Refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator, wherein, including: cabinet, form storage room; door, open and close the cabinet; tray assembly, set in the cabinet or the door, including by receiving water to generate ice first wall and with the first wall connected and in a different direction from the first wall extending second wall; first scraper, with the first wall adjacent configuration, to scrape the ice generated in the first wall; and second scraper, with the second wall adjacent configuration, to scrape the ice generated in the second wall, thereby preventing the drive of the tray from being limited by the generated ice refrigerator.

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

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

[0006] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator that has a tray with a perimeter for generating ice and is 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 tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal material, so as to rapidly cool the tray by supplying cold air.

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

[0011] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the surface state of the ultimately supplied ice is formed as a quasi-liquid layer, thereby improving the user's chewing satisfaction. In particular, a refrigerator is provided in which at least one of a recess and a protrusion is provided on the circumferential surface of the tray, so that the size of the ice removed from the tray is small, thereby facilitating the recombination of the ice in the compression section.

[0012] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of alternately arranging a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions on the periphery of a tray.

[0013] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a first scraper capable of separating ice generated on the periphery of a tray, thereby improving ice removal performance.

[0014] In particular, the aim is to provide a refrigerator in which a first scraper includes a first tip facing the recess and a second tip facing the protrusion, corresponding to the shape of the recess and protrusion formed on the first circumferential surface of the tray, thereby improving ice-moving performance.

[0015] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of stably fixing a first scraper for moving ice to an ice-making bracket.

[0016] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a second scraper capable of separating ice formed on the side of a tray or tray cover, thereby preventing the tray's movement from being restricted by the generated ice.

[0017] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the tray and scraper are arranged adjacent to each other while one of the tray and scraper is fixed and the other is rotated, thereby facilitating ice removal.

[0018] In particular, the aim is to provide a refrigerator in which a first circumferential surface of the tray is disposed adjacent to a first scraper during tray rotation and the first scraper extends at a set angle relative to the tangential direction of the first circumferential surface, thereby facilitating ice removal.

[0019] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator with a water storage tank, wherein at least a portion of a tray is configured to be immersed in the water storage tank, thereby enabling smooth water supply to the periphery of the tray.

[0020] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a second scraper for removing ice generated on the side of a tray or tray cover. The second scraper is configured above a water tank to overlap with the internal space of the water tank, so that the ice separated by the second scraper falls into the water tank.

[0021] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a second scraper is disposed on both sides of the tray, thereby effectively separating ice generated between the first surface of the tray and the ice-making support, and between the second surface of the tray.

[0022] In particular, the aim is to provide a refrigerator that can prevent the constraint of ice from restricting the driving of the tray by setting the second scraper.

[0023] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a first scraper disposed on the outer side of the periphery of a tray and a second scraper disposed on the side wall of the tray or tray cover are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the center of the tray, thereby enabling the flow of cold air and facilitating the rotation of the tray.

[0024] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a first scraper with a groove is provided, so that ice separated by the first scraper can be smoothly transferred to the compression section through the groove without being blocked by the scraper.

[0025] Another objective of this invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the second scraper has a curved shape, thereby enabling it to effectively scrape ice generated on the side of the tray from both sides of the second scraper.

[0026] The refrigerator of this invention may include a tray having a peripheral surface (or peripheral wall) for receiving water. However, other liquids besides water may also be supplied to said peripheral surface.

[0027] The circumferential surface may include spaces or surfaces for storing water.

[0028] The circumferential surface of the tray may include at least one of a recess and a protrusion to increase the contact area with water or with cold air.

[0029] The recessed portion and the protruding portion may include a plurality of recessed portions and a plurality of protruding portions, which may be alternately arranged in the thickness direction of the tray. As an example, the thickness direction of the tray may be axial.

[0030] The recessed portion may have a shape with a depth recess set to the depth of the space where ice is generated.

[0031] The recessed portion may include: a first portion having a first cross-sectional area (or a first width) based on the direction of the recess; and a second portion formed at a deeper location than the first portion, having a second cross-sectional area (or a second width).

[0032] The second cross-sectional area (or second width) of the second part may be smaller than the first cross-sectional area (or first width) of the first part.

[0033] The recessed portion may have a shape that is recessed in a trapezoidal shape between two protrusions.

[0034] The refrigerator may include a first scraper configured on the outer side of the circumference to scrape off ice generated on the circumference.

[0035] The first scraper may include at least one tip having a shape corresponding to the shape of the recess or the protrusion.

[0036] The tip may include a first tip configured to face the protrusion and capable of scraping out ice frozen on the protrusion.

[0037] The tip may include a second tip configured to face the recess and capable of scraping out ice frozen in the recess.

[0038] At least a portion of the second tip can be inserted into the interior of the recess.

[0039] The tray includes a plurality of sidewalls connected to both ends of the circumferential surface, the plurality of sidewalls being separately configured in the direction of the central axis of the tray.

[0040] The refrigerator may include a second scraper configured adjacent to at least one of the plurality of sidewalls and capable of removing ice beyond the intended form on the sidewalls.

[0041] The tray can be configured to be movable. As an example, the tray can be configured to be rotatable.

[0042] During the movement of the tray, the circumference of the tray where ice has formed can move closer to the first scraper.

[0043] One side of the tray may include a water reservoir that supplies water to the periphery of the tray, and the tray may include a first part (for example, the lower part) immersed in the water reservoir and a second part (for example, the upper part) not immersed in the water reservoir, with the center of the tray as a reference.

[0044] The first scraper may be configured adjacent to a first portion of the tray and configured to scrape out ice generated on the circumferential surface.

[0045] The first scraper can be configured at a set angle relative to the tangential direction of the tray's circumference, so that ice generated on the circumference during tray rotation can be easily removed by the first scraper. For example, the set angle can be 90 degrees or an acute angle less than 90 degrees.

[0046] The second scraper is configured at a set angle relative to the side of the tray, so that ice generated on the side of the tray during tray rotation can be easily removed by the second scraper. As an example, the set angle can be an acute angle of less than 90 degrees.

[0047] Since the first and second scrapers are positioned opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray, they do not obstruct the flow of cold air passing around the perimeter of the tray. Furthermore, the first and second scrapers may act as resistance to the rotation of the tray; their opposing arrangement effectively distributes this resistance to rotation to both sides of the tray.

[0048] The second scraper is positioned relative to the center of the tray in an area adjacent to the air conditioning duct, thereby preventing cold air flowing from the air conditioning duct from flowing into the water storage tank. The second scraper can be disposed in the space between the air conditioning duct and the water storage tank.

[0049] Since the second scraper is positioned on the upper side of the water tank to overlap with the internal space of the water tank, the ice separated by the second scraper can easily fall into the water tank.

[0050] The first scraper may include a plurality of tips capable of scraping ice from the circumference and grooves formed between the plurality of tips, so that the ice separated by the first scraper can be smoothly transferred to the compression section through the grooves without being blocked by the scraper.

[0051] The second scraper includes a plurality of portions extending from both ends of the scraper body toward the tray, thereby enabling it to effectively scrape ice generated on the sides of the tray.

