ice in the compression section by forming a smaller size of ice removed from the tray.

[0102] According to an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions are alternately arranged on the circumferential surface of the tray, thus easily forming a space or surface for ice making.

[0103] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a concave-convex structure is provided on the first peripheral wall of the tray, thereby increasing the contact area between the tray and water and the contact area with cold air, thus having the effect of increasing the ice formation rate in the tray.

[0104] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the tray is in the water supply position, the inner peripheral wall of the tray is located at the upper end of the water storage tank or at a position higher than the upper end of the water storage tank, so that the water in the water storage tank will not flow into the inner peripheral wall of the tray.

[0105] According to an embodiment of the invention, a tray cover is included to shield the tray, so that water does not flow into the inner peripheral wall side of the tray. Attached Figure Description

[0106] Figure 1 (A) is a front view of a refrigerator illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 (B) is a diagram showing the state of the refrigerator with one door separated.

[0107] Figure 2 (A) is a perspective view taken from the front of the first refrigerator compartment door according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 (B) is a perspective view viewed from the rear of the first refrigerator door of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Figure 3 (A) is a diagram showing the state of the basket and filter separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram showing the state of the ice-making chamber door and cover components separated from the first refrigerator door.

[0109] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the state of the ice maker located inside the ice maker with the ice maker door separated from the first refrigerator compartment door.

[0110] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an ice maker and door pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Figure 6This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Figure 7 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the tray assembly and water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Figure 11a This is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the first position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Figure 11b This is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the compression section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the transfer tube and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Figure 14 This is a top view showing the configuration of the transfer tube and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Figure 15a This diagram illustrates the state in which the piston of an embodiment of the present invention is in the first position, and ice removed from the tray assembly falls into the transfer tube.

[0122] Figure 15b This is a diagram illustrating the piston moving to the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the ice in the transfer tube is compressed by the piston.

[0123] Figure 15c This diagram illustrates the state in which the piston moves to a third position according to an embodiment of the present invention, thereby supplying ice to the transfer tube by the transfer guide device.

[0124] Figure 15d This diagram illustrates the state in which the piston returns to the first position and the transfer guide device moves to its original position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Figure 16 This is a top perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Figure 17 This is a lower perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] Figure 18 This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Figure 19 This is a side view showing the configuration of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 A sectional view cut along line 20-20.

[0130] Figure 21 This is a top view showing the relative configuration of the tray and the first scraper according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Figure 22 It is along Figure 21 A sectional view cut along line 22-22.

[0132] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the tray and water tank when the tray of the first embodiment of the present invention is in the first position (ice-making position).

[0133] Figure 24 It is along Figure 11a A sectional view cut along line 24-24.

[0134] Figure 25 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the tray and water tank when the tray of the first embodiment of the present invention is in the second position (water supply position).

[0135] Figure 26 It is along Figure 11b A sectional view cut along line 26-26.

[0136] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the relative configuration of the tray and the water tank when the tray is in a first position, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Figure 28a This is a diagram showing the relative configuration of the tray and the water tank when the tray is in the first position (ice-making position) according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Figure 28b It is shown Figure 28a The diagram shows the relative configuration of the tray and the water tank when the tray is in the second position (water supply position).

[0139] Figure 29aThis is a perspective view showing the configuration of a tray according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Figure 29b This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] Figure 30a This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Figure 30b This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Figure 31a This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] Figure 31b This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Figure 32 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0146] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when assigning reference numerals to the constituent elements of each drawing, the same symbols are used as much as possible for the same constituent elements, even though they are labeled in different drawings. Furthermore, in the process of describing the embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related well-known structures or functions are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions would hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0147] 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 merely for distinguishing the constituent elements from other constituent elements and do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the corresponding constituent elements. When a constituent element is described as being "connected," "bonded," or "in contact" with other constituent elements, it should be understood that the aforementioned constituent element can be directly connected to or in contact with the other constituent elements, or that other constituent elements can be "connected," "bonded," or "in contact" between the constituent elements.

[0148] On the other hand, in describing the constituent elements of the embodiments of the present invention, the statement "at least one of constituent elements A and B" can be understood as including (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) all three embodiments of A and B.

[0149] Furthermore, in describing the constituent elements of the embodiments of the present invention, the expression "at least one of constituent element A or B" can be understood to include (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) all three embodiments of A and B. That is, "at least one of constituent element A or B" can mean the same as "at least one of constituent element A and B".

[0150] Figure 1 (A) is a front view of a refrigerator illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 (B) is a diagram showing the state of the refrigerator with one door separated. Figure 2 (A) is a perspective view taken from the front of the first refrigerator compartment door according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 (B) is a perspective view viewed from the rear of the first refrigerator door of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Figure 3 (A) is a diagram showing the state of the basket and filter separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram showing the state of the ice-making chamber door and cover components separated from the first refrigerator door.

[0152] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The refrigerator 1 of this embodiment may include a cabinet 10. The cabinet 10 may have a storage compartment. The refrigerator 1 may also include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. The door may be rotatably or movably connected to the cabinet 10.

[0153] The storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment 18. The storage compartment may optionally or additionally include a freezer compartment 19. As an example, in... Figure 1 (B) shows a configuration where the storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment 18 and a freezer compartment 19. The refrigerator compartment 18 and the freezer compartment 19 may be separated by a partition wall.

[0154] The doors may include refrigerator doors 20 and 30 for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment 18. The refrigerator compartment 18 can be opened and closed through more than one refrigerator door 20 and 30. The doors may include freezer doors 50 for opening and closing the freezer compartment 19. The freezer compartment 19 can be opened and closed through more than one freezer door 50.

[0155] The following description will take the case where the refrigerator compartment 18 is opened and closed through the first refrigerator compartment door 20 and the second refrigerator compartment door 30 as an example.

[0156] At least one of the first refrigerator door 20 and the second refrigerator door 30 may include a dispenser 40 for draining water and / or ice. Of course, depending on the type of refrigerator, the freezer door 50 may also have the dispenser 40.

[0157] At least one of the first refrigerator door 20 and the second refrigerator door 30 may include one or more ice makers 100.

[0158] The following explanation uses the case where an ice maker 100 is installed on the first refrigerator compartment door 20 as an example. Of course, if needed, ice makers can also be installed on the second refrigerator compartment door 30 and the freezer compartment door 50. In this case, the dispenser 40 and the ice maker can be installed on the same door. Alternatively, an additional ice maker can be installed in the refrigerator compartment 18 or the freezer compartment 19.

[0159] Figure 1 Example (B) illustrates a refrigerator 1 that is a bottom-freezing refrigerator; however, it should be understood that, unlike this, the concept of the invention can also be applied to side-by-side refrigerators or top-freezing refrigerators. In the case of a side-by-side or top-freezing refrigerator, the freezer door may include an ice maker and dispenser, or the refrigerator door may include an ice maker and dispenser.

[0160] The dispenser 40 may be located on the front of the first refrigerator door 20. A portion of the dispenser 40 is recessed rearward to provide space for placing containers.

[0161] The dispenser 40 can discharge ice generated by the ice maker 100. At least a portion of the ice maker 100 can be located at a higher position than the dispenser 40.

[0162] The first refrigerator door 20 may include an outer shell 21. The outer shell 21 forms the front appearance of the first refrigerator door 20. The first refrigerator door 20 may include a door liner 70. The door liner 70 may be directly or indirectly connected to the outer shell 21. The door liner 70 can open and close the refrigerator compartment 18.

[0163] With the outer casing 21 connected to the door liner 70, a heat-insulating space can be formed between the outer casing 21 and the door liner 70. A heat-insulating material can be provided in this heat-insulating space. The heat-insulating material can be formed by curing foaming liquid injected from the outside. Alternatively, a vacuum insulation body can be provided in the heat-insulating space. Alternatively, the heat-insulating material and the vacuum insulation body can be provided together in the heat-insulating space.

[0164] The refrigerator 1 may include an ice-making compartment 25 that provides space for ice production. As an example, the ice-making compartment 25 may be located in the first refrigerator door 20. The ice maker 100 may be located in the ice-making compartment 25. As an example, the door liner 70 may form the ice-making compartment 25. The ice-making compartment 25 may be formed by recessing one side of the door liner 70 towards the outer casing 21.

[0165] The first refrigerator door 20 may further include an ice bucket 500 for storing ice generated by the ice maker 100. Ice stored in the ice bucket 500 can be discharged to the dispenser 40. The ice bucket 500 may be housed together with the ice maker 100 in the ice-making chamber 25. The ice bucket 500 may be located below the ice maker 100.

[0166] As an example, the cold air generated by the cooler can be supplied to the ice-making chamber 25. That is, the cooler can be a configuration that supplies cold air to the ice-making chamber 25. Alternatively, the cooler can be a configuration that operates to supply cold air to the ice-making chamber 25. As described above, the ice-making chamber 25 can be cooled by indirect cooling using cold air, and as another example, the ice-making chamber 25 can also be cooled by direct cooling using refrigerant pipes.

[0167] The cooler may be configured to cool the ice-making chamber 25 by including at least one of a refrigerant cycle and a thermoelectric element. As an example, cold air for cooling the freezer chamber 19 may be supplied to the ice-making chamber 25.

[0168] The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply flow path 16, which directs cold air from the freezer compartment 19 or cold air from the space where the evaporator, which generates cold air to cool the freezer compartment 19, is located to the first refrigerator door 20. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge flow path 17, which directs cold air discharged from the first refrigerator door 20 to the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located. The supply flow path 16 and the discharge flow path 17 may be disposed within the cabinet 10. The cold air circulating in the supply flow path 16 and the discharge flow path 17 may, as an example, be circulated by a fan (not shown) disposed in the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located.

[0169] A first opening 16a may be formed on the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18, forming the end of the supply flow path 16. Cold air from the supply flow path 16 can be discharged from the supply flow path 16 through the first opening 16a. A second opening 17a may be formed on the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18, forming the end of the discharge flow path 17. Cold air from the supply flow path 16 can flow into the discharge flow path 17 through the second opening 17a. The first opening 16a and the second opening 17a may be formed on one of the plurality of inner walls of the refrigerator compartment 18.

[0170] The first refrigerator door 20 may include a cold air inlet 75. If the first refrigerator door 20 is closed, the cold air inlet 75 may communicate with the supply flow path 16 via the first opening 16a. The first refrigerator door 20 may include a cold air outlet 76. If the first refrigerator door 20 is closed, the cold air outlet 76 may communicate with the discharge flow path 17 via the second opening 17a.

[0171] The cold air inlet 75 may be formed on one side of the door liner 70. However, it is not limited to this; one side of the door liner 70 may be the side facing the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18 where the supply flow path 16 is located when the first refrigerator door 20 is closed. The cold air outlet 76 may be formed on one side of the door liner 70. However, it is not limited to this; one side of the door liner 70 may be the side facing the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18 where the discharge flow path 17 is located when the first refrigerator door 20 is closed.

[0172] The side of the door liner 70 may include a first side portion 72 and a second side portion 74 with different widths in the front-to-back direction. The front-to-back width of the second side portion 74 may be greater than the width of the first side portion 72. One or more of the cold air inlet 75 and the cold air outlet 76 may be formed on the second side portion 74 of the door liner 70. The second side portion 74 may protrude further toward the refrigerator compartment 18 than the first side portion 72.

[0173] The first refrigerator door 20 may include an ice-making chamber door 60 for opening and closing the ice-making chamber 25. The ice-making chamber door 60 may be an insulated door with internal insulation material. The ice-making chamber door 60 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerator door 20 by means of hinges.

[0174] The ice-making chamber door 60 may be equipped with a first basket 62 for holding food. The first refrigerator door 20 may be equipped with a second basket 65. For example, the second basket 65 may be located below the first basket 62. The front-to-back length of the second basket 65 may be less than the front-to-back length of the first basket 62. The second basket 65 may overlap with the dispenser 40 in the front-to-back direction.

