Refrigerator and control method thereof

Abstract

A refrigerator of one embodiment includes a cabinet having a storage compartment, a door that opens and closes the storage compartment, and an ice-making assembly provided to the cabinet or the door. The ice-making assembly includes a frame, a water tub that is detachably installed to the frame, and an ice maker that receives water supplied from the water tub and generates ice, and includes a first tray that forms a part of an ice-making compartment that is a space in which ice is formed, a second tray that forms another part of the ice-making compartment, and a driving portion that operates so that the second tray can move with respect to the first tray.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This manual relates to a refrigerator and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a refrigerator may include a cabinet with a storage compartment and a door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0003] The storage compartment may be surrounded by insulated walls, and the interior of the storage compartment may be maintained at a lower temperature than the exterior temperature. Depending on the temperature range of the storage compartment, it may also be referred to as a refrigerator or freezer.

[0004] Typically, a freezer compartment in a refrigerator includes an ice maker for making ice. The ice maker takes water supplied from a water source or tank and places it into a tray, then cools the water to produce ice. The ice produced in the ice maker can be stored in an ice box.

[0005] The ice stored in the ice box can be discharged through a dispenser located on the door, or the user can open the freezer door and approach the ice box to remove the ice.

[0006] A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659, which is existing literature.

[0007] The refrigerator described in existing literature includes: a cabinet forming a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment below the refrigerator compartment; a refrigerator compartment door with a pair of doors arranged on the left and right sides to open and close the refrigerator compartment, and an ice maker and a dispenser on one side; a main water tank located in the refrigerator compartment for cooling the supplied water; a water purification device located in the cabinet for purifying the supplied water; a secondary water tank located in the refrigerator compartment door for additional cooling of the supplied water; a water supply path connecting the water purification device, the main water tank, the secondary water tank, the dispenser, and the ice maker; and a branch valve provided on the water supply path in the refrigerator compartment door for selectively supplying purified water to the dispenser or the ice maker.

[0008] However, in the existing literature, water is supplied to the ice maker from an external water source, which has the disadvantage of requiring a valve to control the flow of water.

[0009] In addition, if water is not supplied to the ice maker, for example, if the ice box is full of ice or the valve malfunctions, the water may stagnate in the water supply path, thus posing a risk of water contamination.

[0010] In the existing literature, the water supply can be controlled by using a valve to control the flow of water, but no technique for determining the completion of water supply is disclosed when the valve is omitted. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0012] In one embodiment, a refrigerator capable of manually supplying water to an ice maker is provided.

[0013] Optionally or additionally, in one embodiment, a refrigerator and its control method are provided for determining whether normal water supply conditions are met, thereby causing ice to form a desired shape or size.

[0014] Optionally or additionally, in one embodiment, a refrigerator and its control method are provided that are capable of uniformly distributing water to a plurality of ice-making compartments.

[0015] Technical solutions to the problem

[0016] One embodiment of the refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment. The refrigerator may also include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0017] The refrigerator may also include an ice-making assembly disposed on the cabinet or the door.

[0018] The ice-making assembly may include a frame. The ice-making assembly may also include a water tank for supplying water.

[0019] The bucket can be detachably mounted to the frame.

[0020] The ice-making assembly may further include an ice maker for receiving water supplied from the bucket and generating ice. The ice maker may include a first tray forming part of an ice-making compartment that serves as a space for forming ice. The ice maker may also include a second tray forming another part of the ice-making compartment.

[0021] The ice maker may also include the drive unit, which operates to enable the second tray to move relative to the first tray.

[0022] The ice-making assembly may also include a sensor disposed in the ice maker, the output value of which changes according to the water supply in the ice-making compartment.

[0023] The refrigerator may further include a door opening / closing sensor for sensing the opening and closing of the door. The refrigerator may also include a control unit.

[0024] The control unit can control the ice making in the ice maker based on the information sensed by the door opening / closing sensing unit and the sensor.

[0025] The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

[0026] If the door is detected as closed by the door opening / closing sensor at the water supply position of the second tray, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position after a first time.

[0027] After the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the control unit can determine whether the normal water supply conditions are met based on the information sensed by the sensor.

[0028] If the normal water supply conditions are met, the control unit can control the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

[0029] The ice-making assembly may also include a heater for supplying heat to the ice-making compartment.

[0030] The control unit can control the heater to operate it during at least a portion of the ice-making process after the normal water supply conditions are met.

[0031] The sensor can be a temperature sensor used to sense the temperature of the water or ice in the ice-making compartment. If the temperature change sensed by the temperature sensor during the second time period is greater than a reference value, the control unit can determine that the normal water supply conditions are met.

[0032] The sensor can be a capacitive sensor, and the dielectric constant of the capacitive sensor changes according to the water volume in the ice-making compartment. If the change in dielectric constant sensed by the capacitive sensor during the second time period is greater than a reference value, the control unit can determine that the normal water supply conditions are met.

[0033] If the normal water supply conditions are not met, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray toward the water supply position.

[0034] If the door is detected as open by the door opening / closing sensor at the water supply position of the second tray, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position after a first time.

[0035] If the door is detected as closed by the door opening / closing sensor at the ice-making position of the second tray, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray towards the water supply position. The control unit can also control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position back to the ice-making position after the first time has elapsed.

[0036] Another embodiment of the refrigerator may include: a cabinet having a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the storage compartment; and an ice-making assembly disposed in the cabinet or the door.

[0037] The ice-making assembly may include: a frame; a water bucket detachably mounted to the frame; a sensing unit for sensing the mounting of the water bucket; and an ice maker for receiving water supplied from the water bucket and generating ice.

[0038] The ice maker may include a first tray forming part of an ice-making compartment that serves as a space for forming ice, and a second tray forming another part of the ice-making compartment.

[0039] The ice maker may also include a drive unit that operates to enable the second tray to move relative to the first tray.

[0040] The refrigerator may also include a door opening / closing sensing unit and a control unit for sensing the opening and closing of the door.

[0041] The control unit can control the ice making in the ice maker based on the door opening / closing sensing unit and the information sensed in the sensing unit.

[0042] If the sensing unit detects that a first time has elapsed since the installation of the water bucket, the control unit can control the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

[0043] The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

[0044] At the water supply position of the second tray, if the door is detected to be open by the door opening / closing sensor and the installation of the water bucket is detected by the sensor, and if a first time has elapsed after the installation of the water bucket is detected by the sensor, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

[0045] If the door is detected as closed by the door opening / closing sensor at the ice-making position of the second tray, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray towards the water supply position. The control unit can also control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position back to the ice-making position after the first time has elapsed.

[0046] After the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the control unit can control the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

[0047] If the installation of the water bucket is detected by the sensing unit at the water supply position of the second tray, and the closure of the door is detected by the door opening / closing sensing unit, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position after a first time.

[0048] After the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the control unit can control the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

[0049] The ice-making assembly may further include a heater for supplying heat to the ice-making compartment. The control unit may control the heater to operate it during at least a portion of the ice-making process.

[0050] Another embodiment of the refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage compartment, a door for opening and closing the storage compartment, and an ice-making assembly disposed on the cabinet or the door.

[0051] The ice-making assembly may include: a frame; a bucket detachably mounted to the frame; a sensing unit for sensing the mounting of the bucket; and an ice maker for receiving water supplied from the bucket and generating ice. The ice maker may include a first tray, a second tray, and a drive unit, wherein the first tray forms part of an ice-making compartment that serves as a space for forming ice, the second tray forms another part of the ice-making compartment, and the drive unit operates to enable the second tray to move relative to the first tray.

