Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to the present invention can include a cabinet forming a storage compartment, a door opening and closing the cabinet, a tray rotatably disposed in the cabinet or the door, having a circumferential surface generating ice by receiving water, an ice making support accommodating the tray, forming a flow path of cool air for cooling the tray, a scraper contacting the ice generated at the circumferential surface and scraping the ice of the circumferential surface, and a compression portion compressing the ice of a first size removed from the circumferential surface by the scraper and shaping the ice of the first size into ice of a second size larger than the first size. Thus, the strength and size of the shaped ice can be adjusted.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a household appliance that stores food at low temperatures in an interior space enclosed by a door. The refrigerator uses cold air to cool the interior of the storage 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 dense, there is a risk of tooth damage when children, the elderly, or consumers with weak teeth chew it. Therefore, consumers have always 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 of 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 in which the inner diameter of the cylinder is formed to narrow along the direction of ice movement, thereby enabling compression along with the movement of the ice.

[0010] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a heater is disposed in the cylinder so that a portion of the powdered ice and crushed ice transferred to the cylinder can melt, and the melted ice can be re-frozen to form a block of shaped ice.

[0011] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator that supplies more heat to the front region of the cylinder adjacent to the inlet side and a small amount of heat to the rear region adjacent to the outlet, so that the ice transferred to the cylinder can melt in the front region and then refreeze in the rear region.

[0012] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the cylinder is preheated before being transferred to the cylinder, so that a portion of the ice transferred to the cylinder can melt and then refreeze at the same time as it is transferred to the cylinder, thereby enabling it to be compressed into molded ice with a strength suitable for a user's chewing.

[0013] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which, if ice is transferred to a cylinder, the cylinder is heated, thereby allowing a portion of the ice transferred to the cylinder to melt and then refreeze while moving inside the cylinder, thus improving energy-saving performance.

[0014] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a temperature sensor capable of sensing the temperature of the drum, and capable of controlling the opening / closing of the heater or adjusting the output of the heater based on the value sensed by the temperature sensor.

[0015] The purpose of this invention is also to provide a refrigerator that can control the opening / closing of the heater or adjust the output of the heater based on various factors including the internal temperature of the refrigerator, whether the door is open or not, changes in freezing capacity, whether defrosting is in operation, and whether the refrigerator is full of ice.

[0016] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the cylinder is blocked by compressed ice during the process of compressing ice inside the cylinder, and this situation can be resolved by using a heater.

[0017] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator with a replaceable dispensing tube at the rear end of the cylinder, thereby allowing adjustment of the strength and size of the formed ice based on the material and size of the dispensing tube.

[0018] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the discharge tube is formed of a stretchable elastic material, thereby enabling not only radial compression of ice, but also axial compression of ice in the direction of ice transport.

[0019] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator that improves the compressibility of powdered ice, thereby enabling the production of ice that maintains its shape for an extended period of time.

[0020] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which ice that is first compressed when passing through the cylinder flows into the discharge pipe after passing through the discharge port of the cylinder, and can be compressed a second time.

[0021] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which ice, which is compressed a second time by a piston as it flows into the discharge tube and moves, expands the outlet when it is discharged through an outlet formed with a diameter smaller than that of the discharge tube. At this time, the ice is compressed a third time due to the force of the outlet resisting the expansion, thereby being discharged from the discharge tube in a hard state.

[0022] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a temperature sensor can be easily installed on the outside of the cylinder.

[0023] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator that allows for easier attachment of the cylinder to an external fixing component.

[0024] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a cold air supply device for supplying cold air to the tray, thereby cooling water present on the periphery of the tray.

[0025] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material, so as to rapidly cool the tray by means of supplied cold air.

[0026] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator having at least one of a protrusion and a recess on its circumferential surface to improve the ice-making performance of the tray, wherein at least one of the protrusion and the recess can provide space or surface for forming ice.

[0027] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a through portion is formed in the tray and a cold air flow path is formed in the through portion to increase the cooling area of ​​the tray.

[0028] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator with a water storage tank, and a configuration in which at least a portion of a tray is immersed in the water storage tank, thereby enabling smooth water supply to the periphery of the tray.

[0029] The refrigerator of this invention includes a tray having a peripheral surface (or peripheral wall) supplied with water; and includes a scraper for scraping ice from the peripheral surface by contacting ice generated on the peripheral surface, and a compressed portion for shaping a first-sized portion of ice removed from the peripheral surface by the scraper into a second-sized portion larger than the first-sized portion by compression.

[0030] The compression section may include: a cylinder into which ice removed from the circumferential surface flows; and a piston that reciprocates via a motor drive and compresses the ice flowing into the cylinder.

[0031] It may include a heater disposed in the compression section and providing heat to at least a portion of the compression section.

[0032] The heater can be installed in the cylinder.

[0033] The heater can be formed in a linear form and wound in a spiral shape around the outer surface of the cylinder.

[0034] The winding intervals of the heater can be different from each other in at least a portion of the range, based on the length direction of the cylinder.

[0035] The heater may be configured such that the winding interval on the side of the cylinder adjacent to the inlet is greater than the winding interval on the other side of the cylinder adjacent to the outlet.

[0036] The heat per unit area of ​​the heater can vary from one another to the other in at least a portion of the range, with reference to the length of the cylinder.

[0037] The heater can be configured such that the heat per unit area supplied to the side of the cylinder adjacent to the inlet is greater than the heat per unit area supplied to the other side of the cylinder adjacent to the outlet.

[0038] The heater can be controlled to turn on at least one stage before the ice to be compressed is transferred to the cylinder.

[0039] The heater can be controlled to turn on at least one stage after the ice to be compressed is transferred to the cylinder.

[0040] A temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the outer surface of the cylinder can be provided on the outer side of the cylinder.

[0041] If the temperature of the cylinder sensed by the temperature sensor is lower than the preset target temperature when the heater is off, the heater can be turned on.

[0042] If the temperature of the cylinder sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the preset target temperature while the heater is on, the heater can be turned off.

[0043] The output of the heater can be controlled to vary depending on the operating conditions of the refrigerant cycle used to maintain the temperature of the storage compartment and the surrounding environment.

[0044] The output of the heater can be controlled such that when the cooling capacity of the refrigerant cycle increases, the output of the heater is increased, and when the cooling capacity of the refrigerant cycle decreases, the output of the heater is decreased.

[0045] The cylinder may include: an inlet through which ice removed from the circumferential surface flows in; an outlet for discharging compressed ice inside the cylinder; and a compression space formed between the inlet and the outlet, in which ice flowing in from the inlet is compressed as it moves toward the outlet.

[0046] The compression space of the cylinder can be formed such that its diameter gradually decreases towards the discharge outlet in at least a portion of the range.

[0047] The cylinder can be formed from a metal material that is easily heat-transferring.

[0048] A sensor mounting portion for mounting a temperature sensor can be formed on the outer surface of the cylinder.

[0049] The sensor mounting section may have a sensor mounting groove that is open in the vertical direction to accommodate a temperature sensor.

[0050] The compression section may further include a discharge pipe, which is connected to the discharge port side of the cylinder, through which ice discharged from the discharge port is further compressed and discharged.

[0051] The discharge tube can be formed of a stretchable elastic material.

[0052] One side of the discharge tube may be open and form a connection portion that connects to the discharge outlet. The connection portion may be formed in a hollow shape and is joined by the circumferential surface of the surrounding tube where the discharge outlet is formed.

[0053] One outer surface of the cylinder surrounded by the connecting portion may be formed with a groove that is recessed to a predetermined depth and extends in the circumferential direction.

[0054] A protrusion that protrudes inward and extends along the inner circumferential surface may be formed on the inner surface of the connecting part, and the protrusion may be inserted into the groove.

[0055] A ring-shaped sealing member can be inserted into the groove.

[0056] The discharge tube may include a discharge section, one side of which extends from the connecting section, while the other side forms an outlet for discharging compressed ice.

[0057] The discharge portion may include a first section, the first section being formed such that its inner diameter gradually decreases from the side connected to the connecting portion toward the other side where the outlet is formed.

[0058] The discharge section may include a second section that defines the outlet and is configured to maintain a constant inner diameter.

[0059] The diameter of the second interval can be formed with a size smaller than that of the first interval.

[0060] The diameter of the second section can be smaller than the diameter of the discharge port of the cylinder.

[0061] At least one outwardly extending portion may be formed on the side end of the cylinder where the inlet is formed, and at least one connecting hole may be formed on the extending portion.

[0062] It may include cooling air ducts configured to supply cooling air to the periphery of the tray. However, the periphery may also be supplied with other liquids, not just water.

[0063] The air conditioning duct may include a portion extending in a tangential direction to the tray or in a corresponding direction.

[0064] The refrigerator may include a support that forms a receiving space for the tray; the cold air duct may be configured to be inclined relative to the support.

[0065] The circumference of the tray may include a portion that extends into a curved shape.

[0066] The circumference of the tray may include an arc-shaped portion.

[0067] The circumference of the tray may include a circular portion.

[0068] The tray may include a cylinder.

[0069] Based on the tray, a cold air duct can be provided on one side of the tray, while a guide wall can be provided on the other side of the tray to guide the cold air to the periphery of the tray.

[0070] One side of the tray providing the air duct and the other side of the tray providing the guide wall can be formed opposite sides of each other relative to the center of the tray. Therefore, the cold air can flow smoothly along the circumference of the tray.

[0071] The refrigerator may include a first scraper disposed on one side of the tray and used to separate ice (ice in a first state) generated on the circumferential surface from the tray.

[0072] One side of the tray providing the cold air duct and the other side of the tray providing the first scraper can be formed opposite sides of each other relative to the center of the tray. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first scraper from acting as a resistance to the flow of cold air.

[0073] The refrigerator may include a water reservoir for supplying water to the tray; the water reservoir may be configured on the opposite side of the flow path of cold air supplied to the periphery of the tray via cold air ducts.

[0074] With the center of the tray as a reference, the airflow path from the air duct toward the periphery of the tray and the water tank can be arranged on opposite sides of each other. This prevents the cold air flowing in through the air duct from directly affecting the water tank and causing the water in the tank to freeze.

[0075] The water storage tank can be located on the lower side of the tray with respect to the direction of gravity, while the cold air flow path can be located on the upper side of the tray.

[0076] The refrigerator may include a bracket with a wall supporting a water tank; the bracket may include a portion of the space between the periphery of the tray and the water tank. This portion of the bracket prevents cold air from being supplied to the water tank.

[0077] The refrigerator may include a support forming a receiving space for a tray; the support may have an opening that allows ice to move away from the tray.

[0078] The opening can be formed on the opposite side of the air duct with the tray as a reference, so that the cold air supplied to the tray can easily diffuse through the opening.

[0079] The opening can be defined by the space between a guide wall that guides cold air to the periphery of the tray and a support wall with a first scraper.

