Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator of the present invention comprises: a cabinet that has a storage compartment; a first door that opens / closes the storage compartment and has an icemaking compartment in which an icemaker is accommodated; a second door that can be rotated with respect to the first door, and a storage space that is formed by at least one of the first door and the second door, wherein if the second door is opened, the storage space is exposed to the outside.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.[Background Art]

[0002] In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance for storing food at a low temperature in a storage chamber that is covered by a door.

[0003] The storage chamber is surrounded by an insulating wall so that an inside of the storage chamber is maintained at a temperature lower than an outside temperature. Depending on a temperature range of the storage chamber, the storage chamber may be called a refrigerating chamber or a freezing chamber.

[0004] A door of the refrigerator may be a single door or may include a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber and a second door that may be rotated relative to the first door.

[0005] A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0126835 that is a prior art document.

[0006] A refrigerator of the prior art document may include a main body having a storage chamber, a door portion having an inner door rotatably coupled to the main body to open and close the storage chamber and an outer door rotatably provided in front of the inner door, an ice making chamber partitioned from the storage chamber by the inner door and provided in the door portion to be opened and closed by the outer door and in which an ice making system is arranged, a dispenser provided in the door portion to provide water and ice, and a door guard provided on a rear of the inner door and capable of storing food.

[0007] According to the prior art document, it is possible to access an ice making cell and withdraw ice without opening an inner door, but there is a disadvantage in that the inner door must be opened to check or take-out food.

[0008] In a case of the prior art document, there is an ice making chamber in the inner door, but there is a disadvantage in that a supply of cold air to the ice making chamber is blocked every time the inner door is opened and closed, which reduces an ice making efficiency.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0009] One embodiment provides a refrigerator in which food can be accessed by opening a second door located outside a door including a first door and a second door.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which food in a space formed by the first door and the second door may be maintained at a low temperature.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which cold air may be supplied to an ice making chamber of a first door even when a second door is opened.[Technical Solution]

[0012] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet having a storage chamber. The refrigerator may further include a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber. The refrigerator may further include a second door rotatable with respect to the first door. The first door may have an ice making chamber to accommodate an ice maker.

[0013] The refrigerator may further include a storage space formed by at least one of the first door or the second door.

[0014] In a state in which the first door is closed, the storage space may be exposed to an outside when the second door is opened. When the second door is closed, the storage space may be shielded.

[0015] The storage space may include a first space that overlaps the ice making chamber in a front-back direction. The storage space may further include a second space communicated with the first space and that does not overlap the ice making chamber in a front-back direction.

[0016] The second space may be disposed below the first space. A recessed depth of the second space may be greater than a recessed depth of the first space.

[0017] Ice generated in the ice maker may be discharged into the second space.

[0018] The refrigerator may further include a basket positioned in the storage space in a state in which the second door is closed. The basket may be coupled to the second door.

[0019] The basket may include a first basket positioned in the first space in a state in which the second door is closed. The basket may include a second basket positioned in the second space in a state in which the second door is closed.

[0020] The refrigerator may further include a first cold air duct to supply cold air to the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a second cold air duct to supply cold air to the storage space.

[0021] The storage chamber may include a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber.

[0022] The first cold air duct may include a first supply duct that guides cold air heat-exchanged by a freezing chamber evaporator for cooling the freezing chamber to the ice making chamber.

[0023] The first cold air duct may further include a first discharge duct through which cold air discharged from the ice making chamber flows.

[0024] The second cold air duct may include a second supply duct that guides cold air from an outside of the storage space toward the storage space. The second cold air duct may include a second discharge duct through which cold air discharged from the storage space flows.

[0025] The second supply duct may extend from the cabinet toward the storage space.

[0026] The first door may be provided with a guide duct that guides cold air discharged from the second supply duct to the storage space. Cold air discharged from the guide duct may be supplied to an upper side of the storage space.

[0027] The second discharge duct may be provided in the first door. Cold air flowing through the second discharge duct may be discharged to the storage chamber. Cold air at a lower side of the storage space may be discharged to the second discharge duct.

[0028] The first door may further include a receiving portion that accommodates at least one of a filter for purifying water, a valve for controlling a flow of water, or a water tank for storing water. The first door may further include a connection duct that guides cold air of the storage space to the receiving portion.

