Ice maker and refrigerator comprising same

Abstract

The utility model provides an ice maker and a refrigerator comprising the same. The ice maker includes: an upper tray including a plurality of upper chambers; the lower tray comprises a plurality of lower chambers; a lower support member supporting a lower portion of the lower tray; and a lower cover that restricts the lower tray and the lower support; the lower tray and the lower support are fixed by a fixing structure that fastens the lower tray and the lower support to each other between the lower chambers adjacent to each other. Therefore, even if the ice chambers deform, unexpected deformation of other structures except for the ice chambers can be reduced, the maximum uniform deformation amount can be provided for each ice chamber, and thus poor ice moving can be reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to an ice maker and a refrigerator including the ice maker. Background Technology

[0002] A refrigerator is a household appliance that uses the circulation of refrigerant to generate cold air, which is then supplied to the storage compartment to keep various types of items fresh for a long time.

[0003] Refrigerators may include ice makers that use cold air to make ice.

[0004] An ice maker can make ice by holding water supplied from a water source or tank into an ice tray.

[0005] Ice produced in an ice maker can be moved in various ways, such as by heating the ice tray or by twisting to deform the shape of the ice tray.

[0006] An ice tray may include one or more ice chambers with corresponding shapes for forming ice of a desired shape.

[0007] In the process of ice removal, in order to effectively separate the ice from the ice chamber, additional mechanisms such as ejectors can be used to deform the shape of the ice chamber.

[0008] However, if the shape of the ice chamber deforms when the ice tray is not properly secured, other structures outside the ice chamber that need to deform may also deform along with it.

[0009] In this way, if other structures outside the ice chamber that needs to be deformed also undergo unexpected deformation, the correct deformation cannot be applied to the ice chamber that needs to be moved, which may result in poor ice moving.

[0010] In addition, if the ice tray includes multiple ice chambers to form multiple ices at once, poor ice transfer may also occur if the amount of deformation applied to each ice chamber is not uniform.

[0011] In addition, ice trays can be made of flexible materials so that they can be easily deformed, thus requiring a fixing structure that can provide maximum uniform fixing force to the entire area of ​​the ice tray made of flexible material.

[0012] On the other hand, additional fastening components such as screws can be used to secure the ice tray.

[0013] However, during prolonged use of the ice maker, if the fastening of the fastening components becomes loose, in addition to the ice that may be transferred, users may also identify problems with the loosened fastening components. Utility Model Content

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide an ice maker and a refrigerator that includes the ice maker, which can reduce the accidental deformation of other structures outside the ice chamber when the ice chamber of the ice tray is deformed.

[0015] In addition, the purpose of this invention is to provide an ice maker and a refrigerator that can provide a maximum uniform amount of deformation to each ice chamber when the ice chambers in an ice tray comprising a plurality of ice chambers are deformed.

[0016] In addition, the purpose of this utility model is to provide an ice maker and a refrigerator having a fixing structure that can provide a maximum uniform fixing force to the entire area of ​​the ice tray.

[0017] In addition, the purpose of this utility model is to provide an ice maker and a refrigerator that includes a fixing structure that can firmly fix the ice tray even without additional fastening components.

[0018] An embodiment of the present invention, an ice maker for solving the problems described above, includes: an upper tray comprising a plurality of upper chambers; a lower tray comprising a plurality of lower chambers; a lower support member supporting the lower part of the lower tray; and a lower cover restricting the lower tray and the lower support member. In this case, the lower tray and the lower support member are fixed by a fixing structure that fastens the lower tray and the lower support member to each other between adjacent lower chambers.

[0019] The fixing structure may include: an insertion protrusion formed on the lower tray to protrude toward the lower part of the lower tray; and a slit formed on the lower support for the insertion protrusion to pass through.

[0020] The plurality of the lower chambers can be arranged into a plurality of columns including a first column and a second column, and the insertion protrusion can be configured between the first column and the second column.

[0021] The insertion protrusion can extend continuously between the first column and the second column.

[0022] The insertion protrusions may be provided in a plurality of ways, and the plurality of insertion protrusions are arranged discontinuously between the first column and the second column.

[0023] The insertion protrusion can be formed in a curved manner along the lower chamber.

[0024] The insertion protrusion can pass through the central area of ​​the lower tray.

[0025] The insertion protrusion may include a protrusion body and a hook portion extending from the protrusion body, the width of which decreases as it approaches the lower direction to pass through the slit portion.

[0026] The width of the protruding body can be smaller than the maximum width of the hook portion.

[0027] At both ends of the insertion protrusion, protruding ribs with the same width as the protrusion body and the maximum width of the hook portion can be formed.

[0028] It also includes a lower pusher that presses the bottom surface of the lower chamber during ice-moving operations, wherein the fastening direction of the fixing structure and the direction in which the lower pusher presses the bottom surface of the lower chamber can be the same.

[0029] The lower tray may be formed of a material that is more flexible than the upper tray, the lower support, and the lower cover.

[0030] Another embodiment of the ice maker of this utility model includes: an upper tray including a plurality of upper chambers; a lower tray including a plurality of lower chambers; a lower support member supporting the lower part of the lower tray; and a lower cover, which restricts the lower tray and the lower support member by pressing the lower tray and the lower support member in opposite directions.

[0031] The lower cover can be rotatably assembled to the lower tray and the lower support to surround the front and back of the lower tray and the lower support.

[0032] The lower cover may include: a front wall, including a first front locking protrusion that presses the lower support member upward and a second front locking protrusion that presses the lower tray downward; and a back wall, including a first back locking protrusion that presses the lower support member upward and a second back locking protrusion that presses the lower tray downward.

[0033] The contact area between the first rear locking protrusion and the lower support member can be larger than the contact area between the first front locking protrusion and the lower support member.

[0034] The first rear locking protrusion may extend longer inward toward the lower support than the first front locking protrusion.

[0035] The first back locking protrusion can extend continuously along a plurality of the lower chambers arranged in one direction.

[0036] The first front locking protrusion may be provided in a plurality of ways, and the plurality of the first front locking protrusions are arranged discontinuously along the plurality of the lower chambers arranged in one direction.

[0037] The second back locking protrusion can extend continuously along a plurality of the lower chambers arranged in one direction.

[0038] The second front locking protrusion may be provided in a plurality of ways, and the plurality of the second front locking protrusions are arranged discontinuously along the plurality of the lower chambers arranged in one direction.

[0039] Another embodiment of the refrigerator of this utility model includes: one or more storage compartments; one or more doors for opening and closing the storage compartments; and an ice maker installed in the storage compartments or the doors; the ice maker includes: an upper tray including a plurality of upper chambers; a lower tray including a plurality of lower chambers; a lower support member for supporting the lower part of the lower tray; and a lower cover for restricting the lower tray and the lower support member; the lower tray and the lower support member are fixed by a fixing structure that fastens the lower tray and the lower support member to each other between adjacent lower chambers.

[0040] The lower cover can press the lower tray and the lower support member in opposite directions.

[0041] The lower cover can be rotatably assembled to the lower tray and the lower support to surround the front and back of the lower tray and the lower support.

[0042] The ice maker and refrigerator of this invention have a fixing structure between adjacent lower chambers that secures the lower tray and lower support to each other. Therefore, even if the ice chamber is deformed, it can reduce the accidental deformation of other structures outside the ice chamber and provide the maximum uniform deformation to each ice chamber, thereby reducing poor ice transfer.

[0043] In addition, the ice maker and refrigerator of this invention limit the lower tray and lower support by pressing the lower cover against each other in opposite directions. Therefore, even if the ice chamber is deformed, it can reduce the unexpected deformation of other structures outside the ice chamber and provide the maximum uniform deformation to each ice chamber, thereby reducing poor ice transfer.

[0044] In addition, the ice maker and refrigerator of this invention have a fixing structure between adjacent lower chambers that fastens the lower tray and the lower support to each other, and the lower cover presses the lower tray and the lower support in opposite directions to restrict the lower tray and the lower support, thus providing a maximum uniform fixing force to the entire area of ​​the ice tray.

[0045] In addition, the ice maker and refrigerator of this invention have a fixing structure between adjacent lower chambers that fastens the lower tray and the lower support to each other, and the lower cover presses the lower tray and the lower support in opposite directions to restrict the lower tray and the lower support. Therefore, a fixing structure can be provided that can firmly fix the ice tray even without additional fastening components. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is the front view of the refrigerator with the door closed.

[0047] Figure 2 This is the front view of the refrigerator with the door open.

[0048] Figure 3 This is an exploded 3D view of the door with the ice maker installed.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view from the back of the door when the ice maker is installed. Figure 5 It is a sectional view of the door from the side.