[0080] Based on the direction of cold air flow supplied from the cold air duct, the downstream cross-sectional area of ​​the cold air duct can be smaller than the upstream cross-sectional area, thereby enabling the cold air to be concentrated and supplied to the periphery of the tray.

[0081] The tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material, which allows it to be quickly cooled by cold air.

[0082] At least one of a protrusion and a recess can be formed on the circumferential surface of the tray. At least one of the protrusion and the recess can be provided with a space or surface for forming ice, thereby improving ice-making performance and making it easier for the ice formed on the circumferential surface to be separated by a scraper.

[0083] By constructing the recessed portion and the protruding portion, the thickness of the ice formed in the recessed portion can be greater than the thickness of the ice formed in the protruding portion. When the ice is separated by a scraper, the ice formed in the recessed portion can be easily separated with the protruding portion as a reference, and thus it can be easily discharged in the form of powdered ice.

[0084] The recessed portion and the protruding portion can be arranged axially on the circumferential surface.

[0085] The recessed portion and the protruding portion can be formed in multiples, and the multiple recessed portions and the multiple protruding portions can be arranged alternately.

[0086] The tray can be configured to rotate.

[0087] The tray may include: a shaft connection portion disposed at the center of the tray and connected to a shaft; a first tray portion forming the circumferential surface; and a second tray portion extending radially to connect the shaft connection portion and the first tray portion.

[0088] The second tray section may be provided in multiples.

[0089] The first tray portion may include an outer peripheral surface forming the circumferential surface and an inner peripheral surface facing the shaft engagement portion.

[0090] The tray may include a through-hole for cold air to pass through, thereby increasing the cooling area of ​​the tray.

[0091] The through portion can be formed to penetrate the tray axially.

[0092] The shaft connection portion, the first tray portion, and the second tray portion can define the through portion.

[0093] According to embodiments of the present invention, ice with a strength that is chewable by consumers can be produced, thereby improving consumer satisfaction.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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.

[0097] According to an embodiment of the invention, the inner diameter of the cylinder is formed to narrow along the direction of ice movement, thereby enabling compression along with the movement of the ice.

[0098] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heater is provided in the cylinder so that a portion of the powdered ice and crushed ice transferred to the cylinder can melt, and the melted ice can be condensed into a block of shaped ice when it refreezes.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the invention, more heat is supplied to the front region of the cylinder adjacent to the inlet side, and less heat is supplied to the rear region adjacent to the outlet, so that the ice transferred to the cylinder can melt in the front region and then refreeze in the rear region.

[0100] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cylinder is preheated before the ice is transferred to it, so that a portion of the ice transferred to the cylinder can melt and then refreeze while being transferred to the cylinder, thereby enabling it to be compressed into molded ice with a strength suitable for chewing by the user.

[0101] According to an embodiment of the invention, if ice is transferred to the cylinder, the cylinder is heated, thereby enabling a portion of the ice transferred to the cylinder to melt and then refreeze while moving inside the cylinder, thus improving energy-saving performance.

[0102] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature sensor is provided that can sense the temperature of the cylinder, and the heater can be turned on / off or the heater output can be adjusted based on the value sensed by the temperature sensor.

[0103] According to embodiments of the present invention, the opening / closing of the heater can be controlled or the output of the heater can be adjusted based on various factors including the internal temperature of the refrigerator, whether the door is open or not, changes in freezing capacity, whether defrosting is in operation, and whether the refrigerator is full of ice.

[0104] According to embodiments of the invention, if the cylinder becomes blocked by compressed ice during the process of compressing ice inside the cylinder, this situation can be resolved by using a heater.

[0105] According to an embodiment of the invention, a replaceable ejector tube is provided at the rear end of the cylinder, thereby allowing the strength and size of the formed ice to be adjusted according to the material and size of the ejector tube.

[0106] According to an embodiment of the invention, the discharge tube is formed of a stretchable elastic material, thereby enabling not only radial compression of ice, but also axial compression of ice in the direction of ice transport.

[0107] According to embodiments of the present invention, ice that maintains its shape for a long time can be manufactured by increasing the compressive strength of powdered ice.

[0108] According to an embodiment of the invention, the ice that is compressed for the first time when passing through the cylinder flows into the discharge pipe after passing through the discharge port of the cylinder, and can be compressed a second time.

[0109] According to an embodiment of the invention, ice that is compressed a second time by the piston as it flows into the discharge pipe expands when it is discharged through an outlet formed with a diameter smaller than that of the discharge pipe. At this time, the ice is compressed a third time due to the force of the outlet resisting the expansion, thereby being discharged from the discharge pipe in a hard state.

[0110] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the temperature sensor can be easily mounted on the outside of the cylinder.

[0111] According to embodiments of the present invention, the cylinder can be more easily attached to an external fixing component.

[0112] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cold air supply device is provided to supply cold air to the tray, thereby enabling easy cooling of water present on the periphery of the tray.

[0113] According to an embodiment of the invention, the tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material, thereby enabling the tray to be rapidly cooled by supplied cold air.

[0114] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of a protrusion and a recess is formed on the circumferential surface to improve the ice-making performance of the tray, and at least one of the protrusion and the recess can provide space or surface for forming ice, thereby improving the ice-making performance of the tray.

[0115] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a through portion is formed in the tray and a cold air flow path is formed in the through portion, thereby increasing the cooling area of ​​the tray.

[0116] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a water storage tank is provided, and the tray is configured such that at least a portion thereof is immersed in the water storage tank, thereby enabling smooth water supply to the periphery of the tray.

[0117] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a support is provided for supporting a water storage tank, the support including a wall extending toward the space between the periphery of the tray and the water storage tank, thereby restricting the supply of cold air to the water storage tank and thus preventing the water stored in the water storage tank from freezing. Attached Figure Description

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an ice maker and door pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] Figure 15dThis 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.

[0137] Figure 16 This is a top view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Figure 17 This is a left view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] Figure 18 This is a right view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Figure 19 This is a front view showing the structure of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] Figure 20 This is a left perspective view showing the structure of the air conditioning duct according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Figure 21 This is a bottom perspective view showing the structure of the air conditioning duct according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Figure 22 This is a diagram showing a portion of the ice-making section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] Figure 23 It shows from Figure 22 A diagram showing the state of the tray assembly and water tank removed.

[0145] Figure 24 It is along Figure 8 A sectional view cut along line 24-24.

[0146] Figure 25 It is along Figure 8 A sectional view cut along line 25-25.

[0147] Figure 26 This diagram illustrates the state in which cold air is supplied from the refrigerator door to the ice-making chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the cold air from the ice-making chamber returns to the outside of the refrigerator door.

[0148] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an ice-making section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an ice-making section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] Figure 29 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an ice-making section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Figure 30This is a side view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Figure 31 yes Figure 30 A longitudinal sectional view.

[0153] Figure 32 This is a rear perspective view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] Figure 33 This is a perspective view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] Figure 34 This is a side view of the cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the back of the cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of the cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] Figures 38 to 42 This is a side view showing the state in which the heater and temperature sensor are arranged in various positions on the cylinder according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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".

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] At least one of the first refrigerator door 20 and the second refrigerator door 30 may include one or more ice makers 100.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] 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.

[0181] 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.

[0182] 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. For example, the cold air circulating in the supply flow path 16 and the discharge flow path 17 may be circulated by a fan (not shown) disposed in the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located.

[0183] 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 16 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.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] The plurality of said walls may form at least a portion of the door lining 70.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] 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.

[0201] 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.

[0202] The ice maker 100 may include an ice-making section 200, which receives water, cools it in a tray assembly 240, and transfers the cooled ice. However, the tray assembly 240 may also be supplied with other liquids besides water.

[0203] 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.

[0204] 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.

[0205] The detailed structure of the ice maker 100 will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0206] 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.

[0207] 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.

[0208] 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.

[0209] 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.

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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".

[0213] The first motor 210 can be connected to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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, so that 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.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] The plate joint 229 can be provided in a plurality of positions on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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 ).

[0226] 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.

[0227] 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.

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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.

[0230] Figure 30 This is a side view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 31 yes Figure 30 A longitudinal sectional view. Figure 32 This is a rear perspective view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 33 This is a perspective view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0231] Reference Figures 30 to 33 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.

[0232] The cylinder 360 and the discharge tube 370 can form a circular cross-section in at least a portion of their intervals.

[0233] At least a portion of the section of the cylinder 360 and the discharge tube 370 may be configured to be cylindrical or conical in shape.

[0234] As an example, 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. The discharge tube 370 can be made of an elastically deformable material, such as silicon.

[0235] The discharge tube 370 can be formed of a flexible material.

[0236] The discharge tube 370 may be formed of a stretchable material.

[0237] The discharge tube 370 can compress the compressed ice radially or in the direction of ice transport (axial direction).

[0238] If powdered ice flows into the discharge tube 370 and the piston 335 compresses it, the shape of the discharge tube 370 deforms. Due to the force of the discharge tube 370 resisting deformation, the powdered ice passing through the discharge tube 370 can be compressed more forcefully.

[0239] Conversely, the cylinder 360 can be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity. The cylinder 360 can be formed of a metallic material.

[0240] As an example, the cylinder 360 may be formed of aluminum.

[0241] The cylinder 360 and the discharge tube 370 can be integrally formed.

[0242] The cylinder 360 and the discharge tube 370 can be detachably combined.

[0243] At this point, the cylinder 360 and the discharge tube 370 can be joined together using an additional coupling mechanism.

[0244] The cylinder 360 has an open inlet 361 on one side where powdered ice flows in, and an open outlet 361 on the other side to discharge compressed shaped ice.

[0245] Furthermore, a compression space 363 is formed inside the cylinder 360, which defines the space in which the powder ice flowing in from the inlet 361 is compressed as it moves toward the outlet 361.

[0246] One side of the compression space 363 can be connected to the inlet 361, and the other side can be connected to the outlet 361.

[0247] In addition, the diameter of the cylinder 360 can be the same throughout the entire range, based on the direction of powder ice transport.

[0248] In addition, the diameter of the cylinder 360 can vary within a certain range based on the direction of powder ice transport.

[0249] In addition, the diameter of the cylinder 360 can vary throughout the range based on the direction of powder ice transport.

[0250] As an example, the diameter of the cylinder 360 may gradually decrease from one side to the other in at least a portion of the distance along the direction of powder ice transport.

[0251] Therefore, the diameter of the compression space 363 of the cylinder 360 can gradually decrease from one side to the other in at least a portion of the range.

[0252] That is, the diameter of the compression space 363 can be formed such that it decreases from the side where the inlet 361 is formed toward the side where the outlet 361 is formed.

[0253] The diameter of the inlet 361 can be larger than the diameter of the outlet 361.