[0029] A refrigerator according to another aspect may further include: a cabinet having a storage chamber; a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber and having an ice making chamber to accommodate an ice maker; and a second door rotatable with respect to the first door.

[0030] The refrigerator may further include a storage space formed by at least one of the first door or the second door, at least a portion of which is positioned in front of the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a basket positioned in the storage space.

[0031] According to another aspect, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage chamber; a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber and having an ice making chamber to accommodate an ice maker; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; and a storage space formed by at least one of the first door or the second door and at least a portion of which does not overlap the ice making chamber.

[0032] The refrigerator may further include a basket positioned in the storage space.

[0033] When the second door is closed, the storage space may be shielded. When the second door is opened, the storage space may be opened.

[0034] The refrigerator may further include a cold air duct to supply cold air to the storage space.

[0035] A portion of a rear surface of the first door may be recessed forward to form the ice making chamber. A portion of a front surface of the first door may be recessed backward to form the storage space.

[0036] According to another aspect, a refrigerator comprises a cabinet to form a storage chamber; a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber; and a second door rotatable with respect to the first door, wherein the first door may include a storage space formed by a portion of a front surface being recessed rearward, and an ice making chamber formed by a portion of a rear surface being recessed forward.

[0037] When the second door is closed, the storage space may be shielded, and when the second door is opened, the storage space may be opened.[Advantageous Effects]

[0038] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that a second door outside a door including a first door and a second door may be opened to allow access to food.

[0039] According to one embodiment, food in a space formed by the first door and the second door may be maintained at a low temperature.

[0040] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that cold air may be supplied to an ice making chamber of a first door even when a second door is opened.[Description of Drawings]

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a second door is opened in a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which an ice making chamber door is opened in a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a first cold air duct and a second cold air duct according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing cold air flow in first and second cold air ducts according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a supply of cold air to a storage space and a discharge of cold air from a storage space according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing another modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing another modified example of a second discharge duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing another modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a side view showing another modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a first cold air duct and a second cold air duct according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a flow of cold air in first and second cold air ducts according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a cutaway view showing an inside of a freezing chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a first cold air duct, a supply fan, and a second ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a front view showing an inside of a freezing chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a first refrigerating chamber door according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 22. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of FIG. 22. FIG. 25 is a drawing showing a modified example of a second supply duct according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26 is a drawing showing a flow of cold air in an ice making chamber according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 27 is a drawing showing a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship of a first through hole and a second through hole according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 28. FIG. 30 is a drawing showing a door cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 31 and 32 are schematic diagrams showing a flow of cold air in an ice making chamber and a second cold air duct. FIG. 33 is a rear view of a first door for showing a modified example of a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a first door for showing a modified example of a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram for showing a modified example of a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Mode for Invention]

[0042] 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 have the same reference numerals as far as possible even though the components are illustrated in different drawings. Further, in description of embodiments of the present disclosure, when it is determined that detailed descriptions of well-known configurations or functions disturb understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0043] Also, in the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) may be used. Each of the terms is merely used to distinguish the corresponding component from other components, and does not delimit an essence, an order or a sequence of the corresponding component. It should be understood that when one component is "connected", "coupled", or "joined" to another component, the former may be directly connected, coupled, or jointed to the latter or may be "connected", coupled", or "joined" to the latter with a third component interposed therebetween.

[0044] In this specification, at least one of component A and component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B.

[0045] Additionally, at least one of component A or component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B.

[0046] In this specification, a front surface of a second door is a surface forming a front exterior of a refrigerator door, and a rear surface is a surface facing a first door.

[0047] A front surface of a first door is a surface forming a front exterior of the first door and facing a rear surface of the second door. A rear surface of the first door is a surface facing a cabinet or a storage chamber.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a second door is opened in a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which an ice making chamber door is opened in a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a refrigerator 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet 10 to form a storage chamber. The refrigerator 1 may further include a door 20 that opens and closes the storage chamber.

[0050] The storage chamber may include, for example, a refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber 12. Although not limited, the refrigerating chamber 11 may be positioned above the freezing chamber 12. Depending on a shape of a refrigerator, the freezing chamber 12 and the refrigerating chamber 11 may be positioned in a left and right direction, and the freezing chamber 12 may be positioned above the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0051] The door 20 may include a refrigerating chamber door 21 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber door 22 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 12.