[0050] Figure 6 and Figure 7 These are front and back 3D views of the ice maker.

[0051] Figure 8 and Figure 9 These are 3D views of the bottom surface of the ice maker before and after the ice is removed.

[0052] Figure 10 This is a rear view of the ice maker with the support mechanism in place.

[0053] Figure 11 and Figure 12 These are side sectional views of the ice maker before and after the ice is removed.

[0054] Figure 13 This is an exploded 3D view of an ice maker.

[0055] Figure 14 and Figure 15 It is a three-dimensional view of the lower cover from various directions.

[0056] Figures 16 to 18 The diagram illustrates various embodiments of the lower cover.

[0057] Figure 19 and Figure 20 It is a three-dimensional view of the lower tray from various directions.

[0058] Figure 21 This is a side view of the lower tray. Figure 22 It is a side sectional view.

[0059] Figures 23 to 27 This is a diagram illustrating various embodiments of the lower tray.

[0060] Figure 28 and Figure 29 It is a three-dimensional view of the lower support component in various directions.

[0061] Figures 30 to 32 The diagram illustrates various embodiments of the lower support member.

[0062] Figure 33 and Figure 34 It is a 3D view of the lower component from various directions.

[0063] Figure 35 and Figure 36 These are the top and bottom views of the lower component.

[0064] Figure 37 This is a perspective view showing how the lower cover is joined.

[0065] Figure 38 and Figure 39 It is a three-dimensional view showing the cross-section of the lower cover before and after assembly.

[0066] Figure 40 A side sectional view of the lower component of another embodiment is shown.

[0067] Figure 41 and Figure 42 This is a diagram illustrating the fixing structure of the lower tray and lower support member according to another embodiment.

[0068] Figure 43 This is a diagram showing the fixing structure of the lower tray and lower support member according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0069] The following describes several embodiments of the ice maker and refrigerator of this utility model.

[0070] First, refer to Figures 1 to 13 The connection relationship of an ice maker, a refrigerator, and the various main components constituting them according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0071] Reference Figures 1 to 5The refrigerator 1 can be formed by a cabinet 2 that includes one or more storage compartments inside, one or more first doors 11 located on the front of the cabinet 2 that open and close the refrigerator compartment, and a second door 12 that opens and closes the freezer compartment.

[0072] In this specification, a refrigerator with the refrigerator compartment located above the freezer compartment is described as an example. However, the concept of this embodiment can also be applied to refrigerators with the refrigerator compartment located below the freezer compartment, refrigerators with only a freezer compartment, or refrigerators with the freezer and refrigerator compartments arranged side to side. Furthermore, in this specification, an ice maker 30 is described as being installed in the first door 11 as an example. However, the concept of this embodiment can also be applied to refrigerators or freezer compartments where the ice maker 30 is located within a storage compartment.

[0073] A dispenser section 13 capable of dispensing water and / or ice may be configured on the front of either the first door 11 or the second door 12.

[0074] The first door 11 may include a housing 21 and a door liner 22 coupled to the housing 21. The door liner 22 may form an ice-making chamber 14, which forms the back of the first door 11 and is configured for the ice maker 30. The ice-making chamber 14 may be opened and closed by an ice-making chamber door 24, which is rotatably connected by a hinge 23 of the door liner 22.

[0075] The housing 2 may include a cold air supply pipe hole 2a communicating with an evaporator (not shown) and supplying cold air to the ice-making chamber 14, and a cold air recovery pipe hole 2b recovering cold air from the ice-making chamber 14. A door supply pipe 25 and a door recovery pipe 26 may be installed on the first door 11. A cold air inlet hole 25a is provided on one side of the door supply pipe 25, and a door supply pipe hole 25h communicating with the ice-making chamber 14 is provided on the other side. A cold air outlet hole 26a is provided on one side of the door recovery pipe 26, and a door recovery pipe hole 26h communicating with the ice-making chamber 14 is provided on the other side of the door recovery pipe 26. When the first door 11 is closed and the refrigerator compartment is closed, the cold air inlet hole 25a of the door supply pipe 25 can be aligned with and communicate with the cold air supply pipe hole 2a, and the cold air outlet hole 26a of the door recovery pipe 26 can be aligned with and communicate with the cold air recovery pipe hole 2b. Door supply conduit 25 and door return conduit 26 can extend from the outer wall 28 of the door liner 22 to the inner wall 27 forming the ice chamber 14.

[0076] An ice maker 30, an ice box 20 for storing ice dispensed from the ice maker 30, and a support mechanism 40 can be arranged inside the ice-making chamber 14. The support mechanism 40 may include a support body 41 for supporting and fixing the ice maker 30 and an ice opening 40h for discharging ice from the ice box 20. The ice opening 40h may communicate with an ice pipe hole 15h formed in the inner wall 27. For example, when a user operates the dispenser 13 to remove ice, the ice transferred from the ice maker 30 and stored in the ice box 20 can be dispensed to the outside through the ice opening 40h and the ice pipe 15h communicating with the ice pipe hole 15h, and through the ice trough 16 of the dispenser 13. Alternatively, the user may open the first door 11 to directly obtain ice from the ice box 20. An ice discharge module 50 with the function of guiding and breaking ice may be added to the ice box 20 to facilitate the discharge of stored ice.

[0077] Reference Figures 6 to 13 The ice maker 30 may include an upper assembly 31 and a lower assembly 32. The upper assembly 31 may include an upper cover 100 and an upper tray 200. The lower assembly 32 may include a lower cover 300, a lower tray 400, and a lower support 500.

[0078] The lower component 32 can be rotatably connected to the upper component 31 via a connecting shaft 850 with respect to an axis. The lower component 32 can generate spherical ice together with the upper component 31 while in contact with the upper component 31. The upper component 31 with a hemispherical upper chamber 220 and the lower component 32 with a hemispherical lower chamber 420 can be fitted together to form an ice chamber 33 capable of generating spherical ice. Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with the ice chambers 33 arranged in a first column and a second column, with five ice chambers arranged in the first column and six ice chambers 33 arranged in the second column, but this is not a limitation.

[0079] With the upper assembly 31 and lower assembly 32 forming the ice chamber 33, water can be supplied to the ice chamber 33 through the water supply section 130 formed on the upper cover 100. If the lower assembly 32 rotates after ice is formed, the spherical ice formed between the upper assembly 31 and lower assembly 32 can be separated from the ice chamber 33. The lower assembly 32 can be rotated in both directions by a drive unit 800 connected to one side of the upper tray 200.

[0080] An upper ejector 600, including an upper ejector pin 620, may be provided on the upper component 31 to allow ice to be separated from the upper component 31. The upper ejector pins 620 may be provided in the same number as the ice chambers 33. If the upper ejector pins 620 are introduced into the ice chambers 33 through the upper component 31 and press the ice, the pressed ice can be separated from the upper component 31.

[0081] Alternatively, a lower ejector 700, including a lower ejector pin 720, can be provided to separate ice that is in close contact with the lower assembly 32. The number of lower ejector pins 720 can be the same as the number of ice chambers 33. As an example, the lower ejector 700 can be fixed to the upper assembly 31. When the lower assembly 32 rotates, the lower ejector 700 presses against the bottom surface of the lower chamber 420 to deform its shape, thereby allowing the ice to separate from the lower chamber 420.

[0082] During the rotation of the lower assembly 32 used for transferring ice, the rotational force of the lower assembly 32 can be transmitted to the upper ejector 600. For this purpose, the ice maker 30 may also include a connecting unit 830 connecting the lower assembly 32 and the upper ejector 600.

[0083] As an example, when the lower assembly 32 rotates in one direction, the upper ejector 600 descends under the action of the connecting unit 830, allowing the upper ejector pin 620 to press the ice. Furthermore, when the lower assembly 32 rotates in another direction, the upper ejector 600 rises under the action of the connecting unit 830, thus returning to its original position.

[0084] The following is a further detailed description of the various components that make up the ice maker 30.

[0085] The upper cover 100 may include: a cover body 110, including a front portion 111 extending in the vertical direction and side wall portions 112 formed on both sides of the front portion 111; an inclined portion 113 disposed at the rear of the cover body 110; and a rear portion 114, located at the rear of the inclined portion 113. A unit guide portion 140 with an opening in the vertical direction is formed in the side wall portion 112, thereby guiding the vertical movement of the upper pusher 600. An air guide portion 120 including an air guide hole 120h communicating with the door supply pipe hole 25h and receiving cold air may be formed on one side of the cover body 110. The air guide portion 120 communicates with the lower part of the water supply portion 130, and the cold air supplied through the air guide portion 120 can flow along the bottom surface of the inclined portion 113 toward the front portion 111. With the cover body 110, air guide 120 and water supply 130 of the upper cover 100 integrated into one unit, not only can the number of parts be reduced, but also the assembly tolerances can be reduced.