[0254] Reference Figure 30 The diameter d1 of the first portion of the compression space 363 that is closer to the inlet 361 than the outlet 362 can be greater than the diameter d2 of the second portion of the compression space 363 that is closer to the outlet 362 than the inlet 361. (That is, d1>d2)

[0255] Alternatively, the diameter of the compression space 363 of the cylinder 360 may gradually decrease from one side to the other in a certain range, while remaining constant in the remaining range.

[0256] As an example, from one side of the inlet 361 where powdered ice flows in, a decreasing interval can be formed in which the diameter of the compression space 363 decreases along the direction of movement of the powdered ice. After the decreasing interval, a holding interval can be formed from the outlet 362 where the diameter of the compression space 363 remains constant.

[0257] As described above, if the diameter of the compression space 363 of the cylinder 360 is formed to gradually decrease, the cross-sectional area of ​​the compression space 363 from the inlet 361 to the outlet 362 becomes smaller. As a result, the compression of the powder ice moving in the compression space 363 is achieved more reliably, thereby enabling the formation of hard, molded ice.

[0258] In addition, as mentioned above, if the diameter of the inlet 361 side is larger than the diameter of the outlet 362 side, the powder ice will flow more easily into the cylinder 360.

[0259] On the other side of the cylinder 360 where the discharge port 362 is formed, a discharge tube 370 is formed.

[0260] After the cylinder 360 is compressed for the first time, the ice discharged through the discharge port 362 flows into the discharge pipe 370, and is then further compressed before being discharged.

[0261] A connecting portion 371 is formed on one side of the discharge tube 370, which is connected to the discharge port 362 of the cylinder 360.

[0262] The connecting part 371 is hollow and open on both sides.

[0263] The connecting portion 371 can be formed as the other end of the surrounding cylinder 360 where the discharge port 362 is formed.

[0264] That is, the other end of the cylinder 360 with the discharge port 362 can be inserted into and fixed to the connecting part 371.

[0265] The connecting part 371 is formed of an elastic material, thereby the connecting part 371 can be fixed while covering the outer side of the discharge port 361 side of the cylinder 360 by its own elastic restoring force.

[0266] At this time, the other end of the cylinder 360 that is fitted into the connecting part 371 (to) Figure 30 The right end (based on the reference) can be formed to keep its outer diameter constant so that the entire area of ​​the other end can fit tightly against the connecting part 371.

[0267] Figure 34 This is a side view of the cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the back of the cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 36 This is a perspective view of the cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view showing the combined state of the cylinder and the discharge tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0268] Reference Figures 34 to 37 At the other end of the cylinder 360 (with Figure 31 A groove 364 may be formed on the right end of the cylinder 360, the groove 364 being formed on the outer peripheral surface of the other end of the cylinder 360 to be recessed inward to a predetermined depth and extending in the circumferential direction.

[0269] Furthermore, the connecting portion 371 may have a protrusion 3711, which protrudes from the inner surface of the connecting portion 371 and extends along the inner circumferential surface.

[0270] Reference Figure 31 and Figure 37 The protrusion 3711 and the groove 364 can form a quadrilateral cross section.

[0271] As another example, the protrusion 3711 and the groove 364 may form at least a portion of a curved cross section.

[0272] Furthermore, if the protrusion 3711 of the connecting part 371 is inserted into the groove 364 of the cylinder 360, the bonding force between the cylinder 360 and the discharge pipe 370 can be improved, and the discharge pipe 370 can remain bonded to the cylinder 360 during the ice compression process without separating from the cylinder 360.

[0273] Additionally, a groove 364, recessed to a predetermined depth and extending in the circumferential direction, may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 360, into which a sealing member may be inserted.

[0274] As an example, the sealing component may be an O-ring.

[0275] The sealing member can be configured such that one part is inserted into the groove 364 and the other part protrudes outward from the cylinder 360.

[0276] Furthermore, when the connecting portion 371 of the discharge tube 370 is fitted into the other end of the cylinder 360, a portion of the sealing member can be inserted into the groove 364, while another portion can contact the inner surface of the connecting portion 371 and can press the inner surface of the connecting portion 371 while contacting it.

[0277] Therefore, by constructing the sealing member, the bonding force between the cylinder 360 and the discharge pipe 370 can be improved, and the discharge pipe 370 can remain bonded to the cylinder 360 during the ice compression process without separating from the cylinder 360.

[0278] As a variation, the sealing member may be inserted into the connection 371 of the discharge tube 370 and the other end of the cylinder 360, instead of forming an additional groove 364 on the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0279] Alternatively, additional retaining rings or the like can be used to press and fix the dispensing tube 370 to the cylinder 360 along the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the dispensing tube 370. In addition, various fixing mechanisms can be added within the range that allows the dispensing tube 370 to be fixed to the cylinder 360.

[0280] Additionally, the discharge tube 370 may have a discharge portion 372 that extends from the connecting portion 371 toward the direction of discharging ice and discharges compressed ice.

[0281] One side of the dispensing part 372 is connected to the connecting part 371, and an open outlet 373 is formed on the other side of the dispensing part 372.

[0282] That is, the outlet 373 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 373 of the discharge pipe 370.

[0283] The discharge portion 372 may be configured such that its inner diameter gradually decreases from the side connected to the connecting portion 371 toward the side where the outlet 373 is formed, and may form an inclined first interval 3721.

[0284] Furthermore, the discharge portion 372 may form a second interval 3722, which extends from the first interval 3721 and defines the outlet 373, and the inner diameter of the second interval 3722 remains constant.

[0285] As described above, if the inner diameter of the dispensing portion 372 is formed in the first interval 3721 to gradually decrease in the direction of the outlet 373, the powder ice moving in the first interval 3721 of the dispensing portion 372 can be compressed more reliably, thereby forming hard molded ice.

[0286] Furthermore, the compressed, hardened ice can be shaped into a specified diameter as it passes through the second section 3722, and then discharged out of the discharge pipe 370 through the outlet 373.

[0287] The diameter of the second interval 3722 may be smaller than the diameter of the first interval 3721.

[0288] Reference Figure 37 The inner diameter D1 of the discharge port 362 of the cylinder 360 can be larger than the inner diameter D2 of the discharge port 373 of the discharge pipe 370.

[0289] That is, the diameter of the second interval 3722 can be smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the outlet 362 of the cylinder 360.

[0290] Furthermore, the discharge portion 372 of the discharge tube 370 can be formed such that one side (with) Figure 37 The inner diameter of the right end (based on the reference point) is the same as the inner diameter of the outlet 362 of the cylinder 360, while the other side (based on the reference point) Figure 37 The inner diameter of the left end (based on the reference) is the same as the inner diameter of the outlet 373.

[0291] Furthermore, the second section 3721 can be extended from one side (within the inner diameter of the discharge section 372) according to the inner diameter of the discharge section 372. Figure 37 (based on the right side) towards the other side (with) Figure 37 It is formed by gradually decreasing from the left side (based on the baseline).

[0292] The ice flowing into the discharge pipe 370 after passing through the discharge port 362 of the cylinder 360 is in a state of initial compression. This ice can be further compressed by the piston 335 in the discharge pipe 370.

[0293] Furthermore, the ice that is compressed a second time by the piston 335 in the discharge pipe 370 needs to be discharged through the outlet 373, which is formed to be smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the discharge pipe 370.

[0294] Furthermore, when the ice that has been compressed a second time is discharged from the outlet 373, which is smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the discharge pipe 370, the outlet 373 expands. The force of the outlet 373 resisting the expansion compresses the ice a third time, so that the ice can be discharged from the discharge pipe 370 in a hard state.

[0295] Additionally, a sensor mounting portion 365 for mounting a temperature sensor can be formed on the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0296] The sensor mounting part 365 can be integrally formed with the cylinder 360.

[0297] The sensor mounting part 365 can be formed as a separate component relative to the cylinder 360, or it can be integrated with the cylinder 360.

[0298] The temperature sensor can be configured to sense at least one of the following: the temperature of the cylinder 360, the temperature around the cylinder 360, and the temperature inside the cylinder 360.

[0299] In addition, the sensor mounting part 366 may be formed with a sensor mounting groove 3651 for mounting the temperature sensor.

[0300] As an example, the sensor mounting part 365 and the sensor mounting groove 3651 can extend long in the vertical direction.

[0301] Additionally, a step 3611 may be formed on one end of the cylinder 360 where the inlet 361 is formed, the step 3611 being recessed outward along the periphery of the inlet 361.

[0302] Additionally, at least one extension 366 protruding outward from the outer surface may be formed on the side end of the cylinder 360 where the inlet 361 is formed.

[0303] At least one connecting hole 3661 may be formed in the extension 366.

[0304] The extension 366 may be formed in a plurality of portions on the outer surface of one end of the cylinder 360.

[0305] The extension 366 can extend obliquely to both sides on the upper side of the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0306] The extension 366 may extend downward on the lower side of the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0307] The extension 366 may be formed to secure the cylinder 360 to other components.

[0308] On the other hand, the discharge tube 370, made of elastic material, can be applied to various positions in various ice makers that dispense ice.

[0309] As an example, this can be applied to various known types of ice makers, with or without an auger.

[0310] In addition, it can be applied to various ice makers that have a piston and a cylinder and use a method of compressing ice inside the cylinder.

[0311] Additionally, it can be applied to ice makers that directly generate or individually receive smaller powder ice and then condense the powder ice to store or supply it as large-sized molded ice.

[0312] On the other hand, as described above, during the process of powdered ice flowing into cylinder 360 and being compressed by piston 335 to form shaped ice, it is necessary to provide heat to make the ice solidify more firmly.

[0313] If the ice is compressed directly without applying heat to the cylinder, it will not solidify well, resulting in brittle ice that does not possess the properties of powdered ice that can be molded into a block of ice (nugget ice).

[0314] In addition, when ice freezes inside the cylinder, causing it to become blocked, heat needs to be supplied to the cylinder to remove the blockage.

[0315] If the problem of ice blockage in the cylinder cannot be resolved, further ice production will be impossible, and components such as the piston and cylinder may be damaged.

[0316] To improve this situation, the present invention attaches a heater to the cylinder, thereby generating ice that can maintain a specified strength.

[0317] In detail, a heater is added to the outside of the cylinder, and the surface of the ice in contact with the inner surface of the cylinder is slightly melted before freezing again, thereby producing ice that retains its shape while having a chewable strength.

[0318] Additionally, if the cylinder becomes clogged with compressed ice during the ice compression process, a heater can be used to resolve the blockage.

[0319] In detail, a heater can be added to the outside of the cylinder, and the cylinder blockage problem can be solved by slightly melting the surface of the compressed ice generated inside the cylinder and then pushing the compressed ice out.

