Refrigerator and control method thereof

Abstract

A refrigerator according to embodiments includes an ice making chamber providing a space in which ice is generated, and an ice maker forming an ice making cell in which water is phase changed into ice by cold air, wherein the ice maker includes a first tray assembly including a first tray forming a portion of the ice making cell, a second tray assembly including a second tray forming another portion of the ice making cell, a heater for supplying heat to the ice making cell, a driver for generating a driving force that moves the second tray assembly relative to the first tray assembly, and a controller for controlling the heater and the driver, and when movement of the second tray assembly is stopped for a predetermined time, the controller determines that ice is in a jammed state in which the ice is jammed in the ice maker in a de-icing process in which the ice is separated from the ice making cell, and when the jammed state is detected, a jammed state release mode for separating the jammed ice from the ice maker is performed.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] A refrigerator is generally a household appliance used to store food in an internal storage space enclosed by a door. Refrigerators maintain a suitable temperature for food storage, and by using cold air to cool the storage space, the stored food can be kept in a refrigerated or frozen state.

[0003] The freezer compartment of a refrigerator is equipped with an ice maker. The ice maker holds water supplied from a water source or tank in a tray, then cools the water to produce ice. The ice produced in the ice maker can be stored in ice storage boxes. The ice stored in the ice storage boxes can be retrieved by the user by opening the door and approaching the ice storage box.

[0004] In existing technical document 1, Chinese Patent Publication No. 114174740 (CN114174740A) discloses an ice maker and an ice storage box installed in the door of a refrigerator.

[0005] In the case of existing technical document 1, it is impossible to generate spherical ice, and in the structure where the lifting mechanism presses the elastic mold from below, there is a disadvantage that it is difficult to separate the ice from the elastic mold and let it fall downwards.

[0006] In prior art document 2, international application number 2020071767 (WO 2020071767A1) discloses a refrigerator.

[0007] The refrigerator in prior art document 2 includes: a storage compartment for storing food; a first tray disposed in the storage compartment and forming part of an ice-making grid, the ice-making grid being a space in which water is phase-formed into ice by cold air; a second tray forming another part of the ice-making grid; and a sensor and a heater for determining the position of the second tray.

[0008] Meanwhile, when the first and second trays are jammed with ice, the ice cannot be discharged normally, and the operation of the ice maker may be malfunctioning. Furthermore, due to the jammed state, the desired amount of ice may not be produced at the user's expected time. However, neither prior art documents 1 nor 2 discloses a structure or control method for resolving the jammed state when the ice maker is jammed. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] One embodiment provides a refrigerator that can automatically release itself when the tray assembly is stuck.

[0011] Optionally or additionally, the implementation provides a refrigerator capable of reducing the time required to detach from a stuck state during the defrosting process.

[0012] Optionally or additionally, the implementation provides a refrigerator capable of reducing the heating time required to disengage from a stuck state during the defrosting process.

[0013] Optionally or additionally, the embodiment provides a refrigerator that can detach from a stuck state during the de-icing process even when no heater is installed on at least one of the multiple trays.

[0014] Optionally or additionally, an embodiment provides a refrigerator that can detach from a stuck state during the de-icing process by performing control in response to the cause of a stuck state during the de-icing process.

[0015] Optionally or additionally, the embodiments provide a refrigerator in which ice can be easily separated from the ice tray.

[0016] Technical solution

[0017] According to one aspect, a refrigerator may include: an ice-making compartment that provides space for ice to be produced; and an ice maker that forms ice trays in which water is phase-changed into ice by cold air. The refrigerator may also include a cooler that supplies cold air to the ice-making compartment.

[0018] An ice maker may include: a first tray assembly including a first tray forming part of an ice tray; a second tray assembly including a second tray forming another part of an ice tray; a heater for supplying heat to the ice tray; a drive for generating a driving force to move the second tray assembly relative to the first tray assembly; and a controller for controlling the heater and the drive.

[0019] When the movement of the second tray assembly stops for a predetermined time, the controller can determine that the ice maker is in a stuck state during the ice removal process, where the ice is stuck in the ice maker and separates from the ice grid during the ice removal process.

[0020] When a jammed state is detected, a jam release mode can be executed to separate the jammed ice from the ice maker.

[0021] The controller can determine whether the jamming state has been released by moving the second tray assembly toward the de-icing position, which is where the ice separates from the ice grid.

[0022] If the stuck state is not resolved, the stuck state resolution mode can be executed repeatedly.

[0023] In the jammed state release mode, the heater can heat the jammed ice, and the second tray assembly can be moved to the de-icing position by the drive.

[0024] The controller can determine whether the second tray assembly moves relative to the first tray assembly in a first direction.

[0025] When the controller determines that the second tray assembly is moving relative to the first tray assembly in a first direction, it can control the heater to heat the stuck ice for a first time. When a stuck state is detected during the de-icing process, the controller can stop the drive.

[0026] The controller can determine whether the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position.

[0027] When it is determined that the second tray component has returned to its initial position, the controller can execute the jammed state release mode in the initial position.

[0028] The controller can perform initial control to move the second tray assembly to the initial position and execute the jammed state release mode at the initial position.

[0029] The jam release mode can be executed at the position where the movement of the second tray component stops.

[0030] The number of repetitions of the stuck state release mode can be less than the reference value.

[0031] When the number of repetitions of the stuck state release mode is equal to or greater than the reference value, the controller can control the heater to heat the stuck ice for a second time.

[0032] The first time can be shorter than the second time.

[0033] When a stuck state of the second tray assembly is detected, the controller can determine whether the second tray assembly is moving relative to the first tray assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0034] When it is determined that the second tray assembly is moving in the second direction, the drive can be stopped, and the controller can control the heater to heat the stuck ice for a third time at the position where the movement of the second tray assembly stops.

[0035] The controller can determine whether the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position.

[0036] Once it is determined that the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position, the second tray assembly can be moved to the de-icing position.

[0037] The third time can be longer than the first time.

[0038] An ice maker may also include a water supply unit that supplies water to the ice trays.

[0039] The initial position can be the water supply position of the second tray assembly, where water is supplied to the ice tray through the water supply section.

[0040] The heater may include a first heater disposed in the first tray assembly.

[0041] The heater may also include a second heater disposed in the second tray assembly.

[0042] The reference value can be 3, and the first time can be 5 minutes.

[0043] The scheduled time can be longer than the time required for the second tray assembly to move from the initial position to the de-icing position.

[0044] Meanwhile, according to one aspect of the refrigerator control method, the refrigerator includes: a first tray assembly having a first tray forming part of an ice-making grid, the ice-making grid being a space where water phases into ice; a second tray assembly having a second tray forming another part of the ice-making grid; a heater supplying heat to the ice-making grid; a drive generating driving force to move the second tray assembly relative to the first tray assembly; and a controller controlling the heater and the drive.

[0045] The refrigerator control method may include: determining that the ice maker is stuck during the ice removal process of ice separating from the ice grid when the movement of the second tray assembly stops for a predetermined time; and heating the ice stuck between the first and second trays by a heater when the stuck state is detected.

[0046] The refrigerator control method may also include: determining whether the jamming state during the ice removal process is released by moving the second tray assembly to the ice removal position, which is the position where the ice separates from the ice tray.

[0047] The refrigerator control method may include: repeatedly executing a jamming release mode for moving the second tray assembly to the de-icing position when the jamming state of the second tray assembly is not released.

[0048] The refrigerator control method may further include: determining whether the second tray assembly moves relative to the first tray assembly in a first direction.

[0049] The refrigerator control method may further include: when it is determined that the second tray assembly moves relative to the first tray assembly in a first direction, controlling the heater to perform heating for a first time.

[0050] The refrigerator control method may also include stopping the drive when a stuck state is detected during the defrosting process.

[0051] The refrigerator control method may also include: determining whether the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position.

[0052] The refrigerator control method may also include: performing initial control to move the second tray assembly to the initial position.

[0053] The stuck state release mode can be executed from the initial position.

[0054] The refrigerator control method may also include stopping the drive when a stuck state is detected during the defrosting process.

[0055] The jam release mode can be executed at the position where the movement of the second tray component stops.

[0056] Heating stuck ice with a heater may include: heating the stuck ice with a heater for the first time when the number of repetitions of the stuck state release mode is less than a reference value.

[0057] Heating the stuck ice with a heater may also include: when the number of times the stuck state release mode is equal to or greater than a reference value, heating the stuck ice with a heater for a second time.

[0058] Heating the stuck ice with a heater may further include: when a stuck state is detected during the de-icing process and it is determined that the second tray assembly is moving relative to the first tray assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction, stopping the drive and controlling the heater to heat the stuck ice at the position where the movement of the second tray assembly stops for a third time.

[0059] The refrigerator control method may also include: determining whether the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position.

[0060] The refrigerator control method may also include: moving the second tray assembly to the de-icing position when it is determined that the second tray assembly has returned to the initial position.

[0061] Beneficial effects

[0062] According to the implementation method, the time required to detach from the stuck state during the de-icing process can be reduced.

[0063] According to the implementation method, the heating time required to detach from the stuck state during the de-icing process can be reduced.

[0064] According to the implementation method, even if no heater is installed on at least one of the multiple trays, it is possible to detach from the stuck state during the de-icing process.

[0065] According to the implementation method, since different algorithms are applied based on the cause of the stuck state during the de-icing process, it is possible to get out of the stuck state more quickly.

[0066] According to the implementation method, ice can be easily separated from the ice tray, thereby improving user convenience. Attached Figure Description

[0067] Figure 1 (A) in the figure is a front view of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 (B) in the image shows a view of the refrigerator with one door open.

[0068] Figure 2(A) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator compartment door as seen from the front according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (B) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator door as seen from the rear according to the first embodiment.

[0069] Figure 3 View (A) shows the basket and filter separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. Figure 3 (B) is a view showing the state in which the ice-making chamber door and cover components are separated from the first refrigerator door.

[0070] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The sectional view taken from line 4-4 of (A) in the figure.

[0071] Figure 5 View (A) is a view showing the state in which the cold air duct is connected to the door liner according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 (B) is a view showing the ice-making chamber wall of the door lining according to the first embodiment.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a view showing the state in which the ice maker according to the first embodiment is mounted on the support member.

[0073] Figure 7 This is a view showing the arrangement between the ice maker and the cold air duct according to the first embodiment.

[0074] Figure 8 (A) is a perspective view of the ice maker as seen from the top side according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 (B) is a perspective view of the ice maker as seen from the top side according to the first embodiment.