[0052] The ice-making assembly may include a sensor disposed in the ice maker, the output value of which changes according to the water supply in the ice-making compartment.

[0053] The refrigerator may also include a control unit.

[0054] The control unit can control the ice-making process in the ice maker based on the information sensed by the sensing unit and the sensor.

[0055] The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

[0056] At the water supply position of the second tray, if the door is detected to be open by the door opening / closing sensor and the installation of the water bucket is detected by the sensor, and if a first time has elapsed after the installation of the water bucket is detected by the sensor, the control unit can control the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

[0057] After the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the control unit can determine whether normal water supply conditions are met based on information sensed by the sensor. If the normal water supply conditions are met, the control unit can control the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

[0058] In another embodiment of the refrigerator control method, the refrigerator includes an ice maker that receives water supplied from a water tank and generates ice, and includes a first tray, a second tray, and a drive unit. The first tray forms part of an ice-making compartment that serves as a space for forming ice, the second tray forms another part of the ice-making compartment, and the drive unit operates to enable the second tray to move relative to the first tray.

[0059] The refrigerator control method may include a step of sensing the opening of the door; a step of determining whether a first time has elapsed after sensing the opening of the door; and a step of moving the second tray from the water supply position to the ice making position after the first time has elapsed.

[0060] Another embodiment of the refrigerator control method may include the steps of sensing the door closing; determining whether a first time has elapsed after sensing the door closing; and after the first time has elapsed, moving the second tray from the water supply position to the ice making position.

[0061] The refrigerator control method may also include a step of determining whether normal water supply conditions are met after the second tray is moved to the ice-making position.

[0062] The refrigerator control method may further include the step of the ice maker performing an ice-making process if the normal water supply conditions are met.

[0063] Another embodiment of the refrigerator control method may include: a step of sensing the opening of the door; a step of determining whether the installation of the water tank is sensed; a step of determining whether a first time has elapsed after the installation of the water tank is sensed; and a step of the ice maker performing an ice-making process after the first time has elapsed.

[0064] Another embodiment of the refrigerator control method may include: a step of sensing the opening of the door; a step of determining whether the installation of the water tank is sensed; a step of determining whether a first time has elapsed after the installation of the water tank is sensed; and a step of the ice maker performing an ice-making process after the first time has elapsed.

[0065] Another embodiment of the refrigerator control method may include: a step of sensing the opening of the door; a step of determining whether the installation of the water tank is sensed; a step of determining whether the closing of the door is sensed after the installation of the water tank is sensed; a step of determining whether a first time has elapsed after the closing of the door is sensed; and a step of performing an ice-making process in the ice maker after the first time has elapsed.

[0066] Another embodiment of the refrigerator control method may include: a step of sensing the opening of the door; a step of determining whether the installation of the water tank is sensed; a step of determining whether a first time has elapsed after the installation of the water tank is sensed; a step of determining whether normal water supply conditions are met after the first time has elapsed; and a step of performing an ice-making process in the ice maker if the normal water supply conditions are met.

[0067] Invention Effects

[0068] According to one embodiment, water can be manually supplied to the ice maker by loading and unloading the water bucket, thus having the advantages of not requiring valves or similar components and being able to separate the water bucket for cleaning.

[0069] According to one embodiment, when determining whether normal water supply conditions are met and starting ice making during normal water supply, it has the advantage of being able to form ice into the desired shape or size.

[0070] According to one embodiment, if a water diffusion process is performed in the ice maker after the door is sensed to be closed, it has the advantage of being able to evenly distribute water to multiple ice-making compartments. Attached Figure Description

[0071] Figure 1 (a) is a perspective view of the refrigerator of the first embodiment. Figure 1 (b) is a perspective view of other types of refrigerators.

[0072] Figure 2 (a) is a perspective view of the freezer door of the first embodiment. Figure 2 (b) is a side view of the freezer door of the first embodiment.

[0073] Figure 3 (a) is a perspective view of the ice-making assembly from one side of the first embodiment. Figure 3 (b) is a perspective view of the ice-making assembly from the other side of the first embodiment.

[0074] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the ice-making assembly of the first embodiment.

[0075] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker of the first embodiment.

[0076] Figure 6 (a) is a perspective view of the bucket from one side of the first embodiment.

[0077] Figure 6 (b) is a perspective view of the bucket from the other side of the first embodiment.

[0078] Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 (a) 7-7 sectional view.

[0079] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the first and second trays in the ice-making position of the second tray in the first embodiment.

[0080] Figure 9 This is a control block diagram of the refrigerator in the first embodiment.

[0081] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the first embodiment.

[0082] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the ice maker in the ice-making position of the second tray assembly.

[0083] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the ice maker in the water supply position of the second tray assembly.

[0084] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the second embodiment.

[0085] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a first frame with a sensing unit provided in the third embodiment.

[0086] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the state in which a bucket is installed on the first frame according to the third embodiment.

[0087] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the third embodiment.

[0088] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment.

[0089] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment.

[0090] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the first frame with a sensing unit provided in the sixth embodiment.

[0091] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the seventh embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0092] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. When adding reference numerals to the constituent elements of the various drawings, it should be noted that even in different drawings, the same reference numerals should be assigned to the same constituent elements as much as possible. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related well-known structures or functions will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions would interfere with the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0093] Furthermore, when describing the constituent elements of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another, and the nature, sequence, or order of the corresponding constituent elements are not limited by these terms. When a constituent element is described as being "connected," "combined," or "coupled" to another constituent element, the constituent element may be directly connected, combined, or coupled to the other constituent element; however, it should be understood that constituent elements may also be "connected," "combined," or "coupled" to each other.

[0094] Figure 1 (a) is a perspective view of the refrigerator of the first embodiment. Figure 1 (b) is a perspective view of other types of refrigerators. Figure 2 (a) is a perspective view of the freezer door of the first embodiment. Figure 2 (b) is a side view of the freezer door of the first embodiment.

[0095] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the refrigerator 1 may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage compartment and a refrigerator door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0096] As an example, the storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment 11 and a freezer compartment 12. While not limiting, the refrigerator compartment 11 may be located above the freezer compartment 12. Depending on the refrigerator's configuration, the freezer compartment 12 and the refrigerator compartment 11 may be arranged side-by-side, and the freezer compartment 12 may also be located above the refrigerator compartment 11. Alternatively, the storage compartment may consist only of the freezer compartment 12.

[0097] The refrigerator door may include a refrigerator door 20 for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment 11 and a freezer door 25 for opening and closing the freezer compartment 12.

[0098] The refrigerator door 20 may include a single door or a pair of doors arranged side by side. Alternatively, one or more of the pair of doors may include a first door for opening and closing the refrigerator 11 and a second door that can rotate relative to the first door.

[0099] The freezer door 25 may include a single door or a pair of doors arranged side by side. The freezer door 25 may open and close the freezer 12 in a sliding manner or in a rotating manner.

[0100] The refrigerator 1 may further include an ice-making assembly 200 for generating ice. The ice-making assembly 200 may be located in the storage compartment or in the refrigerator door.

[0101] As an example, Figure 2 The ice-making assembly 200 is shown disposed on the freezer door 25. Alternatively, as... Figure 1 As shown in (b), the ice-making assembly 200 can also be provided on the refrigerator door 20. Alternatively, the ice-making assembly 200 can also be provided on both the freezer door 25 and the refrigerator door 20.