[0086] An upper ejector 600 may be disposed on the upper cover 100. The upper ejector 600 may include an upper ejector body 610 extending in one direction and a plurality of upper ejector pins 620 protruding in the downward direction of the upper ejector body 610. An upper rib 611 extending in one direction may be formed on the upper part of the upper ejector body 610. Upper ejector guide portions 640 are formed on both sides of the upper ejector body 610, which can move the upper ejector 600 in the vertical direction along the unit guide portion 140 of the upper cover 100. In addition, anti-separation protrusions 630 may be provided on both sides of the upper ejector body 610 to prevent the upper ejector body 610 from separating from the connecting unit 830 when the upper ejector body 610 is engaged with the connecting unit 830.

[0087] An upper tray 200 may be disposed at the lower part of the upper cover 100. The upper tray 200 may include a plurality of upper chambers 220 formed in the direction of the lower part of the upper plate 210. An inflow guide 230 including an inflow opening 230h for inserting an upper push-out pin 620 may be formed in the upper direction of the upper chambers 220. A water supply guide 231 may be formed in one of the inflow guides 230, the water supply guide 231 being formed such that a portion of its area is cut open in the direction of the water supply section 130, guiding water passing through the water supply section 130 to flow into the ice chamber 33. One or more pin guides 150 may be formed in the upper cover 100, the pin guides 150 extending in the upward direction and disposed around the periphery of the inflow guides 230 of the upper tray 200. The pin guides 150 can guide the upper push-out pin 620 to be correctly inserted into the inflow guide 230.

[0088] A recessed hot wire insertion portion 250 may be formed on the upper part of the upper tray 200 to surround the periphery of the plurality of upper chambers 220. A hot wire (not shown) is disposed in the hot wire insertion portion 250, making it easier for ice to separate from the upper chambers 220 during ice removal. A hot wire cover 900 may be disposed on the hot wire (not shown). The hot wire cover 900 is composed of a hot wire cover body portion 910, which has a closed curve shape formed by a planar body portion 912 and a curved body portion 911. The hot wire cover 900 as a whole may be formed to have a shape similar to the periphery of the plurality of upper chambers 220.

[0089] A drive unit support portion 260, which supports and is connected to the drive unit 800, can be formed on one side of the upper tray 200. The drive unit support portion 260 may include: a bending portion 261, which extends to bend upward and outward from one side of the upper plate 210; and a connecting portion 262, which is connected to the drive unit 800.

[0090] A pair of insertion portions 805 protruding toward the coupling portion 262 are formed in the upper region of the drive unit 800. The insertion portions 805 are inserted into a pair of insertion holes 262h formed in the coupling portion 262, thereby guiding the drive unit 800 to easily engage with the coupling portion 262. A fixing portion 804 protruding upward and including a fixing hole 804h may be formed in the upper region of the drive unit 800. The drive unit 800 can be fixed to the coupling portion 262 by means of an additional fastening member that passes through the fixing hole 804h of the fixing portion 804 and is fastened to the fastening portion 263 formed in the upper region of the coupling portion 262. The drive unit 800 may include: a first rotating shaft 801 that provides driving force to rotate the lower assembly 32; and a second rotating shaft 802 that provides driving force to rotate the full ice rod 870.

[0091] A pair of fastening portions 240 extending rearward and bending upward can be formed on both sides of the upper plate 210 of the upper tray 200. A pair of fastening holes 240h can be formed in the fastening portions 240. The ice maker 30 can be fixed to the support mechanism 40 by means of the pair of fastening portions 240 of the upper tray 200. (Refer to...) Figure 3 and Figure 10 The support mechanism 40 includes a support body 41 extending vertically. A fastening body 45, including a pair of insertion ports 42 through which the fastening portion 240 of the upper tray 200 can pass rearward, can be formed on the back of the support body 41. For example, if an ice maker 30 is to be mounted on the support mechanism 40, it can be mounted by inserting the fastening portion 240 of the bent upper tray 200 through the insertion port 42 of the support mechanism 40, and then pushing it upward from the bottom. In this case, a guide rib 47 is formed at the upper end of the fastening body 45 to guide the boundary surface of the upper region of the fastening portion 240. The ice maker 30 can be fixed to the support mechanism 40 by means of a fastening hole 240h through the fastening portion 240 and a further fastening member fastened to the fastening body 45.

[0092] A pair of forward-protruding protrusions 280 can be formed on the front of the upper plate 210 of the upper tray 200. The pair of protrusions 280 can ensure a distance from the structure located in front of the ice maker 30. A pair of hinge supports 270 can be provided on both sides of the bottom surface of the upper plate 210 of the upper tray 200, which protrude downward and have hinge holes 270h formed in the left and right directions. A tray bushing 840 can be connected to each hinge support 270.

[0093] The upper tray 200 can be formed of metal. For example, by using metal to manufacture the upper tray 200 by die casting, it can be formed to have high rigidity. As described above, by forming the upper tray 200 of a material with high rigidity, not only can the deformation of the upper chamber 220 be minimized, but it can also serve as a support member for supporting the drive unit 800.

[0094] The lower assembly 32 may include: a lower tray 400 including a plurality of lower chambers 420; a lower support 500 supporting the lower part of the lower tray 400; and a lower cover 300 fixing the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500.

[0095] A pair of hinge bodies 530 for connecting to the hinge support 270 of the upper cover 100 can be arranged on both sides of the lower support member 500. The hinge holes 531 of the hinge bodies 530 can connect with the hinge holes 270h of the hinge support member 270. The hinge holes 531 of the pair of hinge bodies 530 can respectively pass through the shaft connection portion 811 of the first link 810 and the shaft connection portion 821 of the second link 820. A connecting shaft 850 extending in one direction can be arranged between the shaft connection portions 811 of the first link 810 and the shaft connection portions 821 of the second link 820 arranged facing each other. A rotating shaft connection portion 813 is formed on one side of the first link 810 arranged adjacent to the drive unit 800. The rotating shaft connection portion 813 can transmit the driving force of the drive unit 800 to the lower assembly 32 by connecting with the rotating protrusion 803 formed on the first rotating shaft 801 of the drive unit 800.

[0096] A pair of outwardly protruding connecting shafts 512 can be formed on both sides of the lower support member 500. Each connecting shaft 512 can be engaged with a support member connecting hole 832 formed on one side of a pair of connecting units 830. On the other side of each connecting unit 830, an ejector connecting hole 831 can be formed that engages with the anti-separation protrusion 630 of the upper ejector 600. The anti-separation protrusion 630 of the upper ejector 600 can be connected to the ejector connecting hole 831 of the connecting unit 830 while located outside the unit guide portion 140 of the upper cover 100. If the rotational force is transmitted from the connecting unit 830 to the upper ejector 600 when the lower assembly 32 rotates, the upper ejector 600 can move vertically along the unit guide portion 140 of the upper cover 100.

[0097] The first link 810 and the second link 820 can each be connected to the lower support member 500 via a pair of elastic members 860. For example, the elastic member 860 can be a coil spring. One end of each elastic member 860 can be connected to the spring connection holes 812, 822 of the first link 810 and the second link 820, while the other end can be connected to the elastic member coupling portions 513 formed on both sides of the lower support member 500. For example, a recessed locking portion 514 can be formed at the lower part of the elastic member coupling portion 513 to allow the other end of the elastic member to be connected. The elastic member 860 can provide elastic force to the lower support member 500 to keep the upper tray 200 and the lower tray 400 in contact.

[0098] A lower ejector 700 may be disposed at the lower part of the lower assembly 32. The lower ejector 700 can separate ice adhering to the lower assembly 32 from the lower assembly 32 by pressing the lower assembly 32. The lower ejector 700 may include a lower ejector body 710 and a plurality of lower ejector pins 720 protruding from the lower ejector body 710. The number of lower ejector pins 720 may be the same as the number of ice chambers 33. The lower ejector 700 may be fixed to the upper assembly 31, but is not limited thereto; the lower ejector 700 may also be fixed to the support mechanism 40. If, during ice removal, the lower assembly 32 rotates in the direction in which the lower ejector 700 is disposed, the bottom surfaces of the lower chambers 420 of the lower tray 400 formed in the lower assembly 32 are pressed and deformed by the lower ejector 700, thereby separating the ice adhering to the lower chambers 420.