[0052] The tray can be made of a material with high thermal conductivity to facilitate cooling. For example, the tray can be made of a metal material. Examples of such metal materials include steel or aluminum.

[0053] From one aspect of the invention, the refrigerator may include: a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the cabinet; and a tray assembly disposed in the cabinet or the door, including a first wall for generating ice by receiving water and a second wall connected to the first wall and extending in a direction different from the first wall.

[0054] The refrigerator may include: a first scraper, configured adjacent to the first wall, for scraping out ice generated on the first wall; and a second scraper, configured adjacent to the second wall, for scraping out ice generated on the second wall.

[0055] The first wall may include a circumferential wall extending circumferentially with reference to the center of the tray assembly.

[0056] The second wall may include sidewalls extending radially from both ends of the peripheral wall.

[0057] The tray assembly can be configured to be movable so that the first scraper moves relative to the first wall.

[0058] The tray assembly can be configured to be movable so that the second scraper moves relative to the second wall.

[0059] The first scraper and the second scraper may be configured on opposite sides of each other with reference to the center of the tray assembly.

[0060] The distance from the center of the pallet assembly to the first scraper can be greater than the distance from the center of the pallet assembly to the second scraper.

[0061] The refrigerator may further include: a cold air duct disposed on one side of the tray assembly to supply cold air to the tray assembly; and a water storage tank disposed on the other side of the tray assembly to supply water to the tray assembly.

[0062] The second scraper can be configured in the space between the cold air duct and the water storage tank to restrict the cold air flowing from the cold air duct from flowing directly into the water storage tank.

[0063] The second wall may be provided in a plurality of forms on both sides of the tray assembly, and the second scraper may be provided in a plurality of forms corresponding to the plurality of second walls.

[0064] The plurality of second scrapers may be configured symmetrically with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

[0065] It may include a water reservoir configured on one side of the tray assembly to supply water to the first wall; at least one of the second wall and the second scraper may be configured to overlap with the interior space of the water reservoir.

[0066] The first wall may include at least one of a recess and a protrusion forming a space or surface for storing water.

[0067] The first scraper may have a shape corresponding to the recess and the protrusion.

[0068] The first scraper may include: a first tip configured to face the protrusion and scrape off ice generated on the protrusion; and a second tip configured to face the recess and scrape off ice generated on the recess.

[0069] At least a portion of the second tip can be inserted into the recess.

[0070] The second tip may be provided in a plurality of forms; the first scraper may include guide grooves formed between the plurality of second tips and guide the discharge of the removed ice.

[0071] The second scraper may include: a scraper body facing the second wall; two curved portions extending toward the second wall from both ends of the scraper body; and a groove formed between the two curved portions to guide the discharge of ice.

[0072] From another aspect of the invention, the refrigerator may include: a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the cabinet; a tray assembly disposed in the cabinet or the door, including a peripheral wall that generates ice by receiving water and side walls connected to both ends of the peripheral wall; and a scraper configured adjacent to the side walls to scrape off the ice generated on the side walls.

[0073] The refrigerator may include an ice-making support that supports the tray assembly and has a wall facing the side wall of the tray assembly; the scraper may be disposed in the space between the side wall of the tray assembly and the wall of the ice-making support.

[0074] The tray assembly can be configured to be rotatable, and the scraper can be fixed at a set distance from the rotation center of the tray assembly.

[0075] According to embodiments of the present invention, ice with a strength that is chewable by consumers can be produced, thereby improving consumer satisfaction.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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.

[0079] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal material, so that it can be rapidly cooled by cold air.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the circumferential surface of the tray (the first circumferential surface) forms a space or surface for ice making, while another portion of the circumferential surface (the second circumferential surface) does not form a space or surface for ice making, thereby improving the ice making performance of the tray.

[0081] According to an embodiment of the invention, at least one of a recess and a protrusion is provided on the circumferential surface of the tray, thereby facilitating the recombination of ice in the compression section by forming a smaller size of ice removed from the tray.

[0082] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions are alternately arranged on the periphery of the tray, thereby facilitating the formation of ice.

[0083] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first scraper is provided that is capable of separating ice generated on the periphery of the tray, thereby improving ice transfer performance.

[0084] In particular, the first scraper includes a first tip facing the recess and a second tip facing the protrusion, corresponding to the shape of the recess and protrusion formed on the first circumferential surface of the tray, thereby improving ice-moving performance.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first scraper used for transferring ice can be stably fixed to the ice-making bracket.

[0086] According to an embodiment of the invention, a second scraper is provided that can separate ice generated on the side of the tray or tray cover, thereby preventing the tray drive from being restricted by the generated ice.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the invention, the tray and scraper are positioned adjacent to each other while one of the tray and scraper is fixed and the other is rotated, thereby enabling easy ice removal.

[0088] In particular, since the first scraper extends at a set angle relative to the tangential direction of the first circumferential surface, the first circumferential surface of the tray is configured to be adjacent to the first scraper during tray rotation, thereby making ice removal easier.

[0089] According to an embodiment of the invention, at least a portion of the tray is configured to be immersed in a water reservoir, thereby enabling smooth water supply to the periphery of the tray.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a second scraper is provided for removing ice generated on the side of a tray or tray cover. The second scraper is configured above a water storage tank to overlap with the internal space of the water storage tank, thereby allowing the ice separated by the second scraper to fall easily into the water storage tank.

[0091] According to an embodiment of the invention, a second scraper is disposed on both side walls of the tray, thereby effectively separating ice generated between the first surface of the tray and the ice-making support, and between the second surface of the tray and the ice-making support. In particular, by providing the second scraper, the phenomenon of ice constraint restricting the driving of the tray can be prevented, thereby enabling smooth driving of the tray.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first scraper disposed on the outer side of the periphery of the tray and a second scraper disposed on the side wall of the tray or tray cover are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the center of the tray, thereby enabling the flow of cold air and facilitating the rotation of the tray.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first scraper with grooves is provided, so that ice separated by the first scraper can be smoothly transferred to the compression section through the grooves without being blocked by the scraper.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the invention, the second scraper has a curved shape, thereby enabling it to effectively scrape ice generated on the sides of the tray at both sides of the second scraper. Attached Figure Description

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an ice maker and door pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] 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.

[0101] Figure 7This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the ice maker and ice chamber support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] Figure 15d This diagram illustrates the state in which the piston returns to the first position and the transfer guide device moves to its original position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray and scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Figure 17 This is a side view showing the configuration of the tray and scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Figure 18 This is a top view showing the relative configuration of the tray and the first scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Figure 19 It is along Figure 18 A sectional view cut along line 19-19.

[0118] Figure 20 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the first scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Figure 21 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the first scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Figure 22 It is along Figure 20 A sectional view cut along line 22-22.

[0121] Figure 23 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the first support, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] Figure 24 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the first support, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Figure 25 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the gear bracket, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Figure 26 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the gear bracket, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Figure 27 This is a side view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Figure 28 This is a diagram showing a portion of the ice-making section and the compression section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing a first scraper disposed on the outer periphery of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state in which the scraper acts on the pallet when the pallet rotates according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Figure 31 It is along Figure 29 A sectional view cut along line 31-31.