[0075] Figure 9 (A) in the figure is a front view of the ice maker according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 (B) is a perspective view of the ice maker as seen from below according to the first embodiment.

[0076] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker according to the first embodiment.

[0077] Figure 11 This is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to the first embodiment.

[0078] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at the water supply position of the second tray assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0079] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at the ice-making position of the second tray assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0080] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker showing the second tray assembly moving to the full ice detection position during the de-icing process.

[0081] Figure 15 (A) is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker showing a portion of the second push rod in contact with the second tray. Figure 15 (B) is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker showing the state in which another part of the second push rod is in contact with the second tray.

[0082] Figure 16 View (A) shows a portion of the second pusher pressing down on the second tray in the de-icing position. Figure 16 (B) is a view showing the state in which another part of the second push rod presses down on the second tray in the de-icing position.

[0083] Figure 17 This is a view showing the transmission unit moving further in the opposite direction while the first and second trays are in contact with each other.

[0084] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

[0085] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the first locked state of the tray assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0086] Figure 20 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the first stuck state according to the ice-making cycle angle and signal, based on the description of the first embodiment.

[0087] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of plate ice being generated on a second tray according to the first embodiment.

[0088] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the second locked state of the tray assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0089] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of returning from the second stuck state of the tray assembly to the initial position according to the first embodiment.

[0090] Figure 24 This is a view showing the second stuck state of the tray assembly according to the second embodiment.

[0091] Figure 25 This is a view showing the state of returning from the second stuck state of the tray assembly to the initial position according to the second embodiment.

[0092] Figure 26This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the second stuck state according to the angle and signal of the ice-making cycle, based on the description of the second embodiment.

[0093] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view showing the third locked state of the tray assembly according to the third embodiment.

[0094] Figure 28 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the third stuck state according to the ice-making cycle angle and signal, based on the description of the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0095] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when components in the drawings are designated by reference numerals, the same components will be designated by the same reference numerals as much as possible, even if the components are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in the description of embodiments of the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of well-known configurations or functions will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions would interfere with the understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0096] Furthermore, in the description of embodiments of this disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. Each term is used only to distinguish the corresponding component from other components and does not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the corresponding components. It should be understood that when one component is "connected," "joined," or "combined" with another component, the former may be directly connected, joined, or combined with the latter, or may be "connected," "joined," or "combined" with the latter if a third component is inserted in between.

[0097] The suffixes “module” and “part” used for components in the following description are given only for the convenience of writing this specification, and “module” and “part” are used interchangeably.

[0098] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" before the components mentioned below is merely to avoid confusion when referring to the components and is unrelated to the order, importance, or hierarchical relationship between the components. For example, it is also possible to implement the invention by including only the second component, excluding the first component.

[0099] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" as used in this specification are defined based on the predetermined flow direction of the fluid.

[0100] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when components in the drawings are designated by reference numerals, the same components will be designated by the same reference numerals as much as possible, even if the components are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in the description of embodiments of the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of well-known configurations or functions will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions would interfere with the understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0101] Furthermore, in the description of embodiments of this disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. Each term is used only to distinguish the corresponding component from other components and does not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the corresponding components. It should be understood that when one component is "connected," "joined," or "combined" with another component, the former may be directly connected, joined, or combined with the latter, or may be "connected," "joined," or "combined" with the latter if a third component is inserted in between.

[0102] The suffixes “module” and “part” used for components in the following description are given only for the convenience of writing this specification, and “module” and “part” are used interchangeably.

[0103] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" before the components mentioned below is merely to avoid confusion when referring to the components and is unrelated to the order, importance, or hierarchical relationship between the components. For example, it is also possible to implement the invention by including only the second component, excluding the first component.

[0104] Figure 1 (A) in the figure is a front view of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 View (B) shows a refrigerator with one door open. Figure 2 (A) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator compartment door as seen from the front according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (B) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator door as seen from the rear according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 View (A) shows the basket and filter separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. Figure 3 (B) is a view showing the state in which the ice-making chamber door and cover components are separated from the first refrigerator door.

[0105] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The refrigerator 1 of this embodiment may include a cabinet 2. The cabinet 2 may be provided with a storage compartment. The refrigerator 1 may also include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. The door is movably connected to the cabinet 2.

[0106] Multiple doors can be provided, and at least a portion of each door can be rotatably or slidably connected to the cabinet.

[0107] The storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment 25. The storage compartment may optionally or additionally include a freezer compartment 26. As an example, Figure 1 (B) shows that the storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment 25 and a freezer compartment 19.

[0108] The door may include a refrigerator door 10 for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment 25. The refrigerator compartment 25 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerator doors 10. The door may also include a freezer door 130 for opening and closing the freezer compartment 26. The freezer compartment 26 may be opened and closed by one or more freezer doors 130.

[0109] The refrigerator door 10 may be configured as one or more, and may include a first refrigerator door 110 and a second refrigerator door 120.

[0110] The following description will take the case where the refrigerator compartment 25 is opened and closed by the first refrigerator compartment door 110 and the second refrigerator compartment door 120 as an example.

[0111] At least one of the first refrigerator door 110 or the second refrigerator door 120 may include a dispenser 30 for draining water and / or ice. Of course, depending on the type of refrigerator, the freezer door 130 may be provided with a dispenser 30.

[0112] At least one of the first refrigerator door 110 or the second refrigerator door 120 may include one or more ice makers 200.

[0113] If a refrigerator includes multiple ice makers, the type of ice produced in each ice maker may be the same or different. The size (or volume) of the ice produced in each ice maker may be the same or different. The transparency of the ice produced in each ice maker may be the same or different. The structure of the ice produced and the method of separating the produced ice in each ice maker may be the same or different. The shape of the ice in each ice maker may be the same or different.

[0114] The following description will use the case where the ice maker 200 is installed in the first refrigerator compartment door 110 as an example. Of course, if needed, the ice maker can be installed in the second refrigerator compartment door 120 or the freezer compartment door 130. In this case, the dispenser 30 and the ice maker 200 can be installed in the same door. Although not shown, an additional ice maker can be installed in at least one of the refrigerator compartment 25 and the freezer compartment 19.

[0115] Figure 1 (B) exemplarily illustrates that refrigerator 1 is a bottom-freezing refrigerator, but unlike this, the spirit of this disclosure can be equally applied to side-by-side or top-mounted refrigerators. In the case of side-by-side or top-mounted refrigerators, the freezer door may include an ice maker and dispenser, or the refrigerator door may include an ice maker and dispenser.

[0116] Dispenser 30 may be located on the front surface of the first refrigerator door 110. A portion of dispenser 30 may be recessed rearward from the front surface of the first refrigerator door 110 to provide space for placing containers.

[0117] Dispenser 30 can discharge ice generated in ice maker 200. At least a portion of ice maker 200 can be located at a higher position than dispenser 30.

[0118] The first refrigerator door 110 may include a housing 111. The housing 111 may form the front appearance of the first refrigerator door 110. The first refrigerator door 110 may also include a door liner 112. The door liner 112 may be directly or indirectly connected to the housing 111. The door liner 112 may open and close the refrigerator compartment 25.

[0119] With the outer casing 111 and the door liner 112 connected, a thermal insulation space can be formed between the outer casing 111 and the door liner 112. Thermal insulation material can be disposed within the thermal insulation space. The thermal insulation material can be formed by curing externally injected foaming liquid. Alternatively, a vacuum insulation component can be disposed within the thermal insulation space. The thermal insulation material and the vacuum insulation component can also be disposed together within the thermal insulation space.

[0120] The refrigerator 1 may also include an ice-making compartment 116 that provides space for ice production. As an example, the ice-making compartment 116 may be located in the first refrigerator door 110. An ice maker 200 may be located in the ice-making compartment 116. As an example, a door liner 112 may form the ice-making compartment 116. The ice-making compartment 116 may be formed such that one surface of the door liner 112 is recessed into the outer casing 111.

[0121] The first refrigerator door 110 may also include an ice storage box 600, in which ice generated in the ice-making chamber 200 is stored. The ice stored in the ice storage box 600 can be discharged to the dispenser 30. The ice storage box 600 may be housed together with the ice maker 200 in the ice-making chamber 116. The ice storage box 600 may be located on the underside of the ice maker 200.

[0122] The cold air generated in the cooler can be supplied to the ice-making chamber 116. That is, the cooler can be configured to supply cold air to the ice-making chamber 116. Alternatively, the cooler can be configured to operate to supply cold air to the ice-making chamber 116. The cold air can be supplied to lower the ambient temperature by absorbing heat from air or a medium that is colder than the surrounding air. Here, the cold air can be cold air or a cooling medium, and it can cause the water in the ice-making grid 203 to change phase to ice by lowering the temperature of the ice-making chamber 116. The cooling medium can be any substance that causes the cooling effect and can be a fluid. Cold air can also be referred to as "cold air".

[0123] The cooler may be configured to cool the ice-making chamber 116, including at least one of a refrigeration cycle or a thermoelectric element. As an example, cold air for cooling the freezer chamber 26 may be supplied to the ice-making chamber 116.

[0124] The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply passage 21 for guiding cold air from the freezer compartment 26, or from a space therein containing an evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 26, to the first refrigerator door 110. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge passage 22 for guiding cold air discharged from the first refrigerator door 110 to the freezer compartment 26, or the space therein containing the evaporator. The supply passage 21 and the discharge passage 22 may be located within the cabinet 2.

[0125] The first refrigerator door 110 may include a cold air inlet 1123. When the first refrigerator door 110 is closed, the cold air inlet 1123 may communicate with the supply passage 21. The first refrigerator door 110 may also include a cold air outlet 1124. When the first refrigerator door 110 is closed, the cold air outlet 1124 may communicate with the exhaust passage 22.

[0126] Cold air inlet 1123 may be formed on one side surface of door liner 112. However, it is not limited to this, one side surface of door liner 112 is the surface facing the wall in the refrigerator compartment 25 where the supply passage 21 is provided when the first refrigerator door 110 is closed.

[0127] Cold air outlet 1124 may be formed on one side surface of door liner 112. However, it is not limited to this, one side surface of door liner 112 is the surface facing the wall in refrigerator compartment 25 where exhaust passage 22 is provided when the first refrigerator door 110 is closed.

[0128] Ice maker 200 produces spherical ice. The term "spherical" in this instruction manual refers not only to a geometrically spherical shape but also to a shape resembling a sphere.