[0099] Outwardly projecting protrusions 750 are formed on both sides of the lower ejector body 710. Each protrusion 750 can be fixed by a support retainer 43 formed on the front of the support mechanism 40. Furthermore, a groove 751 is formed on one side of each protrusion 750. By engaging the groove 751 with a protrusion 44 formed on the support mechanism 40, the left-right movement of the lower ejector 700 can be more firmly restricted. Additionally, a rearwardly extending fastening protrusion 740 is formed at the rear of the lower ejector body 710. The fastening protrusion 740 can be fastened to the fastening hole 46 formed on the support mechanism 40 using additional fastening members such as screws. Thus, the lower ejector body 710 can be fixed by the support mechanism 40, restricting its forward-backward movement.

[0100] A pair of fastening portions 730, including fastening holes 730h, can be formed on both sides of the upper region of the lower ejector body 710. A pair of ejector connecting portions 290 extending outward and bending can be formed behind the upper tray 200 to cover the fastening portions 730 of the lower ejector body 710. Each ejector connecting portion 290 has a fastening hole 290h, which can be fastened to the fastening holes 730h formed in the fastening portions 730 of the lower ejector body 710 using additional fastening members such as screws. Thus, the lower ejector 700 can be fixed to the upper assembly 31. A pair of ejector connecting guide portions 291 can be arranged behind the upper cover 100, extending downward and located in front of the upper region of the lower ejector 700 to guide the fixed position of the lower ejector 700.

[0101] The amount of ice stored in the ice box 20 can be detected by the full ice rod 870. The full ice rod 870 may include: a detection part 871, which extends long in one direction and bends at both ends; and a pair of hook parts 872, which are respectively formed at the bends at both ends of the detection part 871. The hook part 872 formed on one side can be connected to the first rotating shaft 801 of the drive unit 800 to receive driving force from the drive unit 800, while the hook part 872 formed on the other side can be inserted into the rod through hole 121h of the rod storage part 121 extending downward from the air guide part 120 of the upper cover 100 and engaged. It should be noted that the rod storage part 121 may be formed as an additional structure that is not integral with the upper cover 100 and is installed on the inner side wall 27 of the first door 11, or it may be formed as having a through hole on the inner side wall 27 of the first door 11 itself for the hook part 872 to engage.

[0102] The following is for reference Figures 14 to 40 The lower cover 300, the lower tray 400, and the lower support 500 that constitute the lower component 32 are described in further detail.

[0103] Reference Figures 19 to 27 The lower tray 400 can be formed of a flexible material that can return to its original shape after being deformed under external force. For example, the lower tray 400 can be formed of silicon. If the lower tray 400 is formed of silicon, even if an external force is applied to the lower tray 400 during the ice-moving process, causing the shape of the lower tray 400 to deform, the lower tray 400 can return to its original shape. Therefore, even if the ice-forming process is repeated, spherical ice can be formed.

[0104] The lower tray 400 may include a plurality of lower chambers 420. Each lower chamber 420 may be connected to each other via a chamber connecting portion 421. Therefore, the plurality of lower chambers 420 connected via the chamber connecting portion 421 can substantially form most of the body of the lower tray 400.

[0105] A plurality of lower chambers 420 can be arranged in a plurality of columns. For example, a plurality of lower chambers 420a in the first column can be arranged along the first column, and a plurality of lower chambers 420b in the second column can be arranged along the second column. The plurality of lower chambers 420 arranged in the same column can be configured to contact each other laterally, but are not limited thereto; a lower chamber 420 can be separated from its adjacent lower chambers 420 by a predetermined distance. The first column of lower chambers 420a and the second column of lower chambers 420b are arranged in a left-right direction corresponding to the long side of the lower tray 400, and are configured to be staggered in the front-back direction, thereby improving space efficiency. In this specification, the first and second columns are described as an embodiment, but more columns of lower chambers 420 can be added after the second column, such as a third column, a fourth column, etc.

[0106] A pressure-receiving portion 423 may be formed at the lower end of each lower chamber 420. The pressure-receiving portion 423 may be the area that contacts the lower ejector pin 720 when the lower tray 400 is deformed by the lower ejector 700. The pressure-receiving portion 423 is formed at the center of the lower chamber 420 so that the lower chamber 420 can deform to the maximum extent and uniformly when deformed by the lower ejector pin 720. In addition, the pressure-receiving portion 423 is formed with a planar shape having an area larger than the area in contact with the lower ejector pin 720 and is formed with a predetermined thickness, thereby reducing wear on the lower region of the lower chamber 420 due to repeated deformation.

[0107] Reference Figure 23 Insertion protrusions 440 protruding downwards can be formed between a plurality of adjacent lower chambers 420. The insertion protrusions 440 can be formed between the first row of lower chambers 420a and the second row of lower chambers 420b. The insertion protrusions 440 can be formed to extend elongatedly in the left-right direction. For example, the insertion protrusions 440 can be continuously formed to overlap with a plurality of the first row of lower chambers 420a and a plurality of the second row of lower chambers 420b in the front-back direction of the lower tray 400. The insertion protrusions 440 are fastened to a slit 540 penetrating the lower support member 500 (described later), thereby forming a fixing structure that fastens the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 to each other. The insertion protrusion 440 is fastened to the slit portion 540 of the lower support member 500 by a hook engagement, so that the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 can be fixed to each other even without additional fastening components.

[0108] The insertion protrusion 440 can be configured between a plurality of adjacent lower chambers 420 and formed curvedly along the lower chambers 420. As the insertion protrusion 440 is formed curvedly as described above, the contact area between the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 can be increased, thereby more effectively preventing the lower tray 400 from separating from the lower support 500.

[0109] Furthermore, since the insertion protrusion 440 is formed curved along the lower outer peripheral surface of the lower chamber 420, the distance between the insertion protrusion 440 and the center of each lower chamber 420 can be constant. Therefore, even when the lower ejector 700 presses down on the lower chamber 420, the shape of each lower chamber 420 will not affect the shape of the insertion protrusion 440, ensuring a deformation amount that allows for maximum uniform deformation of each lower chamber 420. It should be noted that the shape of the insertion protrusion 440 is not limited to this; it can also be formed to have a straight shape without curvature between adjacent lower chambers 420.

[0110] The insertion protrusion 440 may include: a protrusion body 446 extending downward to pass through the slit 540 of the lower support member 500; and a hook portion 441 connected to the lower part of the protrusion body 446. The hook portion 441 may be formed such that its width decreases as it approaches the lower direction. Thus, the hook portion 441 of the insertion protrusion 440 can easily pass through the slit 540 of the lower support member 500. The width of the protrusion body 446 may be formed to be narrower than the maximum width of the hook portion 441. For example, at the connection between the protrusion body 446 and the hook portion 441, the protrusion body 446 may include a recess 442 that is recessed inward from the uppermost end of the hook portion 441. Through the recess 442 formed as described above, the width of the protrusion body 446 may be formed to be narrower than the maximum width of the hook portion 441, and a step portion 445 may be formed at the uppermost end of the hook portion 441. The stepped portion 445 of the hook portion 441 formed as described above allows the hook portion 441, which passes through the slit portion 540 of the lower support member 500, to engage with the slit portion 540, thereby preventing the lower tray 400 from detaching.

[0111] On the other hand, raised ribs 443 extending in the vertical direction can be formed at both ends of the insertion protrusion 440. In the areas where the raised ribs 443 are formed, recesses 442 may not be formed on the sides of the protrusion body 446. Therefore, the raised ribs 443 can be formed such that the width of the protrusion body 446 is the same as the maximum width of the hook portion 441. By forming raised ribs 443 at both ends of the insertion protrusion 440 as described above, the strength of the two ends of the insertion protrusion 440 can be improved, and the insertion workability can be improved when the insertion protrusion 440 is inserted into the slit portion 540 of the lower support member 500.

[0112] As described above, the insertion protrusion 440 can extend approximately through the central region, with the long side of the lower tray 400 as a reference. By extending the insertion protrusion 440 through the central region of the lower tray 400 as described above, the fixing force of the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 in the central region can be effectively ensured.

[0113] Furthermore, as the insertion protrusions 440 are arranged between a plurality of adjacent lower chambers 420, even if each lower chamber 420 is deformed by the lower ejector 700, the lower tray 400 will not detach from the lower support 500, and a uniform amount of deformation can be applied to each lower chamber 420.

[0114] As described above, since the fastening direction of the fixing structure that fastens the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 is formed in the same direction as the lower pusher 700 pressing the bottom surface of the lower chamber 420, the lower tray 400 can be more effectively prevented from detaching from the lower support 500 even when the lower pusher 700 presses the lower chamber 420.

[0115] exist Figure 23 The example shown is an embodiment in which the insertion protrusion 440 is formed between the first column lower chamber 420a and the second column lower chamber 420b. However, it is not limited to this, and the insertion protrusion 440 may be configured between adjacent first column lower chambers 420a and / or between adjacent second column lower chambers 420b.