[0052] The refrigerating chamber door 21 may be a single door that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 11. Alternatively, the refrigerating chamber door 21 may include, for example, a pair of doors 100, 101 arranged in a left and right direction. The refrigerating chamber door 21 may include a first refrigerating chamber door 100 and a second refrigerating chamber door 101 arranged in a left and right direction. The first refrigerating chamber door 100 may open and close a portion of the refrigerating chamber 11. The second refrigerating chamber door 101 may open and close another portion of the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0053] The freezing chamber door 22 may be a single door that opens and closes the freezing chamber 12. Alternatively, for example, the freezing chamber door 22 may include a pair of doors arranged in a left and right direction. The freezing chamber door 22 may include a first freezing chamber door and a second freezing chamber door arranged in a left and right direction. The first freezing chamber door may open and close a portion of the freezing chamber 12. The second freezing chamber door may open and close another portion of the freezing chamber 12. Alternatively, the freezing chamber 12 may be partitioned in a left and right direction or in an up and down direction, and the first freezing chamber door may open and close one partitioned space, and the second freezing chamber door may open and close another partitioned space.

[0054] It is to be noted that in this invention, there is no limitation on a number or an arrangement of the refrigerating chamber door 21 and the freezing chamber door 22.

[0055] In a case in which the refrigerating chamber door 21 is a single door, the refrigerating chamber door 21 may include a first door that opens and closes a refrigerating chamber 11, and a second door rotatable with respect to the first door. Alternatively, at least one of the first second refrigerating chamber door 100 or second refrigerating chamber door 101 may include a first door 110, 111 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 11, and a second door 200, 201 rotatable with respect to the first door 110, 111.

[0056] FIG. 2 illustrates, as an example, that each of the first and second refrigerating chamber doors 100, 101 includes the first door 110, 111 and the second door 200, 201.

[0057] A second door 200 of the first refrigerating chamber door 100 may be rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 or may be rotatably connected to the first door 110.

[0058] The first door 110 and the second door 200 may form a storage space in which food may be positioned.

[0059] When the second door 200 is closed, the storage space may be shielded. When the second door 200 is opened, the storage space may be opened or exposed to an outside.

[0060] For example, the storage space may be formed by the first door 110. In this case, the storage space may be formed as a front surface of the first door 110 is recessed toward a rear surface of the first door or a cabinet 10. Alternatively, the storage space may be formed by the second door 200. In this case, the storage space may be formed as a rear surface of the second door 200 is recessed toward a front surface. Alternatively, a portion of the storage space may be formed by the first door 110, and another portion may be formed by the second door 200.

[0061] For example, the first door 110 may form a first storage space 124. The second door 200 may form a second storage space 214. When the second door 200 is closed, the first storage space 124 and the second storage space 214 may be communicated with each other.

[0062] In this case, the first storage space 124 may be formed as a front surface of the first door 110 is recessed toward a rear surface of the first door. The second storage space 214 may be formed as a rear surface of the second door 200 is recessed toward a front surface of the second door.

[0063] In the storage space 124, 214, a basket 220, 221 for supporting food may be positioned. The basket 220, 221, for example, may be installed in the second door 200. A portion of the basket 220, 221 may be positioned in the second storage space 214. Another portion of the basket 220, 221 may be accommodated in the first storage space 124 when the second door 200 is closed.

[0064] According to the present embodiment, in a state in which the first door 110 is closed, user can access the basket 220, 221 by opening the second door 200. Therefore, there is an advantage in that user can easily access the basket 220, 221 without opening a heavy first door 110. In addition, since the basket 220, 221 can be accessed without opening the first door 100, cold air of the refrigerating chamber 11 can be prevented from being discharged to an outside. Since cold air can be supplied to the storage space 124, 214, food located in the storage space 124, 214 can be maintained in a low temperature state.

[0065] The first storage space 124 may include a first space 125. The first storage space 124 may further include a second space 126 disposed below the first space 125. A recessed depth of the first space 125 may be different from a recessed depth of the second space 126.

[0066] The baskets 220, 221 may include a first basket 220 positioned in the first space 125 and a second basket 221 positioned in the second space 126. A front-rear length of the first basket 220 may be different from a front-rear length of the second basket 221.

[0067] A recessed depth of the second space 126 may be greater than a recessed depth of the first space 125. The second space 126 may be, for example, a dispensing space from which water or ice may be dispensed.