[0129] One side surface of the door liner 112 may include a first side portion 1121 and a second side portion 1122 with different front and rear widths. The width of the second side portion 1122 may be formed to be greater than the width of the first side portion 1121. At least one of a cold air inlet 1123 or a cold air outlet 1124 may be formed on the second side portion 1122 of the door liner 102. The second side portion 1122 may protrude further into the refrigerator compartment 25 than the first side portion 1121.

[0130] The first refrigerator door 110 may also include an ice-making chamber door 113 for opening and closing the ice-making chamber 116. The ice-making chamber door 113 may be an insulated door with internal insulation material. The ice-making chamber door 113 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerator door 110 via hinges.

[0131] Meanwhile, food-holding baskets can be installed on the refrigerator door 10. Multiple baskets can be provided. The baskets may include first baskets 1141 and 1142 connected to the ice-making door 113. The first refrigerator door 110 is not connected to the ice-making door 113, but may also include a second basket 1143 connected to the first refrigerator door 110. As an example, multiple first baskets 1141 and 1142 can be provided and vertically positioned, and the second basket 1143 may be located below the first baskets 1141 and 1142. However, the number and position of the baskets 1141, 1142, and 1143 are not limited thereto.

[0132] In the first refrigerator door 110, a component space 117 may be formed in which components are housed. In the component space 117, at least one of a valve 750 for controlling water flow, a filter (not shown) for purifying water, or a water tank 700 for storing water may be housed.

[0133] Alternatively, the component space 117 may be formed by a separate wall connected to the door lining 112. The first refrigerator door 110 may also include a cover member 115 covering the component space 117. A retainer 725 to which a filter is attached may be provided in the component space 117.

[0134] The cover member 115 may include an opening 1151. Through the opening 1151, the filter can be attached to the retainer 725. A second basket 1143 may cover the opening 1151. When the second basket 1143 is detached, the opening 1151 is exposed. The retainer 725 can be exposed through the opening 1151.

[0135] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The sectional view taken from line 4-4 of (A) in the figure.

[0136] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The dispenser 30 may include a dispenser housing 310. The dispenser housing 310 may form a space 320. A container, such as a cup, may be placed in the space 320. Water or ice may be drained into the space 320. At least a portion of the dispenser housing 310 may be arranged to overlap with the element space 117 in the front-back direction.

[0137] The ice maker 200 may overlap with the dispenser housing 310 in the vertical direction. The ice storage container 600 may overlap with the dispenser housing 310 in the vertical direction. As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may include a second push rod 5300. The second push rod 5300 may overlap with the ice storage container 600 in the vertical direction. The second push rod 5300 may overlap with the dispenser housing 310 in the vertical direction.

[0138] Meanwhile, the ice generated by the ice maker 200 can be supplied to the user through the ice channel 800 at the dispenser 30, or it can be supplied by the user directly approaching the ice inside the refrigerator 1 and scooping it out directly.

[0139] With the first refrigerator compartment door 110 open, the user can access the ice-making compartment 116 by opening the ice-making compartment door 113. In this case, the user can directly scoop out and obtain ice stored in the ice storage box 600 or a separate storage space. Alternatively, an auxiliary door for opening and closing the ice-making compartment 116 can be additionally provided on the first refrigerator compartment door 110, allowing the user to access the ice-making compartment 116 through the auxiliary door and directly scoop out ice stored in the ice storage box 600.

[0140] In addition, a separate freezer compartment connection channel may be included, through which ice separated from the ice maker 200 communicates with the ice-making chamber 116 and the freezer compartment 26. Ice can be moved from the ice-making chamber 116 to the freezer compartment 26 and stored therein via the freezer compartment connection channel. The freezer compartment 26 may also include a freezer compartment ice storage box for storing ice. The user can open the freezer compartment door 130 to directly scoop and obtain the ice stored in the freezer compartment ice storage box. Alternatively, the freezer compartment ice storage box can be opened and closed, and an auxiliary door is additionally included on the freezer compartment door 130. When stored in the freezer compartment 26, the amount of ice that can be stored can be increased while maintaining cold air.

[0141] The ice maker 200 can be installed on the support member 119 provided in the ice-making chamber 116, or it can be directly installed on the door liner 112. Figure 4 The ice maker 200 is shown mounted on the support member 119.

[0142] The ice storage box 600 may include an ice-discharging section 630 that operates to discharge stored ice. As an example, the ice-discharging section 630 may include a rotating member that performs a rotation operation.

[0143] An ice channel 800 may be located below the ice-making chamber 116. The ice channel 800 may be opened and closed by a cover pipe 820. An ice guide 840 may be located below the ice channel 800. The ice channel 800 provides a passage for ice movement.

[0144] Ice in the ice storage box 600 can be moved directly to the ice channel 800, or moved to the ice channel 800 through the ice through hole 1194 formed in the support member 119.

[0145] Ice channel 800 guides ice discharged from ice storage box 600 to ice guide 840. Ice guide 840 provides a channel for ice movement. Ice guide 840 guides ice to space 320. Ice channel 800 may overlap at least a portion of ice chamber 116 in the vertical direction. At least a portion of ice channel 800 may overlap with ice maker 200 in the vertical direction.

[0146] As will be described later, the ice maker may also include a first push rod 5100.

[0147] The second push rod 5300 can be positioned closer to the outer casing 111 than the first push rod 5100. The horizontal distance between the second push rod 5300 and the front surface of the outer casing 111 can be less than the horizontal distance between the channel formed by the ice channel 800 and the front surface of the outer casing 111. The first push rod 5100 can overlap with the ice-removing section 630 in the vertical direction.

[0148] The ice maker 200 can overlap with the water tank 700 in the vertical direction.

[0149] Figure 5 View (A) is a view showing the state in which the cold air duct is connected to the door liner according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 View (B) is a view showing the ice-making chamber wall of the door lining according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 This is a view showing the state in which the ice maker according to the first embodiment is mounted on the support member. Figure 7 This is a view showing the arrangement between the ice maker and the cold air duct according to the first embodiment.

[0150] Reference Figure 5 The door liner 112 may also include an ice-making chamber wall 118 forming an ice-making chamber 116. The door liner 112 may also include a peripheral wall 1125. The peripheral wall 1125 may be spaced apart from the ice-making chamber wall 118 on the outside of the ice-making chamber wall 118.

[0151] The first cold storage door 110 may also include a cold air duct 900. The cold air duct can guide cold air introduced through the cold air inlet 1123 to the ice-making chamber 116. The cold air duct 900 can guide the cold air in the ice-making chamber 116 to the outlet 1124.

[0152] The cold air duct 900 may include a first duct 910 forming a first channel. The first channel may connect the cold air inlet 1123 and the ice-making chamber 116 to each other. The cold air duct 900 may also include a second duct 920. The second duct 920 may form the first channel together with the first duct 910.

[0153] A portion of the first conduit 910 may be aligned with the cold air inlet 1123. A portion of the second conduit 920 may contact the ice-making chamber wall 118. Although not shown, a first through-hole may be formed in the ice-making chamber wall 118. The first through-hole is a supply through-hole through which cold air is supplied to the ice-making chamber 116. A portion of the second conduit 920 may be aligned with the first through-hole. A first channel may be formed on one surface of the second conduit 920.

[0154] The cold air duct 900 may further include a third duct 930. The third duct 930 may form a second channel. The second channel may connect the cold air outlet 1124 and the ice-making chamber 116 to each other. The third duct 930 may form the second channel together with the second duct 920. As an example, the other surface of the second duct 920 may form the second channel. Although not shown, a second through-hole may be formed in the ice-making chamber wall 118. The second through-hole is an exhaust through-hole through which cold air is discharged from the ice-making chamber 116. The second through-hole may be located below the first through-hole. Another portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the cold air outlet 1124. A portion of the third duct 930 may be aligned with the second through-hole.

[0155] When the ice maker 200 is installed in the freezer door 130, the cold air duct 900 can be omitted.

[0156] The ice-making chamber wall 118 may include a front wall 1181. The front wall 1181 may be a wall facing the outer casing 111. The ice-making chamber wall 118 may also include a first side wall 1183. The ice-making chamber wall 118 may also include a second side wall 1184 located opposite the first side wall 1183. A cold air duct 900 may be located between the second side wall 1184 and the peripheral wall 1125. A first through hole and a second through hole may be formed in the second side wall 1184. The ice-making chamber wall 118 may also include a top wall 1182. The ice-making chamber wall 118 may also include a bottom wall 1188.

[0157] Meanwhile, an actuator (4800, see below) formed in conjunction with the drive unit (described later) can be provided on the ice-making chamber wall 118. Figure 6 The groove is located at the corresponding position. The groove may include a first groove 1185a formed in the first sidewall 1183. The groove may also include a second groove 1185b formed in the front wall 1181. The first groove 1185a may be connected to the second groove 1185b.

[0158] The ice-making chamber wall 118 may also include a third recess 1185c in which a portion of a support member 119 is positioned. The third recess 1185c may be formed in the front wall 1181. The third recess 1185c may be connected to the second recess 1185b.

[0159] The drive 4800 may be located on the opposite side of the second sidewall 1184 of the ice maker 200. Alternatively, it may be located on the opposite side of the cold air guide 2700, which will be described later. In the ice chamber wall 118, slots 1186 and 1187 may be formed through which at least one of the water pipe through which water flows and the connector (or wire) to which the ice maker 200 is connected. Slots 1186 and 1187 may be formed in the front wall 1181.

[0160] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The support member 119 may include a first member 1192. The first member 1192 may extend in a vertical direction. The ice maker 200 may be mounted on the first member 1192. The first member 1192 may include a mounting member 1196. The mounting member 1196 may be located on the upper part of the first member 1192.

[0161] As an example, a slot 1195 through which a portion of the ice maker 200 passes may be disposed in a first member 1192. A motor assembly for driving the ice discharging section 630 of the ice storage box 600 may be mounted on the first member 1192.

[0162] The support member 119 may further include a second member 1193. The second member 1193 may extend horizontally from the first member 1192. The ice storage box 600 may be mounted on the second member 1193. An ice through hole 1194 may be formed in the second member 1193 for ice to pass through.

[0163] The ice maker 200 may also include a bracket 220 supported by a support member 119 or directly by the ice chamber wall 118. When the ice maker 200 is directly supported by the ice chamber wall 118, the ice maker 200 may be supported by the front wall 1181.

[0164] Figure 8 (A) in the figure is a perspective view of the ice maker viewed from the top side according to this embodiment. Figure 8 (B) in the figure is a perspective view of the ice maker viewed from the top side according to this embodiment. Figure 9 (A) in the figure is a front view of the ice maker according to this embodiment. Figure 9 (B) is a perspective view of the ice maker as seen from below according to this embodiment. Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker according to this embodiment.