[0102] The freezer door 25 may include an outer shell 101 and a door liner 102 connected to the outer shell 101.

[0103] A heat insulation element may be provided in the space formed by the outer casing 101 and the door liner 102. Alternatively, the space formed by the outer casing 101 and the door liner 102 may be a vacuum-insulated space.

[0104] The ice-making component 200 may be disposed in the door liner 102. The door liner 102 may form a recessed space 110, which may accommodate at least a portion of the ice-making component 200.

[0105] The freezer door 25 may be provided with one or more baskets 120. The baskets 120 may be provided in the door lining 102. The baskets 120 and the ice-making assembly 200 may be separated or arranged in the vertical direction.

[0106] The ice-making assembly 200 can be located on the upper side of the freezer door 25 so that the user can easily access it. As an example, the basket 120 can be located on the lower side of the ice-making assembly 200.

[0107] Figure 3 (a) is a perspective view of the ice-making assembly from one side of the first embodiment. Figure 3 (b) is a perspective view of the ice-making assembly from the other side of the first embodiment. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the ice-making assembly of the first embodiment. Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker of the first embodiment.

[0108] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The ice-making assembly 200 in this embodiment may include an ice maker 230 that forms an ice-making compartment for generating ice.

[0109] The ice-making assembly 200 may further include a frame 400 for housing the ice maker 230. The frame 400 may be installed on the door liner 102.

[0110] The ice-making assembly 200 may further include a water tank 210 for supplying water to the ice maker 230. The water tank 210 may be detachably mounted to the frame 400. As an example, the water tank 210 may be detached from the frame 400 when the frame 400 is mounted to the door liner 102.

[0111] If the water bucket 210 is installed on the frame 400, the water discharged from the water bucket 210 can be supplied to the ice maker 230. That is, in this embodiment, the user can manually supply water to the ice maker 230.

[0112] The ice-making assembly 200 may further include an ice box 480 for storing ice generated in the ice maker 230. The ice box 480 may be installed on the door liner 102 or on the frame 400.

[0113] As an example, with the frame 400 installed on the door liner 102, the ice box 480 can be separated from the frame 400.

[0114] The frame 400 may include a first frame 410 and a second frame 450 combined with the first frame 410. Alternatively, the frame 400 may be formed from a single component.

[0115] The second frame 450 may be located below the first frame 410 or combined with its lower side.

[0116] As an example, the bucket 210 can be installed on the first frame 410.

[0117] The ice maker 230 can be supported on the first frame 410 or on the second frame 450. The ice maker 230 can be directly supported on the frame 400 or supported by a bracket 240, which is a separate component from the ice maker 230. Alternatively, the bracket 240 can be a component of the ice maker 230.

[0118] Hereinafter, for example, the bracket 240 is supported on the second frame 450.

[0119] As an example, the ice box 480 can be mounted on the second frame 450.

[0120] With the bucket 210 installed on the first frame 410, at least a portion of the bucket 210 can be exposed to the outside. Therefore, the user can easily identify and approach the bucket 210.

[0121] The water bucket 210 can be installed on the first frame 410 along a first direction. The ice box 480 can be installed on the second frame 450 along a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0122] The ice-making assembly 200 may further include a water supply guide 220 that guides water discharged from the water tank 210 to the ice maker 230. The water tank 210 may be located above the ice maker 230, and at least a portion of the water supply guide 220 may be located between the water tank 210 and the ice maker 230.

[0123] The water supply guide 220 may include a cover 228 that covers at least a portion of the internal flow path.

[0124] The ice maker 230 can form an ice-making compartment (see reference). Figure 8 (230a), the ice-making compartment is a space for forming ice. As an example, the ice-making compartment 230a may be spherical or spherical in shape.

[0125] The ice maker 230 may include a first tray 250 forming part of the ice-making compartment 230a. The ice maker 230 may include a second tray 260 forming another part of the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0126] The first tray 250 may include a first wall 252 forming part of the ice-making compartment 230a. The second tray 260 may include a second wall 262 forming another part of the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0127] The second tray 260 is movable relative to the first tray 250. For example, the second tray 260 can rotate or move linearly.

[0128] Depending on the position or movement pattern of the second tray 260, the water supply position and the ice-making position of the second tray 250 may be different or the same.

[0129] As an example, the first tray 250 may be connected to or supported on the bracket 240.

[0130] The first tray 250 may further include a guide 258. The guide 258 guides the movement of the first pusher 380.

[0131] The ice maker 230 may further include a tray housing that supports or contacts the second tray 260. The tray housing may include a tray cover 270. The tray cover 270 may surround a portion of the second tray 260.

[0132] The pallet housing may further include a pallet support 280. The pallet support 280 can support the second pallet 260. The pallet support 280 can be combined with the pallet cover 270. Therefore, the pallet cover 270 and the pallet support 280 can move together with the second pallet 260.

[0133] The second tray 260 may extend through the tray cover 270. The tray support 280 may form a space to accommodate at least a portion of the second tray 260. As an example, the second wall 262 may be accommodated within the space.

[0134] The ice maker 230 may also include a drive unit 290 that operates for moving the second tray 260.

[0135] As an example, the drive unit 290 may be disposed on the bracket 240. A shaft 310 may be connected to the drive unit 290. The shaft 310 may transmit power from the drive unit 290 to the second tray 260. Alternatively, the power from the drive unit 290 may be transmitted to the shaft 310.

[0136] The ice maker 230 may further include an operating arm 330 connected to the shaft 310 or to the second tray 260. The operating arm 330 may move together with the second tray 260.

[0137] A spring 325 may be connected to the operating arm 330. The spring 325, at the ice-making position of the second tray 260, can provide an elastic force to the second tray 260 in the direction in which the second tray 260 is in close contact with the first tray 250.

[0138] The ice maker 230 may include a plurality of operating arms 330. One operating arm 330 may be connected to the drive unit 290 and the second tray 260. Another operating arm 330 may be connected to the second tray 260 on the opposite side of the first operating arm 330.

[0139] One side of the spring 325 can be connected to the operating arm 330, and the other side can be connected to the tray support 280.

[0140] The ice maker 230 may further include a first pusher 380 for separating ice from the ice-making compartment 230a during ice transfer. The first pusher 380 may press against the first tray 250 or pass through the first tray 250 and press against the ice in the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0141] The first actuating member 380 may include a first strip 382. As an example, a plurality of first strips 382 may extend from the body 384. The movement of the body 384 may be guided by the guide 258.

[0142] The ice maker 230 may further include a second pusher 390 for separating ice from the ice-making compartment 230a during ice transfer. The second pusher 390 may press the second tray 260.

[0143] The second pusher 390 may include a second strip 392. The second pusher 390 may also include a setting portion 394. As an example, a plurality of second strips 392 may extend from the setting portion 394.

[0144] The setting part 394 can be set on the bracket 240, or on the first frame 410 or the second frame 450.

[0145] The ice maker 230 may further include a transmission part 320 for transmitting the moving force of the second tray 260 or the driving force of the drive part 290 to the first pusher 380. One side of the transmission part 320 may be connected to the body 384 of the first pusher 380. The other side of the transmission part 320 may be connected to the tray support 280. As an example, the transmission part 320 may be a connecting rod.

[0146] In this embodiment, the first pusher 380 can be a movable pusher, and the second pusher 390 can be a fixed pusher.

[0147] The ice-making assembly 200 may also include a limiting part 360 for preventing the water bucket 210 from separating from the frame 400.

[0148] The limiting part 360 can at least restrict the separation of the water bucket 210 during the ice-making process.