[0068] The first door 110 may include a door frame 120. A foamed insulator for insulation may be provided inside the door frame 120. Alternatively, the door frame 120 may be insulated using a vacuum insulator.

[0069] The door frame 120 may include a front frame 121. The door frame 120 may further include a door liner 122 that is directly connected to the front frame 121 or indirectly connected to the front frame 121 by a separate member.

[0070] The front frame 121 may form at least a portion of the first storage space 124. That is, a portion of the front frame 121 may be recessed rearward.

[0071] In one embodiment, the front frame 121 may form the first space 125 and the second space 126.

[0072] The first door 110 may further include a dispenser 140 for dispensing water or ice. The dispenser 140 may include a dispenser housing 141 to form a dispensing space. In another embodiment, the front frame 121 may form the first space 125, and the dispenser housing 141 may form the second space 126.

[0073] The second door 200 may include a door frame 210. A foamed insulator for insulation may be provided inside the door frame 210. Alternatively, the door frame 210 may be insulated using a vacuum insulator.

[0074] The door frame 210 may include a front frame 211. The door frame 210 may further include a door liner 212 that is directly connected to the front frame 211 or indirectly connected to the front frame 211 by a separate member. The door liner 212 may form the second storage space 214. The basket 220, 221 may be coupled to the door liner 212.

[0075] Since a thickness of the second door 200 is limited, a depth of the second storage space 214 may be less than a depth of the first storage space 124.

[0076] The first door 110 may further include an ice maker 160 to generate ice. The first door 110 may further include an ice making chamber 152 to accommodate the ice maker 160.

[0077] The ice making chamber 152 may be formed as a portion of a rear surface of the first door 110 is recessed forward or toward the second door 200. The first door 110 may further include an ice making chamber door 154 that opens and closes the ice making chamber 152.

[0078] The first door 110 may further include a receiving portion 155. The receiving portion 155 may receive at least one of a water tank, a filter for purifying water, or a valve for controlling a flow of water. The receiving portion 155 may be formed by a portion of a rear surface of the first door 110 being recessed forward. The receiving portion 155 may be covered by a cover member 156.

[0079] For example, the door liner 122 may form the ice making chamber 152. The door liner 122 may form the receiving portion 155.

[0080] The door liner 122 may include a first portion 122a and a second portion 122b that extends rearward in a protruding manner from the first portion 122a. For example, the second portion 122b may form the ice making chamber 152 and the receiving portion 155.

[0081] A structure of the second refrigerating chamber door 101 may be the same as or different from a structure of the first refrigerating chamber door 100. In Fig. 3, a structure of the second refrigerating chamber door 101 is illustrated as being different from a structure of the first refrigerating chamber door 100.

[0082] A first door 111 of the second refrigerating chamber door 101 may include an opening 112. A second door 201 of the second refrigerating chamber door 101 may open and close the opening 112.

[0083] The first door 110, 111 may be referred to as an inner door or a main door, and the second door 200, 201 may be referred to as an outer door or a sub door.

[0084] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 6, the first door 110 may further include a door cold air duct 40 through which cold air flows. The door cold air duct 40 may include a first duct 410 that guides cold air to the ice making chamber 152. The cold air duct 400 may further include a second duct 420 through which cold air discharged from the ice making chamber 152 flows.

[0086] The ice making chamber 152 may overlap the first storage space 124 in a front-back direction.

[0087] The first door 110 may include an ice making chamber wall 151 to form the ice making chamber 152. The ice making chamber wall 151 may be spaced apart from a wall 121a forming the first space 125 in a front-back direction. An insulator may be provided between the wall 121a forming the first space 125 and the ice making chamber wall 151, or a vacuum insulation space may be formed between the wall 121a forming the first space 125 and the ice making chamber wall 151.

[0088] For example, the ice making chamber 152 may overlap the first space 125 in a front-back direction. Accordingly, when the second door 200 is closed, the first basket 220 may be positioned in front of the ice making chamber 152. The ice making chamber 152 may not overlap the second space 126 in a horizontal direction.

[0089] The receiving portion 155 may overlap the first storage space 124 in a front-back direction. For example, the receiving portion 155 may overlap the second space 126 in a front-back direction. A water tank 158 and a valve 157 may be positioned in the receiving portion 155 but are not limited thereto.