[0175] The first refrigerator door 20 may have a component space 63 for accommodating components. The component space 63 may accommodate at least one of a valve 68 for regulating water flow, a water filter (not shown), and a water tank 69. The component space 63 may be formed using the door liner 70. Alternatively, the component space 63 may be formed using an additional wall connected to the door liner 70. The first refrigerator door 20 may include a cover member 64 covering the component space 63. A retainer 67 connected to the filter may be provided in the component space 63.

[0176] The cover member 64 may include an opening 63. The filter can be engaged with the retainer 67 through the opening 63. The second housing 65 can cover the opening 63. If the second housing 65 is detached, the opening 63 can be exposed. The retainer 67 can be exposed from the opening 63.

[0177] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the ice maker positioned inside the ice maker compartment with the ice maker compartment door separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an ice maker and a circulation pipe for cold air flowing into the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The refrigerator door 20 of this embodiment may include an ice-making chamber 25 for accommodating an ice maker 100. The refrigerator door 20 may include a plurality of walls 80 defining the ice-making chamber 25.

[0179] The plurality of said walls may form at least a portion of the door lining 70.

[0180] The plurality of walls may include a lower wall 80a defining the lower portion of the ice-making chamber 25, an upper wall 80b defining the upper portion of the ice-making chamber 25, and two side walls 81 defining the two side portions of the ice-making chamber 25. The plurality of walls may also include a front wall 80c defining the front of the ice-making chamber 25.

[0181] The lower wall 80a may be formed with a dispensing section 84 for dispensing ice stored in the ice bucket 500 into the dispenser 40.

[0182] The ice maker 100 may be located between the upper wall 80b and the ice bucket 500. As an example, the ice maker 100 may be configured to be adjacent to the upper wall 80b.

[0183] The side wall 81 may be provided with a first pipe 90 connected to the cold air inlet 75 to supply cold air to the ice-making chamber 25. As an example, the first pipe 90 may be embedded in the side wall 81 so as not to protrude into the ice-making chamber 25. The first pipe 90 may extend upward from the cold air inlet 75 to the upper part of the refrigerator door 20 where the ice maker 100 is located.

[0184] The first pipe 90 includes a pipe discharge section 91 for discharging cold air, and the cold air discharged from the pipe discharge section 91 can flow into the cold air pipe 400 of the ice maker 100.

[0185] A supply section 82 for directing cold air to the cold air duct 400 may be formed on the side wall 81. The duct discharge section 91 may be connected to the supply section 82, and the cold air duct 400 may be connected to the duct discharge section 91 via the supply section 82.

[0186] A return section 83 for supplying cold air from the ice-making chamber 25 to the cold air outlet 76 can be formed on the side wall 81. As an example, the return section 83 can be formed at the height of the ice bucket 500.

[0187] A second conduit 95 may be connected to the return section 83. The second conduit 95 may include an inlet section 96 for introducing cold air discharged through the return section 83. The inlet section 96 may be directly or indirectly connected to the return section 83. As an example, the second conduit 95 may be embedded in the side wall 81 so as not to be exposed to the ice-making chamber 25. The second conduit 95 may extend downward from the return section 83 to the lower part of the refrigerator door 20 and connect to the cold air outlet 76.

[0188] The ice maker 100 may include an ice-making section 200, which receives water and cools it in a tray assembly 240, and then transfers the cooled ice.

[0189] The ice maker 100 may include a compression section 300 that transfers ice removed from the tray assembly 240 and manufactures ice in a third state by recombination or compression of the transferred ice. The ice in the third state may be ice of a predetermined thickness. The ice in the third state may correspond to the shape of the inner surface of the cylinder 360 or the dispensing tube 370 (described later), and for example, may have a cylindrical or polygonal prism shape.

[0190] The ice maker 100 may include a cold air duct 400 for supplying cold air to the ice-making section 200. It can be understood that the cold air duct 400 is configured between the side wall 81 and the tray assembly 240, described later.

[0191] The detailed structure of the ice maker 100 will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0192] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view showing the structure of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0193] Reference Figures 6 to 8 The ice maker 100 of this embodiment of the invention can be installed in the ice-making chamber 25 of the refrigerator door 20. The refrigerator door 20 may include an ice-making chamber plate 85 forming at least a portion of the wall 80 of the ice-making chamber 25. The ice-making chamber plate 85 may include the lower wall 80a and the front wall 80c.

[0194] The ice maker 100 can be supported on the front wall 80c of the ice-making chamber 25. The ice maker 100 can be connected to the front wall 80c via a wall-joining portion 329. A plurality of wall-joining portions 329 can be provided on both sides of the ice maker 100. As an example, the wall-joining portion 329 can be understood as a fastening device provided on the compression portion 300.

[0195] The ice maker 100 can be supported on the upper part of the front wall 80c, and the ice bucket 500 can be located on the lower side of the ice maker 100. The refrigerator door 20 may include a dispensing motor (not shown) to provide driving force for discharging ice stored in the ice bucket 500 to the dispenser 40.

[0196] The wall of the ice-making chamber 25 may include a motor housing 86 surrounding the extraction motor. The extraction motor is connected to a gear assembly located in front of the front wall 80c. If the gear assembly is actuated by the extraction motor, the auger (not shown) of the ice bucket 500 actuates to extract ice. The front wall 80c may have a through-hole 87 through which the shaft connecting the gear assembly and the ice bucket 500 passes. Ice discharged from the ice bucket 500 can be discharged to the dispenser 40 through the extraction part 84 of the lower wall 80a.

[0197] The ice maker 100 may include an ice-making section 200, which includes a first motor 210. The first motor 210 may be designated as a moving tray assembly 240 (see reference). Figure 9 The ice-making motor provides the driving force.

[0198] The ice-making section 200 may include ice-making supports 220 and 230 that form a cold air flow path. A cold air duct 400 is connected to one side of the ice-making supports 220 and 230, and the cold air supplied through the cold air duct 400 can flow through the cold air flow path formed inside the ice-making supports 220 and 230. The cold air duct 400 may also be defined as a "first cold air duct", and the ice-making supports 220 and 230 as a "second cold air duct".

[0199] The first motor 210 can be connected to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0200] The ice-making supports 220 and 230 may include a first support 220 forming a receiving space for the tray assembly 240. A cold air duct 400 is connected to the first support 220, through which cold air supplied may flow into the receiving space. The cold air duct 400 may include an inflow section 420 connected to a supply section 82 of the sidewall 81.

[0201] The ice-making supports 220 and 230 may include a second support 230, which is connected to the first support 220 and together forms a cold airflow path. As an example, one side of the first support 220 is open, and the open side is covered by the second support 230, thereby forming a cold airflow path inside it.

[0202] The second bracket 230 may be configured to accommodate gear assemblies 235, 236 (see reference) that are driven by the first motor 210. Figure 9 ) containment space.

[0203] The first bracket 220 and the second bracket 230 can be connected in the front-to-back direction. The first motor 210 can be connected to one side of the second bracket 230, and the gear assemblies 235 and 236 can be linked by the drive of the first motor 210. As an example, the first motor 210 and the second bracket 230 can be arranged in the front-to-back direction.

[0204] The ice-making chamber plate 85 may include a support wall 85a for supporting the ice-making part 200. The support wall 85a forms the upper part of the ice-making chamber plate 85, and the ice-making part 200 can be supported on the upper part of the ice-making chamber plate 85 by the support wall 85a.

[0205] The ice-making supports 220 and 230 may include a plate joint 229 supported on the ice-making chamber plate 85. As an example, the plate joint 229 may be disposed on the first support 220 and engage with a joint hole 88 formed in the support wall 85a.

[0206] As an example, the plate joint 229 may include a rib protruding from the first support 220. However, unlike this, the plate joint 229 provided on the ice-making supports 220, 230 may be provided in various forms, such as as a protrusion or fastening hole that engages with a fastening member. Correspondingly, the joint hole 88 of the ice-making chamber plate 85 may also be provided in the form of a rib or a protrusion.

[0207] The plate joint 229 can be provided in a plurality of positions on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0208] The ice-making unit 200 may include a water storage tank 250 for storing water. The water storage tank 250 may supply water to the tray assembly 240.

[0209] The first support 220 may include a water supply pipe 120 for guiding water supply to the water storage tank 250 (see reference). Figure 11a The water supply pipe connection portion 221b is formed in the first bracket 220 on the surface facing the front wall 80c.

[0210] As an example, the water supply pipe 120 can be inserted into the water supply pipe connection portion 221b, and at least a portion of the water supply pipe 120 can extend into the interior of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0211] The ice maker 100 may include a compression section 300, which includes a second motor 310. The second motor 310 may be named for providing driving force to move a piston 335 (see reference) for the compression or recombination of ice. Figure 12 The "compression motor" of ).

[0212] The compression section 300 may include a first bracket 320 connected to the second motor 310. The first bracket 320 may support the components constituting the compression section 300.

[0213] The compression section 300 may include an outlet 328 for discharging ice produced by the ice maker 100 into the ice bucket 500. As an example, the outlet 328 may be formed on the bottom surface of the first support 320, and the ice discharged through the outlet 328 may fall into the ice bucket 500.

[0214] The compression section 300 may include a cylinder 360 defining the movement space of the ice (powder ice) generated by the ice-making section 200. Ice flowing into the interior of the cylinder 360 may be compressed into ice (shaped ice) with a predetermined volume by a reciprocating piston 335.

[0215] The compression section 300 may include a transfer tube 340 disposed at the inlet side of the cylinder 360 and used to transfer ice (powdered ice) discharged from the ice-making section 200 into the cylinder 360. A space for accommodating the powdered ice is formed inside the transfer tube 340, and the powdered ice can move into the interior of the cylinder 360.

[0216] The compression section 300 may include a discharge pipe 370 disposed on the outlet side of the cylinder 360 and providing a specified resistance so that the ice present in the cylinder 360 can be compressed.

[0217] As an example, in order to provide the aforementioned resistance, the discharge tube 370 can be configured to have a smaller cross-sectional area relative to the direction of ice movement.

[0218] To provide the aforementioned resistance, the discharge tube 370 may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as silicon.

[0219] The outlet of the discharge pipe 370 is open, and the molded ice that is compressed or recombined when passing through the discharge pipe 370 can be discharged through the open outlet of the discharge pipe 370.

[0220] The compression section 300 may include a cutting wall 380, which is positioned at a predetermined distance from the outlet of the discharge pipe 370 and interferes with the molded ice discharged through the discharge pipe 370. The cutting wall 380 may be supported by the first bracket 320 and configured to be adjacent to the upper side of the discharge outlet 328.

[0221] The cutting wall 380 may include an inclined surface facing the discharge pipe 370, through which the shaped ice discharged from the discharge pipe 370 can be cut by interfering with the inclined surface. Furthermore, the cut ice can fall into the ice bucket 500 through the discharge outlet 328.

[0222] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the tray assembly and water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11a This is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the first position according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11b This is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0223] First, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The ice-making section 200 in this embodiment of the invention may include a tray assembly 240 that forms an ice-making space.

[0224] The tray assembly 240 may include a tray 241 for receiving water and making ice. The tray 241 may be configured to move by receiving power from a first motor 210. As an example, the tray 241 may be configured to rotate.

[0225] The tray 241 may include peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b (also referred to as peripheral walls) that form a water storage space. It can be understood that the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b include "cells" for generating ice.

[0226] As an example, the tray 241 may be cylindrical with a circumferential surface. The circumferential surface may form the outer circumferential surface of the cylinder. That is, it can be understood that the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b extend in the circumferential direction and form the outer circumferential surface of the tray 241.

[0227] On the other hand, the tray 241 may be in the shape of a disc or a plate, including two side walls and a perimeter.

[0228] The peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b may include a first peripheral surface 242a forming a water storage space. The first peripheral surface 242a may form at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the tray 241. The first peripheral surface 242a may include a surface that contacts the water stored in the water storage tank 250 when positioned toward the water storage tank 250.

[0229] The first peripheral surface 242a may be configured to be adjacent to the first scraper 280 so that ice formed on the first peripheral surface 242a comes into contact with the first scraper 280.