[0320] Figures 38 to 42 This is a side view showing the state in which the heater and temperature sensor are arranged in various positions on the cylinder according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0321] In detail, Figure 38 This is a side view showing the spacing of the heaters formed at different intervals along the length of the cylinder, and a temperature sensor installed on the outlet side. Figure 39 This is a side view showing a configuration where a heater is installed on the inlet side of the cylinder, and a temperature sensor is installed on the outlet side. Figure 40 This is a side view showing a configuration where heaters are installed on the inlet and center sides of the cylinder, and a temperature sensor is installed on the outlet side. Figure 41 This is a side view showing a configuration where a heater is installed on the inlet side of the cylinder, and a temperature sensor is installed on the center side. Figure 42 This is a side view showing a configuration where a heater is installed on the outlet side of the cylinder, and a temperature sensor is installed on the inlet side.

[0322] The following is for reference Figures 38 to 42 The composition of cylinder 360 and heater 390 will be described in more detail.

[0323] First, the heater 390 is configured to be disposed in the cylinder 360 and supply heat to the cylinder 360, and can therefore be named a "cylinder heater".

[0324] The cylinder 360 can be in various shapes; for example, it can be cylindrical.

[0325] Here, the inner or outer diameter of the cylinder 360 can vary along the axial direction (length direction) in at least a portion of the range.

[0326] As an example, the inner or outer diameter of the cylinder 360 may be configured to decrease in at least a portion of the range along the direction of ice transport.

[0327] The heater 390 can be configured in various forms.

[0328] As an example, the heater 390 can be configured as a wire. The heater 390 can be configured as a wire heater.

[0329] As another example, the heater 390 can be configured as a planar heater.

[0330] In addition, the heater 390 can be configured in various ways within the range of being able to convert electrical energy into heat energy and supply heat to the cylinder 360.

[0331] When the heater 390 is in a linear form, the heater 390 may be disposed on the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0332] The heater 390 can be arranged in a wound manner on the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0333] The heater 390 may be formed in a linear form and wound in a spiral shape around the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0334] The heater 390 can be configured to be wound multiple times around the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0335] The heater 390 can be wound in a spiral shape around the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0336] Additionally, the heater 390 can be wound in a diagonal shape when viewed from the side of the cylinder 360.

[0337] In addition, there may be one heater 390 or more than two heaters.

[0338] Furthermore, when multiple heaters 390 are provided, the multiple heaters 390 can be controlled uniformly or individually.

[0339] The heater 390 can be wound around the outer surface of the cylinder 360 and then fixed to the outer surface of the cylinder 360 when it is covered by aluminum strip or the like.

[0340] The heater 390 can be embedded inside to prevent it from being exposed to the outer or inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 360, or it can be disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 360.

[0341] The cylinder 360 may be formed of a thermally conductive material.

[0342] As an example, the cylinder 360 may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum.

[0343] Furthermore, the heater 390 can be connected to wires, and the heater 390's on / off state, output, and on / off time can be controlled by a separate control unit.

[0344] The outlet end of the cylinder 360 may be formed with a discharge pipe 370.

[0345] Furthermore, the discharge tube 370 can be made of non-metallic materials.

[0346] At this time, the heater 390 may be provided only in the cylinder 360, and not in the discharge pipe 370.

[0347] In addition, a portion of the cylinder 360 may be made of a metallic material, while another portion may be made of a non-metallic material.

[0348] Furthermore, the heater 390 may be provided only in the portion of the cylinder 360 that is made of metal.

[0349] As an example, the cylinder 360 can be formed of aluminum, a material with high thermal conductivity and high strength.

[0350] Reference Figure 40 When the heater 390 is wound around the outer surface of the cylinder 360, the spacing of the heater 390 can remain constant.

[0351] Reference Figure 40 When the heater 390 is wound around the outer surface of the cylinder 360, the heater 390 can be wound around the entire range of the cylinder 360.

[0352] Additionally, when the heater 390 is wound around the outer surface of the cylinder 360, the heater 390 may be wound only around a portion of the cylinder 360.

[0353] Reference Figure 39 and Figure 41 The heater 390 may be wound only on the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361.

[0354] Reference Figure 42 The heater 390 may be wound only on the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0355] As another example, the heater 390 may be wound only around the center portion located between the inlet 361 and outlet 362 of the cylinder 360.

[0356] When the heater 390 is wound around the outer surface of the cylinder 360, the spacing of the heater 390 may vary in each interval.

[0357] The heater 390 may be configured such that the intervals at which it is wound with respect to the length direction of the cylinder 360 vary in at least a portion of the range.

[0358] The heater 390 may be configured such that the winding interval of the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361 is smaller than the winding interval of the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0359] Reference Figure 38 The heater 390 may be wound at a first interval d3 on the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361, and at a second interval d4 on the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0360] Here, the second interval d4 can be greater than the first interval d3.

[0361] That is, the heater 390 can be wound at a higher density on the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361, and at a lower density on the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0362] In this situation, if power is supplied to heater 390, more heat is provided to the inlet 361 side, resulting in a greater temperature rise on the inlet 361 side. Conversely, a relatively small amount of heat is supplied to the outlet 362 side, resulting in a smaller temperature rise on the outlet 362 side.

[0363] In addition, the heat per unit area of ​​the heater 390 can vary in at least a portion of the range based on the length direction of the cylinder 360.

[0364] In the heater 390, the heat per unit area supplied to the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361 can be greater than the heat per unit area supplied to the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0365] Furthermore, when the heater 390 is wound around the outer surface of the cylinder 360, the output of the heater 390 can vary in different ranges.

[0366] As an example, the heater 390 may output at a first intensity on the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361, and at a second intensity on the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0367] Here, the first strength can be greater than the second strength.

[0368] That is, the heater 390 can supply high heat by outputting at a higher intensity on the side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361, and supply low heat by outputting at a lower intensity on the other side of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0369] In this case, if the heater 390 is powered, more heat is supplied to the inlet 361 side, so that the temperature of the inlet 361 side can rise more. Conversely, relatively less heat is supplied to the outlet 362 side, so that the temperature of the outlet 362 side can rise relatively less.

[0370] As another example, whether or not a heater 390 is provided, water can be supplied to the ice inside the cylinder 360 by forming a flow path that allows water to flow into the inside of the cylinder 360. Subsequently, the ice inside the cylinder 360 can form hard ice when it melts due to the supplied water and then refreezes.

[0371] In addition, the heater 390 can be turned on / off or output at set time intervals.

[0372] The heater 390 can be turned on / off or its output controlled based on external factors.

[0373] As an example, the external factor could be the cylinder temperature.

[0374] With a temperature sensor installed in the cylinder 360, the heater can be controlled based on the cylinder temperature, thereby keeping the cylinder temperature constant.

[0375] Alternatively, if a temperature sensor is not installed in the cylinder, the amount of heating itself can be controlled.

[0376] However, if the temperature of cylinder 360 rises excessively, the compressive force of piston 335 will increase.

[0377] In detail, if the temperature of cylinder 360 rises excessively, too much ice will melt inside cylinder 360. If the excessively melted ice refreezes, pores will not form between the powdered ice, thus only hard, molded ice like ordinary ice will be produced, and the compression force of piston 335 may increase.

[0378] Furthermore, if the temperature of cylinder 360 rises excessively, too much ice will melt inside cylinder 360, reducing the amount of ice compressed by the piston. This causes the piston to stay inside the cylinder for a longer period of time, and thus the compressive force of piston 335 may increase.

[0379] Therefore, it is necessary to set the optimal temperature range of cylinder 360 in order to generate molded ice with a strength suitable for the user's chewing while ensuring that the compression force of piston 335 is within an appropriate range.

[0380] Reference Figures 38 to 42 A temperature sensor 368 is provided on the inner or outer side of the cylinder 360.

[0381] As an example, the temperature sensor 368 is housed and disposed in the sensor mounting groove 3651 of the sensor mounting portion 365 formed on the outer surface of the cylinder 360.

[0382] The temperature sensor 368 can sense the temperature outside the cylinder 360.

[0383] Furthermore, the heater 390 can be controlled to turn on / off or output based on the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor 368.

[0384] As an example, if the temperature of the cylinder 360 sensed by the temperature sensor 368 or the temperature around the cylinder 360 is lower than a preset reference temperature, the control unit can control the heater 390 to turn on or increase the output of the heater 390.

[0385] As another example, if the temperature of the cylinder 360 sensed by the temperature sensor 368 or the temperature around the cylinder 360 is higher than a preset reference temperature, the control unit can control the heater 390 to be turned off or the output of the heater 390 to be reduced.

[0386] Reference Figure 41 The temperature sensor 368 can be formed at the center with the length direction of the cylinder 360 as a reference.

[0387] Additionally, refer to Figure 42 The temperature sensor 368 can be formed on one side adjacent to the inlet 361, with the length direction of the cylinder 360 as a reference.

[0388] Additionally, refer to Figures 38 to 40 The temperature sensor 368 can be formed on the other side, based on the length direction of the cylinder 360, adjacent to the outlet 362 side.

[0389] In addition, the temperature sensor 368 can be positioned in a location that does not overlap with the heater 390.

[0390] As an example, such as Figure 39 As shown, the heater 390 can be formed on one side adjacent to the inlet 361, with the length direction of the cylinder 360 as a reference, and the temperature sensor 368 can be formed at the center or on the other side adjacent to the outlet 362, with the length direction of the cylinder 360 as a reference.

[0391] As another example, such as Figure 42 As shown, the heater 390 can be formed with reference to the length direction of the cylinder 360 and adjacent to the outlet 362 side, and the temperature sensor 368 can be formed with reference to the length direction of the cylinder 360 at the center or on the other side adjacent to the outlet 362 side.

[0392] As yet another example, such as Figure 41 As shown, the heater 390 can be formed at the center with reference to the length direction of the cylinder 360, and the temperature sensor 368 can be formed on the side adjacent to the inlet 361 or the outlet 362, other than the center, with reference to the length direction of the cylinder 360.

[0393] On the other hand, the heater 390 can be configured to have a different density along the length of the cylinder 360.

[0394] Additionally, the heater 390 may be configured such that its density varies along the length of the cylinder 360.

[0395] Additionally, the heater 390 can be configured to increase or decrease its density along the length of the cylinder 360.

[0396] In addition, the cylinder 360 can be divided into a region with a higher density of heater 390 and a region with a lower density of heater 390, and the temperature sensor 368 can be disposed in the region with a lower density of heater 390.

[0397] As an example, with the center of the length direction of the cylinder 360 as a reference, the density of the heater 390 is higher in the region adjacent to the inlet 361, while the density of the heater 390 is lower or no heater 390 is formed in the region adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0398] Furthermore, the temperature sensor 368 can be located near the outlet 362 where the density of the heater 390 is formed to be relatively low.

[0399] Furthermore, the temperature sensor 368 can measure the temperature of the outer surface of the cylinder 360 on the side of the outlet 362.

[0400] As a variation, temperature sensor 368 can also measure the temperature of the outer surface of the discharge tube from the discharge tube side.