[0130] Figure 32 It is along Figure 29 A sectional view cut along line 32-32.

[0131] Figure 33 It is along Figure 17 A sectional view cut along line 33-33.

[0132] Figure 34 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a first scraper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] Figure 35 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the second scraper and tray according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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".

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] At least one of the first refrigerator door 20 and the second refrigerator door 30 may include one or more ice makers 100.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply flow path 16, which directs cold air from the freezer compartment 19 or cold air from the space where the evaporator, which generates cold air to cool the freezer compartment 19, is located to the first refrigerator door 20. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge flow path 17, which directs cold air discharged from the first refrigerator door 20 to the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located. The supply flow path 16 and the discharge flow path 17 may be disposed within the cabinet 10. The cold air circulating in the supply flow path 16 and the discharge flow path 17 may, as an example, be circulated by a fan (not shown) disposed in the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located.

[0157] A first opening 16a may be formed on the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18, forming the end of the supply flow path 16. Cold air from the supply flow path 16 can be discharged from the supply flow path 16 through the first opening 16a. A second opening 17a may be formed on the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18, forming the end of the discharge flow path 17. Cold air from the supply flow path 16 can flow into the discharge flow path 17 through the second opening 17a. The first opening 16a and the second opening 17a may be formed on one of the plurality of inner walls of the refrigerator compartment 18.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] The plurality of said walls may form at least a portion of the door lining 70.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] The ice maker 100 may include an ice-making section 200, which receives water and cools it in a tray assembly 240, and then transfers the cooled ice.

[0177] 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.

[0178] 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.

[0179] The detailed structure of the ice maker 100 will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0180] 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.

[0181] 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.

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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".

[0187] The first motor 210 can be connected to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] The first bracket 220 and the second bracket 230 can be connected in the front-to-back direction. The first motor 210 can be connected to one side of the second bracket 230, and the gear assemblies 235 and 236 can be linked by the drive of the first motor 210. As an example, the first motor 210 and the second bracket 230 can be arranged in the front-to-back direction.

[0192] 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.

[0193] 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.

[0194] 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.

[0195] The plate joint 229 can be provided in a plurality of positions on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0196] 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.

[0197] The first support 220 may include a water supply pipe 120 for guiding water supply to the water storage tank 250 (see reference). Figure 11aThe water supply pipe connection portion 221b is formed in the first bracket 220 on the surface facing the front wall 80c.

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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 ).

[0200] 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.

[0201] 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.

[0202] 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.

[0203] The compression section 300 may include a transfer tube 340 disposed on the inlet side of the cylinder 360 and used to transfer ice (powder ice) discharged from the ice-making section 200 into the cylinder 360. A space for accommodating the powder ice is formed inside the transfer tube 340, and the powder ice can move into the interior of the cylinder 360.

[0204] 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.

[0205] As an example, in order to provide the aforementioned resistance, the discharge tube 370 can be configured to have a smaller cross-sectional area relative to the direction of ice movement.

[0206] To provide the aforementioned resistance, the discharge tube 370 may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as silicon.

[0207] The outlet of the discharge pipe 370 is open, and the molded ice that is compressed or recombined when passing through the discharge pipe 370 can be discharged through the open outlet of the discharge pipe 370.

[0208] The compression section 300 may include a cutting wall 380, which is positioned at a predetermined distance from the outlet of the discharge pipe 370 and interferes with the molded ice discharged through the discharge pipe 370. The cutting wall 380 may be supported by the first bracket 320 and configured to be adjacent to the upper side of the discharge outlet 328.

[0209] The cutting wall 380 may include an inclined surface facing the discharge pipe 370, through which the shaped ice discharged from the discharge pipe 370 can be cut by interfering with the inclined surface. Furthermore, the cut ice can fall into the ice bucket 500 through the discharge outlet 328.

[0210] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the tray assembly and water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11a This is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the first position according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11b This is a diagram showing the state of the tray assembly in the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] The recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b may each have a plurality of them. A structure may have a plurality of recessed portions 241a and a plurality of protruding portions 241b arranged alternately.

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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.

[0227] 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.

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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.

[0230] 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.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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.

[0233] 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.

[0234] 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.

[0235] 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.

[0236] 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.

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] 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.

[0241] The tray covers 246 and 247 can be configured to cover at least one side of the tray 241 and prevent water from flowing into the underwater tray holes 245 of the tray 241 of the water storage tank 250.

[0242] The tray covers 246 and 247 may be made of a material with low thermal conductivity, as an example of a non-metallic material, to limit ice formation. The non-metallic material may include plastic materials.

[0243] 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.

[0244] 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.

[0245] 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.

[0246] 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.

[0247] 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.

[0248] The first tray cover 246 may include a first connecting portion 246f communicating with the tray hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the first connecting portion 246f and then through the tray hole 245.

[0249] The tray covers 246 and 247 may include a second tray cover 247 disposed on the other side wall 244 of the tray 241. The second tray cover 247 may include a second cover wall 247a covering the other side wall 244 of the tray 241. The radial length (or width) of the second cover wall 247a may be greater than the radial length (or width) of the side wall 244 of the tray 241 to prevent water from flowing into the tray hole 245 of the tray 241.

[0250] 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.

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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.

[0253] 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.

[0254] The second tray cover 247 may include a second connecting portion 247f communicating with the tray hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the first connecting portion 246f and the tray hole 245 before passing through the second connecting portion 247f.

[0255] Explained from different perspectives.

[0256] 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.

[0257] From another perspective, the tray assembly 240 may include only the tray 241 without the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247.

[0258] The ice-making section 200 may include a first support 220 forming a first receiving space 220a of the tray assembly 240.

[0259] 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.

[0260] 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.

[0261] 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.

[0262] 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.

[0263] 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.

[0264] 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.

[0265] 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.

[0266] 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.

[0267] The water storage tank 250 may include a shell with a specified capacity, and a heater 255 may be provided on the wall of the shell to provide heat to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing. The heater 255 may be referred to as a "water storage tank heater".

[0268] The ice-making section 200 may include a water supply guide wall 224a that guides water supplied from the water supply pipe 120 to the water storage tank 250. The water supply guide wall 224a may form at least a portion of the fourth wall 224.

[0269] 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.

[0270] 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.

[0271] 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.

[0272] 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.

[0273] The ice-making section 200 may include a second scraper 285 that contacts the ice to separate it from the ice that has formed on the tray assembly 240.

[0274] 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.

[0275] 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.

[0276] The first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 can be configured in a position separate from each other; for example, they can be configured on opposite sides of each other with reference to the center of the tray assembly 240. With the configuration described above, it is possible to prevent the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 from obstructing the cold airflow path formed in the ice-making section 200.

[0277] 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.

[0278] 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.

[0279] 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.

[0280] 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.

[0281] 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.

[0282] 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.

[0283] 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.

[0284] 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.

[0285] 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.

[0286] 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.

[0287] The space between the guide wall 226 and the first scraper 280 can form a second opening 227 for discharging powdered ice separated from the tray 241, through which the cold air guided by the guide wall 226 can diffuse into the ice-making chamber 25.