[0116] As another embodiment, refer to Figure 24 The insertion protrusions 440 can be discontinuously arranged between the first row of lower chambers 420a and the second row of lower chambers 420b. For example, a plurality of insertion protrusions 440 can be arranged at predetermined intervals. Raised ribs 443 can be formed at both ends of each insertion protrusion 440.

[0117] As another embodiment, refer to Figure 25In addition to the insertion protrusion 440 disposed between the first row of lower chambers 420a and the second row of lower chambers 420b, a lower auxiliary protrusion 444 may be formed on the outer side of the first row of lower chambers 420a and / or the second row of lower chambers 420b. The lower auxiliary protrusion 444 may be formed to surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first row of lower chambers 420a and / or the second row of lower chambers 420b. As described above, with the addition of the lower auxiliary protrusion 444 on the outer side of the first row of lower chambers 420a and / or the second row of lower chambers 420b, in addition to the central region of the first row of lower chambers 420a and the second row of lower chambers 420b, the outer regions of the first row of lower chambers 420a and the second row of lower chambers 420b can also be fixed by hook engagement, thus providing a more uniform amount of deformation to each lower chamber 420 in the event of deformation of the lower chambers 420.

[0118] As another embodiment, refer to Figure 26 Insertion protrusions 440 may be formed between adjacent first-row lower chambers 420a and adjacent second-row lower chambers 420b. For example, the insertion protrusions 440 may extend continuously between adjacent first-row lower chambers 420a and adjacent second-row lower chambers 420b. However, this is not a limitation; the insertion protrusions 440 may extend discontinuously between adjacent first-row lower chambers 420a and adjacent second-row lower chambers 420b. A predetermined space may be formed between adjacent first-row lower chambers 420a and adjacent second-row lower chambers 420b, and the insertion protrusions 440 may be formed along the space as described above. The insertion protrusions 440 may extend in a manner that intersects the direction in which the plurality of first-row lower chambers 420a are arranged and the direction in which the plurality of second-row lower chambers 420b are arranged. Furthermore, a plurality of insertion protrusions 440 can be provided, and they can be arranged along the direction in which the plurality of first-row lower chambers 420a are arranged and the direction in which the plurality of second-row lower chambers 420b are arranged. Figure 26 The image shows a first row of lower chambers 420a and a second row of lower chambers 420b that are adjacent to each other in the vertical direction, but this is not a limitation. They can also be arranged separately to have a specified separation space.

[0119] As another embodiment, refer to Figure 27The plurality of lower chambers 420 can be grouped into a first group of lower chambers 420c and a second group of lower chambers 420d, and the insertion protrusion 440 can be formed in the spacer between the groups. For example, a portion of a plurality of adjacent first column lower chambers 420a and a plurality of adjacent second column lower chambers 420b can be grouped into a first group of lower chambers 420c. In this case, the plurality of lower chambers 420 belonging to the first group of lower chambers 420c can be configured to be adjacent to each other, but are not limited thereto; even within the same group, they can be spaced apart to have a defined spacer. Similarly, a portion of a plurality of adjacent first column lower chambers 420a and a plurality of adjacent second column lower chambers 420b can be grouped into a second group of lower chambers 420d. In this case, the plurality of lower chambers 420 belonging to the second group of lower chambers 420d can be configured to be connected to each other, but are not limited thereto; even within the same group, they can be configured to be spaced apart to have a defined separation space. The insertion protrusion 440 can extend to intersect the direction of the arrangement of the plurality of first column lower chambers 420a and the direction of the arrangement of the plurality of second column lower chambers 420b.

[0120] The lower tray 400 may also include a peripheral wall 410 extending upwardly along the outer periphery of the plurality of lower chambers 420. The peripheral wall 410 may be configured to surround the periphery of the plurality of lower chambers 420. The peripheral wall 410 may include a first wall 411 having a curved surface and a second wall 412 having a flat surface. For example, the first wall 411 and the second wall 412 may be configured to intersect and surround the plurality of lower chambers 420 in sequence, but are not limited thereto. The first wall 411 may protrude more outwardly than the second wall 412. Thus, adjacent first walls 411 may be connected to each other by wall connecting portions 413 extending outwardly from the upper end of the second wall 412.

[0121] The peripheral wall 410 located in front of the lower tray 400 can be referred to as the front wall 414, and the peripheral wall 410 located behind the lower tray 400 can be referred to as the rear wall 415. For example, the front wall 414 can be a vertical wall extending vertically upwards, and the rear wall 415 can be a curved wall that curves in a direction that is further away from the lower chamber 420 as it gets closer to the upper side. In addition, the uppermost end of the front wall 414 can be formed to be higher than the uppermost end of the rear wall 415. For example, the peripheral wall 410 can be formed to increase in height as it gets closer to the front on the side.

[0122] The lower cover plate 430 can be formed to extend horizontally toward the outer side of the peripheral wall 410. A pair of first upper protrusions 431 protruding toward the upper part of the lower cover plate 430 can be respectively disposed on both sides of the peripheral wall 410.

[0123] Additionally, one or more second upper protrusions 432 protruding upwards toward the lower cover plate 430 may be disposed in front of the peripheral wall 410. When a plurality of second upper protrusions 432 are disposed, adjacent second upper protrusions 432 may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, each second upper protrusion 432 may be disposed between a plurality of adjacent lower chambers 420.

[0124] A pair of side limiting portions 433, protruding outwards from the lower cover 430 and extending vertically, can be disposed on both sides of the peripheral wall 410. The side limiting portions 433 can be disposed between the first upper protrusion 431 and the second upper protrusion 432. The side limiting portions 433 can restrict the lower tray 400 from moving horizontally (left-right) when engaged with the lower cover 300 and the lower support member 500. The side limiting portions 433 protrude from the sides of the lower cover 430, and their vertical length can be greater than the thickness of the lower cover 430. As an example, a portion of the side limiting portion 433 can be located higher than the top surface of the lower cover 430, while another portion can be located lower than the bottom surface of the lower cover 430. Therefore, a portion of the side limiting portion 433 can contact the side of the lower cover 300, while another portion can contact the side of the lower support member 500.

[0125] One or more lower protrusions 450 protruding downwards may be provided in the lower part of the rear region of the lower tray 400. When a plurality of lower protrusions 450 are provided, adjacent lower protrusions 450 may be configured to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, each lower protrusion 450 may be configured between a plurality of adjacent lower chambers 420.

[0126] A lower extension 460 extending downwards can be formed behind the lower tray 400. The lower extension 460 can be formed to extend in the left-right direction of the lower tray 400. The lower extension 460 can be mounted on the stepped portion 570 of the lower support member 500 (described later). Therefore, the lower extension 460 can guide the engagement position of the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500. In addition, a plurality of rear protrusions 461 protruding outwards can be formed behind the lower extension 460. The plurality of rear protrusions 461 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged in the left-right direction of the lower extension 460. Each rear protrusion 461 can be configured to correspond to the first row of lower chambers 420a. Each rear protrusion 461 can be inserted into the insertion hole 323 of the lower cover 300 (described later).

[0127] On the other hand, the lower support 500 may include a support body 523 that supports the lower tray 400. The support body 523 may include a plurality of chamber receiving portions 520 for accommodating a plurality of lower chambers 420 of the lower tray 400. Each chamber receiving portion 520 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the bottom surface shape of the lower chamber 420. A lower opening 521 may be formed in the inner central region of the chamber receiving portion 520 for the lower pusher 700 to pass through during ice removal. Therefore, a lower opening 521 may be formed in each chamber receiving portion 520. The bottom surface of the lower chamber 420 of the lower tray 400 may be exposed to the outside through the lower opening 521. In this case, the outer diameter of the pressure portion 423 located on the bottom surface of the lower chamber 420 may be formed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the lower opening 521. Therefore, a separation portion 526 can be formed along the periphery of the pressure portion 423 between the pressure portion 423 and the lower opening 521. With the separation portion 526 formed between the pressure portion 423 and the lower opening 521 as described above, even if the lower pusher 700 deforms the pressure portion 423, the pressure portion 423 can be deformed uniformly as a whole.

[0128] A reinforcing body 524 for increasing strength can be formed along the periphery of the bottom surface of the lower opening 521. In addition, a connecting rib 525 for increasing strength can be formed on the bottom surface of the lower support member 500 by connecting a plurality of adjacent reinforcing bodies 524 to each other.