[0230] The first peripheral surface 242a may include at least one of a first portion defining a recessed portion and a second portion defining a protruding portion to increase the contact area (cooling area) with water. The first portion may include a recessed portion 241a, and the second portion may include a protruding portion 241b.

[0231] If the recessed portion of the first circumferential surface 242a is taken as the reference position, it can be understood that the first circumferential surface 242a includes a protrusion 241b, and if the protrusion of the first circumferential surface 242a is taken as the reference position, it can be understood that the first circumferential surface 242a includes a recessed portion 241a.

[0232] It can be understood that, through the formation of the recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b, the first peripheral surface 242a includes a concave-convex structure.

[0233] The recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b may each have a plurality of them. A structure may have a plurality of recessed portions 241a and a plurality of protruding portions 241b arranged alternately.

[0234] The peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b may include a second peripheral surface 242b. The second peripheral surface 242b may include a surface that does not come into contact with the water stored in the water storage tank 250 when it is positioned toward the water storage tank 250.

[0235] The second peripheral surface 242b can be configured to be relatively far away from the first scraper 280, so that the ice generated on the second peripheral surface 242b does not come into contact with the first scraper 280.

[0236] The distance from the center of the tray 241 to the second circumferential surface 242b (center distance) can be less than the distance from the center of the tray 241 to the first circumferential surface 242a (center distance). As an example, the second circumferential surface 242b can be shaped as if cut from the edge of the first circumferential surface 242a toward the center of the tray 241.

[0237] When the first circumferential surface 242a is in a position where it is in contact with cold air and thus freezes, the second circumferential surface 242b is configured to face the water storage tank 250. At this time, since the second circumferential surface 242b is not in contact with the water in the water storage tank 250, the water storage tank 250 is not cooled by the low-temperature tray 241. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0238] The first circumferential surface 242a may be at least one. As an example, there may be a plurality of first circumferential surfaces 242a, and the second circumferential surface 242b may be disposed among the plurality of first circumferential surfaces 242a with reference to the circumferential direction of the tray 241.

[0239] At least one second circumferential surface 242b is provided. As an example, a plurality of second circumferential surfaces 242b may be provided, and the first circumferential surface 242a may be arranged among the plurality of second circumferential surfaces 242b with reference to the circumferential direction of the tray 241.

[0240] The tray 241 may include a sidewall 244 (also referred to as a side). The sidewall 244 may include a portion extending radially along the tray 241.

[0241] The sidewalls 244 can be provided in multiples, for example, two, to form the two sides of the tray 241. The two sidewalls 244 can be configured to be separated axially from the first motor 210. The circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b can be formed between the two sidewalls 244.

[0242] The tray 241 may include an inner peripheral wall 244a connected to the side wall 244. It can be understood that the inner peripheral wall 244a forms the inner peripheral surface of the tray 241, and may include the opposite sides of the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b with reference to the side wall 244.

[0243] The tray 241 is fitted with a rod 249 that serves as the "central axis" of the tray 241. The rod 249 may be non-circular in shape.

[0244] The rod 249 may be configured to pass through the center (or rotation center) of the tray 241. The center of the tray 241 may include a central support 243, which may have a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the rod 249.

[0245] The rod 249 can be engaged with gear assemblies 235 and 236, and rotated by linkage with the gear assemblies 235 and 236. As an example, the rod 249 can be integrally formed with the gear assemblies 235 and 236, or it can be configured to be detachable.

[0246] As another example, the rod 249 can also be removed, and the central shaft protruding from the gear assembly 235, 236 can be directly coupled to the central support 243 of the tray 241.

[0247] The tray 241 may include an extension wall 243a extending from the central support 243 toward the side wall 244. As an example, the extension wall 243a may extend radially from the central support 243.

[0248] The extension wall 243a can be provided in a plurality of ways, and the plurality of extension walls 243a can be separated from each other and arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0249] The direction is defined. Throughout the specification, "axial" may refer to the direction in which the shaft of the first motor 210 or the second motor 310 extends, and "radial" may refer to the direction along the radius that intersects the axial direction.

[0250] The tray 241 may have tray holes 245. This can be understood as a hole extending through the tray 241 along its axial direction. The cooling area of ​​the tray 241 can be increased by allowing cold air to flow through the tray holes 245.

[0251] It can be understood that the tray hole 245 is a space defined by the central support 243, a plurality of extending walls 243a, and an inner peripheral wall 244a. A plurality of tray holes 245 can be formed, and these tray holes 245 can be arranged along the circumferential direction of the tray 241.

[0252] The tray assembly 240 may include tray covers 246 and 247 connected to the tray 241. The tray covers 246 and 247 may be disposed on the two side walls 244 of the tray 241.

[0253] The tray covers 246 and 247 can be configured to cover at least one side of the tray 241 and prevent water from flowing into the underwater tray holes 245 of the tray 241 of the water storage tank 250.

[0254] The tray covers 246 and 247 can be made of a material with low thermal conductivity to limit ice formation. As an example, the material with low thermal conductivity may include a non-metallic material. Plastic materials are suggested as examples of such non-metallic materials.

[0255] The tray covers 246 and 247 may include a first tray cover 246 disposed on one side wall 244 of the tray 241. The first tray cover 246 may include a first cover wall 246a covering one side wall 244 of the tray 241. The radial length (or width) of the first cover wall 246a may be greater than the radial length (or width) of the side wall 244 of the tray 241 to prevent water from flowing into the tray hole 245 of the tray 241.

[0256] The first tray cover 246 may include a first through hole 246b through which the central support 243 of the tray 241 passes. The first through hole 246b may be aligned axially with the central support 243 of the tray 241.

[0257] The first tray cover 246 may include a first extension wall 246c extending from the first through hole 246b toward the first cover wall 246a. The first extension wall 246c may extend radially to form an extension wall 243a covering the tray 241. A plurality of first extension walls 246c may be provided corresponding to the extension walls 243a.

[0258] The first tray cover 246 may include a first inner peripheral wall 246d connected to the first cover wall 246a. It can be understood that the first inner peripheral wall 246d forms the inner peripheral surface of the first tray cover 246.

[0259] The first tray cover 246 may include a first cover fastening portion 246e protruding from the first inner peripheral wall 246d. The first cover fastening portion 246e may include a protrusion, through which a predetermined fastening member may pass and fasten to the second cover fastening portion 247e of the second tray cover 247. However, the shape of the first cover fastening portion 246e is not limited to this, and it may also be provided in the shape of a rib or an engaging protrusion, as long as it can engage with the second cover fastening portion 247e.

[0260] The first tray cover 246 may include a first connecting portion 246f communicating with the tray hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the first connecting portion 246f and then through the tray hole 245.

[0261] The tray covers 246 and 247 may include a second tray cover 247 disposed on the other side wall 244 of the tray 241. The second tray cover 247 may include a second cover wall 247a covering the other side wall 244 of the tray 241. The radial length (or width) of the second cover wall 247a may be greater than the radial length (or width) of the side wall 244 of the tray 241 to prevent water from flowing into the tray hole 245 of the tray 241.

[0262] The second tray cover 247 is substantially similar in configuration to the first tray cover 246. The second tray cover 247 may include a second through hole 247b having a configuration corresponding to the first through hole 246b of the first tray cover 246.

[0263] The second tray cover 247 may include a second extension wall 247c having a configuration corresponding to the first extension wall 246c of the first tray cover 246.

[0264] The second tray cover 247 may include a second inner peripheral wall 247d having a configuration corresponding to the first inner peripheral wall 246d of the first tray cover 246.

[0265] The second tray cover 247 may include a second cover fastening portion 247e having a configuration corresponding to the first cover fastening portion 246e of the first tray cover 246.

[0266] The second tray cover 247 may include a second connecting portion 247f communicating with the tray hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the first connecting portion 246f and the tray hole 245 before passing through the second connecting portion 247f.

[0267] Explained from different perspectives.

[0268] In a broad sense, the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 can be understood as a component of a "tray". In this case, the tray assembly 240 can be referred to as a "tray", and the tray 241 can be referred to as a "tray portion", with the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 forming part of the tray 241.

[0269] Another embodiment will be described. The tray assembly 240 may include only the tray 241 without the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247.

[0270] The ice-making section 200 may include a first support 220 forming a first receiving space 220a of the tray assembly 240.

[0271] The first support 220 may include a first wall 221 supported on the ice-making chamber plate 85. It can be understood that the first wall 221 is a wall that covers at least a portion of one side of the tray assembly 240.

[0272] From different viewpoints, the first wall 221 can be configured to support the tray 241. The first wall 221 may include an insertion hole 221a to allow at least a portion of the tray 241 to be inserted, thereby supporting the tray 241. As an example, the central support 243 of the tray 241 can be rotatably inserted into the insertion hole 221a.

[0273] The first wall 221 may include a water supply pipe connection portion 221b for guiding the water supply pipe 120. The water supply pipe 120 may be inserted into the water supply pipe connection portion 221b, and at least a portion of the water supply pipe 120 may be located in the first receiving space 220a.

[0274] The first wall 221 may form at least a portion of the wall that guides the flow of cold air flowing in through the cold air duct 400.

[0275] The ice-making section 200 may include a second wall 222 connected to the first wall 221. The second wall 222 may be connected to an end of the first wall 221, for example, to an upper end, and protrude toward the first motor 210. The second wall 222 may form the upper end of the ice-making section 200.

[0276] The ice-making section 200 may include a third wall 223 connected to the first wall 221. The third wall 223 may be connected to an end of the first wall 221, for example, to a lower end, and protrude toward the first motor 210. The third wall 223 may form the lower end of the ice-making section 200.

[0277] The ice-making section 200 may include a fourth wall 224 and a fifth wall 225 connected to the third wall 223. The fourth wall 224 may be connected to one side of the third wall 223, and the fifth wall 225 may be connected to the other side of the third wall 223. As an example, the fourth wall 224 and the fifth wall 225 may protrude from both ends of the third wall 223.

[0278] The ice-making section 200 may include a second receiving space 220b for housing a water storage tank 250. This can be understood as the second receiving space 220b being the space defined by the third wall 223, the fourth wall 224, and the fifth wall 225. The second receiving space 220b may be formed below the first receiving space 220a.

[0279] The water storage tank 250 may include a shell with a specified capacity, and a heater 255 may be provided on the wall of the shell to provide heat to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing. The heater 255 may be referred to as a "water storage tank heater".

[0280] The ice-making section 200 may include a water supply guide wall 224a that guides water supplied from the water supply pipe 120 to the water storage tank 250. The water supply guide wall 224a may form at least a portion of the fourth wall 224.

[0281] The water supply guide wall 224a may include an inclined surface located adjacent to the discharge portion of the water supply pipe 120 and guiding the water discharged from the water supply pipe 120. The inclined surface of the water supply guide wall 224a may extend obliquely relative to the direction from the water supply pipe connection portion 221b toward the water storage tank 250.

[0282] Water discharged from the water supply pipe 120 can fall onto the inclined surface, and the water after falling can flow slowly downward along the inclined surface and flow into the water storage tank 250.

[0283] The ice-making section 200 may include a first scraper 280 that contacts the ice produced by the tray 241 to separate it. The first scraper 280 may be located adjacent to the rotation path of the tray 241. In particular, the first scraper 280 may be located adjacent to the first circumferential surface 242a when the tray 241 rotates.

[0284] The first scraper 280 can be disposed on the fifth wall 225. As an example, a water storage tank 250 can be disposed on the inner side of the fifth wall 225, and the first scraper 280 can be combined with the outer side of the fifth wall 225.

[0285] The ice-making section 200 may include a second scraper 285 that contacts the frozen ice in order to separate the ice frozen in the tray assembly 240.

[0286] The second scraper 285 may be located near the two side walls of the tray assembly 240 to scrape off ice frozen on the two side walls of the tray assembly 240, i.e., frozen on the first cover wall 246a and the second cover wall 247a.