[0288] 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.

[0289] 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.

[0290] 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.

[0291] 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.

[0292] 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.

[0293] 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.

[0294] The first central portion 235a and the second central portion 236a may each include a support forming a hole.

[0295] 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".

[0296] 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.

[0297] 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.

[0298] 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.

[0299] 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.

[0300] 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.

[0301] 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.

[0302] 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.

[0303] 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.

[0304] 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.

[0305] 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.

[0306] 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.

[0307] 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".

[0308] 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.

[0309] 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.

[0310] 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 can exist on the first circumferential surface 242a due to surface tension.

[0311] This water supply operation can continue until both first surfaces 242a are supplied with water. That is, if the tray assembly 240 is supplied with water from... Figure 11a If the position is rotated once, the ice-moving and water-supplying actions can be performed simultaneously.

[0312] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the compression section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the transfer tube and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a top view showing the configuration of the transfer tube and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15a This diagram illustrates the state of ice being removed from the tray assembly and falling into the transfer tube when the piston is in the first position according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15b This is a diagram illustrating the piston moving to the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention, where the ice in the transfer tube is compressed by the piston.

[0313] First, refer to Figures 12 to 14The 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.

[0314] The compression section 300 may include a second motor 310 for providing driving force. The second motor 310 may include a motor shaft 312.

[0315] 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.

[0316] 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.

[0317] 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.

[0318] 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.

[0319] 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.

[0320] 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.

[0321] 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.

[0322] 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.

[0323] 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.

[0324] 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.

[0325] 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.

[0326] 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.

[0327] 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.

[0328] 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.

[0329] 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".

[0330] 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.

[0331] 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.

[0332] 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.

[0333] 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.

[0334] 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.

[0335] 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.

[0336] 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.

[0337] 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.

[0338] 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.

[0339] 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.

[0340] 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.

[0341] 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.

[0342] 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.

[0343] 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.

[0344] 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.

[0345] 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."

[0346] 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.

[0347] 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.

[0348] One side of the ice present in the cylinder 360 is pressurized by the piston 335, while the other side is resisted by the discharge pipe 370, thereby enabling the compression or recombination of the powdered ice. The compressed powdered ice is formed into ice with a predetermined shape (ice in the third state, shaped ice) and can be discharged using the discharge section of the discharge pipe 370.

[0349] The molded ice discharged from the discharge section is interrupted by a cutting wall 380, which is separated from the discharge pipe 370 by a predetermined distance, during which the molded ice is cut. The separation distance between the discharge pipe 370 and the cutting wall 380 can be determined according to the size of the ice desired by the consumer. The cut molded ice can flow into the ice bucket 500 through the discharge port 328 of the first support 320.

[0350] The compression section 300 may include compression brackets 320, 327 for supporting the aforementioned plurality of components.

[0351] 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.

[0352] 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.

[0353] 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.

[0354] The first wall 321 may include a plurality of fastening parts.

[0355] 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.

[0356] 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.

[0357] 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.

[0358] 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.

[0359] 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.

[0360] 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.

[0361] 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.

[0362] After the first set time, if the second motor 310 drives in the positive direction, the piston 335 can move towards the cylinder 360 through the linkage of the pinion 315 and the first gear 332 (piston advance). During this process, if... Figure 15b As shown, the powder ice accumulated in the lower part of the transfer tube 340, i.e. the second part 342, is moved into the interior of the cylinder 360.

[0363] 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.

[0364] 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 15c Rotate clockwise with reference to the rotating bar 351, so that the rod 350 rotates clockwise with reference to the rotating bar 351.

[0365] 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.

[0366] 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 15aThe piston 335 can return to its upright position.

[0367] 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.

[0368] 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.

[0369] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray and scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tray and scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 This is a top view showing the relative configuration of the tray and the first scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 It is along Figure 18 A sectional view cut along line 19-19.

[0370] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 The tray assembly 240 of this embodiment may include a tray 241 that forms a water storage space.

[0371] The tray assembly 240 may include a first tray cover 246 that covers one of the two side walls of the tray 241.

[0372] The tray assembly 240 may include a second tray cover 247 that covers another side wall of the two side walls of the tray 241.

[0373] The periphery of the tray assembly 240 may include scrapers 280, 285 for separating ice formed on the tray assembly 240 from the tray assembly 240.

[0374] A plurality of scrapers 280 and 285 may be provided, and the plurality of scrapers 280 and 285 may be configured to face each other from different walls of the tray assembly 240.

[0375] The scrapers 280, 285 may include a first scraper 280 configured to face the peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240.

[0376] The first scraper 280 can be connected to the first bracket 220. As an example, the first scraper 280 can be disposed on the fifth wall 225 of the first bracket 220 (see reference). Figure 23 ).

[0377] The first scraper 280 may include a scraper body 281 forming a fastening hole 280a that engages with a fastening member, the fastening member being fastened to the fifth wall 225 through the fastening hole 280a.

[0378] Another example of the placement of the first scraper 280 is given. The first scraper 280 can be disposed on other components located around the pallet assembly 240, as long as it faces the peripheral wall 242a of the pallet assembly 240.

[0379] As a first example, the first scraper 280 can be disposed at other positions of the first bracket 220, such as the first wall 221 or the second wall 222.

[0380] As a second example, the first scraper 280 can be disposed on the water storage tank 250, as an example of the outer wall of the water storage tank 250.

[0381] As a third example, the first scraper 280 can be disposed on the transfer pipe 340 into which the separated ice flows, as an example of the outer or inner wall of the transfer pipe 340.

[0382] The scrapers 280 and 285 may include a second scraper 285 configured to face the sidewalls 246a and 247a of the tray assembly 240. The sidewalls 246a and 247a of the tray assembly 240 may include a first cover wall 246a of a first tray cover 246 and a second cover wall 247a of a second tray cover 247.

[0383] The second scraper 285 can be connected to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0384] The second scraper 285 may include a scraper body 286 forming a fastening hole 287 that engages with a fastening member, the fastening member being fastened to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 through the fastening hole 287.

[0385] The second scraper 285 may include a tip 288 extending from the scraper body 286 toward the sidewall of the tray assembly 240. The tip 288 may be configured to face the sidewall of the tray assembly 240.

[0386] To facilitate the scraping of ice formed on the sidewalls of the tray assembly 240, the tip 288 may include an inclined surface to have a thinner thickness than the scraper body 286.

[0387] The second scraper 285 may be provided in a plurality of units and disposed on both sides of the tray assembly 240.

[0388] The plurality of second scrapers 285 may include a side scraper 285a connected to the first support 220 of the ice-making brackets 220, 230. As an example, the side scraper 285a may be coupled to the first wall 221 of the first support 220.

[0389] The plurality of second scrapers 285 may include a scraper 285b on the other side connected to the second bracket 230 of the ice-making brackets 220, 230. As an example, the scraper 285b on the other side may be coupled to the bracket wall 231a of the gear bracket 231 in the second bracket 230.