[0165] Reference Figures 8 to 11 The ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly 2100. The first tray assembly 2100 may form part of an ice tray 203. The ice maker 200 may also include a second tray assembly 2200. The second tray assembly 2200 may form another part of the ice tray 203. The ice tray 203 is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by cold air.

[0166] A driver 480 may be mounted on one side of the bracket 220. The driver 480 may provide driving force to the second tray assembly 2200. The first tray assembly 2100 may be mounted on the bracket 220. The second tray assembly 2200 may be movable relative to the first tray assembly 2100.

[0167] As an example, the second tray assembly 2200 can perform any one or more of linear, curvilinear, and rotary movements. Depending on this mode of movement of the second tray assembly 2200, the water supply position and the ice-making position can be the same or different.

[0168] The driver 480 may include a motor housing 481. The driver 480 may also include a motor and a power transmission unit housed within the motor housing 481. A connection portion 482 may be formed on the upper side of the motor housing 481. The connection portion 482 may be connected to the bracket 220 via a connecting member. The first driver 480 may be located near the first sidewall 1183. That is, the driver 480 may be located on the opposite side of the first through-hole (inlet through-hole) for introducing cold air.

[0169] The ice maker 200 may also include a full ice detection rod 550 for detecting whether the ice storage box 600 is full. One end of the full ice detection rod 550 may be connected to the drive 480. The other end of the full ice detection rod 550 may be connected to the bracket 220.

[0170] The ice maker 200 may also include a cold air guide 2700. The cold air guide 2700 provides a passage for supplying cold air to the ice tray 203. The cold air guide 2700 may be located on the outside of the ice tray 203.

[0171] The cold air guide 2700 may be adjacent to or in contact with the second sidewall 1184. The cold air guide 2700 may be a separate construction from the first tray housing 2110, which will be described later, or it may be part of the first tray housing 2110.

[0172] The driver 480 may be located on the opposite side of the opening from the second sidewall 1184 or the cold air guide 2700 relative to the ice maker 200.

[0173] A portion of the water can phase into ice while being contained in a portion of the ice-making grid 203 formed by the first tray assembly 2100. Another portion of the water can phase into ice while being contained in another portion of the ice-making grid 203 formed by the second tray assembly 2200. In the completed ice-making state, a portion of the ice may contact the first tray assembly 2100. In the completed ice-making state, another portion of the ice may contact the second tray assembly 2200. The ice-making grid 203 can be configured as one or more.

[0174] The first tray assembly 2100 may include a first tray 3200. The first tray 3200 may form part of each of the plurality of ice trays 203.

[0175] At least a portion of the first tray 3200 may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity, allowing for smooth transfer of cold air. For example, at least a portion of the first tray 3200 may be formed of a metallic material. The first tray assembly 2100 may include a first tray housing 2110. The first tray housing 2110 may include portions that contact or are supported by the first tray 3200.

[0176] The first tray housing 2110 may include a first tray cover 3100. The first tray cover 3100 may be attached to the first tray 3200. The first tray cover 3100 may be located on one side of the first tray 3200.

[0177] The first tray 3200 can be attached to the bracket 220. As an example, the first tray 3200 can be attached to the bracket 220 with the first tray cover 3100 attached to one side of the first tray 3200.

[0178] Alternatively, when the bracket 220 is omitted, the first tray 3200 may be connected to the support member 119 or the ice chamber wall 118.

[0179] The ice maker 200 may also include a heater 3300 that supplies heat to the ice tray 203. As an example, the first tray assembly 2100 may include the heater 3300.

[0180] The heater 3300 can operate at least during the de-icing process after the ice-making process is completed to provide heat to the first tray 3200. The heater 3300 can be used as a heater for de-icing. The heater 3300 can be in contact with the first tray 3200.

[0181] The first tray assembly 2100 may also include a heater housing 3400 (or a heater cover).

[0182] The heater housing 3400 may include a portion that contacts or is supported by the heater 3300. The heater housing 3400 may cover the heater 3300. The heater housing 3400 may be a separate construction from the first tray cover 3100, or it may be integrally formed.

[0183] The heater housing 3400 can press the heater 3300 against the first tray 3200. The heater housing 3400 can be located between the first tray 3200 and the first tray cover 3100. In other words, the first tray cover 3100, the first heater housing 3400, and the first tray 3200 can be arranged in sequence.

[0184] As an example, the heater housing 3400 may be located above a portion of the first tray 3200 and below a portion of the first tray cover 3100. In this case, the first tray 3200 and the second tray 3600 may be arranged to overlap each other vertically and be spaced apart from each other vertically. Alternatively, the heater housing 3400 may be located on either the left or right side of a portion of the first tray 3200. When the heater housing 3400 is located on the left side of a portion of the first tray 3200, the first tray cover 3100 may be located on the left side of the heater housing 3400.

[0185] The second tray assembly 2200 may include a second tray 3600. The second tray 3600 may form another part of each of the plurality of ice trays 203.

[0186] At least a portion of the second tray 3600 may be formed of a deformable material, allowing the ice to be easily separated.

[0187] The second pallet assembly 2200 may also include a second pallet housing 2210. The second pallet housing 2210 may include a portion that contacts or supports the second pallet 3600.

[0188] The second pallet housing 2210 may include a second pallet cover 3500. A portion of the second pallet cover 3500 may be positioned closer to the first pallet 3200 than a portion of the second pallet 3600. The second pallet housing 2210 may also include a second pallet support 3800. A portion of the second pallet support 3800 may be positioned further away from the first pallet 3200 than a portion of the second pallet 3600.

[0189] The ice maker 200 may also include a water supply unit 2400 for supplying water to the ice tray. The water supply unit 2400 may be mounted on a bracket 220. A groove 2420 through which a water pipe passes may be provided in the water supply unit 2400. The water supply unit 2400 may include a through hole 2410 through which water is discharged.

[0190] As an example, the cold air guide 2700 may be mounted on the bracket 220, the first tray 3200, or the first tray cover 3100. The cold air guide 2700 may direct cold air to the ice tray 203. The cold air guide 2700 may contact the first tray assembly 2100. The cold air guide 2700 may contact at least one of the first tray 3200 or the first tray cover 3100.

[0191] A portion of the cold air guide 2700 may be located on the opposite side of the actuator 480 relative to the first tray assembly 2100. Cold air guided by the cold air guide 2700 may flow in a direction close to the actuator 480. This arrangement of the actuator 480 prevents it from acting as a flow hindrance to the cold air.

[0192] The ice maker 200 may also include a tray temperature sensor 710 for sensing the temperature of water or ice in the ice tray 203. As an example, the tray temperature sensor 710 may sense the temperature of a first tray 3200. As an example, the tray temperature sensor 710 may be mounted on the first tray 3200.

[0193] The tray temperature sensor 710 may be covered by a heat insulation member 720. The heat insulation member 720 prevents cold air from directly contacting the temperature sensor 710. Therefore, the accuracy of the temperature of the water or ice inside the ice tray 203 measured by the tray temperature sensor 710 can be improved.

[0194] The ice maker 200 may also include transmission units 4200 and 4210 for transmitting power to the drive 480. As an example, power to the drive 480 may be transmitted to the second tray assembly 2200 via a plurality of transmission units 4200 and 4210. A first transmission unit 4200 of the plurality of transmission units 4200 and 4210 may be connected to the drive 480. The first transmission unit 4200 may be connected to the second tray support 3800. A second transmission unit 4210 of the plurality of transmission units 4200 and 4210 may be connected to the other side of the second tray support 3800.

[0195] The ice maker 200 may also include a shaft 4100 connected to each of a plurality of drive units 4200, 4210. A first drive unit 4200 is movably supported on one side of a first tray 3200. A second drive unit 4210 is movably supported on the other side of the first tray 3200.

[0196] The transmission parts 4200, 4210 and the first tray 3200 may be made of different materials. As an example, the transmission parts 4200 and 4210 may be plastic injection molded parts.

[0197] Intermediate member 416 may be coupled to any of the drive units 4200, 4210 and the first tray 3200 to prevent direct friction between two parts made of different materials. As an example, the drive units 4200, 4210 may pass through intermediate member 416 to contact intermediate member 416.

[0198] The ice maker 200 may also include a first push rod 5100 that presses the ice or the first tray assembly 2100 during the de-icing process. The first push rod 5100 may push the ice, causing it to separate from the first tray 3200. As an example, the first push rod 5100 may pass through the first tray cover 3100 to push the ice.

[0199] The ice maker 200 may also include push rod links 4400. As an example, multiple push rod links 4400 may be connected to a first push rod 5100. One side of the push rod link 4400 may be connected to the first push rod 5100, and the other side may be connected to a second tray assembly 2200. As an example, the other side of the push rod link 4400 may be connected to a second tray support 3800.

[0200] The ice maker 200 may also include an elastic member 4600. One end of the elastic member 4600 may be connected to the drive units 4200 and 4210, and the other end may be connected to the second tray assembly 2200. When the elastic member 4600 is tensioned, the positions of the drive units 4200 and 4210 may be moved to their initial positions by a restoring force. The elastic member 4600 may increase the adhesion between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 in the ice-making position. The other end of the elastic member 4600 may be connected to the second tray support 3800.

[0201] The ice maker 200 may also include a second push rod 5300 for pressing ice or the second tray assembly 2200 during the de-icing process. As an example, the second push rod 5300 may be mounted on a bracket 220. When the bracket 220 is omitted, the second push rod 5300 may be mounted on a support member 119 or the ice chamber wall 118.

[0202] The ice maker 200 may also include a full ice detection rod 5500. The full ice detection rod 5500 may include a rod body 5520 extending in one direction. The full ice detection rod 5500 may also include a first extension 5530 extending from one end of the rod body 5520. The full ice detection rod 5500 may also include a second extension 5540 extending from the other end of the rod body 5520. The first extension 5530 may be connected to a driver 480. The second extension 5540 may be connected to a bracket 220.

[0203] The driver 480 may include an extension rib 484 for insertion into or through the bracket 220. As an example, the extension rib 484 may protrude from the motor housing 481.

[0204] The first tray 3200 can form multiple first compartments, as described later, and the second tray 3600 can form multiple second compartments, as described later. One first compartment and one second compartment can form one ice tray 203.

[0205] As an example, multiple first cells can be arranged in multiple rows along the Y-axis. Multiple second cells can be arranged in multiple rows along the Y-axis.