[0287] A plurality of second scrapers 285 may be provided, and any one of the second scrapers 285 may be provided on the first wall 221. Another second scraper 285 may be provided on the outer wall of the second bracket 230, for example, it may be provided on the outer wall of the bracket 231.

[0288] The first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 can be configured in a position separate from each other; for example, they can be configured on opposite sides of each other with reference to the center of the tray assembly 240. With the configuration described above, it is possible to prevent the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 from obstructing the cold airflow path formed in the ice-making section 200.

[0289] In detail, the cold air flowing in through the cold air duct 400 flows from the area where the second scraper 285 is located to the opposite area where the first scraper 280 is located, with the center of the tray assembly 240 as the reference. If the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 are arranged on either side of the tray assembly 240 with the center as the reference, these scrapers will act as flow path resistance. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 are arranged on both sides of the tray assembly 240, thereby reducing the resistance to the cold air flow.

[0290] During the rotation of the tray assembly 240, the ice that comes into contact with the second scraper 285 can be separated from the tray assembly 240, and the separated ice can flow into the water storage tank 250.

[0291] The second scraper 285 may be located adjacent to the water tank 250 so that ice separated from the second scraper 285 can flow into the water tank 250. As an example, with respect to the height direction relative to the ground supporting the refrigerator, the water tank 250 may be configured below the tray assembly 240, and the second scraper 285 may be configured at a position lower than the center of the tray assembly 240.

[0292] From different perspectives, the second scraper 285 can be configured to overlap vertically with the open upper end of the water storage tank 250. This can be understood as the open upper end of the water storage tank 250 being the end from which water flows in.

[0293] A cold air flow path can be formed inside the first support 220, allowing cold air to flow from the cold air duct 400. At least a portion of the cold air flow path can be formed in the first receiving space 220a.

[0294] The first support 220 may include a first opening 224b, to which the air duct 400 is connected, forming an air inflow portion. The first opening 224b may be formed on the fourth wall 224 (also called a side wall) of the first support 220. For example, the first opening 224b may be formed on the side where the water supply guide wall 224a is provided, and located above the water supply guide wall 224a.

[0295] The first opening 224b and the water reservoir 250 can be located on opposite sides of each other with reference to the center of the tray 241. For example, the first opening 224b can be formed at a position higher than the center of the tray 241, and the water reservoir 250 can be configured at a position lower than the center of the tray 241. With the configuration described above, it is possible to prevent cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b from directly flowing into the water reservoir 250.

[0296] The ice-making section 200 may include a guide wall 226 configured to guide cold air toward the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241. The guide wall 226 may be disposed on the first wall 221 and be curved in shape corresponding to the curvature of the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b.

[0297] The first part of the guide wall 226 can be connected to the first wall 221, and the second part can be connected to the second wall 222.

[0298] The guide wall 226 and the first opening 224b can be located on opposite sides of each other with reference to the center of the tray 241. Thus, the air supplied to the outer peripheral surface (circumferential surface) of the tray 241 through the first opening 224b is guided by the guide wall 226 located on the opposite side of the first opening 224b, thereby easily forming a flow of cold air along the outer peripheral surface (circumferential surface) of the tray 241.

[0299] The space between the guide wall 226 and the first scraper 280 can form a second opening 227 for discharging powdered ice separated from the tray 241, through which the cold air guided by the guide wall 226 can diffuse into the ice-making chamber 25.

[0300] The ice-making unit 200 may include gear assemblies 235 and 236 that are linked to the first motor 210. The gear assemblies 235 and 236 may include a drive gear 235 connected to the first motor 210 and a driven gear 236 linked to the drive gear 235.

[0301] The number of teeth on the drive gear 235 is less than the number of teeth on the driven gear 236, so the gear assemblies 235 and 236 can form a reduction gear. This increases the torque available for rotating the tray assembly 240.

[0302] The ice-making section 200 may include a second bracket 230 that houses the gear assemblies 235 and 236. The second bracket 230 can form a cold airflow path within the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 by shielding the open side of the first bracket 220.

[0303] The second bracket 230 may include a gear bracket 231 that supports the gear assemblies 235 and 236. The gear bracket 231 may include a bracket wall 231a that covers an open side of the first bracket 220, and the bracket wall 231a may form at least one side of a cold air flow path.

[0304] The gear assemblies 235 and 236 can be rotatably supported on the bracket wall 231a. A hole can be formed in the first central portion 235a of the drive gear 235 to connect with the shaft of the first motor 210, through which the shaft of the first motor 210 can pass and be supported on the bracket wall 231a.

[0305] The rod 249 can be connected to the second central portion 236a of the driven gear 236 through the support wall 231a. A hole can be formed in the second central portion 236a of the driven gear 236 for connecting with the rod 249, through which the rod 249 can be supported on the support wall 231a.

[0306] The first central portion 235a and the second central portion 236a may each include a support forming a hole.

[0307] The second bracket 230 may include a gear cover 232 connected to the gear bracket 231. The gear cover 232 may cover the open side of the gear bracket 231. The gear bracket 231 and the gear cover 232 may constitute a "gear cover".

[0308] As an example, the gear cover 232 can be fastened to the gear bracket 231. The gear bracket 231 may include a first fastening portion 231b that is fastened to the gear cover 232, and the gear cover 232 may include a second fastening portion 232a that is fastened to the first fastening portion 231b. Prescribed fastening members may be combined with the first fastening portion 231b and the second fastening portion 232a.

[0309] The gear bracket 231 may include a first coupling portion 231c that is fastened to the first bracket 220. The first bracket 220 may include a second coupling portion 222a that is fastened to the first coupling portion 231c. A specified fastening member may engage with the first coupling portion 231c and the second coupling portion 222a.

[0310] The gear cover 232 can be coupled to the first motor 210. The first motor 210 may include a fastening rib 215, and the gear cover 232 may include a fastening protrusion 237 coupled to the fastening rib 215. A specified fastening member may pass through the fastening rib 215 and be coupled to the fastening protrusion 237.

[0311] The gear cover 232 may include a first through-hole 232b through which the shaft of the first motor 210 passes. The shaft of the first motor 210 may be coupled to the first center portion 235a of the drive gear 235 through the first through-hole 232b. The first center portion 235a of the drive gear 235 may be rotatably supported on the first through-hole 232b.

[0312] The gear cover 232 may include a second through portion 232c that supports the second central portion 236a of the driven gear 236. The second central portion 236a of the driven gear 236 may be rotatably supported in the second through portion 232c.

[0313] If the first motor 210 rotates, the drive gear 235 and the driven gear 236 are linked, and the rod 249 connected to the driven gear 236 can rotate. The tray assembly 240 can rotate with the rotation of the rod 249.

[0314] Reference Figure 11a and Figure 11b The operation of the tray assembly 240 will be explained. Figure 11a The diagram shows the state of the tray assembly 240 when it is in the ice-making position (first position). Figure 11b The state of the tray assembly 240 when it is in the water supply position (second position) is shown.

[0315] Reference Figure 11a Driven by the first motor 210, the tray assembly 240 can be positioned in the ice-making position. In this position, the first circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241 can be positioned within the first receiving space 220a of the first support 220 without being submerged in the water tank 250. As an example, such as Figure 11a As shown, the two first circumferential surfaces 242a can be located on the upper sides of the water storage tank 250.

[0316] At the ice-making position, the water supplied to the first peripheral surface 242a can be cooled by the cold air supplied through the cold air pipe 400, and transform into a thin layer of ice. The state of the ice cooled on the first peripheral surface 242a can be designated as the "first state". The ice in the first state can be formed at a predetermined height on the surfaces of the recesses 241a and protrusions 241b provided on the first peripheral surface 242a. It can be understood that the ice in the first state is a layer of ice with a relatively thin thickness.

[0317] If a set time has elapsed at the ice-making position, the first motor 210 can drive the tray assembly 240 to rotate. For example, as... Figure 11a As shown, the tray assembly 240 can rotate counterclockwise.

[0318] During the rotation of the tray assembly 240, when the first circumferential surface 242a is located at the position of the first scraper 280, the first scraper 280 can come into contact with the ice formed on the first circumferential surface 242a. During this contact process, the ice can be separated from the first circumferential surface 242a and removed.

[0319] The removed ice can flow into the compression section 300, and more particularly into the transfer tube 340. The removed ice is in a powdery state, which can be referred to as the "second state".

[0320] The ice removal process can be performed during the interval of one rotation (360 degrees) of the tray 241, so that the ice generated on the two first circumferential surfaces 242a can be separated by the first scraper 280.

[0321] On the other hand, during this process, the first circumferential surface 242a, which has completed the ice-moving process, can be further rotated and... Figure 11b As shown, the water supply point is reached. Water can be supplied to the first circumferential surface 242a when the water supply point is reached.

[0322] In detail, as the pallet assembly 240 from Figure 11a The position rotates counterclockwise, the ice on the first circumference 242a is removed, and it moves to... Figure 11bThe position is such that the first circumferential surface 242a is immersed in the water in the water storage tank 250. The water in contact with the first circumferential surface 242a can exist on the first circumferential surface 242a due to surface tension.

[0323] This water supply operation can continue until both first surfaces 242a are supplied with water. That is, if the tray assembly 240 is supplied with water from... Figure 11a If the position is rotated once, the ice-moving and water-supplying actions can be performed simultaneously.

[0324] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the compression section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the transfer tube and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a top view showing the configuration of the transfer tube and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15a This diagram illustrates the state of ice being removed from the tray assembly and falling into the transfer tube when the piston is in the first position according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15b This is a diagram illustrating the piston moving to the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the ice in the transfer tube is compressed by the piston.

[0325] First, refer to Figures 12 to 14 The ice maker 100 of this embodiment may include a compression section 300, which is used to compress or recombin ice (powder ice, ice in a second state) removed from the ice making section 200.

[0326] The compression section 300 may include a second motor 310 for providing driving force. The second motor 310 may include a motor shaft 312.

[0327] The compression section 300 may include a pinion 315, which engages with the motor shaft 312 and rotates as driven by the second motor 310. The pinion 315 may include a shaft engagement portion 314 that engages with the motor shaft 312.

[0328] The compression portion 300 may include a rack 330 that is linked to the pinion 315. The rack 330 may include a rack body 331 in the shape of a bar and a first gear 332 formed on the rack body 331 and linked to the pinion 315.

[0329] The rack 330 may include a track 334 for guiding its movement. As an example, the track 334 may be located at the lower end of the rack body 331. The track 334 may move along a track groove 324a provided in the fastening wall 324 of the first support 320.

[0330] The compression section 300 may include a piston 335 that moves together with the rack 330. The piston 335 may include a portion extending in a direction corresponding to the extension direction of the rack 330, and is configured to reciprocate. The piston 335 may move only to the inlet side of the cylinder 360, or it may move such that at least a portion of the piston 335 is inserted into the cylinder 360.

[0331] As an example, the piston 335 may be generally cylindrical in shape, corresponding to the internal shape of the second portion 342 of the transfer tube 340.

[0332] The compression portion 300 may include a connecting bracket 336, which is disposed on one side of the piston 335 and engages the piston 335 and the rack 330. The connecting bracket 336 may engage with the rack body 331. The connecting bracket 336 may include a rack fastening portion 336a, and the rack body 331 may include a bracket fastening portion 331a. A specified fastening member can engage the rack fastening portion 336a and the bracket fastening portion 331a.

[0333] The compression section 300 may include a transfer tube 340 for receiving space 341a of ice (powder ice) in the second state. The transfer tube 340 may be disposed on the inlet side of the cylinder 360.

[0334] The transfer tube 340 may include a first portion 341 having the receiving space 341a. The first portion 341 may be formed with an opening to allow ice in the second state to flow in.

[0335] The transfer tube 340 may include a second portion 342 having an internal space communicating with the receiving space 341a. A piston 335 may be inserted into the second portion 342.