[0401] Accordingly, ice is partially melted in the front half of the cylinder 360 where the heater 390 has a high density, while the melted ice is re-frozen in the rear half of the cylinder 360 where the heater 390 has a low density or where no heater 390 is provided, thereby generating shaped ice.

[0402] As another example, the density of the heater 390 can be formed with reference to the center of the length direction of the cylinder 360, such that the density is low in the region adjacent to the inlet 361 and high in the region adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0403] Furthermore, the temperature sensor 368 can be located near the inlet 361 where the density of the heater 390 is formed to be relatively low.

[0404] Furthermore, the temperature sensor 368 can measure the temperature of the outer surface of the cylinder 360 on the inlet side 361.

[0405] As described above, if a higher density of heater 390 is formed in the area adjacent to the outlet 362, a portion of the ice at the end of the cylinder 360 melts, and the compression force required by piston 335 to compress the ice inside the cylinder is reduced.

[0406] In the case of the present invention, in order to generate block-shaped shaped ice in front of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361, it is necessary to melt a portion of the powdered ice or crushed ice flowing into the cylinder 360, and to condense the powdered ice or crushed ice into a block when the melted ice refreezes behind the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0407] Therefore, the heater 390 can be configured to provide more heat to the front of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the inlet 361, and less heat or no heat to the rear of the cylinder 360 adjacent to the outlet 362.

[0408] The control method for the heater is described below.

[0409] First, the heater 390 can be turned on at any step before the powdered ice is transferred to the cylinder 360, thereby preheating the cylinder 360.

[0410] Then, in the preheated state, if the temperature of cylinder 360 reaches or exceeds the set temperature, powder ice can be transferred into the interior of cylinder 360.

[0411] Furthermore, since the temperature of the cylinder 360 has already risen, a portion of the powder ice that is in contact with or adjacent to the inner wall of the cylinder 360 and is transferred into the interior of the cylinder 360 can melt.

[0412] At this point, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to change in each step.

[0413] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to increase.

[0414] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to increase and then decrease.

[0415] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease.

[0416] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to vary according to the position of the powder ice moving toward the cylinder 360.

[0417] As an example, the heater 390 can be controlled to output a first heat when the powder ice moving toward the cylinder 360 is in a first position.

[0418] Additionally, the heater 390 can be controlled to output a second heat greater than the first heat when the powder ice moving toward the cylinder 360 is located at a second position further back (closer to the cylinder) than the first position, based on its direction of movement.

[0419] Alternatively, the heater 390 can also be controlled to output less heat than the first heat when the powder ice moving toward the cylinder 360 is located at a second position further back (closer to the cylinder) than the first position, based on its direction of movement.

[0420] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to vary according to time.

[0421] At this time, the output of the heater 390 can also be controlled to change according to time in each step.

[0422] In addition, the cylinder can be preheated before the powdered ice is transferred to it to improve heating efficiency.

[0423] That is, the heater can be controlled to be turned on in at least one stage before the powder ice is transferred to the cylinder.

[0424] First, the heater 390 can be turned on while the tray 241 is rotating.

[0425] As an example, the heater 390 can be turned on when the first circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241 is in contact with the water in the water tank 250.

[0426] Alternatively, the heater 390 can be turned on during the step of supplying water to the periphery of the tray 241.

[0427] Alternatively, the heater 390 can be turned on when the tray 241 is stopped.

[0428] That is, the heater 390 can be turned on during the step of stopping the rotation of the tray 241 and generating ice on the circumference of the tray 241.

[0429] Additionally, the heater 390 can be turned on during or after the ice removal step, in which ice generated on the periphery of the tray 241 is removed from the tray 241.

[0430] That is, the heater 390 can be turned on while the ice generated on the periphery of the tray 241 is being separated from the tray 241 by the scraper 280.

[0431] Additionally, the heater 390 can be turned on while the device is in motion after the ice generated on the periphery of the tray 241 has been separated from the tray 241.

[0432] As an example, the heater 390 can be controlled to be turned on during the step of housing the ice (powder ice) separated from the tray 241 in the transfer tube 350 before being transferred to the cylinder 360.

[0433] Alternatively, the heater 390 can be turned on when the powder ice is transferred to the cylinder 360 by the action of the rod 350 while it is contained in the transfer tube 350 before being transferred from the tray 241 to the cylinder 360.

[0434] Alternatively, in an embodiment of the present invention, the heater 390 may be turned on after the powdered ice is transferred to the cylinder 360, thereby causing the temperature of the cylinder 360 to rise.

[0435] Furthermore, if the temperature of the cylinder 360 rises, a portion of the powder ice inside the cylinder 360 that is in contact with or adjacent to the inner wall of the cylinder 360 may melt.

[0436] At this point, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to change according to each step.

[0437] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to increase.

[0438] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease after an increase.

[0439] The output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease.

[0440] In addition, in embodiments of the present invention, the heater 390 can be controlled to be turned on / off or its output can be changed according to the temperature of the cylinder 360.

[0441] The temperature sensor 368 senses the temperature of the cylinder 360.

[0442] Furthermore, the temperature of the cylinder 360 sensed by the temperature sensor 368 can be input to the control unit, which can control the heater 390 to turn on / off or change its output, so that the temperature of the cylinder 360 remains constant.

[0443] As an example, if the temperature of the cylinder 360 sensed by the temperature sensor 368 is lower than a preset reference temperature, the heater 390 can be controlled to be turned off or its output reduced.

[0444] Additionally, if the temperature of the cylinder 360 sensed by the temperature sensor 368 is higher than a preset reference temperature, the heater 390 can be controlled to be turned on or its output increased.

[0445] In addition, in embodiments of the present invention, the heater 390 can be controlled to turn on / off or change its output based on the temperature of a certain part of the refrigerator 1, such as the internal temperature of the refrigerator, the door side temperature, or the evaporator temperature.

[0446] At this point, the temperature sensor 368 can be omitted.

[0447] As an example, the heater 390 can be controlled to turn on / off or change its output according to the temperature of the ice-making chamber 25.

[0448] In addition, a mapping diagram can be pre-made and stored in the control unit for the output of the heater 390 based on the temperature of the ice-making chamber 25, and then the output of the heater 390 can be changed in real time according to the temperature of the ice-making chamber 25.

[0449] In addition, to improve energy efficiency, the cylinder 360 can be heated only when needed.

[0450] Furthermore, the heater 390 can be turned on in the step after the ice is transferred to the cylinder 360.

[0451] First, during the step of transferring ice into the compression cylinder 360, the heater 390 can be turned on.

[0452] As an example, in the step of compressing the ice in the cylinder 360 by the action of piston 335, it can be controlled to turn on heater 390.

[0453] That is, if piston 335 moves, it can be controlled to turn on heater 390.

[0454] For reference, the differences in the formed ice produced based on the output of the cylinder heater are as follows.

[0455] First, if the output of heater 390 increases, the cylinder temperature rises.

[0456] Furthermore, the higher the temperature of the cylinder, the faster the ice in contact with the inner surface of the cylinder melts. And more ice inside the cylinder melts.

[0457] Furthermore, as the amount of ice melting inside the cylinder increases, the density of the re-frozen shaped ice increases, and the diameter of the shaped ice decreases. In addition, the more ice melts inside the cylinder, the more transparent and hard shaped ice can be formed.

[0458] Conversely, if the temperature of the cylinder is kept low, the ice inside the cylinder will not melt, or if it does melt, only a small portion will melt.

[0459] Furthermore, it does not refreeze inside the cylinder, thus reducing its density. Even if the ice is compressed inside the cylinder, it cannot be compressed effectively and will form fragile ice after compression.

[0460] If this ice is ejected outside the ejection tube, it is fragile and difficult to maintain its shape.

[0461] Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the cylinder temperature within an appropriate temperature range in order to generate molded ice of suitable strength.

[0462] According to the present invention, an ice-making cycle can be defined as the process of making ice on tray 241, removing the manufactured ice from the surface of the tray, transferring the removed powdered ice or crushed ice, compressing the transferred powdered ice or crushed ice inside the cylinder, and then discharging the compressed shaped ice.

[0463] Furthermore, if the Nth ice-making cycle is completed, the N+1th ice-making cycle begins.

[0464] During the ice-making cycle, the output of the heater 390 can remain constant.

[0465] In addition, the temperature of the cylinder 360 can be kept constant during the ice-making cycle.

[0466] Conversely, during the ice-making cycle, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to change.

[0467] First, during the ice-making cycle, the heater 390 can be turned on / off. If ice is transferred to the cylinder 360, the heater 390 can be turned on.

[0468] As an example, if the heater 390 is turned on, its output can be controlled to gradually increase. In this case, the curve showing the change in the heater 390's output over time can be plotted as an upward-sloping line.

[0469] Based on this, the efficiency of ice making and ice transfer can be improved.

[0470] As another example, if the heater 390 is turned on, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to gradually increase and then decrease. In this case, the curve of the output of the heater 390 changing over time can be an upward-convex parabola.

[0471] Therefore, it can not only improve the efficiency of ice making and ice transfer, but also improve energy saving efficiency.

[0472] On the other hand, during the ice-making cycle, the heater 390 can be turned on / off, and the cylinder 390 can be preheated by turning on the heater 390 before the ice is transferred to the cylinder 360.

[0473] As an example, if the heater 390 is turned on, its output can be controlled to gradually decrease. In this case, the curve showing the change in the heater 390's output over time can be a downward-sloping line.

[0474] Therefore, powdered ice or crushed ice is transferred into the cylinder while the cylinder is preheated, which not only improves the ice-making and ice-transfer efficiency of molded ice, but also improves the energy-saving efficiency.

[0475] As another example, if the heater 390 is turned on, its output can be controlled to gradually decrease and then increase. In this case, the curve of the heater 390's output changing over time can be a downward-convex parabola.

[0476] Accordingly, powdered ice or crushed ice is transferred into the cylinder while it is already preheated, which not only improves the efficiency of ice making and transfer within the cylinder but also increases energy efficiency. Furthermore, as the heater output increases after decreasing, the efficiency of ice forming can be further improved.

[0477] In addition, the heater 390 can be controlled so that its output changes according to the movement of the piston 335.

[0478] As an example, if the piston 335 is actuated to compress the ice inside the cylinder 360, it can be controlled to increase the output of the heater 390.

[0479] As another example, if the piston 335 is in the standby position, it can be controlled to maintain or reduce the output of the heater 390.

[0480] The output of heater 390 can be controlled to change in relation to the moving position of piston 335, the stroke distance of piston 335, the moving position of rod 350, the rotational position of tray 241, and the movement of peripheral components.

[0481] In addition, as described above, if the temperature of the cylinder 360 measured by the temperature sensor 368 reaches a preset reference temperature when the heater 390 is on, the heater 390 can be turned off.