[0149] The ice-making assembly 200 may further include an operator for transmitting the driving force of the drive unit 290 or the moving force of the second tray 260 to the limiting unit 360.

[0150] The operator may include an operating arm 330, a first operating part 340, and a second operating part 350.

[0151] The ice maker 230 may further include a full ice sensing lever 300. The full ice sensing lever 300 can sense whether the ice box 480 is full of ice. One side of the full ice sensing lever 300 can be connected to the drive unit 290. The other side of the full ice sensing lever 300 can be supported by the bracket 240. The full ice sensing lever 300 can be rotated by the drive unit 290.

[0152] Figure 6 (a) is a perspective view of the bucket from one side of the first embodiment. Figure 6 (b) is a perspective view of the bucket from the other side of the first embodiment. Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 (a) 7-7 sectional view.

[0153] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the bucket 210 can be installed on the first frame 410.

[0154] The first frame 410 may include a recessed receiving portion 411 that accommodates the bucket 210.

[0155] A through hole 413 may be formed at the bottom of the receiving portion 411. When the water bucket 210 is received in the receiving portion 411, a portion of the water bucket 210 may pass through the through hole 413. Alternatively, water discharged from the water bucket 210 may pass through the through hole 413.

[0156] The bucket 210 may include a first body 211 forming a space 211a for containing water. The bucket 210 may include a second body 216 attached to the first body 211.

[0157] by Figure 7 Based on this, the first body 211 may include a lower opening. The second body 216 may cover the lower opening.

[0158] The second body 216 may include a plane or be arc-shaped with a downward protrusion.

[0159] The second body 216 may include a drain hole 217 for discharging water. For example, the drain hole 217 may be located in the center of the second body 216. With the second body 216 separated from the first body 211, the first body 211 can be flipped to accommodate water in the space 211a. Alternatively, water can be supplied to the space 211a through the drain hole 217 without separating the second body 216 from the first body 211.

[0160] The space 211a can hold enough water in the ice maker 230 to complete one ice-making cycle. As an example, the volume of the space 211a can be the same as or similar to the sum of the volumes of the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a.

[0161] Therefore, when ice is made once in the ice maker 230, there is no water in the water tank 210, thus preventing the water in the water tank 210 from being contaminated.

[0162] The second body 216 may also include an air hole 218. Air can flow into the space 211a through the air hole 218. Due to the air present in the space 211a, water in the space 211a can be easily discharged from the drain hole 217.

[0163] The second body 216 can be joined to surround a portion of the lower side of the first body 211. A seal 219 to prevent water leakage can be provided at the contact surface between the first body 211 and the second body 216. For example, a groove for accommodating the seal 219 can be formed on the outer surface of the first body 211. For example, an annular seal 219 can be placed in the groove and surround the outer surface of the first body 211.

[0164] The bucket 210 may also include a handle 213. The handle 213 may extend horizontally from the first body 211.

[0165] At least a portion of the handle 213 may be arc-shaped. As an example, a portion of the handle 213 may be bent downwards in an arc shape.

[0166] The handle 213 may be provided with a connecting part 214. If the limiting part 360 is connected to the connecting part 214, the separation of the bucket 210 can be restricted.

[0167] The connecting portion 214 may be located at a position separate from the end 213a of the handle 213. The connecting portion 214 may extend downward from the bottom surface of the handle 213.

[0168] The limiting part 360 can be movably disposed on the first frame 410. As an example, the limiting part 360 can be rotatably or vertically movable on the first frame 410.

[0169] The limiting part 360 may further include a locking part 363.

[0170] The limiting part 360 can move between a first position and a second position. When the water bucket 210 is detached, the limiting part 360 can be located in the first position (or the released position). When the water bucket 210 is installed, the limiting part 360 can move to the second position (the limiting position). Figure 7 The image shows the limiting part 360 moved to a second position. In the second position of the limiting part 360, the locking part 363 can engage with the connecting part 214 of the handle 213.

[0171] With the bucket 210 installed on the first frame 410, the user can hold the handle 213 and detach the bucket 210.

[0172] In the second position of the limiting part 360, the limiting part 360 can contact the end 213a of the handle 213. In this case, no space for inserting a user's fingers is formed between the handle 213 and the limiting part 360, making it difficult for the user to grip the handle 213. Therefore, the separation of the bucket 210 can be restricted.

[0173] Furthermore, when it is desired to separate the bucket 210 using tools or the like, the locking part 363 is engaged with the connecting part 214 of the handle 213, thus preventing the bucket 210 from separating.

[0174] As an example, the limiting part 360 can be located at the second position when the second tray 360 is in the ice-making position. During the movement of the second tray 360 from the ice-making position to the ice-removing position, the limiting part 360 can move towards the first position.

[0175] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the first and second trays in the ice-making position of the second tray in the first embodiment.

[0176] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 8 The first tray 250 may form a first compartment 251 as part of the ice-making compartment 230a. The second tray 260 may form a second compartment 261 as another part of the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0177] The first wall 252 can form the first compartment 251. The second wall 262 can form the second compartment 261.

[0178] At the ice-making position of the second tray 260, the second wall 262 can contact the first wall 261. In this state, the first compartment 251 and the second compartment 261 can form a complete ice-making compartment 230a.

[0179] The ice maker 230 may also include a temperature sensor 540.

[0180] As an example, the temperature sensor 540 can sense the temperature of the first tray 250. As an example, the temperature sensor 540 can be housed in a receiving portion formed in the first tray 250. The temperature sensor 540 senses the temperature of the first tray 250, thereby enabling it to sense the temperature of the water or ice in the ice-making compartment 230a. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 540 can be exposed to the ice-making compartment 230a, so that the temperature sensor 540 directly senses the temperature of the water or ice in the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0181] Figure 9 This is a control block diagram of the refrigerator in the first embodiment.

[0182] Reference Figure 9 The refrigerator in this embodiment may also include a cooler 550.

[0183] As an example, the cooler 550 may include a compressor that compresses refrigerant. The temperature of the cold air supplied to the ice-making compartment 230a can be varied depending on the output (or frequency) of the compressor.

[0184] Alternatively, the cooler 550 may include a fan for blowing air into the evaporator. The amount of cold air supplied to the ice-making compartment 230a can be varied depending on the output (or speed) of the fan.

[0185] Alternatively, the cooler 550 may include a refrigerant valve for regulating the amount of refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant circulation.

[0186] By adjusting the opening of the refrigerant valve, the amount of refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant system is changed, thereby allowing the temperature of the cold air supplied to the ice-making compartment 230a to vary.

[0187] In this embodiment, the cooler 550 may include one or more of the compressor, fan, and refrigerant valve. Alternatively, the cooler 550 may include a thermoelectric element.

[0188] The refrigerator in this embodiment may also include a control unit 500.

[0189] The control unit 500 may be disposed on the object for control or separately from the object. The control unit 500 may be located inside the object for control or outside the object.

[0190] As an example, the control unit 500 may be located in the cabinet 10, the freezer door 25, or the refrigerator door 20.

[0191] The refrigerator may include a door opening / closing sensor 510 for sensing the opening and closing of the freezer door 25. The door opening / closing sensor 510 may be disposed on the freezer door 25 or on the refrigerator body 10.

[0192] As another example, when the ice-making assembly 200 is installed on the refrigerator door 20, the door opening and closing sensing unit 510 can sense the opening and closing of the refrigerator door 20, and can be installed on the refrigerator door 20 or on the cabinet 10.