[0336] The second portion 342 may have an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the piston 335, so that the piston 335 can reciprocate in the inserted state. As an example, the second portion 342 may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0337] The second portion 342 can be located below the transfer tube 340 with respect to the direction of gravity. Ice flowing into the first portion 341 can move downwards due to gravity and flow into the interior space of the second portion 342. The piston 335 can reciprocate within the interior space of the second portion 342.

[0338] The transfer tube 340 can be supported by the first bracket 320. The transfer tube 340 may include a fastening portion 343 disposed on the first portion 341. The fastening portion 343 can be engaged with the transfer tube fastening portion 321d of the first bracket 320 by means of a predetermined fastening member. Through the fastening of the fastening portion 343 and the transfer tube fastening portion 321d, the upper part of the transfer tube 340 can be stably supported on the first bracket 320.

[0339] The fastening part 343 may be provided in a plurality of units, and the plurality of fastening parts 343 may be provided in the upper and lower parts of the transfer tube 340. Figure 13 A plurality of fasteners 343a, 343b, and 343c are shown.

[0340] The transfer tube 340 may include a protrusion 344, and the first support 320 may include a protrusion groove 321e for receiving the protrusion 344. The protrusion 344 may be positioned lower than the fastening portion 343, as an example, a second part 342. The protrusion 344 may be temporarily assembled by inserting it into the protrusion groove 321e, after which the fastening portion 343 is fastened to the transfer tube fastening portion 321d.

[0341] The compression section 300 may include a movable rod 350 to guide the movement of ice within the transfer tube 340. As an example, the rod 350 may be rotatable. The rod 350 may be referred to as a "transfer guide device".

[0342] The rod 350 may include a rotating bar 351 forming the rotation center of the rod 350. The rotating bar 351 may be rotatably inserted into a bar support portion 345 of the transfer tube 340. The bar support portion 345 may be formed in a rib shape protruding from the first portion 341 and having a recessed groove to allow the rotating bar 351 to be inserted.

[0343] The rod 350 may include a plate 352 extending from the rotating bar 351. The plate 352 may be disposed at the central portion of the rotating bar 351. The plate 352 may rotate about the rotating bar 351 to move into the interior of the transfer tube 340.

[0344] The transfer tube 340 may form an opening 341b through which the plate 352 passes. The plate 352 may move through the opening 341b to the inside or outside of the transfer tube 340.

[0345] The transfer tube 340 may include a stop 347 disposed outside the opening 341b. The stop 347 may have a shape that is curved along the periphery of at least a portion of the plate 352. The stop 347 may limit the movement distance of the plate 352 as it moves outward from the transfer tube 340. The plate 352 may move only outward from the opening 341b to a position that interferes with the stop 347.

[0346] The plate 352 may include a curved portion 352a extending with a set curvature. The bending direction of the curved portion 352a may correspond to the downward direction inside the transfer tube 340.

[0347] The ice present inside the transfer tube 340 can be pressurized downwards via the bend 352a. Consequently, the ice present in the first portion 341 can be easily moved to the second portion 342 by the rod 350.

[0348] A hole 354 may be formed in the bend 352a. The hole 354 is to prevent ice from being blocked by the bend 352a when it flows into the transfer tube 340, thus restricting its movement to the lower part of the transfer tube 340. Ice can move to the lower part of the bend 352a through the hole 354.

[0349] The compression portion 300 may include a spring 358 that provides a restoring force to the rod 350. The spring 358 may be disposed at one end of the rotating bar 351. As an example, the spring 358 may include a torsion spring.

[0350] When the linkage between the spring 358 and the second gear 333 is released, the spring 358 provides a restoring force to the rod 350, causing the rod 350 to return to the outside of the transfer tube 340, while the rod 350 is moved inside the transfer tube 340 through linkage with the second gear 333.

[0351] A spring support portion 351a may be provided on the rotating bar 351, and one side of the spring 358 may be supported by the spring support portion 351a.

[0352] The spring support portion 351a may protrude from a position adjacent to both ends of the rotating bar 351 in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the rotating bar 351. The restoring force of the spring 358 can be transmitted to the rod 350 through the spring support portion 351a.

[0353] The compression section 300 may include a third gear 355 that transmits power to the rod 350. The third gear 355 may be connected to the other end of the rotating bar 351. It can be understood that the other end is the end opposite to the end of the rotating bar 351 that provides one end of the spring 358.

[0354] The third gear 355 can be linked with the second gear 333 disposed on the rack 330. The second gear 333 can be located to the side of the first gear 332. The first gear 332 and the second gear 333 can be axially arranged on the top surface of the rack body 331.

[0355] The first gear 332 may be configured to have gear teeth of a predetermined length extending from the first end of the rack body 331 toward the second end, i.e., toward the cylinder 360. The second gear 333 may be configured to have gear teeth of a predetermined length extending from the second end of the rack body 331 toward the first end. The number of gear teeth of the second gear 333 may be less than the number of gear teeth of the first gear 332.

[0356] The compression section 300 may include a cylinder 360 disposed on the outlet side of the transfer tube 340. Ice accumulated in the lower part of the transfer tube 340 can be moved into the interior of the cylinder 360 by means of the piston 335.

[0357] Furthermore, from the perspective of guiding the transfer of ice, broadly speaking, the cylinder 360 can be understood as forming part of the transfer tube. Therefore, the transfer tube 340 can be called the "first transfer tube," and the cylinder 360 can be named the "second transfer tube."

[0358] The compression section 300 may include a discharge pipe 370 disposed on the outlet side of the cylinder 360 and providing force to compress or recombine ice moving within the cylinder 360. As an example, the discharge pipe 370 may be configured such that its cross-sectional area decreases along the direction of ice discharge.

[0359] The discharge tube 370 may be made of an elastically deformable material to provide resistance in the opposite direction to the movement of the ice. For example, the discharge tube 370 may be made of silicon.

[0360] One side of the ice present in the cylinder 360 is pressurized by the piston 335, while the other side is resisted by the discharge pipe 370, thereby enabling the compression or recombination of the powdered ice. The compressed powdered ice is formed into ice with a predetermined shape (ice in the third state, shaped ice) and can be discharged using the discharge section of the discharge pipe 370.

[0361] The molded ice discharged from the discharge section is interrupted by a cutting wall 380, which is separated from the discharge pipe 370 by a predetermined distance, during which the molded ice is cut. The separation distance between the discharge pipe 370 and the cutting wall 380 can be determined according to the size of the ice desired by the consumer. The cut molded ice can flow into the ice bucket 500 through the discharge port 328 of the first support 320.

[0362] The compression section 300 may include compression brackets 320, 327 for supporting the aforementioned plurality of components.

[0363] The compression supports 320 and 327 may include a first support 320 having a first through hole 321a, through which the motor shaft 312 of the second motor 310 can pass. The first support 320 may include a first wall 321 extending toward the ice-making chamber plate 85. As an example, the first wall 321 may form upper and lower walls extending in a vertical direction. The first through hole 321a may be formed in the first wall 321.

[0364] The first support 320 may include a second wall 322 having a discharge port 328. The second wall 322 may be connected to the lower end of the first support 320 and extend in a direction away from the ice-making chamber plate 85. As an example, the second wall 322 may be formed as a transverse wall extending laterally.

[0365] The compression supports 320 and 327 may include a second support 327 that is coupled to the first support 320. A space may be formed between the first support 320 and the second support 327 for the rack 330 and the piston 335.

[0366] The first wall 321 may include a plurality of fastening parts.

[0367] The plurality of fastening portions may include a first fastening portion 321b that engages with a first fastening portion 328a of the second bracket 327. The first fastening portion 321b may include a protrusion extending from the first wall 321 and engaging with a fastening member. The first fastening portion 328a of the second bracket 327 may include a hole for insertion of the fastening member.

[0368] The plurality of fastening portions may include a second fastening portion 321c that engages with a second fastening portion 328b of the second bracket 327. The second fastening portion 321c may be formed in a fastening wall 324 located at a position separated from the first wall 321 in the direction toward the second bracket 327. As an example, the second fastening portions 328b and 321c may include holes. A specified fastening member may be fastened to the second fastening portions 328b and 321c.

[0369] The top surface of the fastening wall 324 may include a guide surface for guiding the sliding of the connecting bracket 336. Since the connecting bracket 336 is supported on the guide surface, stable reciprocating motion of the rack 330 and piston 335 can be achieved. Alternatively, the connecting bracket 336 may be configured to be slightly detached from the top surface of the fastening wall 324.

[0370] The fastening wall 324 may include a track groove 324a that guides the movement of the track 334 of the rack 330. The track groove 324a may be formed on one of the plurality of faces defining the fastening wall 324 that faces the rack 330. At least a portion of the track 334 may be inserted into the track groove 324a, and the track 334 may move along the track groove 324a.

[0371] The second support 327 may include a support wall 328 covering at least a portion of the rack 330 and piston 335. The support wall 328 may include a second through hole 329 that supports the center portion 315a of the pinion 315 in a rotatable manner. As an example, the center portion 315a may be inserted into the second through hole 329.

[0372] Next, refer to Figures 15a to 15b This describes the process of compressing the powdered ice generated in the ice-making section 200 and supplied to the compression section 300.

[0373] Will Figure 15a The position of piston 335 seen in the diagram is defined as the first position. In the first position, the second motor 310 is stopped, and powdered ice I1 can be supplied to the transfer tube 340 by driving the first motor 210 of the ice-making section 200. Figure 15a The state can be maintained for the first set time.

[0374] After the first set time, if the second motor 310 drives in the positive direction, the piston 335 can move towards the cylinder 360 through the linkage of the pinion 315 and the first gear 332 (piston advance). During this process, if... Figure 15b As shown, the powder ice accumulated in the lower part of the transfer tube 340, i.e. the second part 342, is moved into the interior of the cylinder 360.

[0375] exist Figure 15b The illustration shows the piston 335 moving only to the inlet side of the cylinder 360, but it is also possible that, unlike this, at least a portion of the piston 335 is inserted into the cylinder 360. Figure 15b The position of piston 335 is defined as the second position.

[0376] If in Figure 15bIn this state, if the second motor 310 drives in the opposite direction, the piston 335 can move away from the cylinder 360 (piston retraction). The rack 330 moves together with the piston 335, and at the end of the rack 330's movement, the second gear 333 can engage with the third gear 355. Thus, the third gear 355... Figure 15c Rotate clockwise with reference to the rotating bar 351, so that the rod 350 rotates clockwise with reference to the rotating bar 351.

[0377] If the rod 350 rotates, the plate 352 and the bend 352a move toward the receiving space 341a of the transfer tube 340, thereby transferring the powdered ice present in the transfer tube 340. As an example, the ice present in the upper part of the transfer tube 340, i.e., the first portion 341 side, can be moved toward the lower part of the transfer tube 340, i.e., the second portion 342 side, by applying downward pressure. Figure 15c The position of piston 335 is defined as the third position.

[0378] If in Figure 15c In this state, if the second motor 310 drives in the positive direction, the piston 335 can move towards the cylinder 360. If the rack 330 moves for the movement of the piston 335, the linkage between the second gear 333 and the third gear 355 is released, and the rod 350 moves to the position indicated by the restoring force of the spring 358. Figure 15a The piston 335 can return to its upright position.

[0379] With repeated occurrences of this Figures 15a to 15d In this process, powdered ice can be compressed or recombined within the internal space of cylinder 360 to form shaped ice I2 (see reference). Figure 15b When the molded ice I2 is subjected to pressure by the piston 335 sufficient to pass through the discharge pipe 370, the molded ice I2 can be discharged through the discharge pipe 370.

[0380] Ice discharged from the discharge pipe 370 is cut into a specified size by interference from the cutting wall 380, and the cut ice can be put into the ice bucket 500.

[0381] Figure 16 This is a top perspective view showing the structure of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 This is a lower perspective view showing the structure of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0382] Reference Figures 16 to 18 The tray 241 of the first embodiment of the present invention may be in the form of a cylindrical shape having a set thickness in the axial direction and including an inner peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface.

[0383] The tray 241 may be configured to be movable. As an example, the tray 241 may be configured to be rotatable.