[0206] In this specification, the Y-axis direction can be the arrangement direction of cabinet 1 and refrigerator door. The X-axis direction can be a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. The Z-axis direction can be a direction perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and can also be a perpendicular direction.

[0207] Multiple first cells 3210 may include first cell portion 3211 of the first row and first cell portion 3212 of the second row (see...) Figure 12 Multiple second cells 3610 may include second cells 3611 in the first row and second cells 3612 in the second row (see...). Figure 12 ).

[0208] Figure 11 This is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to the first embodiment.

[0209] Reference Figure 11 The refrigerator of the first embodiment may include a cooler 1020.

[0210] As an example, cooler 1020 may include a compressor for compressing refrigerant. The temperature of the cold air supplied to ice chamber 116 may vary depending on the compressor's output (or frequency).

[0211] Alternatively, the cooler 1020 may include a fan for blowing air onto the evaporator. The amount of cold air supplied to the ice chamber 116 may vary depending on the output (or speed) of the fan.

[0212] Alternatively, the cooler 1020 may include a refrigerant valve for controlling the amount of refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle.

[0213] The amount of refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle can be varied by controlling the opening of the refrigerant valve, thus the temperature of the cold air supplied to the ice-making chamber 116 can be varied.

[0214] In this embodiment, the cooler 1020 may include at least one of a compressor, a fan, or a refrigerant valve.

[0215] The refrigerator of this embodiment may further include a controller 1000. The controller 1000 may be mounted on or spaced apart from the controlled object. The controller 1000 may be located inside or outside the controlled object. As an example, the controller 1000 may be disposed in the cabinet 2 or in the refrigerator door 10.

[0216] In this specification, the controller 1000 can control a single controlled object or multiple controlled objects.

[0217] As described above, the refrigerator may include a tray temperature sensor 7100 mounted on the first tray 3200. The refrigerator may also include an ice-making compartment temperature sensor (not shown) for sensing the temperature of the ice-making compartment 116.

[0218] Based on the temperature sensed by the tray temperature sensor 7100, the controller 1000 can determine whether ice making is complete.

[0219] Based on the temperature sensed by the tray temperature sensor 7100, the controller 1000 can determine the start time of operation of the driver 480 during the de-icing process.

[0220] The refrigerator may also include a position sensor 1010. The position sensor 1010 can sense the position of the second tray assembly 2200 (or the second tray 3600).

[0221] The position sensor 1010 can directly sense the position of the second tray assembly 2200, or it can indirectly sense the position.

[0222] As an example, position sensor 1010 may be disposed in driver 480. As an example, position sensor 1010 may be a Hall sensor for sensing magnetism.

[0223] A magnet is placed on the detection target in the configuration of the driver 480, and the Hall sensor can sense the position of the second tray assembly 2200 by sensing the position of the detection target during the operation of the driver 480.

[0224] As an example, the position sensor 1010 can sense at least the ice-making position, water supply position, and de-icing position of the second tray assembly 2200.

[0225] Hall sensors can be replaced by optical sensors or various other sensors.

[0226] The refrigerator may also include a memory (not shown). A tray temperature sensor 7100 can sense temperature at set time intervals. The temperature sensed by the tray temperature sensor 7100 can be stored in the memory (not shown). The memory (not shown) can store a reference temperature used to determine the start time of operation of the drive 480 during a previous de-icing process.

[0227] The operation of the ice maker 200 will be described below.

[0228] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at the water supply position of the second tray assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at the ice-making position of the second tray assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0229] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker showing the second tray assembly moved to the full ice detection position during the de-icing process. Figure 15 (A) is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker showing a portion of the second push rod in contact with the second tray. Figure 15(B) is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker showing the state in which another part of the second push rod is in contact with the second tray.

[0230] Figure 16 View (A) shows a portion of the second pusher pressing down on the second tray in the de-icing position. Figure 16 (B) is a view showing the state in which another part of the second push rod presses down on the second tray in the de-icing position. Figure 17 This is a view showing the transmission unit moving further in the opposite direction while the first and second trays are in contact with each other.

[0231] Reference Figures 12 to 17 As an example, controller 1000 can control driver 480 to move second tray assembly 2200 to water supply position, ice making position, full ice detection position and de-icing position.

[0232] Figure 12 The second tray assembly 2200 is located at the water supply position. Figure 13 The second tray assembly 2200 is located at the ice-making position. Figure 14 The position of the second tray component 2200 is the full ice detection position. Figure 16 The second tray assembly 2200 is located at the de-icing position. Figure 17 The positions of the second pallet assembly 2200 and the transmission units 4200 and 4210 are at the first angle, which will be described later.

[0233] The direction in which the second tray assembly 2200 moves from the water supply position to the de-icing position can be defined as a first direction, and the direction in which the second tray assembly 2200 moves from the de-icing position to the water supply position can be defined as a second direction.

[0234] The second tray assembly 2200 can move from the water supply position to the ice-making position along a second direction. This second direction is counterclockwise in the accompanying drawings. The second tray assembly 2200 can also move from the ice-making position to the water supply position along a first direction, which is opposite to the second direction. This first direction is clockwise in the accompanying drawings.

[0235] The second tray assembly 2200 can move along a first direction from the water supply position to the full ice detection position. The second tray assembly 2200 can move along the first direction from the full ice detection position to the de-icing position. The second tray assembly 2200 can move along a second direction from the de-icing position to the water supply position.

[0236] The water supply process can be performed at the water supply position of the second tray assembly 2200. Water can be supplied to the ice tray 203 through the water supply section 2400.

[0237] At the water supply position of the second tray assembly 2200, at least a portion of the second tray 3600 may be spaced apart from the first tray 3200. As an example, the first compartment 3210 and the second compartment 3610 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0238] A portion of the first pusher 5100 can separate ice from the first row of ice trays 203. Another portion of the first pusher 5100 can separate ice from the second row of ice trays 203.

[0239] When the water supply process is complete, the second tray assembly 2200 can be moved to the ice-making position. When the second tray assembly 2200 is moved to the ice-making position, the first tray 3200 and the second tray 3600 can come into contact with each other. In this state, the complete ice-making grid 203 can be formed by the first grid 3210 and the second grid 3610.

[0240] A portion of the water contained in the second tray 3600 may be distributed to the first compartment 3210 of the first tray 3200.

[0241] The ice-making process can be performed at the ice-making position. Cold air can flow through the cold air guide 2700. The cold air flowing through the cold air guide 2700 can flow between the first tray cover 3100 and the first tray 3200. In the first embodiment, cold air can also be supplied to the ice-making chamber 116 during the water supply process. Alternatively, cold air can be supplied to the ice-making chamber 116 only during the ice-making process. Cold air can also be supplied to the ice-making chamber 116 during the de-icing process. The air flowing through the cold air guide 2700 can flow in a direction from the first row to the second row.

[0242] While the ice-making process is in progress, the controller 1000 can determine whether ice-making is complete. The controller 1000 can determine whether ice-making is complete based on at least one of the temperature sensed by the tray temperature sensor 7100 or the duration of cold air supply.

[0243] When the ice-making process is complete, the de-icing process can be performed. The de-icing process may include the heating process of the heater 3300. That is, the heater 3300 can be operated when the operation start conditions of the heater 3300 are met. The de-icing process may also include the movement process of the second tray 3600 (or the second tray assembly 2200).

[0244] When heater 3300 is turned on, its heat can be transferred to ice tray 203. Ice can be separated from the first tray 3200 by the heat from heater 3300. While heater 3300 is operating, the temperature can be sensed by tray temperature sensor 7100.

[0245] The controller 1000 can determine whether the operating start conditions of the driver 480 are met during the operation of the heater 3300. As an example, the determination of whether the operating start conditions of the driver 480 are met can be based on the temperature sensed by the tray temperature sensor 710 and a preset reference temperature. However, it is not limited to this; the reference temperature can be above or below zero. The reference temperature can be a temperature close to 0 degrees Celsius.

[0246] During the movement, the drive 480 may begin operation. The heater 3300 may be turned off at the start of the movement, or the movement may be performed while the heater 3300 is operating, and the heater 3300 may be turned off during the movement.

[0247] After the second tray 3600 moves to the de-icing position, the second tray 3600 can stop after moving to the water supply position.

[0248] During the movement, the second tray 3600 (or the second tray assembly 2200) can move from the ice-making position to the ice-removing position in the first direction (arrow A direction).

[0249] While the second tray 3600 moves along the first direction during its movement, it can receive power from the driver 480 to move the full ice detection lever 5500. The full ice detection lever 5500 can remain stationary until the second tray 3600 rotates to a predetermined angle in the second direction at the ice-making position. The full ice detection lever 5500 can rotate when the second tray 3600 has rotated beyond the predetermined angle. At this time, the full ice detection lever 5500 can rotate along the second direction (arrow B direction), which is opposite to the rotation direction of the second tray 3600.

[0250] With the second tray 3600 in the full ice detection position, the full ice detection rod 5500 can also be moved to the full ice detection position. If no full ice is detected when the second tray 3600 is in the full ice detection position, the second tray 3600 can move further towards the de-icing position in the first direction.

[0251] When the second tray 3600 moves additionally while the full ice detection rod 5500 is in the full ice detection position, the full ice detection rod 5500 can also move in the first direction to return to the initial position of the full ice detection rod 5500.

[0252] Simultaneously, as the second tray 3600 moves from the ice-making position to the ice-removing position, the first push rod 5100 can pass through the through hole of the first tray 3200 to insert into the first compartment 3210. During the insertion of the first push rod 5100 into the first compartment 3210, the first push rod 5100 can press the ice.

[0253] As the second tray assembly 2200 (or the second tray 3600) moves to the de-icing position, the second pusher 5300 can press down the ice. The second pusher 5300 may include a plurality of levers 5310. Each of the plurality of levers 5310 may be positioned in a number and location corresponding to the number and location of the plurality of ice trays 203.

[0254] As the second tray assembly 2200 (or the second tray 3600) moves to the de-icing position, such as Figure 15 As shown in (A), among the multiple rods 5310 of the second push rod 5300, the rod 5310 corresponding to the second compartment 3611 of the first row can first contact the second tray 3600. With the second push rod 5300 in contact with the second tray 3600, the rod 5310 of the second push rod 5300 corresponding to the second compartment 3612 of the second row can be spaced apart from the second tray 3600.

[0255] The rod 5310 corresponding to the second grid 3611 of the first row can be positioned closer to the vertical line V1 passing through the rotation center C1 than the rod 5310 corresponding to the second grid 3612 of the second row.