[0193] As described above, the refrigerator may also include a temperature sensor 540 for sensing the temperature of the water or ice in the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0194] The control unit 500 can determine whether normal water supply conditions are met based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 540. The method for determining whether normal water supply conditions are met will be explained later.

[0195] The control unit 500 can determine whether ice making is complete based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 540.

[0196] The drive unit 290 may further include a position sensing sensor 512 for sensing the position of the second tray 260. Alternatively, the position sensing sensor 512 for sensing the position of the second tray 260 may be provided as a separate configuration from the drive unit 290.

[0197] The control unit 500 can control the drive unit 290 based on the position of the second tray 260 sensed by the position sensing sensor 512.

[0198] The refrigerator may further include a first heater 520. The first heater 520 can supply heat to the ice-making compartment 230a during the ice-making process. The first heater 520 may be in contact with the first tray 250 or the second tray 260. Alternatively, the first heater 520 may be adjacent to the first tray 250 or the second tray 260.

[0199] Due to the heat supplied by the first heater 520, the transparency of the ice produced in the ice-making chamber 230a can be improved. Depending on the situation, the first heater 520 may also be omitted. In this case, although the transparency is low, spherical ice can be produced.

[0200] The first heater 520 can also operate during the ice removal process after ice making is completed.

[0201] The refrigerator may also include a second heater 530. The second heater 530 can supply heat to the ice-making compartment 230a during ice removal. Due to the heat supplied by the second heater 530, the ice can be separated from one or more of the first tray 250 and the second tray 260.

[0202] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the first embodiment. Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the ice maker in the ice-making position of the second tray assembly. Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the ice maker in the water supply position of the second tray assembly.

[0203] Reference Figures 4 to 12 The ice maker 230 may include a first tray assembly 231a and a second tray assembly 231b.

[0204] The first tray assembly 231a may include a first tray 250. The second tray assembly 231b may include a second tray 260, a tray cover 270, and a tray support 280. Depending on the circumstances, one or more of the tray cover 270 and the tray support 280 may be omitted.

[0205] The control unit 500 can control the drive unit 290 to move the second tray assembly 231b (or the second tray 260) to the water supply position, the ice making position, and the ice transfer position.

[0206] After the ice is transferred from the ice maker 230, the second tray 260 can move to the water supply position. A water supply process can then be performed at the water supply position.

[0207] Normally, in order to install the water bucket 210 onto the ice-making assembly 200, the freezer door 25 is opened, and the water bucket 210 is contained in the water bucket 210, so that the water bucket 210 can be installed onto the ice-making assembly 200.

[0208] After the water tank 210 is installed into the ice-making assembly 200, the user can close the freezer door 25.

[0209] Therefore, at the water supply position of the second tray 260, it can be sensed that the freezer door 25 has been opened and then closed (S1).

[0210] The position of the second tray 260 can be sensed by the position sensing sensor 512, and the opening and closing of the freezer door 25 can be sensed by the door opening and closing sensing unit 510.

[0211] The water tank 210 can be installed on the ice-making assembly 200 with the drain hole 217 located on the lower side. During the installation of the water tank 210, water from the water tank 210 can be discharged through the drain hole 217. The water discharged through the drain hole 217 can be supplied to the ice-making compartment 230a under the guidance of the water supply guide 220.

[0212] As an example, the ice maker 230 may include a plurality of ice-making compartments 230a. As an example, the water supply guide 220 may guide water to one of the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a.

[0213] If water is supplied to one of the ice-making compartments, the water can be distributed to adjacent second compartments 261 after falling into one of the second compartments 261 of the second tray 260. The water needs to be evenly distributed to each of the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a so that the ice produced when ice-making is completed can be of uniform size and shape.

[0214] In this embodiment, the control unit 500 can determine whether a first time (or reference time) has elapsed after sensing that the freezer door 25 is closed (S2).

[0215] In this embodiment, the first time may be the time required to evenly distribute water to each of the plurality of second compartments 261.

[0216] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed after sensing that the freezer door 25 is closed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S3).

[0217] If the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the first tray 250 and the second tray 260 can come into contact. In this state, a complete ice-making compartment 230a can be formed by the first compartment 251 and the second compartment 261. A portion of the water contained in the second tray 260 can be distributed to the first compartment 251 of the first tray 250.

[0218] As the second tray 260 moves toward the ice-making position, the operating arm 330 can move. The operating arm 330 moves in the forward direction, allowing it to press the first operating part 340. The first operating part 340 can then rotate, causing the second operating part 350 to rise. If the second operating part 350 rises, it can cause the limiting part 360 to rotate. That is, the limiting part 360 can move from the first position to the second position. Therefore, the locking part 363 of the limiting part 360 can engage with the engaging part 214 of the handle 213. In this state, the separation of the bucket 210 can be restricted.

[0219] After the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the control unit 500 can determine whether the normal water supply conditions are met (S4).

[0220] The normal water supply condition can be met if the temperature change sensed by the temperature sensor 540 during the second time period is greater than a reference value. For example, the change value can be a temperature rise. The second time period can be different from the first time period. The second time period can be longer than the first time period.

[0221] The output value of the temperature sensor 540 can change depending on whether water is supplied to the ice-making compartment 230a or the amount supplied.

[0222] In this embodiment, the water supplied to the water tank 210 can be at room temperature or at a temperature higher or lower than room temperature.

[0223] When the water tank 210 contains a reference amount or more of water and is installed on the ice-making assembly 200 and supplies water to the ice-making compartment 230a, the ice-making compartment 230a can come into contact with the water, so the temperature sensor 540 can sense the temperature of the water.

[0224] On the other hand, when the water tank 210 is not installed on the ice-making assembly 200, the ice-making compartment 230a can come into contact with cold air or indoor air. In this case, the temperature change sensed by the temperature sensor 540 during the second time period is less than the reference value.

[0225] Furthermore, when the ice-making assembly 200 is installed with less than the reference amount of water in the water tank 210, a portion of the ice-making compartment 230a may be in contact with the water, while another portion may be in contact with cold air or indoor air. In this case, the temperature change sensed by the temperature sensor 540 during the second time period is also less than the reference value.

[0226] If the judgment result in step S4 is that the normal water supply conditions are met, the control unit 500 can start the ice-making process (S5).

[0227] On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal water supply conditions are not met, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 to the water supply position (S6), and then return to step S1.

[0228] After the ice-making process begins, the first heater 520 can be turned on if the activation condition of the first heater 520 is met. The activation condition can be that the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 540 reaches the activation reference temperature. For example, the activation reference temperature can be a temperature below zero. Alternatively, the first heater 520 can be turned on immediately upon the start of the ice-making process.

[0229] During the ice-making process, it can be determined whether ice-making is complete based on one or more of the temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor 540 and the ice-making time.

[0230] Once ice making is complete, the ice transfer process can be performed. The ice transfer process may include the heating process of the second heater 530. If the second heater 530 is turned on, the heat from the second heater 530 can be transferred to the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0231] The first heater 520 may be turned on in at least a portion of the range in which the second heater 530 operates. Alternatively, the first heater 520 and the second heater 530 may operate alternately.

[0232] Due to the heat from the second heater 530, the ice can be separated from the first tray 250. The shutdown of the second heater 530 can be determined based on one or more of the operating time of the second heater 530 and the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 540.

[0233] The ice removal process may also include a movement of the second tray 260. This movement may be performed after the second heater 530 is turned off, or it may be performed during operation of the second heater 530 and during which the second heater 530 is turned off.