[0482] Additionally, if the elapsed time after the heater 390 is turned on reaches the reference time, the heater 390 can be turned off.

[0483] In addition, the heater 390 can be controlled so that its output varies according to various factors.

[0484] Here, changes in the heater's output also include the heater switching from an on state to an off state or from an off state to an on state.

[0485] The heater 390 can also be controlled so that its output changes according to the change in refrigeration capacity.

[0486] The refrigeration capacity can refer to the output of the compressor, the opening degree of the damper that restricts the flow of cold air, the opening degree of the refrigerant valve, the output of the fan, etc. If the refrigeration capacity increases, it can be controlled to increase the output of the heater 390; if the refrigeration capacity decreases, it can be controlled to decrease the output of the heater 390.

[0487] Additionally, if the target temperature of the freezer compartment 19 changes due to a change in the temperature regulator (notch) of the freezer compartment 19, the heater 390 can be controlled to change its output as well.

[0488] That is, if the target temperature of the freezer compartment 19 decreases, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to increase; if the target temperature of the freezer compartment 19 increases, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease.

[0489] In addition, in the case of a refrigerator that uses one compressor and two evaporators to lower the temperature of the freezer compartment 19 and the refrigerator compartment 18, if the target temperature of the refrigerator compartment 18 changes due to a change in the temperature regulator (notch) of the refrigerator compartment 18, the heater 390 can be controlled to change its output as well.

[0490] That is, if the target temperature of the refrigerator compartment 18 decreases, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to increase; if the target temperature of the refrigerator compartment 18 increases, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease.

[0491] In addition, if the temperature RT of the space where the refrigerator is located changes, the heater 390 can be controlled to change its output as well.

[0492] That is, if the temperature RT of the space where the refrigerator is located decreases, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease; if the temperature RT of the space where the refrigerator is located increases, the output of the heater 390 can also be controlled to increase.

[0493] In addition, the heater 390 can be controlled so that its output changes depending on whether the refrigerator door is open or not.

[0494] The refrigerator door can refer to both the freezer door and the refrigerator door.

[0495] Normally, the temperature inside a refrigerator rises when the door is opened.

[0496] Therefore, if the refrigerator door is sensed to be open, the output of heater 390 can be controlled to decrease.

[0497] Conversely, if the temperature RT of the space where the refrigerator is located is lower than the temperature inside the refrigerator, opening the refrigerator door may cause the temperature inside the refrigerator to drop instead.

[0498] In this case, if the opening of the refrigerator door is detected, the output of the heater 390 can be increased.

[0499] In addition, if the door load operation is activated after the refrigerator door is opened, thereby increasing the freezing capacity, the output of heater 390 can be controlled to increase. If the door load operation ends, thereby decreasing the freezing capacity, the output of heater 390 can also be controlled to decrease.

[0500] Additionally, if the refrigerator temperature is lowered before defrosting begins or during defrosting to prevent the refrigerator temperature from not increasing, and if the freezing capacity is increased, the output of heater 390 can be increased.

[0501] Furthermore, if the freezing capacity decreases due to the defrosting operation (deep cooling), the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to decrease; if the freezing capacity increases due to the end of the defrosting operation, the output of the heater 390 can be controlled to increase.

[0502] Additionally, when the refrigerator is initially powered on, the output of heater 390 can be increased.

[0503] In addition, when full ice is detected, the output of heater 390 can be controlled to decrease, and if the full ice detection is deactivated, the output of heater 390 can be controlled to increase.

[0504] If ice is not generated for reasons other than full ice, the output of heater 390 can be reduced. If ice generation resumes, the output of heater 390 can be increased.

[0505] 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 shaped ice discharged through the discharge pipe 370. The cutting wall 380 may include an inclined surface facing the discharge pipe 370, which can cut the shaped ice discharged from the discharge pipe 370 when it interferes with the inclined surface. The cut ice can then fall into the ice bucket 500. 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 11bThis is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0506] 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.

[0507] 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.

[0508] 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.

[0509] As an example, the tray 241 may be in the shape of a cylinder 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 form the outer circumferential surface of the tray 241.

[0510] 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.

[0511] 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.

[0512] 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.

[0513] 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.

[0514] 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.

[0515] 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.

[0516] The recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b may each have a plurality of portions. A plurality of the recessed portions 241a may be present (see reference). Figure 17 ) and a plurality of the aforementioned protrusions 241b (see reference) Figure 17 An alternating configuration structure.

[0517] 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.

[0518] 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.

[0519] 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.

[0520] 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.

[0521] 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.

[0522] 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.

[0523] 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.

[0524] 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.

[0525] 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.

[0526] 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.

[0527] 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.

[0528] 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.

[0529] 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.

[0530] 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.

[0531] 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.

[0532] 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.

[0533] 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.

[0534] 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.

[0535] 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.

[0536] The tray covers 246 and 247 may be configured to cover at least one side of the tray 241 and serve to prevent water from the water tank 250 from flowing into the tray holes 245 of the tray 241.

[0537] 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.

[0538] 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.

[0539] 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.

[0540] 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.

[0541] 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.

[0542] 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.

[0543] 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 of the second cover wall 247a may be greater than the radial length of the side wall 244 of the tray 241 to prevent water from flowing into the tray hole 245 of the tray 241.

[0544] 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.

[0545] 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.

[0546] 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.

[0547] 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.

[0548] Explained from different perspectives.

[0549] 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.

[0550] The ice-making section 200 may include a first support 220 forming a first receiving space 220a of the tray assembly 240.

[0551] 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.

[0552] 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.

[0553] 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.

[0554] 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.

[0555] 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.

[0556] 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.

[0557] 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.

[0558] 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.

[0559] The water storage tank 250 may include a shell with a specified capacity, and a water storage tank heater 255 for providing heat may be provided on the wall of the shell to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0560] The ice-making section 200 may include a water supply guide wall 224a that guides water supplied from the water supply pipe 120 to a water storage tank 250. The water supply guide wall 224a may form at least a portion of the fourth wall 224.

[0561] 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 to be inclined relative to the direction from the water supply pipe connection portion 221b toward the water storage tank 250.

[0562] 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.

[0563] 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.

[0564] 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.

[0565] The ice-making section 200 may include a second scraper 285 that contacts the frozen ice in order to separate the ice that has formed on the tray assembly 240.

[0566] 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.

[0567] 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.

[0568] 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 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.

[0569] 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.

[0570] 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.

[0571] 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.

[0572] 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.

[0573] 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.

[0574] 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.

[0575] 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.

[0576] 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.

[0577] 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.

[0578] 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.

[0579] 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 (see reference). Figure 17 The cold air guided by the guide wall 226 can diffuse into the ice-making chamber 25 through the second opening 227.

[0580] 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.

[0581] 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.

[0582] 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.

[0583] 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.

[0584] 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.

[0585] 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.

[0586] The first central portion 235a and the second central portion 236a may each include a support forming a hole.

[0587] 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".

[0588] 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.

[0589] 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.

[0590] 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.

[0591] 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.

[0592] 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.

[0593] 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.

[0594] 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.

[0595] 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.

[0596] 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.

[0597] 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.

[0598] 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.

[0599] 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".

[0600] 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.

[0601] 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.

[0602] 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 11b The 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 may exist in the recess 241a and the protrusion 241b due to surface tension.

[0603] This water supply operation can continue until both first surfaces 242a are supplied with water. That is, if the tray assembly 240 is... Figure 11a If the position is rotated once, the ice-moving and water-supplying actions can be performed simultaneously.

[0604] 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 illustrating 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.

[0605] 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.

[0606] The compression section 300 may include a second motor 310 for providing driving force. The second motor 310 may include a motor shaft 312.

[0607] 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.

[0608] 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.

[0609] 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.

[0610] 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.

[0611] 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.

[0612] 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.

[0613] 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.

[0614] 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.

[0615] 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.

[0616] 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.

[0617] 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.

[0618] 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.

[0619] 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.

[0620] 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.

[0621] 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".

[0622] 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.

[0623] 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.

[0624] 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.

[0625] 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.

[0626] 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.

[0627] 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.

[0628] 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.

[0629] 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.

[0630] 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.

[0631] 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.

[0632] 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.

[0633] 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.

[0634] 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.

[0635] 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.

[0636] 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.

[0637] 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."

[0638] Additionally, the cylinder 360 can have a decreasing range from one side of the inlet 361 for powdered ice to the other side, where the diameter of the compression space 363 decreases along the direction of powdered ice movement, and a maintaining range from the decreasing range to the outlet 362 where the diameter of the compression space 363 remains constant.

[0639] As described above, if the diameter of the compression space 363 formed in the cylinder 360 gradually decreases, the cross-sectional area of ​​the compression space 363 decreases from the inlet 361 to the outlet 362, thus enabling more reliable compression of the powder ice moving in the compression space 363, thereby forming hard molded ice.

[0640] In addition, as mentioned above, if the diameter of the inlet 361 side is larger than the diameter of the outlet 362 side, the powder ice can flow into the cylinder 360 more easily.

[0641] 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.

[0642] 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.

[0643] 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 through the outlet 373 of the discharge pipe 370.

[0644] The molded ice discharged from outlet 373 is interfered with 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 outlet 328 of the first support 320.

[0645] The discharge tube 370 can be formed of an elastic material such as silicon.

[0646] In addition, the discharge tube 370 is formed such that its inner diameter gradually decreases towards the outlet 373, thereby enabling more reliable compression of the powdered ice moving in the discharge tube 370, thus forming hard, molded ice.

[0647] Furthermore, the compressed, hardened ice can be molded into a constant diameter while passing through a range where the inner diameter remains constant, and then discharged out of the discharge pipe 370 through the outlet 373.

[0648] That is, according to the present invention, the ice that is first compressed by the piston 335 when passing through the cylinder 360 flows into the discharge pipe 370. One side of the ice flowing into the discharge pipe 370 is pressurized by the piston 335, while the other side is resisted by the elastic material of the discharge pipe 370, thereby enabling more powerful compression or recombination of the powdered ice. Furthermore, the compressed powdered ice can be molded into ice with a predetermined shape (ice in the third state, molded ice) and discharged through the outlet 373 of the discharge pipe 370.

[0649] The ice flowing into the discharge pipe 370 after passing through the discharge port 362 of the cylinder 360 is in a state of initial compression by the piston 335 inside the cylinder 360. This ice can be further compressed by the piston 335 in the discharge pipe 370.

[0650] Furthermore, the ice that is compressed a second time by the piston 335 in the discharge pipe 370 is discharged through the outlet 373, which is formed to be smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the discharge pipe 370.

[0651] At this point, the ice compressed for the second time expands as it forms an outlet 373 that is smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the discharge pipe 370. The ice is then compressed for the third time by the force of the outlet 373 resisting the expansion, thus allowing it to be discharged from the discharge pipe 370 in a harder state.