[0256] In this state, when the second tray 3600 moves additionally in the first direction, such as Figure 16 As shown in (B), the rod 5310 of the second push rod 5300 that corresponds to the second compartment 3612 of the second row can contact the second tray 3600.

[0257] As the second tray 3600 (or the second tray assembly 2200) moves to the de-icing position, the ice in the ice tray 203 can be separated by the rod 5310 of the second push rod 5300.

[0258] Reference Figure 16 When the second tray 3600 moves to the de-icing position, a portion of the second compartment wall can be deformed by the second push rod 5300, allowing the ice to separate from the second tray 3600.

[0259] Ice separated from the second tray 3600 can fall downwards and be stored in the ice storage box 600.

[0260] Reference Figure 17The second tray 3600 can move from the de-icing position along a reverse direction R2 (described later) to move towards the ice-making position. The second tray 3600 moves along the reverse direction R2 to fully adhere to the first tray 3200, and the second tray 3600 may no longer move in the reverse direction, but the drive units 4200, 4210 may move further along the reverse direction R2. This is because the drive units 4200, 4210 are connected to the elastic member 4600, and as the elastic member 4600 is tensioned, the drive units 4200, 4210 can move additionally via the actuator 480. The position where the reverse direction R2 and the drive units 4200, 4210 may no longer move additionally along the reverse direction R2, i.e., the first angle α1, will be described later along with the control method of the refrigerator according to this disclosure.

[0261] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the first locked state of the tray assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 20 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the first stuck state according to the ice-making cycle angle and signal, based on the description of the first embodiment.

[0262] Reference Figures 18 to 20 This illustrates a first jamming state during the de-icing process due to poor de-icing. The first jamming state can be caused by insufficient heating of the heater in the first tray 3200, leading to poor de-icing. Insufficient heating of the heater in the first tray 3200 can be caused by the temperature sensed by the tray temperature sensor 7100 being lower than the reference temperature for ice separation.

[0263] The first jamming state can be a state where the first push rod 5100 is jammed by ice 90 and fails to reach the de-icing position of the second tray 3600 (or the second tray assembly 2200) while moving along the positive direction R1 towards the de-icing position. The positive direction R1 for the second tray 3600 to move to the de-icing position can be the direction in which the second tray 3600 moves away from the first tray 3200. In other words, when the second tray 3600 moves along the positive direction R1, one end of the first tray 3200 and one end of the second tray 3600 can move away from each other and be spaced apart.

[0264] As an example, the first jamming state can occur due to a tilt determination error. Furthermore, the first jamming state can occur when the de-icing temperature is lower than the existing set temperature.

[0265] As an example, a first jamming state may occur when the temperature is -1 degree or lower during de-icing. The causes of the first jamming state are not limited to this, and the controller 1000 can determine that the second tray assembly 2200 is in the first jamming state when it is jammed while moving along the positive direction R1 toward the de-icing position.

[0266] Meanwhile, the signals output from the position sensor 1010 for each position of the second tray 3600 (or the second tray assembly 2200) can be described as follows.

[0267] In this specification, refer to Figure 19 The position sensor 1010 can output a first signal and a second signal. The first signal can be a high signal, and the second signal can be a low signal.

[0268] The reference angle of the second tray 3600 or the second tray assembly 2200 can be considered as the angle at a position where the second tray 3600 or the second tray assembly 2200 may no longer move towards the first tray 3200. The reference angle can be set to 0 degrees.

[0269] The direction in which the first tray 3200 moves to the water supply position or the ice-making position can be reversed (R2, see...). Figure 26 In the accompanying diagram, the reverse direction R2 is counterclockwise. The reverse direction R2 for the movement of the second tray 3600 can be the direction in which the second tray 3600 moves closer to the first tray 3200. In other words, as the second tray 3600 moves along the reverse direction R2, one end of the first tray 3200 and one end of the second tray 3600 can come closer together to contact each other. The reverse direction R2 can also be a second direction.

[0270] When moving along the reverse R2 from the reference angle of the second tray 3600, the second tray 3600 will not move further while in contact with the first tray 3200, and only the drive units 4200 and 4210 can move further. The angle when the second tray 3600 does not move and only the drive units 4200 and 4210 move can be set to a negative angle, and the adhesion between the first tray 3200 and the second tray 3600 can be increased.

[0271] The angle at which the transmission units 4200 and 4210 may no longer move additionally along the reverse R2 can be referred to as the first angle α1. Simultaneously, at the first angle α1, a second signal can be output from the position sensor 1010. At the first angle α1, the positions of the first tray assembly 2100, the second tray assembly 2200, and the transmission units 4200 and 4210 can be... Figure 17 The positions are the same.

[0272] As the first angle α1 moves along the positive direction R1, the output of the position sensor 1010 can change from a second signal to a first signal. The angle at which the output changes from the second signal to the first signal can be called the second angle α2. At the second angle α2, the second tray 3600 can be in the ice-making position. The time period from the first angle α1 to the second angle α2 can be called the first time period P1.

[0273] As the position sensor 1010 moves along the positive direction R1 at the second angle α2, the output of the position sensor 1010 can change from the first signal to the second signal. The angle at which the output of the position sensor 1010 changes to the second signal after the second angle α2 can be called the third angle α3. The period of time during which the first signal is maintained after the second angle α2 can be called the second period P2.

[0274] During the first time period P1, a first signal can be output, and during the second time period P2, a second signal can be output. When changing from the first time period P1 to the second time period P2, the controller 1000 can determine the position of the second tray 3600 or the second tray assembly 2200 as the ice-making position. At the second angle α2, the position of the second tray assembly 2200 can be determined as follows: Figure 13 The state shown.

[0275] As the position sensor 1010 moves along the positive direction R1 at the third angle α3, the output of the position sensor 1010 can be changed from the second signal to the first signal. The angle at which the output changes from the second signal to the first signal after the third angle α3 can be called the fourth angle α4.

[0276] The period during which the second signal is maintained at the third angle α3 can be referred to as the third period P3. At the third angle α3, the second tray 3600 can be in the water supply position. When changing from the second period P2 to the third period P3, the controller 1000 can determine the position of the second tray 3600 or the second tray assembly 2200 as the water supply position. At the third angle α3, the tray assembly 2200 can be determined to be in the water supply position. Figure 12 The state shown.

[0277] Simultaneously, the period during which the first signal is maintained at the fourth angle α4 can be referred to as the fourth period P4. The angle at which the first signal changes to the second signal during the fourth period P4 can be referred to as the fifth angle α5. The position of the second tray assembly 2200 at any one or more angles greater than or equal to the fourth angle α4 and less than or equal to the fifth angle α5 can be the full ice detection position. When an angle greater than or equal to the fourth angle α4 and less than or equal to the fifth angle α5 is present, it can be determined that the second tray assembly 2200 is in the position described above. Figure 14 The state shown.

[0278] The period during which the output of position sensor 1010 remains at the second signal while moving along the positive direction R1 at the fifth angle α5 can be referred to as the fifth period P5. During the fifth period P5, the second tray 3600 can move to the de-icing position. The angle at which the output of position sensor 1010 changes from the second signal to the first signal during the fifth period P5 can be referred to as the sixth angle α6.

[0279] The period during which the first signal is maintained at the sixth angle α6 can be referred to as the sixth period P6. The sixth period α6 can be a de-icing position. As an example, when the sixth period α6 is maintained for a predetermined time or longer, the controller 1000 can determine it as a de-icing position. Furthermore, when the sixth period α6 is maintained for a predetermined time or longer, it can move to the seventh angle α7, and the second tray assembly 2200 can be determined to be in such a position as... Figure 16 The state shown.

[0280] As an example, the first angle α1, the second angle α2, the third angle α3, the fourth angle α4, the fifth angle α5, the sixth angle α6, and the seventh angle α7 can be angles that increase sequentially from the first angle α1. There can be 0 degrees between the second angle α2 and the third angle α3. The first to seventh angles are not limited to this and can be set differently depending on the structure of the driver.

[0281] Furthermore, the reference angle can exist between the first angle α1 and the second angle α2.

[0282] The time in the second period P2 can be the first moving time t1, and the time in the third period P3 can be the second moving time t2. The time in the fourth period P4 can be the third moving time t3, and the time in the fifth period P5 can be the fourth moving time t4.

[0283] As an example, each of the first to third movement times t1, t2, and t3 can be 1 second or less. The first movement time t1 and the second movement time t2 can be the same or different. The third movement time t3 can be less than the first movement time t1 or the second movement time t2, but is not limited thereto.

[0284] The fourth move time t4 can be greater than either the first move time t1 or the second move time t2. The fourth move time t4 can be greater than any one of the first to third move times t1, t2, and t3. It can be greater than the sum of the first to third move times t1, t2, and t3.

[0285] The movement time in the sixth time period P6 can be the fifth movement time t5. The fifth movement time t5 can be greater than each of the first to third movement times t1, t2, and t3, and can be less than the fourth movement time t4. However, it is not limited to this; the fifth movement time t5 can be greater than the fourth movement time t4.

[0286] Meanwhile, the first stuck state can be a state in which the movement from the fifth period P5 to the sixth period P6 was not performed and a stuck state occurred in the fifth period P5.

[0287] In the first jammed state, the first jamming angle A1 (i.e., the jamming angle of the second tray 3600 or the second tray assembly 2200) can be the angle corresponding to the fifth time period P5. The first jamming angle A1 can be the angle between the fifth angle α5 and the sixth angle α6.

[0288] At the same time, refer to Figure 18 In the first embodiment, when the refrigerator is turned on after being turned off, the controller 1000 can control the driver 480 based on the signal output from the position sensor 1010, so that the second tray 3600 moves to the water supply position.

[0289] The controller 1000 can control the drive 480 to stop the second tray assembly 2200 after the second tray 3600 has moved to the water supply position. Water supply can be started while the second tray 3600 is stopped in the water supply position (S1).

[0290] When water supply is complete, controller 1000 can control drive 480 to move second tray 3600 in the reverse direction R2 to the ice-making position. When the output of position sensor 1010 determines that second tray 3600 is in the ice-making position, controller 1000 can stop drive 480 and start ice making (S2).

[0291] After the ice-making process is completed, the controller 1000 can operate the heater 3300 to perform preheating (S3). The temperature of the ice can be increased by preheating, thereby preparing it for de-icing.

[0292] After preheating is complete, the controller 1000 can control the driver 480 to move the second tray 3600 along the positive direction R1 to the de-icing position (S4).