[0234] The second tray 260 can move from the ice-moving position to the ice-making position in a forward direction. The second tray 260 can also move from the ice-making position to the ice-moving position in a reverse direction.

[0235] During the ice-moving process, the second tray 260 can move from the ice-making position to the ice-moving position.

[0236] During the ice-moving process, as the second tray 260 moves in the opposite direction, it can receive power from the drive unit 290, thereby causing the full-ice sensing lever 330 to move.

[0237] The full ice sensing lever 330 can remain stationary until the second tray 260 rotates from the ice-making position to the opposite direction by a predetermined angle. If the second tray 260 rotates more than the predetermined angle, the full ice sensing lever 330 can rotate. At this time, the full ice sensing lever 330 can rotate in the opposite direction to the rotation direction of the second tray 260.

[0238] When the second tray 260 is moved to the full ice sensing position, the full ice sensing lever 330 can also move to the full ice sensing position.

[0239] If no full ice is detected when the second tray 260 is moved to the full ice sensing position, the second tray 260 may move further in the opposite direction toward the ice-moving position.

[0240] When the full ice sensing lever 330 is moved to the full ice sensing position, and the second tray 260 moves further, the full ice sensing lever 330 can move in the positive direction and return to its initial position.

[0241] On the other hand, during the movement of the second tray 260 from the ice-making position to the ice-removing position, the operating arm 330 can move together, and the pressure applied to the first operating part 340 decreases. Then, the second operating part 350 descends. The force applied to the limiting part 360 is then removed, allowing the limiting part 360 to return from the second position to the first position. With the limiting part 360 returned to the first position, the water bucket 210 can be separated.

[0242] As the second tray 260 moves from the ice-making position to the ice-moving position, the first strip 382 of the first pusher 380 can press down the ice in the ice compartment 230a.

[0243] During the movement of the second tray 260 toward the ice-removing position, the second strip 392 of the second pusher 390 can press the second tray 260.

[0244] Ice separated from the second tray 260 can fall downwards and be stored in the ice box 480.

[0245] After the second tray 260 is moved to the ice removal position, it can move in the positive direction toward the water supply position.

[0246] As another example, the temperature sensor 540 can be replaced by a capacitive sensor. Alternatively, the ice maker 230 may also include a capacitive sensor.

[0247] The output value of the capacitive sensor can change depending on whether water is supplied to the ice-making compartment 230a or the amount supplied.

[0248] In this case, the value sensed by the capacitive sensor can be used to determine whether normal water supply conditions are met. For example, the capacitive sensor can be located on the first tray 250. The capacitive sensor can be exposed to the ice-making compartment 230a.

[0249] As an example, if the change in dielectric constant sensed by the capacitive sensor during the second time period is greater than a reference value, it can be determined that the normal water supply conditions are met. For example, the change could be an increase in the dielectric constant.

[0250] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the second embodiment.

[0251] Reference Figure 13 After the ice is transferred in the ice maker 230, the second tray 260 can be moved to the water supply position.

[0252] At the water supply position of the second tray 260, the opening of the freezer door 25 can be sensed (S11).

[0253] The position of the second tray 260 can be sensed by the position sensing sensor 512, and the opening of the freezer door 25 can be sensed by the door opening and closing sensing unit 510.

[0254] The control unit 500 can determine whether the first time (or reference time) has elapsed after sensing that the freezer door 25 is open (S12). In this embodiment, the first time may be the time required to evenly distribute water to each of the plurality of second compartments 261.

[0255] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed after the freezer door 25 is sensed to be open, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S13).

[0256] If the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the first tray 250 and the second tray 260 can come into contact. In this state, a complete ice-making compartment 230a can be formed by the first compartment 251 and the second compartment 261. When water is supplied to the second tray 260, a portion of the water supplied to the second tray 260 can be distributed to the first compartment 251 of the first tray 250.

[0257] The control unit 500 can determine whether the freezer door 25 is closed (S14). If the freezer door 25 is closed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the water supply position (S15).

[0258] The control unit 500 can determine whether the first time has elapsed after the second tray 260 moves to the water supply position (S16). As another example, the first time can be changed to a third time.

[0259] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed, the control unit 500 can activate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S17).

[0260] Typically, the refrigerator can be placed on the floor with its front side higher than its rear side to prevent it from tipping forward when the refrigerator door is opened or while the refrigerator door is open. In this configuration, with the freezer door 25 open, the heights of the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a relative to the floor can be different. When the freezer door 25 is open, if water is supplied to the ice maker 230 from the water tank 210, the water level in the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a may be uneven.

[0261] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the freezer door 25 is sensed to be closed, a water diffusion process can be performed in the ice maker 230 to reduce the deviation in the amount of water in the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a. With the freezer door 25 closed, the heights of the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a relative to the floor surface can be substantially the same.

[0262] Therefore, if the water diffusion process is performed with the freezer door 25 closed, the amount of water in the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a can become uniform.

[0263] After the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the control unit 500 can determine whether the normal water supply conditions are met (S18).

[0264] Methods for determining whether normal water supply conditions are met Figure 10 The description is the same as in the previous text, so detailed explanations are omitted.

[0265] If the judgment result in step S18 indicates that the normal water supply conditions are met, then the control unit 500 can start the ice-making process (S5).

[0266] On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal water supply conditions are not met, the control unit 500 causes the drive unit 290 to operate so that the second tray 260 moves toward the water supply position (S19), and then returns to step S11.

[0267] On the other hand, in step S12, the freezer door 25 can be sensed to be closed before the first time period has elapsed. In this case, after the first time period has elapsed, steps S13, S15 to S18 can be executed consecutively.

[0268] As another example, in step S12, the freezer door 25 can be sensed to be closed before the first time interval has elapsed. In this case, the process can proceed to step S16. That is, step S16 can be executed after step S12 has ended.

[0269] Before the door closes, in step S12, if the door closure is sensed before the first time interval has elapsed, the count result in the time elapsed counter can be reset. Then, the control unit 500 can determine whether the first time interval has elapsed after the door closes. Then, steps S17 and S18 can be executed.

[0270] In either the first or second embodiment, the control unit 500 can control the ice-making process in the ice maker 230 based on information sensed by the door opening / closing sensing unit 510 and the sensors. In this embodiment, the ice-making process can refer to a process performed after the water supply process. After the ice-making process is completed, an ice-removal process can be performed.

[0271] As an example, the control unit 500 can determine whether to start ice making (or whether normal water supply conditions are met) based on whether the opening and closing of the door and the temperature rise of the ice-making compartment (or tray) are sensed.

[0272] As another example, it can be understood that the control unit 500 determines whether to start ice making (or whether normal water supply conditions are met) based on whether the door is opened or closed and the dielectric constant of the capacitive sensor.

[0273] In the case of the first or second embodiment, it can be understood that the determination of whether to start ice making (or whether to meet normal water supply conditions) is independent of whether a water bucket is actually installed.

[0274] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the first frame with a sensing unit provided in the third embodiment. Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the state in which a bucket is installed on the first frame according to the third embodiment.

[0275] The rest of this embodiment is the same as the first embodiment, except that a sensing unit for sensing the installation of the water tank is added. Therefore, hereafter, only the feature parts of this embodiment will be described.

[0276] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 The ice-making assembly of this embodiment may further include a sensing unit 440 for sensing the mounting of the water bucket 210. As an example, the sensing unit 440 may be a microswitch. Alternatively, the sensing unit 440 may be a magnetic sensor for sensing magnetic force.