[0090] When the second door 200 is closed, the second basket 221 may be accommodated in the second space 126. At least a portion of the second basket 221 may be spaced apart from the dispenser housing 141.

[0091] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a first cold air duct and a second cold air duct according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a drawing showing cold air flow in first and second cold air ducts according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a supply of cold air to a storage space and a discharge of cold air from a storage space according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, a refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a first cold air duct communicated with the ice making chamber 152.

[0094] The first cold air duct may include a first supply duct 310 to supply cold air to the ice making chamber 152. The first cold air duct may further include a first discharge duct 320 through which cold air supplied to the ice making chamber 152 is discharged.

[0095] The first supply duct 310 may be provided in the cabinet 10. The second supply duct 320 may be provided in the cabinet 10.

[0096] The first supply duct 310 may be communicated with a first duct 410 of the door cold air duct 40. The first discharge duct 320 may be communicated with a second duct 420 of the door cold air duct 40.

[0097] Although not shown, the first door 110 may include a first cold air hole communicated with the first supply duct 310 and a second cold air hole communicated with the second supply duct 320. The first and second cold air holes may be formed in, for example, the door liner 122.

[0098] The cabinet 10 may include a freezing chamber inner case 14 to form the freezing chamber 12. The cabinet 10 may further include a freezing chamber evaporator (or a first evaporator) 16 for cooling the freezing chamber 12. The freezing chamber evaporator 16 may be arranged outside the freezing chamber inner case 14.

[0099] The cabinet 10 may further include a first evaporator cover 15 to cover the freezing chamber evaporator 16. The first evaporator cover 15 may form a heat exchange space. A first fan 17 for a flow of cold air may be provided upstream or downstream of the freezing chamber evaporator 16.

[0100] For example, cold air heat exchanged with the freezing chamber evaporator 16 may be introduced into the first supply duct 310. Cold air flowing through the first discharge duct 320 may be discharged into the freezing chamber 12 or into the heat exchange space.

[0101] At least a portion of the first supply duct 310 may be disposed at one side of the freezing chamber inner case 14. At least a portion of the first discharge duct 320 may be disposed at one side of the freezing chamber inner case 14.

[0102] A refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may further include a second cold air duct communicated with the storage space 124, 214. The second cold air duct may include a second supply duct 500.

[0103] The cabinet 10 may include a refrigerating chamber inner case 13 to form the refrigerating chamber 11. The cabinet 10 may further include a refrigerating chamber evaporator (or a second evaporator) 18 for cooling the refrigerating chamber 11. The refrigerating chamber evaporator 18 may be disposed outside the refrigerating chamber inner case 13.

[0104] The cabinet 10 may further include a second evaporator cover 18a to cover the refrigerating chamber evaporator 18. The second evaporator cover 18a may form a heat exchange space. A second fan 19 for a flow of cold air may be provided upstream or downstream of the refrigerating chamber evaporator 18. The cabinet 10 may further include a refrigerating chamber guide duct 18b for guiding cooling air into the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0105] Air heat-exchanged with the refrigerating chamber evaporator 18 may be supplied to the second supply duct 500. The second supply duct 500 may be communicated with the heat exchange space formed by the second evaporator cover 18a or with the refrigerating chamber guide duct 18b.

[0106] The second supply duct 500 may extend from an outside of the refrigerating chamber inner case 13 toward the storage space 124, 214. For example, the second supply duct 500 may extend from an upper side of an upper wall 131 of the refrigerating chamber inner case 13 toward the storage space 124, 214. At least a portion of the second supply duct 500 may extend in a front-back direction.

[0107] The second supply duct 500 may overlap the first door 110 in a vertical direction. The second supply duct 500 may be positioned above the storage space 124, 214 in a state in which the second door 200 is closed.

[0108] The second cold air duct may further include a guide duct 510 communicated with the second supply duct 500. The guide duct 510 may be provided in the first door 110. The guide duct 510 may be communicated with the second supply duct 500 to guide cold air to the storage space 124, 214.

[0109] For example, an opening is formed in each of the front frame 121 and a second portion 122b of the door liner 122, respectively, and the guide duct 510 may be communicated with two openings.

[0110] At least a portion of the guide duct 510 may be positioned higher than the ice making chamber 152. Cold air discharged from the guide duct 510 may be supplied to the first space 125. Cold air supplied to the first space 125 may descend and flow to the second space 126.