[0384] The tray 241 may include a plurality of walls.

[0385] The tray 241 may include a central support 243, which forms at least one of the plurality of walls and constitutes the rotation center of the tray 241. The central support 243 may have an insertion hole 2431 for inserting a rod 249. The insertion hole 2431 may extend axially through the central support 243.

[0386] The tray 241 may include peripheral walls 242a and 242b, which constitute at least one of the plurality of walls and form an outer peripheral surface.

[0387] The peripheral walls 242a and 242b may include a first peripheral wall 242a that is supplied with water. The first peripheral wall 242a may extend circumferentially with respect to the center of the tray 241.

[0388] The first peripheral wall 242a can form a water contact surface. The first peripheral wall 242a can extend in the circumferential direction with a predetermined first curvature centered on the central support 243.

[0389] The center distance from the central support 243 to the center of the first peripheral wall 242a can form a first center distance S1. The first center distance S1 can correspond to the rotation radius of the first peripheral wall 242a.

[0390] A plurality of first peripheral walls 242a may be provided. The plurality of first peripheral walls 242a may include a wall 242a1 and another wall 242a2 separated from the wall 242a1. The wall 242a1 and the other wall 242a2 may be arranged on opposite sides of each other with reference to the central support 243.

[0391] The peripheral walls 242a and 242b may include a second peripheral wall 242b, which forms a non-contact surface that will not be supplied with water. Since water will not be supplied to the second peripheral wall 242b, the recess 241a or protrusion 241b may not be required. The second peripheral wall 242b may have a curvature different from the first curvature about the central support 243.

[0392] The center distance from the central support 243 to the center of the second peripheral wall 242b can form a second center distance S2. The second center distance S2 can be less than the first center distance S1.

[0393] The second peripheral wall 242b may include a portion having a shape that is cut or cleaved from the first peripheral wall 242a toward the center of the tray 241. More specifically, as... Figure 18 As shown, when the outer peripheral extension lines of the two first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 are defined with a set curvature, At time 0, the second peripheral wall 242b can be located at a position greater than the outer peripheral extension line. 0 is closer to the center of tray 241, that is, the position of the center support 243.

[0394] If the second circumferential wall 242b is not cut or cleaved, then at the ice-making position of tray 241 (see reference). Figure 23 The lower part of the tray is immersed in water in the water tank 250, while the upper part of the tray is cooled and rotated while exposed to cold air.

[0395] Although the water supplied to the perimeter of the tray can freeze easily in the early stages of ice making, the tray is heated by the water in the storage tank during the reverse ice-making process, which reduces the amount of ice that can be formed.

[0396] Furthermore, as the lower part of the low-temperature tray comes into contact with the water in the reservoir, the temperature of the water in the reservoir will gradually decrease. Eventually, problems may arise in the water supply from the reservoir to the tray.

[0397] Therefore, in order to solve this problem, in this embodiment, a second circumferential surface 242b with a cut or slit shape is formed on the tray, and the second circumferential surface 242b is separated from the first circumferential surface 242a that forms the water contact surface. This maintains an ice-making amount (ice-making amount) above a set amount and keeps the temperature of the water tank at room temperature, thereby preventing the water in the water tank from freezing.

[0398] A plurality of second peripheral walls 242b may be provided. The plurality of second peripheral walls 242b may include one wall 242b1 and another wall 242b2 separate from the one wall 242b1. The one wall 242b1 and the other wall 242b2 may be located on opposite sides of each other with reference to the central support 243.

[0399] The second peripheral wall 242b may include a plurality of portions having varying curvatures.

[0400] In detail, the second peripheral wall 242b may include a first portion 1242b1 extending from a wall 242a1 of the first peripheral wall 242a with a defined second curvature. The first portion 1242b1 may extend from the end of the wall 242a1 of the first peripheral wall 242a toward the center of the tray 241 in an arc or bend.

[0401] The second peripheral wall 242b may include a second portion 1242b2 extending from the first portion 1242b1 with a defined third curvature. The second portion 1242b2 may be connected to the first portion 1242b1 and extend in an arc or bend in a direction away from the center of the tray 241.

[0402] The peripheral walls 242a and 242b may have an axial thickness (or width). Specifically, the first peripheral wall 242a may have a first axial thickness W1. The second peripheral wall 242b may have a second axial thickness W2.

[0403] As an example, the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2 can be the same as each other. However, it is not limited to this; either the first thickness or the second thickness can be larger or smaller than the other.

[0404] As an example, the first thickness W1 can be the same as the thickness of the inner peripheral wall 244a of the tray 241. The second thickness W2 can be the same as the thickness of the inner peripheral wall 244a of the tray 241.

[0405] The tray 241 may include an inner peripheral wall 244a, which forms at least one of the plurality of walls and defines the inner peripheral surface of the tray 241.

[0406] The inner peripheral wall 244a may include a first inner peripheral wall 244a1 forming the back side of the first peripheral wall 242a. The center distance from the central support 243 to the center of the first inner peripheral wall 244a1 may form a third center distance S3.

[0407] The inner peripheral wall 244a may include a second inner peripheral wall 244a2 forming the back side of the second peripheral wall 242b. The second inner peripheral wall 244a2 may be connected to the first inner peripheral wall 244a1. The center distance from the central support 243 to the center of the second inner peripheral wall 244a2 may form a fourth center distance S4, which may be less than the third center distance S3.

[0408] The tray 241 may include an extension wall 243a constituting at least one of the plurality of walls. It can be understood that the extension wall 243a is a wall connecting the central support 243 and the inner peripheral wall 244a.

[0409] The extension wall 243a may have an axial thickness, which may be the same as at least one of the thickness W1 of the first peripheral wall 242a and the thickness W2 of the second peripheral wall 242b.

[0410] The extension wall 243a can extend radially from the central support 243 toward the boundary position of the first inner peripheral wall 244a1 and the second inner peripheral wall 244a2.

[0411] The extension wall 243a can be provided in a plurality of units, and the plurality of extension walls 243a can be connected to the boundary positions of the two first peripheral walls 242a and the two second peripheral walls 242b. As an example, in this embodiment, the plurality of extension walls 243a may include four extension walls.

[0412] The angle formed by the first extension wall 243a1 and the second extension wall 243a2, which are connected to the two ends of the first inner peripheral wall 244a1, among the plurality of extension walls, is that the first extension line extending from the center C of the tray 241 toward the two ends of the first inner peripheral wall 244a1. 1 and second extension lines The angle formed can be a first angle θ1. The first inner peripheral wall 244a1 can form the back side of the first peripheral wall 242a, and the first angle θ1 can be determined to a suitable value according to the ice production volume.

[0413] The angle formed by the first extension wall 243a1 and the third extension wall 243a3, which are connected to the two ends of the second inner peripheral wall 244a2, is the angle formed by the third extension line extending from the center C of the tray 241 to the two ends of the second inner peripheral wall 244a2. 3 and the fourth extension line The angle formed by 4 can be a second angle θ2. The second inner peripheral wall 244a2 can form the back side of the second peripheral wall 242b, and the second angle θ2 can be determined to a suitable value according to the ice production volume.

[0414] The first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 can have different values. For example, the first angle θ1 can be smaller than the second angle θ2. The first angle θ1 can form an acute angle of less than 90 degrees, and the second angle θ2 can form an obtuse angle of more than 90 degrees.

[0415] exist Figure 18 In the figure, reference numeral 243a4 indicates a fourth extension wall 243a4 extending toward the opposite side of the first extension wall 243a1, with the central support 243 as a reference.

[0416] The tray 241 may include a side wall 244 forming at least one of the plurality of walls. It can be understood that the side wall 244 is a surface that defines the side of the tray 241 and faces the ice-making supports 220, 230.

[0417] The sidewalls 244 may be provided in a plurality of manner and disposed on both sides of the peripheral walls 242a and 242b. One of the sidewalls 244 may include a surface facing the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220 supporting the side of the tray 241.

[0418] Another sidewall of the plurality of said sidewalls 244 may include a face facing the wall 231a of the second bracket 230 supporting the other side of the tray 241, in particular the gear bracket 231.

[0419] The sidewall 244 can be connected to the extension wall 243a.

[0420] The tray 241 may include a tray hole 245, which is defined by the central support 243, the extension wall 243a, and the inner peripheral wall 244a, through which cold air can pass. The tray hole 245 may have a hole shape that extends axially through the tray 241.

[0421] The tray hole 245 can be formed in a plurality of circumferential directions with the central support 243 as a reference.

[0422] The cold air flowing into the interior of the ice-making supports 220 and 230 can flow along the peripheral walls 242a and 242b of the tray 241, or it can flow towards the inner peripheral surface of the tray 241 through the tray holes 245. Thus, cold air is supplied to both the exterior and interior of the tray 241, thereby facilitating the cooling of the tray 241.

[0423] The tray 241 can be made of a material with high thermal conductivity to facilitate cooling. As an example, the tray 241 can be made of a metallic material. Steel or aluminum are recommended as examples of such metallic materials.

[0424] The tray 241 may include a protrusion 242c disposed at the intersection of the first peripheral walls 242a1, 242a2 and the second peripheral walls 242b1, 242b2. It can be understood that the protrusion 242c is the portion defined by at least a portion (first surface) of the first peripheral walls 242a1, 242a2 and at least a portion (second surface) of the second peripheral walls 242b1, 242b2.

[0425] Since the curvatures of the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 and the second peripheral walls 242b1 and 242b2 are different from each other, the protrusion 242c can form a sharp tip at the intersection of the first peripheral wall 242a and the second peripheral wall 242b.

[0426] If the angle between the first and second surfaces of the protrusion 242c is too large, there is a risk that water may condense on the protrusion 242c, causing ice formation that is not intended to form. Therefore, the angle θ between the first and second surfaces is... e An acute angle of 90 degrees or less can be formed to prevent icing beyond the intended purpose of forming the protrusion 242c.

[0427] Figure 19 This is a side view showing the configuration of the tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 A sectional view cut along line 20-20. Figure 21 This is a top view showing the relative configuration of the tray and the first scraper according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 It is along Figure 21 A sectional view cut along line 22-22.

[0428] First, refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 The tray 241 of the first embodiment of the present invention may include a first peripheral surface 242a forming a water storage space.

[0429] In order to produce ice of a strength that is easy for users to chew and to provide to them, the surface of the final supplied ice needs to form a quasi-liquid layer. This can be understood as a slightly melted or slightly moistened surface, rather than a completely frozen state.

[0430] To facilitate the formation of the quasi-liquid layer, methods such as forming ice particles smaller before recombination (compression) via the compression section 300, forming a predetermined gap (air layer) between the particles by compressing the ice particles, or providing a predetermined heat (heating) during the compression process can be employed.

[0431] The main feature of this embodiment is that smaller ice particles are formed on the circumferential surface of the tray 241, thereby facilitating the formation of a quasi-liquid layer.

[0432] The first peripheral surface 242a may include a recess 241a with a set depth and a protrusion 241b connected to the end of the recess 241a.

[0433] The recess 241a may have a circumferential length along the first circumferential surface 242a. When transferring ice, during the rotation of the tray 241, the ice in the recess 241a formed along the circumferential direction can be easily separated by the first scraper 280.

[0434] The recessed portion 241a may have a circumferential length along the first circumferential surface 242a. When transferring ice, during the rotation of the tray 241, the ice on the protrusion 241b formed along the circumferential direction can be easily separated by the first scraper 280.

[0435] The recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b may each be provided in a plurality of forms. The protruding portion 241b may be located between the plurality of recessed portions 241a. The recessed portion 241a may be located between the plurality of protruding portions 241b.

[0436] The plurality of recesses 241a and the plurality of protrusions 241b may be arranged alternately with each other in the axial direction.

[0437] The recessed portion 241a can form a water storage space. Of course, a water storage space can also be formed in the protruding portion 241b. However, since the recessed portion 241a forms a storage space of a predetermined depth, the thickness of the ice formed in the recessed portion 241a can be greater than the thickness of the ice formed in the protruding portion 241b.