[0129] The lower support member 500 may further include a support plate 510 extending horizontally from the upper end of the support body 523. A slit 540 extending in the left-right direction may be formed in the central region of the support plate 510. An insertion protrusion 440 of the lower tray 400 may be inserted into the slit 540. A hook portion 441 of the insertion protrusion 440 may penetrate the slit 540, and a protruding body 446 of the insertion protrusion 440 may be located in the slit 540. Therefore, the width of the slit 540 may be substantially similar to that of the protruding body 446. The slit 540 may be configured to correspond to the position of the insertion protrusion 440 and may be formed in an open shape to allow the insertion protrusion 440 to be inserted and fixed. Rib slits 541 with a width larger than the width of the slit 540 may be formed at both ends of the slit 540 to allow the protruding ribs 443 of the insertion protrusion 440 to be inserted.

[0130] As another embodiment, Figure 31 The slit portion 540 of the lower support member 500 shown can be formed to allow Figure 24 The lower tray 400 shown has a corresponding structure in which the insertion protrusion 440 is inserted and fixed. Therefore, the slits 540 of the lower support 500 are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, so that they can be arranged discontinuously.

[0131] As yet another example, in Figure 32 An auxiliary slit 557 may be formed on the outer side of the chamber receiving portion 520 of the lower support member 500 shown. The auxiliary slit 557 may be formed to surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the chamber receiving portion 520. The auxiliary slit 557 may be formed to allow... Figure 25 The corresponding structure in which the lower auxiliary protrusion 444 of the lower tray 400 is inserted and fixed.

[0132] One or more recessed portions 555 that are recessed downwards can be disposed in the upper rear region of the support plate 510. When a plurality of recessed portions 555 are disposed, adjacent recessed portions 555 can be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, each recessed portion 555 can be disposed between a plurality of adjacent chamber receiving portions 520. When the lower tray 400 is combined with the lower support member 500, the lower protrusion 450 of the lower tray 400 can be disposed and combined with the recessed portion 555 of the support plate 510. Therefore, the recessed portion 555 can have a shape corresponding to the lower protrusion 450 and can be formed in the corresponding position.

[0133] One or more locking grooves 550 may be formed on the front bottom surface of the lower support member 500. When multiple locking grooves 550 are provided, adjacent locking grooves 550 may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, each locking groove 550 may be configured to correspond to a respective chamber receiving portion 520. The locking groove 550 may be formed to be recessed from the front surface of the support plate 510 having a predetermined thickness in an upward direction. The first front locking protrusion 311 of the lower cover 300, described later, may engage with the locking groove 550 of the lower support member 500.

[0134] On each side of the lower support member 500, a pair of hinge bodies 530 protruding rearward and including hinge holes 531 can be disposed. The lower support member 500 may terminate at both sides with outer walls 511, on which a pair of outwardly protruding connecting shafts 512 and elastic member connecting portions 513 can be formed respectively. Furthermore, at the lower end of the outer walls 511 on both sides, outwardly protruding side protrusions 560 can be formed.

[0135] A stepped portion 570 supporting the lower extension 460 of the lower tray 400 can be formed behind the lower support member 500. The stepped portion 570 can be formed to extend in the left-right direction along the lower support member 500, so as to have a shape corresponding to the lower extension 460 of the lower tray 400. The uppermost end of the stepped portion 570 is formed to be lower than the uppermost end of the support plate 510, so that a step can be formed in the region behind the support plate 510.

[0136] On the other hand, the lower cover 300 may include a lower cover plate 303 for fixing the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500. A portion of the lower tray 400 may contact and be fixed to the bottom surface of the lower cover plate 303. A hollow portion 305 may be formed on the inner side of the lower cover plate 303, allowing a portion of the lower tray 400, including the lower cavity 420, to be exposed and penetrated. As an example, when the lower tray 400 is located under the lower cover plate 303, and when the lower tray 400 is fixed to the lower cover plate 303, a portion of the lower tray 400 may protrude upwards from the lower cover plate 303 through the hollow portion 305.

[0137] The lower cover 300 may also include an inner wall 340 that surrounds the lower tray 400 through which the lower cover plate 303 passes. The inner wall 340 may be formed to surround the lower cavity 420 along the lower outer peripheral surface shape of the lower cavity 420 of the lower tray 400.

[0138] A front wall 310 extending downwards can be formed on the front side of the lower cover plate 303, and a back wall 320 extending downwards can be formed on the back side. A pair of side walls 330 can be formed between the front wall 310 and the back wall 320. A curved tail wall 319 surrounding the corner portion of the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 can be disposed between the front wall 310 and the side wall 330.

[0139] The side wall 330 can be formed as a shorter side compared to the back wall 320 and the front wall 310, while the back wall 320 and the front wall 310 can be formed as longer sides than the side wall 330. In addition, the length of the back wall 320 can be relatively shorter than that of the front wall 310, but is not limited thereto.

[0140] A first back-mounted locking protrusion 321 extending toward the back wall 320 can be formed in the lower inner region of the back wall 320, and a second back-mounted locking protrusion 322 extending toward the back wall 320 can be formed in the upper inner region. The first back-mounted locking protrusion 321 and the second back-mounted locking protrusion 322 can be formed to protrude inward toward the lower cover 300. The first back-mounted locking protrusion 321 can be formed to protrude more inward than the second back-mounted locking protrusion 322.

[0141] The first back-side locking protrusion 321 can be formed such that the lower end of the back wall 320 extending downward bends inward toward the lower cover 300. The top surface of the end portion of the first back-side locking protrusion 321 is formed to have a curved surface, thereby facilitating engagement and contact when combined with the lower support member 500 described later. The first back-side locking protrusion 321 can contact the bottom surface of the lower support member 500.

[0142] The second back-mounted locking protrusion 322 is formed in the upper region of the back wall 320 extending downwards, but this is not limited to the uppermost region of the back wall 320. For example, it can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the uppermost region of the back wall 320 downwards. It should be noted that it can be located in the relatively upper region based on the entire vertical length of the back wall 320. The two ends of the second back-mounted locking protrusion 322 can be connected to the inner wall 340 extending downwards towards the lower cover plate 303. Thus, even when the second back-mounted locking protrusion 322 is subjected to a strong load, the deformation of the back wall 320 can be minimized. The second back-mounted locking protrusion 322 and the back wall 320 can support the outer side of the rear wall 415 of the lower tray 400.

[0143] A plurality of insertion holes 323 may be formed on the back wall 320. For example, the plurality of insertion holes 323 may be arranged in one direction between the first back locking protrusion 321 and the second back locking protrusion 322. The insertion holes 323 may be formed to pass through the lower cover 300 in the front-rear direction. The rear protrusion 461 of the lower tray 400 may be inserted and fixed into each insertion hole 323.

[0144] One or more first front locking protrusions 311 may be formed in the lower inner region of the front wall 310, protruding inward toward the lower cover 300. When the lower cover 300 is engaged with the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500, the first front locking protrusions 311 may be engaged or hooked into the locking grooves 550 of the lower support member 500 for fixation. When a plurality of first front locking protrusions 311 are provided, adjacent first front locking protrusions 311 may be arranged to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, each first front locking protrusion 311 may be arranged to correspond to each lower chamber 420.

[0145] One or more second front-facing locking protrusions 312 may be formed in the upper inner region of the front wall 310, and the second front-facing locking protrusions 312 may protrude inward toward the lower cover 300. The second front-facing locking protrusions 312 may be formed to extend in one direction along the left-right direction of the front wall 310. However, this is not limited to this, and a plurality of second front-facing locking protrusions 312 may be formed. When a plurality of second front-facing locking protrusions 312 are arranged, adjacent second front-facing locking protrusions 312 may be arranged to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, each second front-facing locking protrusion 312 may be located above the first front-facing locking protrusion 311 corresponding to the first front-facing locking protrusion 311.

[0146] A receiving portion 313 may be formed between the front wall 310 and the inner wall 340 of the lower cover 300. When the lower cover 300 covers the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500, the receiving portion 313 receives and surrounds the front area of ​​the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500. A recess 314 may be formed in the receiving portion 313 of the lower cover 300 for receiving a second upper protrusion 432 formed on the front of the lower tray 400. The recess 314 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the second upper protrusion 432 and may be disposed in a corresponding position. Therefore, a plurality of recesses 314 may be disposed between a plurality of adjacent lower chambers 420.

[0147] A pair of first insertion portions 331 can be formed on the lower parts of both sides of the sidewall 330 of the lower cover 300. The first insertion portions 331 can be formed in an upwardly recessed shape to have a predetermined recessed space. The first upper protrusion 431 of the lower tray 400 can be inserted and fixed to the first insertion portions 331. Therefore, the first insertion portions 331 can be formed in a corresponding shape that allows the first upper protrusion 431 to be inserted and fixed.