[0277] If the bucket 210 is housed in the receiving portion 411, the bucket 210 can directly contact the sensing portion 440. Alternatively, the ice-making assembly 200 may also include a movable portion 430 that moves due to the bucket 210 during installation. During the installation of the bucket 210, the movable portion 430 can sense the installation of the bucket 210 by pressing the sensing portion 440.

[0278] The sensing part 440 may be provided in the first frame 410. The sensing part 440 may be located at a position separate from the wall 411c forming the receiving part 411. The first frame 410 may include a fastening boss 429 for fastening the sensing part 440. As an example, a fastening member may pass through the sensing part 440 and be fastened to the fastening boss 429.

[0279] The movable part 430 can be mounted on the first frame 410. At least a portion of the movable part 430 can be disposed between the wall 411c and the sensing part 440.

[0280] The movable part 430 can be movably disposed on the first frame 410. As an example, the movable part 430 can be rotatably mounted on the first frame 410.

[0281] With the bucket 210 detached from the receiving portion 411, a portion of the movable portion 430 may be located within the receiving portion 411. An opening 412a may be formed in the wall 411c for allowing a portion of the movable portion 430 to pass through.

[0282] With the water bucket 210 detached from the receiving portion 411, the movable portion 430 may include an inclined surface 431a. The inclined surface 431a may be located in the receiving portion 411. During the installation of the water bucket 210, the movable portion 430 can move from an initial position to a sensing position.

[0283] During the process of the water bucket 210 being accommodated in the receiving part 411, if the water bucket 210 presses against the inclined surface 431a, the movable part 430 can rotate in one direction and move to the sensing position, and the sensing part 440 can be opened. If the sensing part 440 is opened, the installation of the water bucket 210 can be detected.

[0284] If the water bucket 210 is detached, the movable part 430 can rotate in another direction and return to its initial position. Then, the sensing part 440 can be turned off.

[0285] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the third embodiment.

[0286] Reference Figure 16 After the ice is transferred in the ice maker 230, the second tray 260 can be moved to the water supply position.

[0287] Normally, in order to install the water bucket 210 onto the ice-making assembly 200, the freezer door 25 can be opened, and the water bucket 210 can be installed onto the ice-making assembly 200 with water contained in it.

[0288] After the water tank 210 is installed into the ice-making assembly 200, the user can close the freezer door 25.

[0289] At the water supply position of the second tray 260, the opening of the freezer door 25 can be sensed, and the installation of the water tank 210 can be sensed in the sensing unit 440 (S21).

[0290] The position of the second tray 260 can be sensed by the position sensing sensor 512, and the opening and closing of the freezer door 25 can be sensed by the door opening and closing sensing unit 510.

[0291] The control unit can determine whether a first time (or reference time) has elapsed after sensing the installation of the water bucket 210 (S22).

[0292] In this embodiment, the first time may be equal to or greater than the time required to completely drain water from the bucket 210.

[0293] The first time may be the time required to evenly distribute water to each of the plurality of second compartments 261.

[0294] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed since the bucket 210 was sensed to be installed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S23).

[0295] If the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the first tray 250 and the second tray 260 can come into contact. In this state, a complete ice-making compartment 230a can be formed by the first compartment 251 and the second compartment 261. A portion of the water contained in the second tray 260 can be distributed to the first compartment 251 of the first tray 250.

[0296] After the second tray 260 is moved to the ice-making position, the control unit 500 can start the ice-making process (S5).

[0297] As another example, the ice-making position and water supply position of the second tray 260 can be the same. In this case, one or more of the first tray 250 and the second tray 260 can be formed with a flow path for distributing water supplied to an ice-making compartment 230a to an adjacent ice-making compartment 230a. As an example, the flow path can be formed by a recess in one or more of the first tray 250 and the second tray 260.

[0298] in this case, Figure 16 Step S23 can be omitted. Additionally, the water supply location in step S21 can be the ice-making location.

[0299] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment.

[0300] Reference Figure 17 After the ice is transferred in the ice maker 230, the second tray 260 can be moved to the water supply position.

[0301] Normally, in order to install the water bucket 210 onto the ice-making assembly 200, the freezer door 25 is opened, and the water bucket 210 is contained in the water bucket 210, so that the water bucket 210 can be installed onto the ice-making assembly 200.

[0302] After the water tank 210 is installed into the ice-making assembly 200, the user can close the freezer door 25.

[0303] At the water supply position of the second tray 260, the opening of the freezer door 25 can be sensed, and the installation of the water tank 210 can be sensed in the sensing unit 440 (S21).

[0304] The control unit 500 can determine whether the closure of the freezer door 25 is sensed after the installation of the water tank 210 is detected (S21A).

[0305] If the freezer door 25 is sensed to be closed, the control unit 500 can determine whether a first time (or reference time) has elapsed since the installation of the water tank 210 was sensed (S22).

[0306] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed since the bucket 210 was sensed to be installed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S23).

[0307] After the second tray 260 is moved to the ice-making position, the control unit 500 can start the ice-making process (S5).

[0308] As another example, the ice-making position and the water supply position of the second tray 260 can be the same. In this case... Figure 17 Step S23 can be omitted. Additionally, the water supply location in step S21 can be the ice-making location.

[0309] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment.

[0310] Reference Figure 18 After the ice is transferred in the ice maker 230, the second tray 260 can be moved to the water supply position.

[0311] At the water supply position of the second tray 260, the opening of the freezer door 25 can be sensed (S31).

[0312] After sensing that the freezer door 25 is open, the control unit 500 can determine whether the installation of the water tank 210 is detected (S32).

[0313] After sensing the installation of the water tank 210, the control unit 500 can determine whether the first time (or reference time) has elapsed (S33). In this embodiment, the first time may be the time required to evenly distribute water to each of the plurality of second compartments 261.

[0314] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed after the freezer door 25 is sensed to be open, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S34).

[0315] If the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the first tray 250 and the second tray 260 can come into contact. In this state, a complete ice-making compartment 230a can be formed by the first compartment 251 and the second compartment 261. When water is supplied to the second tray 260, a portion of the water supplied to the second tray 260 can be distributed to the first compartment 251 of the first tray 250.

[0316] The control unit 500 can determine whether the freezer door 25 is closed (S35). If the freezer door 25 is closed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to cause the second tray 260 to supply water to the water supply position (S36).

[0317] It can be determined whether the first time (S37) has elapsed after the second tray 260 moves to the water supply position. As another example, the first time can be changed to a third time.

[0318] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S37).

[0319] In this embodiment, if the freezer door 25 is sensed to be closed, a water diffusion process can be performed in the ice maker 230 to reduce the water volume deviation in the plurality of ice-making compartments 230a. The reason for performing the water diffusion process has been explained in previous embodiments, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0320] After the second tray 260 is moved to the ice-making position, the control unit 500 can start the ice-making process (S5).

[0321] In the fourth or fifth embodiment, the control unit 500 can control the ice making in the ice maker 230 based on the information sensed in the door opening / closing sensing unit 510 and the sensing unit 440.

[0322] As an example, the control unit 500 can determine whether to start making ice based on whether the installation of the water bucket is sensed and the time elapsed after the water bucket is installed.

[0323] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the first frame with a sensing unit provided in the sixth embodiment.

[0324] The other parts of this embodiment are the same as those of the third embodiment, except for the type of sensing unit. Therefore, only the feature parts of this embodiment will be described below.

[0325] Reference Figure 19 In this embodiment, the sensing unit 441 can be disposed on the first frame 410. In this embodiment, the sensing unit 411 can be a non-contact sensor.