[0438] The following effects can be achieved: water is stored in a plurality of recesses 241a, and as the stored water freezes, small ice particles are pre-separated by protrusions 241b. At this time, the ice formed in the protrusions 241b has a relatively small thickness and functions to connect the ice formed in the plurality of recesses 241a with relatively weak force. Furthermore, the ice formed in the protrusions 241b can be easily separated or broken by the first scraper 280.

[0439] Reference Figure 21 and Figure 22 At least one of the recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b of the tray 241 can be configured toward the direction of the first scraper 280.

[0440] The first scraper 280 can be connected to the fifth wall 225 of the first bracket 220 disposed on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. The first scraper 280 may include a scraper body 281, the scraper body 281 having a fastening hole 280a for fastening to the fifth wall 225.

[0441] The scraper body 281 may be in the shape of a thin plate, which is combined with the fifth wall 225 and has a length extending upward from the lower end of the first support 220.

[0442] The first scraper 280 may include tips 282 and 283, which extend from the scraper body 281 and are used to scrape out ice formed on the tray 241.

[0443] The tips 282 and 283 may include a first tip 282 extending obliquely from the scraper body 281. The first tip 282 is a portion configured to face the protrusion 241b of the tray 241, and the first tip 282 may be located adjacent to the protrusion 241b when the tray 241 rotates, so as to scrape off ice formed on the protrusion 241b.

[0444] However, the first tip 282 is configured not to directly contact the protrusion 241b to prevent the tray 241 from being damaged by the first tip 282.

[0445] The tips 282 and 283 may include a second tip 283 extending obliquely from the scraper body 281. The second tip 283 is a portion configured to face the recess 241a of the tray 241, and the second tip 283 may be located adjacent to the recess 241a when the tray 241 rotates, so as to scrape out ice formed in the recess 241a.

[0446] However, the second tip 283 is configured not to directly contact the recess 241a to prevent the tray 241 from being damaged by the second tip 283.

[0447] At least a portion of the second tip 283 may be configured to be inserted into the recess 241a. Thus, the end of the second tip 283 may be configured to be closer to the tray 241 than the end of the first tip 282.

[0448] The recess 241a can be formed as a polygonal shape in which its width (or cross-sectional area) narrows along the depth direction; for example, it can be trapezoidal. With this shape, the formation of the recess 241a based on the mold is easier when manufacturing the tray 241, and the ice-moving performance is improved because the contact area of ​​ice at the deepest end of the recess 241a is small.

[0449] A plurality of second tips 283 may be provided. The plurality of second tips 283 may be arranged axially apart, and at least a portion of the first tip 282 may be arranged in the space between the plurality of second tips 283.

[0450] When the tray 241 and the first scraper 280 are positioned closest to each other and ice is being moved, the first tip 282 and the second tip 283, the recess 241a and the protrusion 241b can move relative to each other while facing each other.

[0451] On the other hand, since the contact area between the first peripheral surface 242a and the water is increased due to the formation of the recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b, the water supply state on the first peripheral surface 242a can be stably maintained.

[0452] Figure 23 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the tray and water tank when the tray is in the first position (ice-making position) according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 24 It is along Figure 11a A sectional view cut along line 24-24. Figure 25 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the tray and water tank when the tray is in the second position (water supply position) according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26 It is along Figure 11b A sectional view cut along line 26-26.

[0453] First, refer to Figure 23 and Figure 24 When the tray 241 of the first embodiment of the present invention is in the first position (ice-making position), the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 of the tray 241 face to the side, and the second peripheral walls 242b1 and 242b2 can face upward and downward, respectively. At this time, the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 are exposed to the cold air flow path inside the ice-making brackets 220 and 230, so the water supplied to the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 can be made into ice.

[0454] The lower ends of the second peripheral walls 242b1 and 242b2 can face the water storage tank 250. Since the center distance between the second peripheral walls 242b1 and 242b2 is small with the center of the tray 241 as a reference, the second peripheral wall 242b will not be immersed in the water stored in the water storage tank 250.

[0455] As an example, the extension line passing through the maximum water level of the aforementioned water storage tank 250 1 is referred to as the "first extension line", which is the extension line that passes through the lowermost end 240a of the tray assembly 240 when the tray 241 is in the first position. When 2 is referred to as the "second extension line", the second extension line 2 can be formed in a line that is longer than the first extension line. 1. A higher position. Thus, the second peripheral walls 242b1, 242b2 can pass through the water storage tank 250 in a state where no water is supplied.

[0456] The first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 may be provided optionally. When the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 are provided, the lowermost ends of the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 covering the second peripheral walls 242b1, 242b2 can form the lowermost end of the tray assembly 240 and will not be immersed in the water stored in the water tank 250.

[0457] Without the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 provided, the lowest point of the second peripheral walls 242b1, 242b2 of the tray 241 can form the lowest point of the tray assembly 240 and will not be immersed in the water stored in the water tank 250.

[0458] At a first position on the tray 241, the inner peripheral wall 244a, and particularly the second inner peripheral wall 244a2, can be configured to be positioned relative to the first extension line. 1. A higher position.

[0459] The sidewall 244 connected to the second peripheral walls 242b1, 242b2 can be formed with a sufficiently large radial thickness, such that the second inner peripheral wall 244a2 is disposed at a position greater than the first extension line. 1. A higher position.

[0460] As an example, at a first position of the tray 241, the inner peripheral wall 244a, and especially the second inner peripheral wall 244a2, can be positioned at a height Δh higher than the end of the opening of the water storage tank 250. The end of the opening of the water storage tank 250 can form an opening for water to flow in. From a different viewpoint, the end of the opening of the water storage tank 250 can form a passage for water to flow into the tray 241.

[0461] Next, refer to Figure 25 and Figure 26 When the tray 241 is in the second position (water supply position), the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 of the tray 241 can face upward and downward, and the second peripheral walls 242b1 and 242b2 can face to the side.

[0462] The lower wall 242a1 of the two first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 may face the water storage tank 250. With the center of the tray 241 as a reference, the center-to-center distance of the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 may be formed to a degree that the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 can be immersed in the water stored in the water storage tank 250.

[0463] The second position of the tray 241 is the extension line passing through the lowest end of the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2. When referred to as the "third extension line", the third extension line 3 can be formed at a first extension line that is greater than the maximum water level passing through the water storage tank 250. 1. A lower position. Thus, water from the water storage tank 250 can be supplied to the first peripheral walls 242a1, 242a2. As an example, the first peripheral walls 242a1, 242a2 can be wetted by water and form a water film.

[0464] At the second position of the tray 241, the inner peripheral wall 244a, particularly the first inner peripheral wall 244a1, can be configured at a first extension line beyond the maximum water level of the water storage tank 250. 1. A higher position. This prevents water stored in the water tank 250 from flowing into the first inner peripheral wall 244a1.

[0465] The sidewall 244 connected to the first peripheral walls 244a1 and 244a2 can be formed with a sufficiently large radial thickness, such that the first inner peripheral wall 244a1 is disposed at a position greater than the first extension line. 1. A higher position.

[0466] On the other hand, when a first tray cover 246 and a second tray cover 247 are provided, since the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 surround the first inner peripheral wall 244a1 of the tray 241, water from the water storage tank 250 can be prevented from flowing into the first inner peripheral wall 244a1. In this case, the inner peripheral walls of the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 can be configured to be positioned relative to the first extension line. 1. A higher position.

[0467] Even without the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247, the first inner peripheral wall 244a1 is configured to be more aligned with the first extension line. The higher position of the water storage tank 250 prevents water from flowing into the first inner peripheral wall 244a1.

[0468] During the rotation of the tray 241, the tray 241 can be repeatedly positioned in a first position and a second position. As a result, the first peripheral walls 242a1 and 242a2 of the tray 241 are supplied with water and form a space or surface for ice making, while the second peripheral walls 242b1 and 242b2 are not supplied with water and do not form a space or surface for ice making.

[0469] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the relative configuration of the tray and the water tank when the tray is in a first position, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0470] Reference Figure 27In another embodiment of the present invention, the tray 241 at the first position (ice-making position), the position where the first peripheral wall 242a and the second peripheral wall 242b intersect, i.e., the protrusion 242c can be configured near the first scraper 280.

[0471] As an example, in the first position of tray 241 (ice-making position), the tip 283 of the first scraper 280 can be configured to face the protrusion 242c.

[0472] From different perspectives, the first scraper 280 can be configured such that the tip 283 is adjacent to the protrusion 242c, thereby being positioned to scrape ice off the first peripheral wall 242a when the tray 241 begins to rotate from the first position (ice-making position) to the second position (water-supply position).

[0473] like Figure 11a As shown, if the first scraper 280 is configured to separate upward from the protrusion 242c when the tray 241 is in the first position, ice can grow in the space between the tray 241 and the first scraper 280 or in the space between the tray 241 and the fifth wall 225, resulting in a phenomenon that restricts the rotation of the tray 241.

[0474] Therefore, in order to solve this problem, the main feature of this embodiment is that when the tray 241 is in the first position (ice-making position), the first scraper 280 and the protrusion 242c are located in adjacent positions.

[0475] Figure 28a This diagram illustrates the relative configuration of the tray and the water tank when the tray is in the first position (ice-making position) according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28b It is shown Figure 28a The diagram shows the relative configuration of the tray and the water tank when the tray is in the second position (water supply position).

[0476] Reference Figure 28a and Figure 28b The tray 1241 of the second embodiment of the present invention may include: a first peripheral wall 1242a, which forms a space or surface for ice making; and a second peripheral wall 1242b, which is connected to the first peripheral wall 1242a and does not form a space or surface for ice making.

[0477] As an example, taking the center C of the tray 1241 as a reference, the center angle of the first peripheral wall 1242a can be greater than 180 degrees, while the center angle of the second peripheral wall 1242b can be less than 180 degrees. Of course, the center angle θ of the first peripheral wall 1242a depends on the ice-making capacity of the tray 1241. 31 and the center angle θ of the second peripheral wall 1242b 32They can be formed in different ways.

[0478] The first peripheral wall 1242a may include a first end 1242a1 and a second end 1242a2 connected to the second peripheral wall 1242b.

[0479] The second peripheral wall 1242b may include a plane to connect the first end 1242a1 and the second end 1242a2. Similar to what has been described in the previous embodiments, the second peripheral wall 1242b may be shaped to be cut or severed from the first peripheral wall 1242a.

[0480] When the tray 1241 is in the first position (ice-making position), the first end 1242a1 and the second end 1242a2 of the first peripheral wall can be configured not to overlap with the internal space of the water storage tank 250 in the vertical direction. That is, the first end 1242a1 and the second end 1242a2 can be configured to have a larger central angle with respect to the center C of the tray 241 than the two end edges of the water storage tank 250.

[0481] As an example, when defining a first extension line connecting the center C of the tray 1241 and the first end 1242a1 of the first peripheral wall... 11 and the second extension line connecting the center C and the second end 1242a2 of the first peripheral wall 12 At that time, the first extension line 11 and the second extension line 12 The angle formed can be the first angle θ 11 The center of the center C of the tray 1241 may be the center of the center support 1243.

[0482] When defining the first extension line connecting the center C of the tray 1241 and the first end 251a of the opening of the water tank 250. 21 and the second extension line connecting the center C and the second end 251b of the opening of the water storage tank 250 22 At that time, the first extension line 21 and the second extension line 22 The angle formed can be the second angle θ 21 .

[0483] The first angle θ 11 It can be greater than the second angle θ 21 .

[0484] According to the configuration described above, in the first position of the tray 1241, since the first peripheral wall 1242a is configured not to face the internal space of the water storage tank 250, the possibility of the first peripheral wall 1242a getting wet can be reduced.

[0485] Alternatively, even if an error occurs in the drive control of the first motor 210, causing the first position of the tray 1241 to be not accurately controlled, thus the tray 1241 is more... Figure 28a The situation shown in the figure can be further reduced by rotating slightly counterclockwise, which can also reduce the possibility of the first peripheral wall 1242a getting wet.