[0390] The second scraper 285 may be configured to be inclined relative to the sidewall of the tray assembly 240. As an example, the scraper body 286 of the second scraper 285 may extend inclined toward the sidewall of the tray assembly 240 from the portion that engages with the ice-making supports 220, 230.

[0391] Reference Figure 17 The first angle θ1 formed by the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246 and the scraper 285b on the other side can be an acute angle of less than 90 degrees. The second angle θ2 formed by the second cover wall 247a of the second tray cover 247 and the scraper 285a on one side can be an acute angle of less than 90 degrees.

[0392] like Figure 16 As shown, when the tray assembly 240 rotates clockwise around the central support 243, the side wall of the tray assembly 240 rotates toward the direction of the second scraper 285, and the ice separated from the side wall can fall into the water storage tank 250 below the second scraper 285.

[0393] Therefore, when the tray assembly 240 is divided into two equal parts, one near the water tank 250 and the other far from the water tank 250, with the central support 243 as a reference, the second scraper 285 can be disposed on the side wall near the water tank 250.

[0394] On the other hand, such as Figure 16 As shown, when the tray assembly 240 rotates clockwise, the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240 rotates toward the first scraper 280, and the ice separated from the first peripheral wall 242a can fall toward the transfer tube 340 below the second scraper 285.

[0395] When defining the first extension line extending the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246 1 and a second extension line extending from the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246. At 2 o'clock, the first extension line 1 and the second extension line 2 can pass through the internal space of the water storage tank 250.

[0396] The second scrapers 285a and 285b, configured to be adjacent to the first cover wall 246a and the second cover wall 247a, can be configured to overlap with the interior space of the water storage tank 250 on the upper side of the water storage tank 250. With this configuration, ice separated from the first cover wall 246a and the second cover wall 247a by the second scraper 285 can be easily poured into the water storage tank 250.

[0397] In order to produce ice of a strength that is easy for users to chew and to provide to them, the surface of the final supplied ice needs to form a quasi-liquid layer. This can be understood as a slightly melted or slightly moistened surface, rather than a completely frozen state.

[0398] To facilitate the formation of the quasi-liquid layer, methods such as forming ice particles smaller before recombination (compression) via the compression section 300, forming a predetermined gap (air layer) between the particles by compressing the ice particles, or providing a predetermined heat (heating) during the compression process can be employed.

[0399] The main feature of this embodiment is that smaller ice particles are formed on the first circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241, thereby facilitating the formation of a quasi-liquid layer.

[0400] The first peripheral surface 242a may include a recess 241a with a set depth and a protrusion 241b connected to the end of the recess 241a.

[0401] The recess 241a may have a circumferential length along the first circumferential surface 242a. When transferring ice, during the rotation of the tray 241, the ice in the recess 241a formed along the circumferential direction can be easily separated by the first scraper 280.

[0402] The recessed portion 241a may have a circumferential length along the first circumferential surface 242a. When transferring ice, during the rotation of the tray 241, the ice on the protrusion 241b formed along the circumferential direction can be easily separated by the first scraper 280.

[0403] The recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b may each be provided in a plurality of forms. The protruding portion 241b may be located between the plurality of recessed portions 241a. The recessed portion 241a may be located between the plurality of protruding portions 241b.

[0404] The plurality of recesses 241a and the plurality of protrusions 241b may be arranged alternately with each other in the axial direction.

[0405] The recessed portion 241a can form a water storage space. Of course, a water storage space can also be formed in the protruding portion 241b. However, since the recessed portion 241a forms a storage space of a predetermined depth, the thickness of the ice formed in the recessed portion 241a can be greater than the thickness of the ice formed in the protruding portion 241b.

[0406] The following effects can be achieved: water is stored in a plurality of recesses 241a, and as the stored water freezes, small ice particles are pre-separated by protrusions 241b. At this time, the ice formed in the protrusions 241b has a relatively small thickness and functions to connect the ice formed in the plurality of recesses 241a with relatively weak force. Furthermore, the ice formed in the protrusions 241b can be easily separated or broken by the first scraper 280.

[0407] The recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b of the tray 241 can be arranged in a direction facing the first scraper 280.

[0408] The scraper body 281 of the first scraper 280 may be in the shape of a thin plate and configured to have a length extending upward from the lower end of the first support 220.

[0409] The first scraper 280 may include tips 282 and 283, which extend from the scraper body 281 and are used to scrape out the ice generated on the tray 241.

[0410] The tips 282 and 283 may include a first tip 282 extending obliquely from the scraper body 281. The first tip 282 is a portion configured to face the protrusion 241b of the tray 241, and the first tip 282 may be located adjacent to the protrusion 241b when the tray 241 rotates, so as to scrape off ice formed on the protrusion 241b.

[0411] However, the first tip 282 is configured not to directly contact the protrusion 241b to prevent the tray 241 from being damaged by the first tip 282.

[0412] The tips 282 and 283 may include a second tip 283 extending obliquely from the scraper body 281. The second tip 283 is a portion configured to face the recess 241a of the tray 241, and the second tip 283 may be located adjacent to the recess 241a when the tray 241 rotates, so as to scrape out ice formed in the recess 241a.

[0413] However, the second tip 283 is configured not to directly contact the recess 241a to prevent the tray 241 from being damaged by the second tip 283.

[0414] At least a portion of the second tip 283 may be configured to be inserted into the recess 241a. Thus, the end of the second tip 283 may be configured to be closer to the tray 241 than the end of the first tip 282.

[0415] The recess 241a can be formed as a polygonal shape in which its width (or cross-sectional area) narrows along the depth direction; for example, it can be trapezoidal. With this shape, the formation of the recess 241a based on the mold is easier when manufacturing the tray 241, and the ice-moving performance is improved because the contact area of ​​ice at the deepest end of the recess 241a is small.

[0416] A plurality of second tips 283 may be provided. The plurality of second tips 283 may be arranged axially apart, and at least a portion of the first tip 282 may be arranged in the space between the plurality of second tips 283.

[0417] When the tray 241 and the first scraper 280 are positioned closest to each other and ice is being moved, the first tip 282 and the second tip 283, the recess 241a and the protrusion 241b can move relative to each other while facing each other.

[0418] On the other hand, since the contact area between the first peripheral surface 242a and the water is increased due to the formation of the recessed portion 241a and the protruding portion 241b, the water supply state on the first peripheral surface 242a can be stably maintained.

[0419] Figure 20 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the first scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the first scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 It is along Figure 20 A sectional view cut along line 22-22.

[0420] Reference Figures 20 to 22The first scraper 280 in this embodiment of the invention may include a scraper body 281 forming a fastening hole 280a. The scraper body 281 may include a first surface 281a defining the outer surface of the first scraper 280 and a second surface 281b defining the inner surface of the first scraper 280.

[0421] The first scraper 280 may include a first tip 282 having an inclined surface extending obliquely from the scraper body 281 toward the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241. The end 282a of the first tip 282 may face the protrusion 241b.

[0422] The first scraper 280 may include a second tip 283, which is connected to the scraper body 281 and configured to face the recess 241a. The second tip 283 may include a tip body 283a protruding from the inclined surface of the first tip 282.