[0326] The sensing unit 441 may include a light-emitting unit 442 and a light-receiving unit 444.

[0327] Light emitted from the light-emitting part 442 can pass through the receiving part 411. When the water bucket 210 is not contained in the receiving part 411, light emitted from the light-emitting part 442 can reach the light-receiving part 444 through the receiving part 411.

[0328] If the water bucket 210 is housed in the housing portion 411, the water bucket 210 blocks the light emitted from the light-emitting portion 442, thereby preventing the light from reaching the light-receiving portion 444.

[0329] The wall forming the receiving portion 411 may have a plurality of openings for allowing light to pass through. The plurality of openings may include a first opening adjacent to the light-emitting portion 442 and a second opening adjacent to the light-receiving portion 444.

[0330] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the refrigerator in the seventh embodiment.

[0331] Reference Figure 20 After the ice is transferred in the ice maker 230, the second tray 260 can be moved to the water supply position.

[0332] Normally, in order to install the water bucket 210 onto the ice-making assembly 200, the freezer door 25 is opened, and the water bucket 210 is contained in the water bucket 210, so that the water bucket 210 can be installed onto the ice-making assembly 200.

[0333] After the water tank 210 is installed into the ice-making assembly 200, the user can close the freezer door 25.

[0334] At the water supply position of the second tray 260, the opening of the freezer door 25 can be sensed, and the installation of the water tank 210 can be sensed in the sensing units 440 and 441 (S41).

[0335] The position of the second tray 260 can be sensed by the position sensing sensor 512, and the opening and closing of the freezer door 25 can be sensed by the door opening and closing sensing unit 510.

[0336] The control unit can determine whether a first time (or reference time) has elapsed after the installation of the water bucket 210 is sensed (S42).

[0337] In this embodiment, the first time may be the time required to evenly distribute water to each of the plurality of second compartments 261.

[0338] If it is determined that the first time has elapsed since the bucket 210 was sensed to be installed, the control unit 500 can operate the drive unit 290 to move the second tray 260 toward the ice-making position (S43).

[0339] If the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the first tray 250 and the second tray 260 can come into contact. In this state, a complete ice-making compartment 230a can be formed by the first compartment 251 and the second compartment 261. A portion of the water contained in the second tray 260 can be distributed to the first compartment 251 of the first tray 250.

[0340] After the second tray 260 moves to the ice-making position, the control unit 500 can determine whether the normal water supply conditions are met (S44).

[0341] Methods for determining whether normal water supply conditions are met Figure 10 The description is the same as in the previous text, so detailed explanations are omitted.

[0342] If the judgment result in step S44 indicates that the normal water supply conditions are met, then the control unit 500 can start the ice-making process (S5).

[0343] On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal water supply conditions are not met, the control unit 500 causes the drive unit 290 to operate so that the second tray 260 moves toward the water supply position (S45), and then returns to step S41.

[0344] In this embodiment, it can be understood that whether to start ice making (or whether to meet normal water supply conditions) is determined based on whether the installation of the water bucket and the temperature rise of the ice-making compartment (or tray) are sensed.

[0345] On the other hand, the above embodiments were described with the example of the ice-making component being installed in the door. However, it should be noted that the limiting part, the sensing part, and the control method executed by the control part for limiting the separation of the water bucket can also be applied when the ice-making component is installed in the storage room.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container has a storage compartment; The door opens and closes the storage room; as well as An ice-making assembly is disposed in the housing or the door; The ice-making component includes: frame; A bucket, detachably mounted to the frame; and An ice maker that receives water supplied from the bucket and produces ice, and includes a first tray, a second tray, and a drive unit, wherein the first tray forms part of an ice-making compartment that serves as a space for forming ice, the second tray forms another part of the ice-making compartment, and the drive unit operates to enable the second tray to move relative to the first tray.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, Also includes: A sensor is installed in the ice maker, and the output value of the sensor changes according to the water supply in the ice-making compartment; A door opening / closing sensor, used to sense the opening and closing of the door; and Control Department; The control unit controls ice making in the ice maker based on information sensed by the door opening / closing sensing unit and the sensor.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position; If the door is detected as closed by the door opening / closing sensor at the water supply position of the second tray, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position after a first time.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, After the second tray is moved to the ice-making position. The control unit determines whether normal water supply conditions are met based on the information sensed by the sensor. If the normal water supply conditions are met, the control unit controls the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein, It also includes a heater for supplying heat to the ice-making compartment; The control unit controls the heater to operate it during at least a portion of the ice-making process after the normal water supply conditions are met.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein, The sensor is a temperature sensor used to sense the temperature of the water or ice in the ice-making compartment; If the temperature change detected by the temperature sensor during the second time period is greater than the reference value, the control unit determines that the normal water supply conditions are met.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein, The sensor is a capacitive sensor, and the dielectric constant of the capacitive sensor changes according to the amount of water in the ice-making compartment. If the change in dielectric constant sensed by the capacitive sensor during the second time period is greater than the reference value, the control unit determines that the normal water supply conditions are met.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein, If the normal water supply conditions are not met, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray toward the water supply position.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position; If the door is detected as open by the door opening / closing sensing unit at the water supply position of the second tray, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position after a first time.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, wherein, At the ice-making position of the second tray, If the door is detected as closed by the door opening / closing sensor, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray toward the water supply position. The control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position again after the first time has elapsed.

11. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The container has a storage compartment; The door opens and closes the storage room; as well as An ice-making assembly is disposed in the housing or the door; The ice-making component includes: frame; A water bucket, detachably mounted to the frame; A sensing unit for sensing the installation of the water bucket; and An ice maker that receives water supplied from the bucket and produces ice, and includes a first tray, a second tray, and a drive unit, wherein the first tray forms part of an ice-making compartment that serves as a space for forming ice, the second tray forms another part of the ice-making compartment, and the drive unit operates to enable the second tray to move relative to the first tray.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, Also includes: A door opening / closing sensor, used to sense the opening and closing of the door; and Control Department; The control unit controls the ice making in the ice maker based on the door opening / closing sensing unit and the information sensed in the sensing unit.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein, If the sensing unit detects that a first time has elapsed since the installation of the water bucket, the control unit controls the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein, The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position; At the water supply position of the second tray, if the door is detected to be open by the door opening / closing sensor and the installation of the water bucket is detected in the sensor, If the sensing unit detects that a first time has elapsed since the installation of the water bucket, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 14, wherein, At the ice-making position of the second tray, If the door is detected as closed by the door opening / closing sensor, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray toward the water supply position. The control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position again after the first time has elapsed.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 15, wherein, After the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the control unit controls the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

17. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein, The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position; If the installation of the water bucket is detected by the sensing unit at the water supply position of the second tray, and the closure of the door is detected by the door opening / closing sensing unit, then the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position after a first time.

18. The refrigerator according to claim 17, wherein, After the second tray moves to the ice-making position, the control unit controls the ice maker to perform the ice-making process.

19. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, include: A sensor is installed in the ice maker, and the output value of the sensor changes according to the water supply in the ice-making compartment; as well as Control Department; The control unit controls ice making in the ice maker based on information sensed by the sensing unit and the sensor.

20. The refrigerator according to claim 19, wherein, The second tray can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position; At the water supply position of the second tray, if the door is detected to be open by the door opening / closing sensor and the installation of the water bucket is detected in the sensor, If the sensing unit detects that a first time has elapsed since the installation of the water bucket, the control unit controls the drive unit to move the second tray from the water supply position to the ice-making position.

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