[0486] The tray 1241 can be drawn from Figure 28a The state rotates further counterclockwise and moves towards the second position (water supply position). During this process, the ice generated on the first peripheral wall 1242a can be separated by interference with the first scraper 280.

[0487] The tray 1241 may include an extension wall 1243a, a side wall 2244, and a tray hole 1245 corresponding to the extension wall 243a and tray hole 245 of the tray 241 in the first embodiment.

[0488] Although not shown in the figure, the first peripheral wall 1242a may be alternately configured with the recesses and protrusions described in the first embodiment.

[0489] Figure 29a This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 29b This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0490] Reference Figure 29a and Figure 29b The tray 2241 of the third embodiment of the present invention may include: a first peripheral wall 2242a, which forms a space or surface for ice making; and a second peripheral wall 2242b, which is connected to the first peripheral wall 2242a and does not form a space or surface for ice making.

[0491] As an example, taking the center C of the tray 2241 as a reference, the center angle θ of the first peripheral wall 2242a 31 It can be more than 180 degrees, and the center angle θ of the second peripheral wall 2242b 32 It can be less than 180 degrees. Of course, the center angle θ of the first peripheral wall 2242a depends on the ice-making capacity of the tray 2241. 31 and the center angle θ of the second peripheral wall 2242b 32 They can be formed in different ways.

[0492] The second peripheral wall 2242b may include a portion having a shape that is cut or cleaved from the first peripheral wall 2242a toward the center of the tray 2241.

[0493] In detail, such as Figure 29b As shown, when the outer peripheral extension line connecting the two ends of the first peripheral wall 2242a with a set curvature is defined... At time 0, the second peripheral wall 2242b can be located at a position greater than the outer peripheral extension line. 0 is closer to the center C of the tray 2241, which is the position of the center support 2243.

[0494] The separation distance of the first peripheral wall 2242a relative to the center C of the tray 2241, i.e., the center distance, can be greater than the center distance of the second peripheral wall 2242b relative to the center C of the tray 2241. Therefore, the second peripheral wall 2242b will not be immersed in the water of the water storage tank 250 at the first position (ice-making position) of the tray 2241.

[0495] The tray 2241 may include a protrusion 2242c disposed at the intersection of the first peripheral wall 2242a and the second peripheral wall 2242b. The angle θ between the first surface of the first peripheral wall 2242a and the second surface of the second peripheral wall 2242b defines the protrusion 2242c. e An acute angle of 90 degrees or less can be formed to prevent unintended icing from occurring on the protrusion 2242c.

[0496] The first peripheral wall 2242a may be alternately configured with a plurality of recesses 2241a and a plurality of protrusions 2241b corresponding to the recesses 241a and protrusions 241b described in the first embodiment.

[0497] The tray 2241 may include an extension wall 2243a, a side wall 2244, and a tray hole 2245 corresponding to the extension wall 243a, the side wall 244, and the tray hole 245 of the tray 241 in the first embodiment.

[0498] The tray 2241 can be Figure 29a In this state, it rotates further counterclockwise to move to the second position (water supply position), during which the ice formed on the first peripheral wall 2242a can be separated by interference with the first scraper 280.

[0499] Figure 30a This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 30b This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0500] Reference Figure 30a and Figure 30b The tray 3241 of the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a first peripheral wall 3242a forming a space or surface for ice making. The first peripheral wall 3242a may form the entire peripheral wall of the tray 3241.

[0501] The first peripheral wall 3242a may include a first end 3242a1 and a second end 3242a2 that define two ends. The first end 3242a1 and the second end 3242a2 may be separated from each other, and the space between the first end 3242a1 and the second end 3242a2 may form an empty space.

[0502] The first end portion 3242a1 can be connected to the central support 3243 via an extension wall 3243a. The second end portion 3242a2 can be connected to the central support 3243 via another extension wall 3243a. The description of the extension wall 3243a and the central support 3243 refers to the description of the first embodiment.

[0503] like Figure 30b As shown, when the tray 3241 is projected onto a plane perpendicular to the axial direction, the tray 3241 can have an arc shape due to the first peripheral wall 3242a and the plurality of extended walls 3243a.

[0504] With the center C of the tray 3241 as a reference, the first peripheral wall 3242a forms a center angle θ of more than 180 degrees. 41 Including the portion in contact with water, the plurality of said extended walls 3243a form a central angle θ of less than 180 degrees. 42 The space between the plurality of the extended walls 3243a can form a region that is not in contact with water.

[0505] The first peripheral wall 3242a may be alternately configured with a plurality of recesses 3241a and a plurality of protrusions 3241b corresponding to the recesses 241a and protrusions 241b described in the first embodiment.

[0506] Compared to the structure of the tray 2241 in the third embodiment, the tray 3241 in this embodiment can correspond to the state in which the second peripheral wall 2242b is removed from the tray 2241.

[0507] The tray 3241 may include an extension wall 243a, a side wall 244, and a tray hole 245 corresponding to the extension wall 243a, the side wall 244, and the tray hole 245 of the tray 241 in the first embodiment.

[0508] The tray 3241 can be Figure 30aIn this state, it rotates further counterclockwise to move to the second position (water supply position). During this process, the ice formed on the first peripheral wall 3242a can be separated by interference with the first scraper 280.

[0509] Figure 31a This is a perspective view showing the structure of the tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 31b This is a front view showing the configuration of the tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0510] Reference Figure 31a and Figure 31b The tray 4241 of the fifth embodiment of the present invention may include a first peripheral wall 4242a forming a space or surface for ice making. The first peripheral wall 4242a may extend in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the tray 241.

[0511] The tray 4241 may include a central support 4243 forming a center of rotation and a plurality of extension walls 4243a extending radially from the central support 4243. The description of the central support 4243 and the plurality of extension walls 4243a refers to the description of the central support 4243 and the plurality of extension walls 4243a of the first embodiment.

[0512] Both ends of the first peripheral wall 4242a can be connected to a plurality of the extension walls 4243a. That is, the first end of the first peripheral wall 4242a can be connected to the first extension wall 4243a, and the second end of the first peripheral wall 4242a can be connected to the second extension wall 4243a.

[0513] As an example, taking the center C of the tray 4241 as a reference, the center angle θ of the first peripheral wall 4242a 51 It can be 180 degrees. Of course, the center angle θ of the first peripheral wall 4242a depends on the ice-making capacity of the tray 4241. 51 They can be formed in different ways.

[0514] The first peripheral wall 4242a may be alternately configured with a plurality of recesses 4241a and a plurality of protrusions 4241b corresponding to the recesses 241a and protrusions 241b described in the first embodiment.

[0515] Protrusions 4242c may be provided at both ends of the first peripheral wall 4242a. The tips of the protrusions 4242c may form the ends of the first peripheral wall 4242a.

[0516] The angle θ between the first surface 4242a1 and the second surface 4242a2 of the first peripheral wall 4242a of the protrusion 4242c defines the angle between them. e'An acute angle of 90 degrees or less can be formed to prevent icing beyond the intended shape of the protrusion 4242c.

[0517] The first surface 4242a1 may include a first portion of a first circumferential wall 4242a extending in a circumferential direction, and the second surface 4242a2 may include a second portion connecting the first surface 4242a1 to the extended wall 4243a.

[0518] The tray 4241 may include a second peripheral wall 4300, which is connected to the first peripheral wall 4242a without forming a space or surface for ice making. The second peripheral wall 4300 may extend circumferentially with respect to the center of the tray 4241.

[0519] The second circumferential wall 4300 may be configured to connect with one of the plurality of extension walls 4243a and extend in the circumferential direction to connect with another extension wall 4243a.

[0520] As an example, taking the center C of the tray 4241 as a reference, the center angle θ of the second peripheral wall 4300 52 It can be 180 degrees. Of course, the center angle θ of the first peripheral wall 4242a depends on the ice-making capacity of the tray 4241. 51 It can be at the center angle θ of the second peripheral wall 4300. 52 They formed together in different ways.

[0521] The separation distance R1 of the first peripheral wall 4242a relative to the center C of the tray 4241 can be greater than the center distance R2 of the second peripheral wall 4300. Therefore, at the first position (ice-making position) of the tray 4241, the second peripheral wall 4300 will not be immersed in the water of the water storage tank 250. The center distances R1 and R2 can correspond to the rotation radii of the first peripheral wall 4242a and the second peripheral wall 4300, respectively.

[0522] The tray 4241 may include the extension wall 243a, side wall 244 and tray hole 4245 corresponding to the extension wall 243a, side wall 244 and tray hole 245 of the tray 241 in the first embodiment.

[0523] The tray 4241 can be Figure 31a In this state, it rotates further counterclockwise to move to the second position (water supply position). During this process, the ice formed on the first peripheral wall 4242a can be separated by interference with the first scraper 280.

[0524] Figure 32 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0525] Reference Figure 32 The tray 5241 of the sixth embodiment of the present invention may include an inner peripheral wall 5244a having a protrusion 5256. The protrusion 5256 may be configured to protrude from the inner peripheral wall 5244a at a predetermined height.

[0526] The protrusion 5256 can be provided in multiples, and the multiple protrusions 5256 can be evenly distributed over the entire area of ​​the inner peripheral wall 5244a.

[0527] Water flowing into the inner peripheral wall 5244a can be discharged to the outside of the inner peripheral wall 5244a via the protrusion 5256. That is, the protrusion 5256 can function as a drainage guide device for discharging water flowing into the interior of the tray 5241 to the outside.

[0528] Although Figure 32 The configuration of protrusion 5256 is described based on the tray structure of the first embodiment, but the protrusion 5256 can also be applied to the inner peripheral wall of the trays 1241, 2241, 3241, and 4241 of the structures of the second to fifth embodiments described above.

[0529] Another embodiment is proposed.

[0530] In the structure of the tray in the foregoing plurality of embodiments, for a tray that provides second peripheral walls 242b, 1242b, 2242b, 4300, a hydrophobic coating may be provided on the second peripheral walls 242b, 1242b, 2242b, 4300.

[0531] The hydrophobic coating may comprise silicone resin. The hydrophobic coating can be formed by spraying a liquid coating agent onto the second peripheral wall. The hydrophobic coating prevents water from condensing on the second peripheral wall, thus making it easy to remove water from the reservoir if it gets on it.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container forms a storage room; Door, used to open and close the enclosure; as well as A tray is provided on the box or the door; The tray includes: Central part; The first circumferential wall, extending circumferentially from the central portion, is configured to contact the water stored in the water tank; and The second peripheral wall is connected to the first peripheral wall and is configured to not contact the water stored in the water tank.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The central part includes a central support; The first center distance of the first peripheral wall relative to the central support is greater than the second center distance of the second peripheral wall relative to the central support.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The tray is configured to rotate with respect to the center portion; The first center distance corresponds to the rotation radius of the first peripheral wall, and the second center distance corresponds to the rotation radius of the second peripheral wall.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, Includes the water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray; The first center distance of the first peripheral wall is formed such that the first peripheral wall is immersed in the water stored in the water tank.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, Includes the water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray; The second center distance of the second peripheral wall is formed so that the second peripheral wall is not immersed in the water stored in the water tank.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, Includes the water storage tank disposed on one side of the tray; At a first position on the tray, the second peripheral wall is configured to face the water storage tank; At a second position on the tray, the first peripheral wall is configured to face the water storage tank.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The first peripheral wall includes at least one of a recessed portion and a protruding portion.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein, At least one of the recess and the protrusion is formed extending along the circumferential direction of the tray.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein, When the axial direction of the central axis connected to the central portion is defined, the recess includes a plurality of recesses arranged along the axial direction.

10. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container forms a storage room; Door, used to open and close the enclosure; as well as A tray, rotatably mounted on the box or the door; The tray includes: The central support is connected to an axle; A plurality of extending walls extend radially from the central support; The first peripheral wall, connected to the plurality of said extended walls, extends with a first curvature; and The second circumferential wall is connected to the first circumferential wall and extends with a second curvature different from the first curvature.

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