[0423] The tip body 283a may include a first end 283b connected to the scraper body 281. The tip body 283a may include an inclined surface extending obliquely from the first end 283b toward the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241.

[0424] The inclined surface of the first tip 282 can be named "first inclined surface", and the inclined surface of the second tip 283 can be named "second inclined surface".

[0425] The tip body 283a may include a second end 283c forming an opposing end of the first end 283b. The second end 283c may face the recess 241a.

[0426] The second end portion 283c may protrude further than the end portion 282a of the first tip 282 and extend toward the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241. The second end portion 283c may be inserted into the recess 241a.

[0427] The first width W1 of the first end 283b of the second tip 283 may be greater than the second width W2 of the second end 283c. The width or cross-sectional area of ​​the second tip 283 may decrease in the direction from the first end 283b toward the second end 283c. As an example, the portion of the second tip 283 that protrudes more than the end of the first tip 282 may have a generally trapezoidal cross-section.

[0428] Reference Figure 22The tip body 283a of the second tip 283 may protrude outward by a third width W3 than the outer surface of the first tip 282. That is, the thickness of the second tip 283 may be greater than the thickness of the first tip 282.

[0429] Since the thickness of the ice formed in the recess 241a is greater than the thickness of the ice frozen in the protrusion 241b, the ice can be easily removed by forming a relatively thick second tip 283. Furthermore, the strength of the second tip 283 can be enhanced.

[0430] Figure 23 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the first support, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 24 This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the first support, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0431] Reference Figure 23 and Figure 24 The first bracket 220 in this embodiment of the invention may include the installation position or installation space of scrapers 280 and 285.

[0432] The first support 220 may include a first wall 221 that supports the tray assembly 240. The first wall 221 may include an insertion hole 221a into which at least a portion of the central support 243 or rod 249 of the tray assembly 240 is inserted.

[0433] The first support 220 may include a second wall 222 connected to the upper end of the first wall 221. The second wall 222 may be provided with a guide wall 226 that guides the flow of cold air inside the first support 220. The guide wall 226 may extend downward from the second wall 222 in an arc or at an incline.

[0434] The first support 220 may include a plurality of walls defining the installation space of the water storage tank 250. The first scraper 280 may be disposed on the plurality of said walls.

[0435] The plurality of walls may include a third wall 253 defining the lower end of the first support 220 and a fourth wall 224 and a fifth wall 225 extending from both sides of the third wall 253 toward the tray assembly 240.

[0436] The first scraper 280 can be positioned lower than the insertion hole 221a to scrape out ice formed on the lower part of the tray assembly 240.

[0437] Specifically, the first scraper 280 can be disposed on the fifth wall 225. The water storage tank 250 can be disposed on the inner surface side of the fifth wall 225, and the first scraper 280 can be disposed on the outer surface side of the fifth wall 225.

[0438] The fourth wall 224 may include a first opening 224b for introducing cold air from the cold air duct 400. The first opening 224b may include a portion higher than the insertion hole 221a to supply cold air flowing in from the first opening 224b to the peripheral walls 242a, 242b of the tray assembly 240.

[0439] A second scraper 285, such as a side scraper 285a, can be installed on the first support 220. For example, the side scraper 285a can be disposed on the first wall 221. The first wall 221 may include an inner surface facing one side wall of the tray assembly 240. The side scraper 285a can be disposed on the inner surface of the first wall 221.

[0440] The first bracket 220 may include a protrusion 221d, which is disposed on the back side, i.e. the outer surface, of the surface providing the second scraper 285, and is used to fix the second scraper 285 to the first wall 221.

[0441] The protrusion 221d may include a fastening hole that protrudes from the outer surface of the first wall 221 and engages with a fastening member. The fastening member can pass through the fastening hole of the protrusion 221d and engage with the fastening hole 287 of the second scraper 285 disposed on the inner surface of the first wall 221.

[0442] The first support 220 may include plate joint portions 229, 229a supported on the ice-making chamber plate 85. The plate joint portions 229, 229a may include a first plate joint portion 229 that engages with a joint hole 88 formed in the support wall 85a of the ice-making chamber plate 85. As an example, the first plate joint portion 229 may include a rib protruding from the first support 220.

[0443] The plate joints 229, 229a may include a second plate joint 229a that engages with the support wall 85a of the ice-making chamber plate 85. As an example, the second plate joint 229a may include a protruding post extending from the first bracket 220. A specified fastening member may pass through the protruding post and be fastened to the support wall 85a.

[0444] Figure 25 This is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the gear bracket, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26This is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the gear bracket, the first scraper, and the second scraper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0445] Reference Figure 25 and Figure 26 The second bracket 230 in this embodiment of the invention may include a gear bracket 231 and a gear cover 232 (see reference). Figure 9 The internal space defined by the gear bracket 231 and the gear cover 232 can accommodate gear assemblies 235 and 236.

[0446] The gear support 231 may include a support wall 231a facing the side wall of the tray assembly 240. The support wall 231a may support the gear assemblies 235 and 236.

[0447] The support wall 231a may include a first through-hole 1231 into which at least a portion of the center portion 236a of the driven gear 236 or the rod 249 is inserted. The first through-hole 1231 may be formed in a wall that protrudes from the support wall 231a toward the tray assembly 240.

[0448] The support wall 231a may include a second through portion 1232 into which at least a portion of the central portion 235a of the drive gear 235 is inserted. The first through portion 1231 and the second through portion 1232 may be separated by a distance corresponding to the sum of the radii of the drive gear 235 and the driven gear 236.

[0449] A second scraper 285 may be mounted on the gear bracket 231, as an example, a scraper 285b on the other side. As an example, the scraper 285b on the other side may be disposed on the bracket wall 231a. The bracket wall 231a may include an outer surface facing the other side wall of the tray assembly 240. The scraper 285b on the other side may be disposed on the outer surface of the bracket wall 231a.

[0450] The gear bracket 231 may include a protrusion 231e, which is disposed on the back side, i.e. the inner surface, of the surface providing the second scraper 285, and is used to fix the second scraper 285 to the bracket wall 231a.

[0451] The protruding post 231e may include a fastening hole that protrudes from the inner surface of the support wall 231a and engages with a fastening member. The fastening member may pass through the fastening hole of the protruding post 231e and engage with the fastening hole 287 of the second scraper 285 disposed on the outer surface of the support wall 231a.

[0452] As described above, the first support 220 and the second support 230 can form a space to accommodate the tray assembly 240, and one wall of the first support 220 and one wall of the second support 230 can be configured to face the two side walls of the tray assembly 240.

[0453] By providing second scrapers 285a and 285b on one wall of the first support 220 and one wall of the second support 230 respectively, the ice formed when unintentional ice forms on both sides of the tray assembly 240 can be easily separated using the second scrapers 285a and 285b, and the separated ice can be effectively processed by being placed into the water storage tank 250 on the lower side.