[0148] The lower cover 300 can be formed as a single piece with a closed curved shape including a hollow portion 305 inside. However, it is not limited to this; it can also be formed in a shape that allows for assembly in a separable configuration. For example, see reference... Figure 16 The front wall 310 and back wall 320 of the lower cover 300 are separate and can be formed as a first lower cover 301 and a second lower cover 302, respectively. The first lower cover 301 and the second lower cover 302, which are separate from each other as described above, can be assembled into a single lower cover 300 by using fasteners 350 such as hooks. Alternatively, as another example... Figure 17 The two side walls 330 of the lower cover 300 are separated and can be formed as a first lower cover 301 and a second lower cover 302, respectively. The first lower cover 301 and the second lower cover 302, which are separated from each other as described above, can be assembled into a single lower cover 300 by using fasteners 350 such as hooks.

[0149] The lower assembly 32 can first be combined with the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500, and then the lower cover 300 can be rotatably assembled to the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500. When rotatably assembling the lower cover 300, the back wall 320 of the lower cover 300 can first contact the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500, such that the rear areas of the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 are engaged and pressed together between the first back locking protrusion 321 and the second back locking protrusion 322. Then, with the back wall 320 of the lower cover 300 as an axis, the front wall 310 of the lower cover 300 is rotated downwards, ultimately allowing the front areas of the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 to be engaged and pressed together between the first front locking protrusion 311 and the second front locking protrusion 312 formed on the front wall 310 of the lower cover 300.

[0150] The lower cover 300, assembled into the lower component 32, surrounds the front and back sides of the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500, and presses the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 in opposite directions, thereby restricting the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500. Specifically, the front wall 310 of the lower cover 300 may include: a first front locking protrusion 311, pressing the lower support 500 upwards; and a second front locking protrusion 312, pressing the lower tray 400 downwards; the back wall 320 of the lower cover 300 may include: a first back locking protrusion 321, pressing the lower support 500 upwards; and a second back locking protrusion 322, pressing the lower tray 400 downwards.

[0151] Specifically, the first front locking protrusion 311 and the second front locking protrusion 312 of the lower cover 300 can press against the bottom surface of the support plate 510 of the lower support member 500 and the top surface of the lower cover plate 430 of the lower tray 400, respectively. In addition, the first back locking protrusion 321 and the second back locking protrusion 322 of the lower cover 300 can press against the bottom surface of the stepped portion 570 of the lower support member 500 and the top surface of the lower extension portion 460 of the lower tray 400, respectively.

[0152] The lower cover 300 presses against both the front and rear of the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500. However, preferably, during assembly, the supporting force of the portion providing the rotation axis is greater. For example, after the lower cover 300 is assembled, deformation of the lower cover 300 should be minimized to prevent the locking or hook engagement of the lower cover 300 from easily disengaging. Therefore, preferably, in the case of the back wall 320 of the lower cover 300, the engagement force is firmly maintained by minimizing deformation, while in the case of the front wall 310 of the lower cover 300, it is formed to produce relatively more deformation than the back wall 320, so that rotational engagement can be easily performed. That is, the hook engagement using the front wall 310 of the lower cover 300 can be an assembly structure that utilizes deformation amounts below the plastic deformation or breakage of the lower cover 300, while the locking engagement using the back wall 320 of the lower cover 300 can be an assembly structure that utilizes strong fixation and support with minimal deformation.

[0153] The contact area between the first back-side locking protrusion 321 and the lower support member 500 can be made larger than the contact area between the first front-side locking protrusion 311 and the lower support member 500. Furthermore, the first back-side locking protrusion 321 can extend further inward toward the lower support member 500 than the first front-side locking protrusion 311. Therefore, the back wall 320 with the first back-side locking protrusion 321 can be relatively less deformed than the front wall 310 with the first front-side locking protrusion 311.

[0154] The first back-side locking protrusion 321 may extend continuously along a plurality of lower chambers 420 arranged in one direction, but is not limited thereto. For example, see reference to Figure 18 The first back-side locking protrusion 321 may be provided in a plurality of discontinuous arrangements along the plurality of lower chambers 420 arranged in one direction. Similarly, the second back-side locking protrusion 322 may be provided in a plurality of discontinuous arrangements along the plurality of lower chambers 420 arranged in one direction. Even when the first back-side locking protrusion 321 and the second back-side locking protrusion 322 are arranged discontinuously as described above, the contact area between the first back-side locking protrusion 321 and the lower support member 500 may be made larger than the contact area between the first front-side locking protrusion 311 and the lower support member 500.

[0155] As described above, the lower component 32 improves assembly workability and strength for maintaining fastening force by making the direction of assembly of the lower cover 300, i.e., the direction of rotation, different from the direction of the up-down force generated by the lower pusher 700 when the lower tray 400 is moved after the lower cover 300 is assembled.

[0156] On the other hand, after assembling the lower component 32, a portion of the peripheral wall 410 of the lower tray 400 can be formed to protrude upwards from the inner wall 340 of the lower cover 300. In this case, the uppermost end of the peripheral wall 410 of the lower tray 400 can protrude to a distance from the uppermost end of the inner wall 340 of the lower cover 300. As described above, by creating a distance between the uppermost end of the peripheral wall 410 of the lower tray 400 and the uppermost end of the inner wall 340 of the lower cover 300, it is possible to prevent the flexible material lower tray 400 from folding or rolling up during assembly.

[0157] Figure 40 This diagram illustrates another embodiment of the combination of the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500. For example, an upwardly protruding insertion protrusion 580 is formed in the central region of the lower support member 500, and a corresponding protruding insertion portion 470 is formed in the lower part of the lower tray 400 into which the insertion protrusion 580 of the lower support member 500 can be inserted. Thus, the lower support member 500 and the lower tray 400 can be hooked together. As described above, the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 can be fixed by a fixing structure that fastens the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 together between adjacent lower chambers 420.

[0158] The following is for reference Figure 41 and Figure 42 This describes another embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] One or more auxiliary insertion protrusions 448 protruding outward may be additionally formed on the lower surface of each lower chamber 420.

[0160] exist Figure 41 and Figure 42 The diagram shows an auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 formed in each lower chamber 420, but it is not limited to this; multiple auxiliary insertion protrusions 448 may also be formed in each lower chamber 420.

[0161] The auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can be formed as a protrusion protruding outward from the lower surface of the lower chamber 420, which is formed in a hemispherical shape.

[0162] In this case, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can be formed with a hook shape so that it can engage with the lower support 500 hook.

[0163] As an example, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can be formed in a similar shape to the insertion protrusion 440, which includes a protrusion body 446, a hook portion 441, a recessed portion 442, a stepped portion 445, and other structures.

[0164] The auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 may have a hook shape that is smaller than that of the insertion protrusion 440.

[0165] When compared with the insertion protrusion 440 that extends downward, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 may protrude in a direction away from the direction in which the insertion protrusion 440 extends.

[0166] As an example, each auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 may extend downward and outward rather than inward toward the lower tray 400.

[0167] Therefore, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can be formed to extend in the downward outer diagonal direction.

[0168] In this case, each auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of each lower chamber 420 away from the insertion protrusion 440 disposed between the first row of lower chambers 420a and the second row of lower chambers 420b of each lower chamber 420.

[0169] As described above, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 extends in a direction different from, rather than in the same direction as, the insertion protrusion 440, so that the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 can achieve hook engagement in the vertical direction and hook engagement in the diagonal direction, thereby enabling the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 to have a stronger fastening force.

[0170] The lower support member 500 may have an auxiliary slit 548 into which the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 is inserted.

[0171] The auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can pass through the auxiliary slit 548 and be fastened and fixed by a hook engagement.

[0172] The lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 can be fastened by a hook-and-loop engagement via an auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 formed in the lower cavity 420 and an auxiliary slit 548 formed in the lower support 500.

[0173] For example, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can have a male structure, and the auxiliary slit 548 can have a female structure.

[0174] As described above, the lower chamber 420 and the lower support 500 are fastened together by an auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 and an auxiliary slit 548 in a hook-and-loop manner, thereby preventing deformation of the lower chamber 420 that may occur after the lower ejector 700 presses the pressure portion 423 of the lower chamber 420 to remove ice from the lower chamber 420.

[0175] That is, after the lower ejector 700 presses the pressure part 423 of the lower chamber 420 to remove ice from the lower chamber 420, the lower chamber 420 needs to return to its original hemispherical shape. However, in case of malfunction, the lower chamber 420 may not be able to return to its original hemispherical shape.