[0111] The second cold air duct may further include a second discharge duct 520. The second discharge duct 520 may be provided in the first door 110.

[0112] The second discharge duct 520 may be positioned between the dispenser housing 141 and the door liner 122. For example, an opening may be provided in each of the door liner 122 and the dispenser housing 141, and the second discharge duct 520 may connect two openings.

[0113] Cold air of the second space 126 may flow along the second discharge duct 520 and then be discharged to the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0114] The second discharge duct 520 may be disposed, for example, at an opposite side of the door cold air duct 40 in the first door 110.

[0115] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. In a description of FIG. 12, remaining parts other than a second supply duct may be applied as previously described.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 12, a portion of the second supply duct 501 may be arranged to face one surface of the first door 110. Accordingly, cold air may be supplied to the first storage space 124, 214 through one surface of the first door 110.

[0117] For example, the second supply duct 501 may include a first part 502 extending in a front-back direction from an upper side of an upper wall 131 of the refrigerating chamber inner case 13. The second supply duct 501 may further include a second part 503 bent from the first part 502 and extending downward. The second supply duct 501 may further include a third part 504 extending from the second part 503 in a horizontal direction and facing one surface of the first door 110.

[0118] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing another modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. In a description of FIG. 13, remaining parts other than a second supply duct may be applied as previously described.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 13, the refrigerating chamber 11 and the freezing chamber 12 may be partitioned by a partition wall 530, which is an insulating wall.

[0120] A portion of a second supply duct may be disposed on the partition wall 530. Another portion of the second supply duct may extend along one side wall of the refrigerating chamber inner case 13.

[0121] For example, the second supply duct may include a first part 540 extending along the partition wall 530. The second supply duct may include a second part 542 extending upward along one side wall of the refrigerating chamber inner case 13.

[0122] The first door 110 may include a guide duct 544. The guide duct 544 may be communicated with an outlet of the second part 542 in the first door 110. Cold air from the guide duct 544 may be supplied to the first space 125.

[0123] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing another modified example of a second discharge duct of a first embodiment of the present invention. In a description of FIG. 14, remaining parts other than a second discharge duct may be applied as previously described.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 14, cold air flowing along the second supply duct 500 may be supplied to the first space 125 by the guide duct 510.

[0125] Cold air in the first space 125 may descend and flow into the second space 126. Cold air in the second space 126 may flow through the receiving portion 155 and then be discharged into the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0126] The first door 110 may further include a connection duct 560 that guides cold air of the second space 126 to the receiving portion 155. Cold air flowing through the receiving portion 155 may be discharged to the refrigerating chamber 11 by the second discharge duct 562.

[0127] The second discharge duct 562 may be formed in the door liner 122 forming the receiving portion 155 or in a cover member 156 covering the receiving portion 155.

[0128] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing another modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is a side view showing another modified example of a second supply duct of a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] In a description of FIGS. 15 and 16, remaining parts other than a second supply duct may be applied as previously described.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a second supply duct 505 may guide cold air to the storage space 124, 214.

[0131] An outlet of the second supply duct 505 may be arranged to face one surface of the first door 110. Accordingly, cold air may be supplied to the first storage space 124, 214 through one surface of the first door 110.

[0132] A supply hole 511 may be provided on one surface of the first door 110. An outlet of the second supply duct 505 may be communicated with the supply hole 511. For example, the second supply duct 505 may extend in a front-rear direction along one side wall of the refrigerating chamber inner case 13.

[0133] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a first cold air duct and a second cold air duct according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a flow of cold air in first and second cold air ducts according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Since a structure of a second cold air duct in the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment or a modification of the first embodiment, a first cold air duct will be described in detail below.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a refrigerator of the present embodiment may include a first cold air duct.

[0136] The first cold air duct may include a first supply duct 330 to supply cold air to the ice making chamber 152. The first cold air duct may further include a first discharge duct 320 to discharge cold air supplied to the ice making chamber 152.

[0137] Since an arrangement and a shape of the first discharge duct 320 are the same as those described in the first embodiment, a detailed description will be omitted.

[0138] The first supply duct 330 may be provided in the cabinet 10. The first supply duct 330 may be communicated with a first duct 410 of the door cold air duct 40.