[0454] Figure 27 This is a side view showing the configuration of the ice-making section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28 This is a diagram showing a portion of the ice-making section and the compression section of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0455] Reference Figure 27 In this embodiment of the invention, openings for cold air passage can be formed at both ends of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. A first opening 224b connected to the exhaust portion 430 of the cold air duct 400 can be formed at one end of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. A second opening 227 can be formed at the other end of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0456] 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.

[0457] The first opening 224b may be formed on one side of the first support 220, and the peripheral surfaces 242a and 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.

[0458] The second opening 227 can be formed on the other side of the first support 220. The other side of the first support 220 can 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 can be configured to face each other. 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 is then discharged through the second opening 227.

[0459] The second opening 227 can be defined as the space between the guide wall 226 and the first scraper 280 disposed 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 the guide wall 226 can guide the cold air flowing along the second wall 222 of the first support 220 towards the first circumferential surface 242a.

[0460] 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.

[0461] The ice produced 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.

[0462] 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.

[0463] 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.

[0464] 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.

[0465] 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 ice-making performance can be improved by rapidly cooling the tray 241.

[0466] The tray 241 can be made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as steel or aluminum, to facilitate cooling.

[0467] The ice-making section 200 may include a second scraper 285 that separates ice generated on the side walls of the tray assembly 240. A plurality of second scrapers 285 may be provided to scrape off the ice generated on the side walls of the tray assembly 240.

[0468] One of the plurality of second scrapers 285 may be disposed on the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220, while another scraper may be disposed on the wall of the gear bracket 231.

[0469] The sidewall of the tray assembly 240 and the second scraper 285 can overlap with the interior space of the water storage tank 250 in the vertical direction so that ice separated from the sidewall of the tray assembly 240 by the second scraper 285 when the tray assembly 240 rotates can flow into the water storage tank 250.

[0470] Reference Figure 28 With the center C of the tray assembly 240 in this embodiment of the invention as a reference, the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 can be configured on opposite sides.

[0471] As an example, when defining a radial extension line passing through the center C of the tray assembly 240 At time c, the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 can extend along the line. c is the base configuration on the sides facing each other.

[0472] The first scraper 280 can extend along the line. c is positioned on the opposite side of the first opening 224b. Therefore, the cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b can cool the peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241, and the cooled tray 241 can... Figure 28 Rotate counterclockwise based on the reference point, so that the ice can be easily moved by the first scraper 280.

[0473] The second scraper 285 can extend along the aforementioned line. c is positioned on the side where the first opening 224b is formed. As an example, the second scraper 285 can be disposed in the space between the first opening 224b and the water storage tank 250.

[0474] Therefore, the second scraper 285 can function as a baffle to prevent cold air flowing in from the first opening 224b from directly flowing into the water storage tank 250. As a result, the water in the water storage tank 250 can be prevented from freezing.

[0475] By the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 along the extended line With c as the reference, the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 are positioned on opposite sides, making it easy to utilize the internal space of the ice-making brackets and allowing for smooth airflow.

[0476] The first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 are along the extended line. When c is configured on either side as a reference, there may be a problem that the flow of cold air is not smooth in the area where the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 are configured. This embodiment can solve this problem.

[0477] On the other hand, since the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 scrape out the ice generated on the tray assembly 240, they can act as a resistance to the rotation of the tray assembly 240.

[0478] If the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 are along the extension line If c is positioned on either side as a reference, the resistance will have a greater effect on a specific area, potentially restricting the rotation of the tray assembly 240. This embodiment addresses this problem by distributing this resistance to both sides of the tray assembly 240.

[0479] The first distance D1 from the center C of the tray assembly 240 to the first scraper 280 can be greater than the second distance D2 from the center C of the tray assembly 240 to the second scraper 285, so that the first scraper 280 can remove ice from the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240, and the second scraper 285 can remove ice from the side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0480] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing a first scraper disposed on the outer periphery of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state in which the scraper acts on the pallet when the pallet rotates according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 31 It is along Figure 29 A sectional view cut along line 31-31. Figure 32 It is along Figure 29 A sectional view cut along line 32-32. Figure 33 It is along Figure 17 A sectional view cut along line 33-33.

[0481] First refer to Figure 29 and Figure 30 In this embodiment of the invention, the first scraper 280 can be supported on the first bracket 220 and extends to a first peripheral wall 242a facing the tray 241.

[0482] The first tip 282 of the first scraper 280 may be configured to face the protrusion 241b formed on the first peripheral wall 242a, and may scrape out the ice frozen on the protrusion 241b during the rotation of the tray 241.

[0483] The second tip 283 of the first scraper 280 can be configured to face the recess 241a formed on the first peripheral wall 242a, and can scrape out the ice generated in the recess 241a during the rotation of the tray 241.

[0484] by Figure 30Based on the center of the tray 241, the tray 241 can rotate counterclockwise. The first peripheral wall 242a may include a peripheral wall 242a1 and another peripheral wall 242a2 disposed on both sides with the center of the tray 241 as the reference.

[0485] During the rotation of the tray 241, the circumferential wall 242a1 can move closer to the first scraper 280, and the ice generated on the circumferential wall 242a1 can be separated by interfering with the first scraper 280. The separated ice, i.e., powdered ice I1, can flow into the transfer tube 340 of the compression section 300.

[0486] If the tray 241 rotates further after the ice on the first circumferential wall 242a1 is removed, the second circumferential wall 242b can move closer to the first scraper 280. Since the radius of rotation of the second circumferential wall 242b is smaller than the radius of rotation of the first circumferential wall 242a1, the second circumferential wall 242b passes the first scraper 280 relatively away from it.

[0487] If the tray 241 rotates further after the second peripheral wall 242b passes the first scraper 280, the other peripheral wall 242a2 can move closer to the first scraper 280, and the ice generated on the other peripheral wall 242a2 can be separated by interfering with the first scraper 280. The separated ice, i.e., powdered ice I1, can flow into the transfer tube 340 of the compression section 300.

[0488] Reference Figure 31 and Figure 32 The first scraper 280 can be configured to be inclined relative to the first peripheral wall 242a. Specifically, a tangent is defined with reference to a portion of the first peripheral wall 242a facing the first scraper 280. At time t, the first scraper 280 can be configured relative to the tangent. The tilt angle θt is set.

[0489] As an example, the set angle θt can form an acute angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. With this configuration, the powder ice I1 separated by the first scraper 280 can easily fall into the compression section 300.

[0490] When the first scraper 280 is located at the position where it scrapes the ice from the first peripheral wall 242a, the second tip 283 of the first scraper 280 can be configured to face the recess 241a.

[0491] The second tip 283 may include a first end portion 283b connected to the scraper body 281 of the first scraper 280. As an example, the second tip 283 may be integrally formed with the scraper body 281, in which case the first end portion 283b may form part of the scraper body 281.

[0492] The second tip 283 may include a second end portion 283c having at least a portion inserted into the interior of the recess 241a. Since the cross-sectional area of ​​the second end portion 283c is formed to decrease in the depth direction of the recess 241a, the second end portion 283c may include a sharp tip.

[0493] The second end 283c can be separated from the bottom surface of the recess 241a by a first predetermined distance E1. Additionally, the outer surface of the second tip 283 can be slightly separated from the inner surface of the recess 241a. Therefore, even if the second tip 283 scrapes ice from the recess 241a, it will not come into contact with the tray 241, thus preventing damage to the tray 241 or the first scraper 280.