[0293] As the second tray 3600 moves to the de-icing position, it can be determined whether jamming of the actuator 480 is detected (S5). The actuator 480 may include a motor, and jamming of the actuator 480 can be determined by jamming of the motor. However, it is not limited to this.

[0294] When no motor jamming is detected, the number of repetitions N of the jamming state release mode of the ice maker 200 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure can be set to 0 (S41). At this time, the ice removal process of the ice maker 200 can be considered to be performing normally. When the number of repetitions N of the jamming state release mode is set to 0, step S1 can be executed again. In this case, the ice making process and the ice removal process can be repeated until jamming of the driver 480 or the motor is detected.

[0295] When jamming of the driver 480 or motor is detected, the controller 1000 can determine whether the driver 480 or motor is rotating in the forward direction (S6). The forward rotation of the driver 480 or motor can be the direction of rotation when the second tray 3600 moves along the forward direction R1.

[0296] When the drive 480 or motor rotates in the forward direction and the second tray 3600 fails to reach the de-icing position within a predetermined time, the controller 1000 can determine that the drive 480 or motor is stuck. The predetermined time can be greater than the time corresponding to the fifth period P5, i.e., the fourth movement time t4. Alternatively, the predetermined time can be greater than the sum of the time corresponding to the fifth period P5, i.e., the fourth movement time t4, and the time corresponding to the sixth period P6, i.e., the fifth movement time t5. As an example, the predetermined time can be 60 seconds.

[0297] When the second tray 3600 is determined to rotate in the forward direction by R1, the controller 1000 may stop the driver 480 or the motor (S7).

[0298] After the drive 480 or motor stops, the controller 1000 can determine whether the second tray 3600 has returned to its initial position (S8). The controller 1000 can reverse the rotation of the drive 480 or motor to return the second tray 3600 to its initial position.

[0299] The initial position of the second tray can be the water supply position. Alternatively, the initial position of the second tray 3600 can be the ice-making position or the position at a reference angle. However, it is not limited to these and can vary depending on the initial settings set in the refrigerator.

[0300] The following will describe the jam release mode during the de-icing process in the case of the first jammed state in the first embodiment.

[0301] When it is determined that the second tray 3600 has returned to the initial position, the controller 1000 can determine whether the number of repetitions N is less than the reference value (S9).

[0302] When the number of repetitions N is less than a reference value, the controller 1000 can control the heater 3300 to perform a heating first time T1 (S10). As an example, the first time T1 can be 5 minutes. The length of the first time T1 is not limited to this and can also be set to 7 minutes.

[0303] After the first heating time T1, the value obtained by adding 1 to the number of repetitions N of the jammed state release mode can be set as the new number of repetitions N of the jammed state release mode (S11). After setting the new number of repetitions N of the jammed state release mode, the controller 1000 can execute step S4 of moving the second tray 3600 to the de-icing position again.

[0304] Simultaneously, when the number of repetitions N is equal to or greater than the reference value, the controller 1000 can operate the heater 3300 to perform a second heating time T2. In the first embodiment, the initial setting value of the number of repetitions N is set to 0, and it can be set to an integer. Therefore, if the stuck state is not released, the first heating time T1 can be performed according to the reference value.

[0305] Furthermore, even if the length of the first time interval T1 is the same, the reference value can be set differently. The reference value can be set as the number of times the heating is repeated. For example, in order to repeat the heating of the first time interval T1 three times to release the stuck state, the reference value can be set to 3. In this case, since the initial setting of the reference value is 0, the heating of the first time interval T1 is repeated when the number of repetitions N is 0, 1, and 2, thus repeating the heating three times.

[0306] In the first embodiment, the heater 3300 may be provided only in the first tray assembly 2100. Therefore, the heat from the heater 3300 can be transferred to the first compartments 3211, 3212, instead of the second compartments 3611, 3612 of the ice tray 203.

[0307] When the number of executions of the first heating time T1 is less than the reference value of the number of repetitions N, the controller 1000 can determine that there is a problem with the de-icing of the first tray assembly 2100 or the first tray 3200. This is because the first tray 3200 is close to the heater 3300, which allows it to break free from the stuck state during the de-icing process even when heating is performed for a shorter time than if de-icing failure occurs for other reasons. The de-icing failure state of the first tray 3200 can be referred to as the first stuck state.

[0308] In the first jammed state, the ice is stuck between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 as follows: Figure 19 As shown. Figure 19 The angle of the second tray component 2200 can be Figure 20 The first locking angle A1 is shown in the figure.

[0309] Meanwhile, even if the first tray 3200 is in a poor de-icing state, if the jamming state during the de-icing process is not resolved after three repetitions of the first heating time T1, the second heating time T2 (S21) can be executed, and then step S4 and subsequent steps can be repeated. When the number of repetitions N is equal to or greater than the reference value, the second heating time T2 can be repeated.

[0310] The second time T2 can be greater than the first time T1. By setting the second time T2 to be greater than the first time T1, after repeatedly heating for the first time T1 a number of times corresponding to the reference value, the second time T2, which is greater than the first time T1, is executed, thereby increasing the possibility of detaching from the jammed state during the de-icing process. Therefore, even if the heater 3300 is provided in the first tray assembly 2100, that is, only provided on the upper side of the ice tray 203 in the first embodiment, it can detach from the jammed state during the de-icing process.

[0311] As an example, the second time T2 can be 30 minutes or 60 minutes. However, it is not limited to this and can be set differently.

[0312] Furthermore, the aforementioned return to the initial position can be performed using initial control. The initial control can be the same as the control method disclosed in prior art document 2. However, it is not limited to this; the method for returning to the initial position via initial control can vary depending on the implementation.

[0313] Furthermore, in another embodiment, when the first stuck state is determined, heating is not performed after returning to the initial position. Instead, heating for the first time T1 can be performed at the position where the driver 480 or motor is stuck, and then the forward de-icing R1 can be performed. That is, after performing step S7, steps S10, S9 and S8 can be performed sequentially, and then step S11 can be performed.

[0314] As an example, the determination of whether the de-icing position has been reached by heating the first time T1 can be repeated three times. If the de-icing position has not been reached by heating the first time T1, the controller 1000 can use the initial control to return to the initial position and then execute the heating the second time T2 (S21).

[0315] Therefore, according to the implementation, heating can be performed after the second tray 3600 is returned to its initial position, or heating can be performed at the position where the second tray 3600 is stuck.

[0316] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of plate ice being generated on a second tray according to the first embodiment. Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the second locked state of the tray assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of returning from the second stuck state of the tray assembly to the initial position according to the first embodiment.

[0317] Figure 24 This is a view showing the second locked state of the tray assembly according to the second embodiment. Figure 25 This is a view showing the state of returning from the second stuck state of the tray assembly to the initial position according to the second embodiment.

[0318] Figure 26 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the second stuck state according to the angle and signal of the ice-making cycle, based on the description of the second embodiment.

[0319] Reference Figures 21 to 23 and Figure 26 The second jamming state and the second jamming state release mode according to the first embodiment will be described. Figures 21 to 23 and Figure 26 The content described in the text is related to... Figures 18 to 20 Overlapping content described in the text will be omitted.

[0320] The second jamming state can be a state in which ice is stuck inside the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200. The second jamming state can occur when water supply or ice making is performed when the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 are not in the preset water supply position or ice making position.

[0321] As an example, the second jamming state can occur when water is supplied at an angle greater than that at the preset water supply position. In other words, it occurs when water is supplied at an angle wider between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 than at the water supply position.

[0322] For example, the second jamming state can occur when ice making is performed with the angle between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 being wider than the angle at the preset ice making position. Alternatively, the second jamming state can occur when ice making is performed with the separation distance between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 being greater than the separation distance at the preset ice making position.

[0323] In the second stuck state, plate ice 91 can be generated. Plate ice 91 is ice with a shape different from that of ice tray 203, and as an example, unlike ice tray 203 which has a spherical or near-spherical shape disclosed in this embodiment, at least a portion of plate ice 91 can have a shape that is widely spread out like a sheet. In plate ice 91, the water supplied to ice tray 203 is not evenly distributed, causing ice to form only in specific parts, or the ice may form abnormally due to incorrect settings of the ice maker or a malfunction of the cooling system. Plate ice 91 can be formed even when the ice in the first compartment 3611 and the second compartment 3612 of the second tray 3600 does not form separately but forms as a single block of ice.

[0324] When the second jamming state occurs, it may be because the second push rod 5300 fails to push out the second tray 3600 and fails to reach the de-icing position when it moves along the positive direction R1 to perform de-icing.

[0325] Reference Figures 21 to 23Ice may not be generated in the first compartment 3210 of the ice tray 203, or ice may only be generated in a portion of the first compartment 3210. When water corresponding to the volume of the ice tray 203 is supplied from the water supply unit 2400, in the second jammed state, the widened space between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 can be filled with water of the amount of ice not generated in the first compartment 3210 to generate ice.

[0326] When the second tray assembly 2200 moves to the de-icing position with plate ice 91 formed, even if the rod 5310 of the second push rod 5300 contacts the bottom of the second tray 3600, the second push rod 5300 fails to push out the plate ice 91 and may fail to reach the de-icing position.

[0327] When the second tray assembly 2200 is in the second locked state, it can be in the following position: Figure 22 In the second locked state, the portion of the plurality of rods 5310 of the second push rod 5300 corresponding to the second compartment 3611 of the first row can be in contact with the bottom of the second tray 3600 that forms the second compartment 3611 of the first row.

[0328] at the same time, Figure 22 The positions of the second tray assembly 2200 and the plate ice 91 can be Figure 26 The second locking angle A2. (Refer to...) Figure 26 The second jamming angle can occur during the fifth time period P5, and the second jamming angle A2 can be greater than the first jamming angle A1.

[0329] When a second jamming state is detected, the controller 1000 executes control to release the second jamming state of the second tray assembly 2200. The second jamming state release mode will be described below.

[0330] Controller 1000 execution Figure 18 Steps S1 to S9. The controller 1000 may execute steps S10 to S11 based on the determination result of step S9, and may additionally execute step S41 based on the determination result of step S5. In the description of each step, descriptions that overlap with the description of the first stuck state will be omitted.

[0331] In step S9, when the number of repetitions N is equal to or greater than the reference value, it indicates that the heating first time T1 after detecting the stuck state has been repeated for the reference value or more. Hereinafter, the case with a reference value of 3 will be described as an example. In the first embodiment, the ice maker 200 may include the heater 3300 only in the first tray assembly 2100. Even after three repetitions of the heating first time T1, if the stuck state of the second tray assembly 2200 is not resolved, the controller 1000 will determine that there is poor de-icing of the second tray assembly 2200. Alternatively, the controller 1000 may determine that it is in a second stuck state.