[0139] The cabinet 10 may include a freezing chamber inner case 14 to form the freezing chamber 12. The first supply duct 330 may be disposed outside the freezing chamber inner case 14 and may be communicated with the freezing chamber 12. That is, unlike the first embodiment, cold air of the freezing chamber 12 may be introduced into the first supply duct 330.

[0140] The first supply duct 330 may be positioned closer to the freezing chamber door 25 (or the refrigerating chamber door) than the first evaporator cover 15. In this case, a length of the first supply duct 330 may be reduced.

[0141] FIG. 19 is a cutaway view showing an inside of a freezing chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a first cold air duct, a supply fan, and a second ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a front view showing an inside of a freezing chamber according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 21, a fan unit 142 may be provided inside the freezing chamber 12. The fan unit 142 may operate to supply cold air from the freezing chamber 12 to the first supply duct 330.

[0143] The fan unit 142 may include a fan housing 143 and a supply fan 144 accommodated in the fan housing 143.

[0144] The fan housing 143 may be installed on an upper wall 141 of the freezing chamber inner case 14. An inlet 143a through which cold air of the freezing chamber 12 is introduced may be formed on a lower surface of the fan housing 143. An outlet 143b through which cold air is discharged may be formed on a side surface of the fan housing 143. The outlet 143b of the fan housing 143 may be communicated with an inlet 331 of the first supply duct 330.

[0145] The freezing chamber 12 may be provided with a freezing chamber duct 146 that discharges cold air flowing through a freezing chamber evaporator 16 into the freezing chamber 12.

[0146] The fan unit 142 may be positioned closer to the freezing chamber door 25 than the freezing chamber duct 146. The freezing chamber 12 may be provided with a second ice maker 161 to generate ice. For example, the second ice maker 161 may be positioned between the fan unit 142 and the freezing chamber duct 146. Of course, the second ice maker 161 may be omitted.

[0147] FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a first refrigerating chamber door according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 22 and FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of FIG. 22.

[0148] In this embodiment, a first cold air duct is the same as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, but there is a difference in a second cold air duct. Therefore, only characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 24, a first refrigerating chamber door 100a of the present embodiment may include a second supply duct 512 into which cold air of the refrigerating chamber 11 is introduced. Cold air of the refrigerating chamber 11 may be supplied to the storage space 124, 214 through the second supply duct 512.

[0150] The first refrigerating chamber door 100a may further include a second discharge duct 522 through which cold air of the storage space 124, 214 is discharged. Cold air of the storage space 124, 214 may flow through the second discharge duct 522 and be discharged into the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0151] The second supply duct 512 may be positioned higher than the second discharge duct 522. For example, cold air flowing through the second supply duct 512 may be supplied to the first space 125. At least a portion of the second supply duct 512 may overlap the ice making chamber 152 in a horizontal direction. The second supply duct 512 may be positioned at an opposite side of the door cold air duct 40 with respect to the ice making chamber 152.

[0152] It is also possible that the second supply duct described in the first embodiment is omitted, and the guide duct has the same or a changed structure and functions as the second supply duct 512 of the present embodiment.

[0153] The second discharge duct 522 may be connected to one surface of a second portion 122b of the door liner 122. For example, cold air in the second space 126 may flow into the second discharge duct 522. The second discharge duct 522 may be connected to one surface of the second portion 122b of the door liner 122.

[0154] As another example, a structure for discharging cold air of the second space 126 may be replaced with the structure described in FIG. 14. That is, cold air of the second space 126 may be discharged into the refrigerating chamber 11 after passing through the receiving portion 155.

[0155] FIG. 25 is a drawing showing a modified example of a second supply duct according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] In a description of FIG. 25, remaining portion other than a second supply duct may be applied as previously described.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 25, a second supply duct 513 of the present embodiment may be provided at a position identical to or similar to the guide duct described in FIG. 9. That is, cold air of the refrigerating chamber 11 may be supplied to the storage space 124, 214 through the second supply duct 513 after passing through the second portion 122b of the door liner 122.

[0158] FIG. 26 is a drawing showing a flow of cold air in an ice making chamber according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 27 is a drawing showing a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship of a first through hole and a second through hole according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 28. FIG. 30 is a drawing showing a door cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention and FIGS. 31 and 32 are schematic diagrams showing a flow of cold air in an ice making chamber and a second cold air duct.