[0176] However, by forming a connection structure in the lower chamber 420 itself that is fastened to the lower support member 500, as in the embodiment of this utility model, it is possible to manufacture a structure in which the tight fit between the lower chamber 420 and the lower support member 500 will not be released even when the lower pusher 700 presses down on the pressure portion 423 of the lower chamber 420.

[0177] The following is for reference Figure 43 This illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] An insertion protrusion 580 protruding upward is formed in the central region of the lower support member 500, and a protrusion insertion portion 470 for the lower support member 500 to be inserted into can be formed in the lower part of the corresponding lower tray 400.

[0179] Thus, the lower support member 500 and the lower tray 400 can be hooked together. As described above, the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 can be fixed by a fixing structure that fastens the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 to each other between adjacent lower chambers 420.

[0180] For example, the insertion protrusion 580 may have a male structure, and the protrusion insertion portion 470 may have a female structure.

[0181] In this case, one or more auxiliary insertion protrusions 448 protruding outward may also be formed on the lower surface of each lower chamber 420.

[0182] Additionally, the lower support member 500 may have an auxiliary slit 548 for inserting the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448.

[0183] The auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can pass through the auxiliary slit 548 and be fastened and fixed by a hook engagement.

[0184] The lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 can be fastened by a hook-and-loop engagement via an auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 formed in the lower cavity 420 and an auxiliary slit 548 formed in the lower support 500.

[0185] For example, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can have a male structure, and the auxiliary slit 548 can have a female structure.

[0186] Figure 43The auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 and auxiliary slit 548 formed in the middle are related to the... Figure 42 The structures described in the text are the same, so repeated explanations are omitted.

[0187] On the other hand, based on the state where the lower tray 400 and the lower support member 500 are combined, when compared with the insertion protrusion 580 that extends in the upward direction, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can protrude in a direction away from the direction extending from the insertion protrusion 580.

[0188] As an example, each auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 may extend downward and outward rather than inward toward the lower tray 400.

[0189] Therefore, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 can be formed to extend in the downward outer diagonal direction.

[0190] As described above, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 extends in a direction different from, rather than in the same direction as, the insertion protrusion 580 of the lower support 500, thereby enabling the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 to achieve hook engagement in the vertical direction and hook engagement in the diagonal direction, thereby enabling the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 to have a stronger fastening force.

[0191] As described above, the lower chamber 420 and the lower support 500 are fastened together by an auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 and an auxiliary slit 548 in a hook-and-loop manner, thereby preventing deformation of the lower chamber 420 that may occur after the lower ejector 700 presses the pressure portion 423 of the lower chamber 420 to remove ice from the lower chamber 420.

[0192] In another embodiment of the present invention, the male-female coupling structure of the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 is oriented differently near the central region and near the outer region.

[0193] Specifically, near the central region, the insertion protrusion 580 of the lower support member 500 is a male structure, and a protruding insertion portion 470 can be formed in the lower tray 400 as a female structure for fastening the insertion protrusion 58.

[0194] Furthermore, near the outer region, the auxiliary insertion protrusion 448 of the lower tray 400 can be a male structure, and the auxiliary slit 548 of the lower support 500 can be a female structure.

[0195] As described above, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the lower tray 400 and the lower support 500 can be fastened to have opposite male-female coupling structures near the central region and in the outer region outside the central region. Therefore, the directions of the fastening force intersect each other in the central region and the peripheral region, thereby fastening to have a stronger fastening force.

[0196] On the other hand, the ice maker 30 described above may include an upper component 31 and a lower component 32. In this case, the upper component 31 may be referred to as the first component 31 and the lower component 32 may be referred to as the second component 32.

[0197] Similarly, the upper cover 100 and the upper tray 200 can be referred to as the first cover 100 and the first tray 200, respectively, and the lower cover 300 and the lower tray 400 can be referred to as the second cover 300 and the second tray 400, respectively.

[0198] In addition, the ice maker 30 can perform the ice transfer process by rotating the second tray 400 around a central axis while the first tray 200 is fixed, but it is not limited to this.

[0199] In another embodiment, the ice maker 30 can also perform the ice transfer process by reciprocating the first tray 200 or the second tray 400 in a straight line.

[0200] As an example, it can be driven in a way that the first tray 200 is fixed and the second tray 400 moves in a straight reciprocating motion in the up and down direction. Conversely, it can also be driven in a way that the second tray 400 is fixed and the first tray 200 moves in a straight reciprocating motion in the up and down direction.

[0201] That is, the first tray 200 or the second tray 400 can reciprocate in the vertical direction.

[0202] Alternatively, as another example, it can be driven by having the first tray 200 fixed and the second tray 400 reciprocating linearly in the left-right or front-back direction. Conversely, it can also be driven by having the second tray 400 fixed and the first tray 200 reciprocating linearly in the left-right or front-back direction.

[0203] That is, the first tray 200 or the second tray 400 can reciprocate in the horizontal direction.

[0204] The various embodiments of the hot wire cover 900 described above can also be applied in the ice maker 30 that performs the ice-moving process by reciprocating the first tray 200 or the second tray 400 in a straight direction.

Claims

1. An ice maker, wherein, include: The upper tray comprises a plurality of upper chambers; The lower tray comprises a plurality of lower chambers; The lower support member supports the lower part of the lower tray; and The lower cover restricts the lower tray and the lower support member; The lower tray and the lower support are secured by a fastening structure that fastens the lower tray and the lower support to each other between adjacent lower chambers.

2. The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein, The fixing structure includes: An insertion protrusion is formed on the lower tray to protrude downwards from the lower portion of the lower tray; and A slit is formed in the lower support member to allow the insertion protrusion to pass through.

3. The ice maker according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of the lower chambers are arranged in a plurality of columns including a first column and a second column; The insertion protrusion is positioned between the first column and the second column.

4. The ice maker according to claim 3, wherein, The insertion protrusion extends continuously between the first column and the second column.

5. The ice maker according to claim 3, wherein, The insertion protrusions are provided in a plurality of ways, and the plurality of insertion protrusions are arranged discontinuously between the first column and the second column.

6. The ice maker according to claim 2, wherein, The insertion protrusion is formed curved along the lower chamber.

7. The ice maker according to claim 2, wherein, The insertion protrusion passes through the central area of ​​the lower tray.

8. The ice maker according to claim 2, wherein, The insertion protrusion includes: The protruding body; and A hook portion extends from the protruding body, and the width of the hook portion decreases as it approaches the lower part to pass through the slit portion.

9. The ice maker according to claim 8, wherein, The width of the protruding body is smaller than the maximum width of the hook portion.

10. The ice maker according to claim 9, wherein, At both ends of the insertion protrusion, there are protruding ribs with the same width as the protrusion body and the maximum width of the hook portion.

11. The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a lower ejector that presses down on the bottom surface of the lower chamber during ice removal. The fastening direction of the fixed structure is the same as the direction in which the lower ejector presses against the bottom surface of the lower chamber.

12. The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein, The lower tray is made of a material that is more flexible than the upper tray, the lower support, and the lower cover.

13. An ice maker, wherein, include: The upper tray comprises a plurality of upper chambers; The lower tray comprises a plurality of lower chambers; The lower support member supports the lower part of the lower tray; and The lower cover restricts the lower tray and the lower support by pressing them in opposite directions.

14. The ice maker according to claim 13, wherein, The lower cover can be rotatably assembled to the lower tray and the lower support to surround the front and back of the lower tray and the lower support.

15. The ice maker according to claim 13, wherein, The lower cover includes: The front wall includes a first front locking protrusion that presses the lower support member upward and a second front locking protrusion that presses the lower tray downward; and The back wall includes a first back-mounted locking protrusion that presses the lower support member upward and a second back-mounted locking protrusion that presses the lower tray downward.

16. The ice maker according to claim 15, wherein, The contact area between the first rear locking protrusion and the lower support member is larger than the contact area between the first front locking protrusion and the lower support member.

17. The ice maker according to claim 15, wherein, The first rear locking protrusion extends further inward toward the lower support than the first front locking protrusion.

18. A refrigerator, wherein, include: More than one storage room; One or more doors are used to open and close the storage room; as well as An ice maker is installed in the storage room or at the door; The ice maker includes: The upper tray comprises a plurality of upper chambers; The lower tray comprises a plurality of lower chambers; The lower support member supports the lower part of the lower tray; and The lower cover restricts the lower tray and the lower support member; The lower tray and the lower support are secured by a fastening structure that fastens the lower tray and the lower support to each other between adjacent lower chambers.

19. The refrigerator according to claim 18, wherein, The lower cover presses the lower tray and the lower support member in opposite directions.

20. The refrigerator according to claim 18, wherein, The lower cover can be rotatably assembled to the lower tray and the lower support to surround the front and back of the lower tray and the lower support.

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