[0652] The compression section 300 may include compression brackets 320, 327 for supporting the aforementioned plurality of components.

[0653] 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.

[0654] 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.

[0655] 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.

[0656] The first wall 321 may include a plurality of fastening parts.

[0657] 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.

[0658] 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.

[0659] 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.

[0660] 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.

[0661] 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.

[0662] 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.

[0663] 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.

[0664] 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. 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.

[0665] 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.

[0666] If in Figure 15b In 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 15cRotate clockwise with reference to the rotating bar 351, so that the rod 350 rotates clockwise with reference to the rotating bar 351.

[0667] 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.

[0668] 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.

[0669] 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.

[0670] 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.

[0671] Figure 16 This is a top view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 This is a left view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 This is a right view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 This is a front view showing the structure of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0672] First, refer to Figure 16 The ice-making section 200 of this embodiment may include a cold air duct 400 for supplying cold air to the internal space of the ice-making supports 220 and 230. The internal space of the ice-making supports 220 and 230 may form a cold air flow path.

[0673] The air conditioning duct 400 can be connected to the first duct 90 and is configured in the space between the first duct 90 and the first support 220.

[0674] The air conditioning duct 400 may include an inlet 420 for introducing air. The inlet 420 may be connected to an end of the first duct 90.

[0675] The air conditioning duct 400 may include a discharge section 430 for discharging cold air into the air conditioning duct. The discharge section 430 may be connected to a first opening 224b of the first bracket 220, and the cold air discharged from the discharge section 430 may flow into the interior of the first bracket 220 through the first opening 224b.

[0676] The inlet portion 420 may be formed at one end of the air conditioning duct 400, and the outlet portion 430 may be formed at the other end of the air conditioning duct 400. The one end and the other end may be formed facing each other.

[0677] The air conditioning duct 400 may include a duct body 440 that extends from the inlet 420 to the outlet 430 and guides the flow of air. The inlet 420 and the outlet 430 may be formed at both ends of the duct body 440.

[0678] The pipe body 440 can be configured such that its width or flow cross-sectional area varies based on the direction of cold air flow. As an example, the pipe body 440 can be configured such that the downstream width W2 of the cold air flow is smaller than the upstream width W1.

[0679] In other words, the downstream flow cross-sectional area of ​​the pipe body 440 can be smaller than the upstream flow cross-sectional area. With the configuration described above, the flow velocity of the cold air flowing in through the inlet 420 can be increased, and it can be supplied to the internal space of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0680] The width or flow cross-sectional area of ​​the inflow section 420 may be greater than the width or flow cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge section 430.

[0681] The side of the pipe body 440 can be relative to the hypothetical first extension line. 1. Tilt the pipe body 440 at a first angle θ1 to change its width or flow cross-sectional area. This can be understood as the first extension line... 1 is a horizontal line extending from one side of the first bracket 220 to the other side.

[0682] Reference Figure 19 The pipe body 440 can be relative to an imaginary second extension line. 2. Extend upward at a second angle θ2 and connect to the first opening 224b to facilitate the supply of cold air to the peripheral surfaces 242a, 242b of the tray 241, especially the upper peripheral surfaces 242a, 242b of the tray 241.

[0683] This can be understood as the second extension line. 2 is a horizontal extension line extending from one side of the first bracket 220 to the other side. As an example, the second extension line... 2 can be a horizontal extension line passing through the inflow section 420. Although Figure 19 The second extension line is shown in the figure. 2. The case of passing through the lower end of the inflow section 420, but in addition to the lower end, it can also be defined as passing through the central section or the upper end.

[0684] The pipe body 440 can extend at an angle relative to the first pipe 90.

[0685] A cold air flow path formed along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b can be defined between the upper part of the tray 241 and the second wall 222 of the first support 220. Due to the inclined shape of the pipe body 440, cold air is easily supplied to the cold air flow path, while preventing cold air from flowing into the water storage tank 250 located below the tray 241. This prevents the water storage tank 250 from freezing due to cold air.

[0686] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 The ice-making supports 220 and 230 may have openings at both ends for cold air to pass through. A first opening 224b connected to the exhaust portion 430 of the cold air duct 400 may be formed at one end of the ice-making supports 220 and 230. A second opening 227 may be formed at the other end of the ice-making supports 220 and 230.

[0687] This can be understood as follows: the first opening 224b is an opening for the inflow of cold air, and the second opening 227 is an opening for the outflow of cold air. The second opening 227 can function as an opening for discharging powdered ice removed from the tray 241.

[0688] The first opening 224b may be formed on one side of the first support 220 and configured to face the peripheral surfaces 242a, 242b of the tray 241, especially at least a portion of the first peripheral surface 242a may be configured to face the first opening 224b.

[0689] That is, the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 can be exposed to the outside of the first support 220 through the first opening 224b. From a different viewpoint, it can be understood that the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b are configured to face the outside of the ice maker through the cold air duct 400. With this configuration, cold air flowing in through the cold air duct 400 can be easily supplied to the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b through the first opening 224b. In addition, ice separated from the first peripheral surface 242a by the first scraper 280 can be easily discharged to the outside of the first support 220.

[0690] The second opening 227 may be formed on the other side of the first support 220. The other side of the first support 220 may be the opposite side of the side with the first opening 224b. That is, one side and the other side of the first support 220 may be configured to face each other. The cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b can cool the tray 241 as it passes over the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241, and then exit through the second opening 227.

[0691] The second opening 227 can be defined as the space between the guide wall 226 and the first scraper 280 located on one side of the first support 220. The guide wall 226 can be curved to correspond to the curvature of the first circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241, and can direct the cold air flowing along the second wall 222 of the first support 220 toward the first circumferential surface 242a side.

[0692] In other words, it can be understood that the second opening 227 is the space between the guide wall 226 and the fifth wall 225 on which the first scraper 280 is installed.

[0693] The first scraper 280 may include a scraper body 281 mounted on the fifth wall 225 and a tip 283 disposed at the end of the scraper body 281. The tip 283 may be shaped with a smaller cross-sectional area at the end to scrape out the ice generated on the first circumferential surface 242a.

[0694] As an example, the first circumferential surface 242a may be alternately provided with a plurality of recesses 241a and a plurality of protrusions 241b along the axial direction. The tip 283 may be provided in a plurality of separate locations along the axial direction, so that at least a portion of the tip 283 can be inserted into the plurality of the recesses 241a.

[0695] The end of the scraper body 281 may include a flat surface to scrape off ice frozen in the protrusion 241b.

[0696] The ice generated on the first circumferential surface 242a can be removed by the first scraper 280, and the removed powder ice can be discharged through the second opening 227. The discharged powder ice can flow into the compression section 300.

[0697] The first support 220 may include a first receiving space 220a for accommodating the tray assembly 240. The axial width of the first receiving space 220a may be greater than the axial width of the tray assembly 240.

[0698] A cold air flow path can be formed between the outer wall of the tray assembly 240 and the walls of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0699] As an example, the first tray cover 246 and the gear bracket 231 of the tray assembly 240 can be separated by a first distance S1, and a first side flow path can be formed in the space separated by the first distance.

[0700] The second tray cover 247 of the tray assembly 240 and the first wall 221 of the first support 220 can be separated by a second distance S2, and a second side flow path can be formed in the space separated by the second distance. As described above, since the cold air supplied through the first side flow path and the second side flow path can cool the side wall of the tray assembly 240, the tray 241 can be cooled quickly, thereby improving the ice-making performance.

[0701] 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. Examples of such metallic materials include steel or aluminum.

[0702] Figure 20 This is a left perspective view showing the structure of the air conditioning duct according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 This is a bottom perspective view showing the structure of the air conditioning duct according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0703] Reference Figure 20 and Figure 21 In this embodiment of the invention, the cold air duct 400 can be disposed between the side wall 81 of the ice-making chamber 25 and the tray assembly 240. From a different viewpoint, the cold air duct 400 can be disposed between the side wall 81 of the ice-making chamber 25 and the ice-making supports 220, 230, especially the first support 220.

[0704] The cold air duct 440 may include a duct support 410 connected to the side wall 81 of the ice chamber 25 and a duct body 440 extending from the duct support 410 and having a cold air flow path formed inside.

[0705] The pipe support 410 may include a fastening hole 415 for fastening to the sidewall 81. A specified fastening member can be engaged with the sidewall 81 through the fastening hole 415. The pipe support 410 may be configured to surround the inlet portion 420 of the air conditioning duct 400.

[0706] The first pipe 90 (reference) Figure 5 The pipe discharge portion 91, formed at the end of the first pipe 90, can be embedded into the side wall 81 and can be combined with the side wall 81. The cold air flowing in the first pipe 90 can be discharged through the pipe discharge portion 91 and flow into the pipe body 440 through the inlet portion 420.

[0707] The pipe body 440 may include a plurality of walls 441 to 444. As an example, the plurality of walls may include a first wall 441 forming one side wall of the pipe body 440, a second wall 442 forming the bottom wall, a third wall 443 forming the other side wall, and a fourth wall 444 forming the top wall. A flow path for cold air can be formed inside the first wall 441 to the fourth wall 444.

[0708] An inflow portion 420 may be formed at one end of the pipe body 440, and a discharge portion 430 may be formed at the other end. The pipe body 440 may extend obliquely from the inflow portion 420 to the discharge portion 430.

[0709] Since the first conduit 90 extends upward from the lower part of the first refrigerator door 20 and guides the flow of cold air, the cold air conduit 400 can extend upward in a lateral direction to smoothly guide cold air from the upper end of the first conduit 90 to the ice maker 100. For this purpose, the second wall 442 and the fourth wall 444 can extend upward from the inlet 420 toward the outlet 430.

[0710] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the ice-making section according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23 It is shown Figure 22 The image shows the state after removing the tray assembly and water tank. Figure 24 It is along Figure 8 A sectional view cut along line 24-24. Figure 25 It is along Figure 8 A sectional view cut along line 25-25. Figure 26 This diagram illustrates the state in which cold air is supplied from the refrigerator door to the ice-making chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the cold air from the ice-making chamber returns to the outside of the refrigerator door.

[0711] Reference Figures 22 to 26The air conditioning duct 400 can be combined with the first support 220. As an example, the exhaust portion 430 of the air conditioning duct 400 can be configured to connect with the opening 224b of the first support 220.

[0712] The outer peripheral surface of the tray assembly 240 may be configured to face the opening 224b. The cold air duct 400 may be coupled to the first bracket 220 to supply cold air flowing in through the opening 224b to the outer peripheral surface of the tray assembly 240.

[0713] The distance from the opening 224b to the outer peripheral surface of the tray assembly 240 can be less than the distance from the opening 224b to the water storage tank 250. Therefore, cold air flowing in through the opening 224b can flow towards the outer peripheral surface of the tray assembly 240, while its flow directly into the water storage tank 250 can be restricted.