[0332] When the number of repetitions N is equal to or greater than the reference value, the controller 1000 can control the heater 3300 to perform the second heating time T2 (S21). Since the second tray assembly 2200 has returned to the initial position in step S8, the heater 3300 can... Figure 23 The second tray assembly 2200 is heated at the position where it has returned to its initial position.

[0333] The second time T2 can be 30 minutes or 60 minutes as described above, and is not limited to this.

[0334] After the second heating time T2, the controller 1000 repeats step S4 and subsequent steps to determine whether the stuck state has been released.

[0335] Even if the number of repetitions N in the second stuck state is not equal to or greater than the reference value, steps S9 to S11 can be omitted if it is determined that the second stuck state is in place. In this case, when it is determined that the second tray 3600 has returned to the initial position, step S21 can be executed to release the second stuck state.

[0336] At the same time, refer to Figure 24 and Figure 25 In the second embodiment, the heater 3310 may be additionally provided in the second tray assembly 2200. Regarding the second jamming state of the second embodiment, descriptions overlapping with those of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0337] Here, the heater 3300 disposed in the first tray assembly 2100 may be referred to as the first heater 3300, and the heater 3310 disposed in the second tray assembly 2200 may be referred to as the second heater.

[0338] In the second embodiment, after the second tray 3600 returns to its initial position in step S8, the second heating time T2 can be performed in step S21.

[0339] Alternatively, the second heating time T2 can be executed at the position where the motor stops (S7) when the drive 480 or the motor stops. In this case, step S9 can be omitted. Furthermore, after executing the second heating time T2 (S21), the initial control can be used to return to the initial position, and then the de-icing operation can be performed.

[0340] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view showing the third locked state of the tray assembly according to the third embodiment. Figure 28 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the third stuck state according to the ice-making cycle angle and signal, based on the description of the third embodiment.

[0341] Reference Figure 27 and Figure 28 The third jamming state and the third jamming state release mode according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 27 and Figure 28 The content described in the text is related to... Figures 18 to 26 Overlapping content described in the text will be omitted.

[0342] The third stuck state can be a state in which ice 90 is stuck between the first tray assembly 2100 and the second tray assembly 2200 while the second tray assembly 2200 returns from the de-icing position to the initial position.

[0343] In the third jammed state, the second tray assembly 2200 may fail to reach its initial position and stop while rotating in the opposite direction R2.

[0344] The third jamming state can occur in either the second time period P2 or the third time period P3. The angle at which the third jamming state occurs in the second time period P2 can be defined as the third jamming angle A3, and the angle at which the third jamming state occurs in the third time period P3 can be defined as the fourth jamming angle A4, wherein the third jamming angle A3 is smaller than the fourth jamming angle A4. The third jamming angle A3 and the fourth jamming angle A4 are both smaller than the first jamming angle A1, and both the third jamming angle A3 and the fourth jamming angle A4 are smaller than the first jamming angle A1.

[0345] When a third jamming state is detected, the controller 1000 executes control to release the second jamming state of the second tray assembly 2200. The third jamming state release mode will be described below.

[0346] Controller 1000 execution Figure 18 Steps S1 to S6. The controller 1000 may additionally execute steps S7 to S11 and S21 based on the determination result of step S6. Furthermore, step S41 may be additionally executed based on the determination result of step S5. In the description of each step, descriptions overlapping with the description of the first stuck state will be omitted.

[0347] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 28 When jamming of the driver 480 or motor is detected (S5), the controller 1000 can determine whether the driver 480 or motor is rotating in the forward direction (S6). Reverse rotation of the driver 480 or motor can be the direction of rotation when the second tray 3600 moves in the reverse direction R2.

[0348] When it is determined that the driver 480 or the motor is not rotating in the forward direction, the controller 1000 may stop the driver 480 or the motor (S31). Here, when the initial position is not detected by the position sensor 1010 within a predetermined time during reverse rotation, the controller 1000 may determine that the motor is stuck (S5).

[0349] When the drive 480 or the motor stops, the controller 1000 can control the heater 3300 to perform a third heating time T3 (S32). After performing the third heating time T3, the controller 1000 can determine whether the second tray assembly 2200 or the second tray 3600 has returned to its initial position (S33). Returning to the initial position can be performed using initial control.

[0350] If it is determined that the second tray assembly 2200 or the second tray 3600 has not returned to its initial position, the controller 1000 may execute step S31 again. If it is determined that the second tray assembly 2200 or the second tray 3600 has returned to its initial position, the controller 1000 may execute step S4 again.

[0351] Meanwhile, the second tray assembly 2200 according to the first and second embodiments of the present disclosure can rotate about the longitudinal center of the shaft 4100.

[0352] According to the first and second embodiments of this disclosure, the stuck state release mode in the de-icing process is classified according to the stuck angle, and only the steps corresponding to each stuck state are executed, thereby quickly detaching from the stuck state.

[0353] According to the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure, ice can be heated by heater 3300 to change phase to water, thereby releasing the jammed state during the ice maker's de-icing process. The ice maker 200 may also include a water outlet (not shown), and the water that has undergone phase change according to the jamming release mode can be discharged through the water outlet of the ice maker 200. The water discharged from the water outlet can move along a channel connected to the water outlet to a water tank for storing water for ice production, or it can be supplied as drinking water for users via a dispenser. Alternatively, it can be discharged outside the refrigerator without reuse.

[0354] Therefore, unnecessary control steps can be reduced, and the heating time for de-icing in each step can also be reduced, resulting in a reduction in the total time for unblocking during the de-icing process. Consequently, situations where ice making stops due to jamming during de-icing, or where the user cannot guarantee the desired amount of ice, can be reduced.

[0355] The above description of this disclosure is for illustrative purposes. Those skilled in the art will understand that it can be readily modified into other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential characteristics of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims, which will be described below, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalents should be interpreted as being included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: An ice-making chamber, which provides space for generating ice; as well as An ice maker, configured to form an ice-making grid in which water undergoes phase change to ice through cold air, wherein... The ice maker includes: A first tray assembly, the first tray assembly including a first tray configured to form part of the ice tray; The second tray assembly includes a second tray configured to form another part of the ice tray; A heater configured to supply heat to the ice tray; A driver configured to generate a driving force for moving the second tray assembly relative to the first tray assembly; and A controller, configured to control the heater and the driver, The controller is configured as follows: When the movement of the second tray assembly stops for a predetermined time, it is determined that the ice maker is in a stuck state during the ice removal process, where ice is trapped within the ice maker, and the ice separates from the ice tray during the ice removal process; and When the jammed state is detected, a jam release mode is executed to separate the jammed ice from the ice maker.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: The jamming state is determined by moving the second tray assembly toward the de-icing position, which is the position where the ice separates from the ice grid. If the stuck state is not resolved, the stuck state resolution mode is executed repeatedly; as well as In the jammed state release mode, the heater heats the jammed ice, and the second tray assembly moves to the de-icing position via the driver.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to control the heater to heat the stuck ice for a first time when it is determined that the second tray assembly has moved relative to the first tray assembly in a first direction.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: The driver stops when the stuck state is detected. Determine whether the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position; as well as The stuck state release mode is executed at the initial position.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: The driver is stopped when the stuck state is detected; and The jamming release mode is executed at the position where the movement of the second tray assembly stops.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is configured to control the heater to heat the stuck ice for a first time when the number of repetitions of the stuck state release mode is less than a reference value.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein, The controller is configured to control the heater to heat the stuck ice for a second time longer than the first time when the number of repetitions of the stuck state release mode is equal to or greater than the reference value.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, The controller is configured to: When a stuck state of the second tray assembly is detected and it is determined that the second tray assembly has moved relative to the first tray assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the drive is stopped; and The heater is controlled to heat the stuck ice for a third time at the position where the movement of the second tray assembly stops.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein, The controller is configured to: Determine whether the second tray assembly has returned to its initial position; and Once it is determined that the second tray assembly has returned to the initial position, the second tray assembly is moved to the de-icing position.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein, The third time is greater than the first time.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein, The ice maker also includes a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice tray, and The initial position is the water supply position of the second tray assembly, where water is supplied to the ice tray through the water supply section.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The heater includes a first heater disposed in the first tray assembly.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein, The heater also includes a second heater disposed in the second tray assembly.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The predetermined time is greater than the time it takes for the second tray assembly to move from the initial position to the de-icing position.

15. A method for controlling a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: A first tray assembly, the first tray assembly including a first tray forming part of an ice-making grid, the ice-making grid being a space where the water phase changes into ice; A second tray assembly, the second tray assembly including a second tray forming another part of the ice tray; a heater supplying heat to the ice tray; and a driver generating a driving force to move the second tray assembly relative to the first tray assembly; and a controller that controls the heater and the driver, the control method comprising: When the movement of the second tray assembly stops for a predetermined time, it is determined that the ice maker is stuck during the de-icing process of ice separating from the ice grid; as well as When the stuck state is detected, the ice stuck between the first tray and the second tray is heated by the heater.

16. The control method according to claim 15, further comprising: The jamming state is determined by moving the second tray assembly toward the de-icing position, which is the position where the ice separates from the ice grid. as well as When the jammed state of the second tray assembly is not released, the jammed state release mode for moving the second tray assembly to the de-icing position is repeatedly executed.

17. The control method according to claim 15, further comprising: When the stuck state is detected, it is determined whether the second tray assembly has moved relative to the first tray assembly in a first direction; as well as When it is determined that the second tray assembly has moved relative to the first tray assembly along the first direction, the heater is controlled to perform a first heating time.

18. The control method according to claim 15, further comprising: The driver stops when the stuck state is detected. as well as Return the second tray assembly to its initial position, wherein the jamming release mode is executed at the initial position, or The drive is stopped when the jammed state is detected, wherein the jammed state release mode is executed at the position where the movement of the second tray assembly stops.

19. The control method according to claim 15, wherein, Heating the stuck ice by the heater includes: When the number of repetitions of the stuck state release mode is less than a reference value, the stuck ice is heated by the heater for a first time; and When the number of times the stuck state release mode is equal to or greater than the reference value, the stuck ice is heated for a second time by the heater.

20. The control method according to claim 17, wherein, Heating the stuck ice via the heater also includes: When the jammed state is detected and it is determined that the second tray assembly is moving relative to the first tray assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the drive is stopped and the heater is controlled to heat the jammed ice for a third time at the position where the movement of the second tray assembly stops.

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