[0494] When the first scraper 280 is located at the position where it scrapes the ice from the first peripheral wall 242a, the first tip 282 of the first scraper 280 can be configured to face the protrusion 241b.

[0495] The end 282a of the first tip 282 can be separated from the protrusion 241b by a second predetermined distance E2. Thus, even if the first tip 282 scrapes ice located on the protrusion 241b, it will not come into contact with the tray 241, thereby preventing damage to the tray 241 or the first scraper 280.

[0496] Reference Figure 33 The second scraper 285 for scraping out ice generated on both sides of the tray assembly 240 may include a side scraper 285a and a side scraper 285b, which may be configured to be symmetrical with respect to the center of the tray assembly 240.

[0497] The side scraper 285a can be separated from one side wall of the tray assembly 240 by a set distance so that the side scraper 285a and the side wall of the tray assembly 240 do not come into contact with each other. This prevents damage to the side scraper 285a or the side wall when removing ice generated on the side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0498] The other scraper 285b can be separated from the other side wall of the tray assembly 240 by a set distance so that the other scraper 285b and the other side wall of the tray assembly 240 do not come into contact with each other. This prevents damage to the other scraper 285b or the other side wall when removing ice generated on the other side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0499] Another embodiment is proposed.

[0500] In the above embodiment, it is described that the tray assembly 240 includes a first tray cover 246 and a second tray cover 247, and the second scraper 285 is configured to face the two side walls of the tray assembly 240, i.e. the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247, and scrapes out the ice generated by the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247.

[0501] However, unlike this, the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 may not be provided. Even without the first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247, ice can be generated on the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241 and removed by the first scraper 280.

[0502] In this case, since the pallet assembly 240 only includes the pallet 241, the sidewall of the pallet assembly 240 can refer to the sidewall of the pallet 241.

[0503] The second scraper 285 can be configured to face the two side walls of the tray 241, and the ice generated on the two side walls of the tray 241 can be separated by the second scraper 285. The separated ice can then be placed into the water storage tank 250.

[0504] In addition, the composition and installation position of the second scraper 285 can refer to the description in the previous embodiments.

[0505] The following describes other embodiments of the present invention. Since the differences between these embodiments lie only in the configuration of the first or second scraper, the description will focus on the differences, while the remaining parts refer to the description and reference numerals of the previous embodiments.

[0506] Figure 34 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a first scraper according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0507] Reference Figure 34 In another embodiment of the present invention, the first scraper 1280 may include a scraper body 1281 forming a fastening hole 280a. The first scraper 1280 may include a tip 1283 extending from the scraper body 281.

[0508] The tip 1283 may include a plurality of tips, and the plurality of tips 1283 may be provided with a number corresponding to the recesses 241a of the tray 241. The plurality of tips 1283 may be configured in a direction corresponding to the configuration direction of the plurality of recesses 241a.

[0509] The first scraper 1280 may include guide grooves 1284 formed between a plurality of the tips 1283. The guide grooves 1284 may be defined by the scraper body 1281 and the plurality of tips 1283.

[0510] When the first scraper 1280 scrapes off the ice generated in the recess 241a, the separated ice can fall into the transfer tube 340 through the guide groove 1284. That is, the guide groove 1284 is configured to guide the discharge of ice, and the guide groove 1284 can prevent the removed ice from being blocked by the first scraper 1280.

[0511] Figure 35 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the second scraper and tray according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0512] Reference Figure 35 In another embodiment of the present invention, the second scraper 1285 may include: a scraper body 1286 extending radially; and curved portions 1286a and 1286b extending from both ends of the scraper body 1286 toward the sidewall of the tray assembly 240 to scrape ice.

[0513] The curved portions 1286a and 1286b may include a first curved portion 1286a and a second curved portion 1286b, and a groove 1286c may be formed between the first curved portion 1286a and the second curved portion 1286b.

[0514] The curved surface of the scraper body 1286 that defines the groove 1286c can function to crush ice formed at a specified height on the sidewall of the tray assembly 240.

[0515] The groove 1286c can provide space to drain ice that has moved out of the sidewall of the tray assembly 240. Alternatively, the groove 1286c can reduce resistance to rotation of the tray assembly 240 by allowing ice formed at a lower height on the sidewall of the tray assembly 240 to pass through.

[0516] Since the second scraper 1285 is a scraper for smoothing the drive of the tray, rather than for removing ice to be provided to the user, there is no need to manufacture powdered ice.

[0517] Thus, the first bend 1286a and the second bend 1286b are configured adjacent to the sidewall of the tray assembly 240 to remove ice, and the groove 1286c is used to provide space for the separated or formed ice to pass through, thereby making the removal of ice easy and preventing the ice from exerting a large resistance to the rotation of the tray 241.

[0518] Another embodiment is proposed.

[0519] The above embodiment illustrates a scenario where the tray assembly 240 moves while the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285 are fixed, and ice is removed through the mutual interference between the tray assembly 240 and the first scraper 280 and the second scraper 285.

[0520] Alternatively, the tray assembly can be fixed, and the ice-moving action can be performed by moving the first and second scrapers. That is, the ice-moving action can be performed by relative movement of any one of the tray assembly and the first and second scrapers relative to the other.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container forms a storage room; Door, used to open and close the enclosure; A tray assembly, disposed in the housing or the door, includes a first wall that generates ice by receiving water and a second wall connected to the first wall and extending in a direction different from the first wall; A first scraper is disposed adjacent to the first wall to scrape off the ice formed on the first wall; as well as A second scraper, disposed adjacent to the second wall, is used to scrape off the ice formed on the second wall.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The first wall includes a circumferential wall extending circumferentially with reference to the center of the tray assembly.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The second wall includes sidewalls extending radially from both ends of the peripheral wall.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The tray assembly is configured to be movable so that the first scraper moves relative to the first wall.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The tray assembly is configured to be movable so that the second scraper moves relative to the second wall.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, With the center of the tray assembly as a reference, the first scraper and the second scraper are arranged on opposite sides.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The distance from the center of the pallet assembly to the first scraper is greater than the distance from the center of the pallet assembly to the second scraper.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, Also includes: A cooling duct, disposed on one side of the tray assembly, supplies cooling air to the tray assembly; and A water storage tank is located on the other side of the tray assembly to supply water to the tray assembly.

9. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container forms a storage room; Door, used to open and close the enclosure; A tray assembly, disposed in the housing or the door, includes a peripheral wall that generates ice by receiving water and side walls connected to both ends of the peripheral wall; as well as A scraper is configured to be adjacent to the sidewall to scrape off the ice generated on the sidewall.

10. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container forms a storage room; Door, used to open and close the enclosure; A tray assembly, disposed in the housing or the door, includes a peripheral wall that generates ice by receiving water and side walls connected to both ends of the peripheral wall; as well as At least one scraper, configured separately from the peripheral wall or the side wall, is used to scrape out ice generated on the peripheral wall or the side wall.

Images