[0714] When the extension line is defined corresponding to the direction in which the cold air duct 400 extends from the side wall 81 of the ice chamber 25 toward the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. At time 3, the extension line 3 can be extended from the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241. 4. Formed tangentially or in a corresponding direction. Thus, the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400 can be supplied in the direction of the circumferential surfaces 242a, 242b of the tray 241.

[0715] When the radial extension line passing through the center of the tray 241 is defined At time c, the extension line c can be extended to divide the tray 241 into two equal parts. As an example, the extension line can be understood as... c is the radial extension of the rod 249 of the tray assembly 240.

[0716] With the extension line Based on c, the first opening 224b and the second opening 227 of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 can be configured on sides facing each other. Thus, the cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b can pass through the circumference of the tray 241 and then be discharged through the second opening 227.

[0717] With the extension line Based on c, the air duct 400 and the guide wall 226 can be configured on opposite sides of each other. The guide wall 226 can be separated from the outer periphery of the tray 241 by a set distance and includes a portion extending in the circumferential direction to guide the flow of cold air in the outer circumferential direction.

[0718] With this configuration, the cold air flowing toward the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 can be easily maintained along the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b by the guide wall 226. Furthermore, the cold air can flow via the guide wall 226 to the lower part of the tray 241 where the first scraper 280 is located.

[0719] With the extension line Based on c, the cold air duct 400 and the first scraper 280 can be configured on opposite sides of each other. Based on the cold air flow, the first scraper 280 can be configured on the downstream side of the guide wall 226.

[0720] The air duct 400 can be configured to supply air along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 in a direction corresponding to the rotation of the tray 241. As the air is supplied along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b, although a portion of the circumferential surface upstream of the air may be in a watery state, another portion of the circumferential surface downstream of the air may gradually form ice.

[0721] exist Figure 24 After the ice-making position and the cooling of the tray 241 have been set for a set time, for example, the tray 241 can be rotated counterclockwise. During this process, the ice on the first circumferential surface 242a, which has been fully cooled by the cold air, can be removed by the first scraper 280.

[0722] Furthermore, as the tray 241 continues to rotate, the ice on the opposing first circumferential surface 242a can be further cooled before being removed by the first scraper 280. This configuration and operation improve ice-making performance.

[0723] With the extension line Based on reference c, the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 can be configured on opposite sides. A scraper bracket 221c for mounting the second scraper 285 can be provided on the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220. The scraper bracket 221c can protrude from the first wall 221 toward one side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0724] The second scraper 285 may be additionally provided between the other side wall of the pallet assembly 240 and the outer wall of the gear bracket 231.

[0725] By positioning the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 opposite each other relative to the center of the tray 241, the rotational resistance to the tray 241 caused by the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 is dispersed, thereby improving the rotational performance of the tray 241. Furthermore, it prevents the cold airflow path formed on the outer periphery of the tray 241 from being obstructed by the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285.

[0726] The air conditioning duct 400 and the water tank 250 can be positioned opposite each other relative to the center of the tray 241. For example, the air conditioning duct 400 can be located above the center of the tray 241, and the water tank 250 can be located below the center of the tray 241. Thus, the cold air supplied through the air conditioning duct 400 can be supplied to the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b located above the center of the tray 241, while the supply to the water tank 250 is restricted. Therefore, freezing of the water tank 250 can be prevented.

[0727] A cold airflow path can be formed between the two side walls of the tray assembly 240 and the ice-making supports 220 and 230. A first sidewall flow path 238a can be formed between the gear support 231 and one side wall of the tray assembly 240, and a second sidewall flow path 238b can be formed between the first wall 221 of the first support 220 and the other side wall of the tray assembly 240. The cooling performance of the tray 241 can be improved through the first sidewall flow path 238a and the second sidewall flow path 238b.

[0728] Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0729] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an ice-making section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0730] Reference Figure 27 The tray assembly 240a of this embodiment of the invention may include peripheral surfaces 1242a and 1242b. The peripheral surfaces 1242a and 1242b may include: a first peripheral surface 1242a, which forms ice by receiving water; and a second peripheral surface 1242b, which extends from the first peripheral surface 1242a and has a center distance shorter than that of the first peripheral surface 1242a.

[0731] When the first circumferential surface 1242a is configured to face the water storage tank 250, the first circumferential surface 1242a can be immersed in the water stored in the water storage tank 250. Conversely, when the second circumferential surface 1242b is configured to face the water storage tank 250, the second circumferential surface 1242b is not immersed in the water stored in the water storage tank 250.

[0732] The first peripheral surface 1242a may be configured adjacent to the first scraper 280 so that the first scraper 280 contacts the ice on the first peripheral surface 1242a when the first peripheral surface 1242a passes around the periphery of the first scraper 280. Conversely, the second peripheral surface 1242b may be located separately from the first scraper 280 so that the first scraper 280 does not interfere with the second peripheral surface 1242b when the second peripheral surface 1242b passes around the periphery of the first scraper 280.

[0733] The area of ​​the first circumferential surface 1242a can be larger than the area of ​​the second circumferential surface 1242b.

[0734] Compared with the previous embodiments, this embodiment is characterized in that the first peripheral surface 1242a and the second peripheral surface 1242b are a single first peripheral surface with an area larger than that of the first peripheral surface in the previous embodiments. Therefore, the ice production capacity of this embodiment can be greater than that of the previous embodiments.

[0735] The extension direction of the cold air duct 400 may be tangent to the first circumferential surface 1242a or form a corresponding direction, so that the cold air supplied from the cold air duct 400 can be directly supplied to the first circumferential surface 1242a. The other components of the ice maker are described in the previous embodiment.

[0736] Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an ice-making section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0737] Reference Figure 28 In another embodiment of the present invention, the tray assembly 240b may include a peripheral surface 2242.

[0738] As an example, the entire area of ​​the circumferential surface 2242 can be supplied with water and ice can be generated.

[0739] The ice-making section of this embodiment is characterized by removing the water storage tank 250 and the heater 255, and directly supplying water to the peripheral surface 2242 via a water supply pipe 120a. The water supply volume of the water supply pipe 120a can be small to prevent water supplied from the water supply pipe 120a from being discharged to the underside of the tray assembly 240b.

[0740] The water supply pipe 120a can be configured to supply water to the upper end of the tray assembly 240b. As an example, the discharge portion of the water supply pipe 120a can be formed at a position slightly higher than the upper end of the tray assembly 240b.

[0741] The water supply pipe 120a can penetrate the second wall 222 of the first support 220 and extend into the internal space of the ice-making supports 220 and 230.

[0742] Water supplied to the upper end of the tray assembly 240b can be dispersed along the circumferential surface 2242 to the lower end of the tray assembly 240b due to gravity. Since the amount of water flowing along the circumferential surface 2242 is small, the water spreads slowly along the circumferential surface 2242, which can prevent water from separating from the circumferential surface 2242.

[0743] A cold air duct 400a for supplying cold air can be connected to the side of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. The cold air duct 400a can be positioned at approximately the height of the center C of the tray assembly 240b, and the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400a can cool the circumferential surface 2242 located at the center height of the tray assembly 240b.

[0744] Furthermore, as the cold air flows toward the upper and lower ends of the tray assembly 240b, it easily cools the water present on the peripheral surface 2242.

[0745] Figure 29 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of an ice-making section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0746] Reference Figure 29 The configuration of another embodiment of the pallet assembly 240c of the present invention is described above with reference to the pallet assembly 240.

[0747] On one side of the tray assembly 240, for example, a water storage tank 250 can be configured on the lower side. The vertical direction is defined. The vertical direction can be defined with reference to the ground on which the refrigerator 1 or the cabinet 10 is placed. For example, it can be understood that the refrigerator 1 or the cabinet 10 is placed on the upper side of the ground. The vertical direction can correspond to the direction of gravity. This definition of direction can be applied throughout the entire instruction manual.

[0748] Since the water storage tank 250 is located on the underside of the tray assembly 240, ice separated from the side wall 244 of the tray assembly 240 can fall into the water storage tank 250.

[0749] A cold air duct 400b for supplying cold air can be connected to the side of the ice-making supports 220 and 230. The cold air duct 400b can be positioned approximately higher than the center C of the tray assembly 240b, and the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400b can flow adjacent to the upper end of the tray assembly 240b. As an example, the cold air can be supplied to the circumferential surface formed on the upper end of the tray assembly 240b.

[0750] That is, the water storage tank 250 can be configured on one side of the tray assembly 240, and the cold air duct 400b can be configured to supply cold air to the opposite side of one side of the tray assembly 240, i.e., the other side.

[0751] As described above, the air duct 400b is positioned relatively far from the water storage tank 250, thus preventing the cold air discharged from the air duct 400b from being directly supplied to the water storage tank 250. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the water in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0752] Another embodiment is proposed.

[0753] The previous embodiment described the case where the ice maker 100 was installed in the refrigerator compartment door 20. However, unlike this, it can also be installed in the freezer compartment door 50 or inside the freezer compartment 19.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container forms a storage room; Door, used to open and close the enclosure; A tray, rotatably mounted on the box or the door, has a circumferential surface that generates ice by receiving water; An ice-making support that houses the tray and forms a flow path for cold air to cool the tray; A scraper contacts the ice formed on the circumferential surface and scrapes off the ice from the circumferential surface; and In the compression section, ice of a first size is compressed by the scraper from the circumferential surface, shaping the ice of the first size into ice of a second size that is larger than the first size.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The compression section includes: The cylinder, into which ice removed from the circumference flows; and The piston, driven by a motor, reciprocates and compresses the ice flowing into the cylinder.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The cylinder includes: Ice removed from the circumference flows into the inlet; It ejects the compressed ice from inside the cylinder through the outlet; A compression space is formed between the inlet and the outlet, through which ice flowing in from the inlet moves toward the outlet and is compressed.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, The compression space of the cylinder is formed such that the diameter of the first portion adjacent to the inlet is larger than the diameter of the second portion adjacent to the outlet.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, The compression space of the cylinder is formed such that the diameter of the compression space gradually decreases towards the discharge outlet in at least a portion of the interval.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, The compression section also includes a discharge pipe; The discharge tube is connected to the discharge port side of the cylinder, and the ice discharged from the discharge port is further compressed in the discharge tube before being discharged.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein, The discharge tube is formed of a stretchable elastic material.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein, One side of the discharge tube is open to form a connection portion that connects to the discharge outlet; The connecting part is formed in a hollow shape and is joined by surrounding the circumferential surface of the cylinder on which the discharge port is formed.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein, The discharge tube includes a discharge section; One side of the discharge section extends from the connecting section, and an outlet for discharging compressed ice is formed on the other side of the discharge section.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, wherein, The discharge portion includes a first section, the first section being formed such that the inner diameter of the first section gradually decreases from the side connected to the connecting portion toward the other side where the outlet is formed.

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