[0159] In this embodiment, the first cold air duct is the same as in the first embodiment or second embodiment, but there is a difference in a second cold air duct. Therefore, only characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 26 to 32, a first door 110b of the present embodiment may include a second cold air duct. The second cold air duct may guide cold air of the ice making chamber 152 to the storage space 124, 214.

[0161] An ice making chamber wall 151 forming the ice making chamber 152 may be provided with a cold air inlet 152a for introducing cold air into the ice making chamber 152. The cold air inlet 152a may be communicated with the first duct 410.

[0162] The ice making chamber wall 151 may be provided with a first cold air outlet 152b through which cold air introduced into the ice making chamber 152 is discharged. The first cold air outlet 152b may be communicated with the second duct 420. The first cold air outlet 152b may be disposed below the cold air inlet 152a. The cold air inlet 152a and the first cold air outlet 152b may be formed on one side wall of the ice making chamber wall 151.

[0163] The ice making chamber wall 151 may additionally be provided with a second cold air outlet 152c. The second cold air outlet 152c may be formed on a bottom wall of the ice making chamber wall 151. The second cold air outlet 152c may be disposed at one side of an ice path 159 through which ice is discharged.

[0164] The second cold air duct may include a second supply duct 570 communicating with the second cold air outlet 152c. The second supply duct 570 may be disposed at one side of the ice path 159.

[0165] An inlet 571 of the second supply duct 570 may be communicated with the second cold air outlet 152c. An outlet 572 of the second supply duct 570 may be communicated with the second space 126.

[0166] The second supply duct 570 may be provided with an adjustment unit 580 for adjusting a flow of cold air. The adjustment unit 580 may include a driver 584 and a damper 582 operated by the driver 584.

[0167] The driver 584 may operate depending on a temperature of the storage space 124, 214. Alternatively, the driver 584 may operate at set time intervals. Alternatively, the driver 584 may operate based on a temperature of the ice making chamber 152.

[0168] A first through hole 141a may be provided on one surface of the dispenser housing 141, and the first through hole 141a may be communicated with an outlet 572 of the second supply duct 570. A second through hole 141b may be provided on another surface of the dispenser housing 141.

[0169] The second cold air duct may further include a second discharge duct 426 through which cold air discharged from the second space 126 flows. The second discharge duct 426 may be communicated with the second through hole 141b. The second discharge duct 426 may be connected to the second duct 420. The second discharge duct 426 may be formed integrally with the second duct 420 or may be coupled to the second duct 420.

[0170] The dispenser housing 141 may be provided with an operating pad 144 for dispensing water or ice. The second through hole 141b may be disposed at an opposite side of the first through hole 141a with respect to the operating pad 144.

[0171] According to the present embodiment, cold air of the ice making chamber 152 may be supplied to the storage space 124, 214. Cold air of the storage space 124, 214 may flow to the first discharge duct 320 through the door cold air duct 40.

[0172] FIG. 33 is a rear view of a first door for showing a modified example of a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a first door for showing a modified example of a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram for showing a modified example of a second cold air duct according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] In a description of this embodiment, remaining parts other than a second supply duct may be applied as previously described.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 33 to 35, a second cold air outlet 152d may be provided on a front wall facing the storage space 124, 214 from the ice making chamber wall 151. For example, the second cold air outlet 152b may be arranged to overlap the first space 125 in a front-back direction.

[0175] The second supply duct 590 may be communicated with the second cold air outlet 152d. At least a portion of the second supply duct 590 may be disposed between the first space 125 and the ice making chamber 152.

[0176] A first through hole 125a may be formed in the front frame 121 of the first door 110. The second supply duct 590 may be communicated with the first through hole 125a.

[0177] The second supply duct 590 may be provided with an adjustment unit. The adjustment unit may include a driver 591 and a damper 592 operated by the driver 591. At least a portion of the adjustment unit may be positioned higher than the ice maker 160 provided in the ice making chamber 152. Accordingly, a portion of cold air supplied to the ice making chamber 152 may flow along the second supply duct 590 and be supplied to the first space 125.

[0178] Cold air supplied to the first space 125 may flow to the second space 126. Cold air flowing to the second space 126 may be discharged to the second discharge duct 426 as described in FIGS. 26 to 32. Cold air introduced into the second discharge duct 426 may flow to the first discharge duct 320 through the second duct 420.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having a storage chamber; a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber and having an ice making chamber to accommodate an ice maker; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; and a storage space formed by at least one of the first door or the second door, wherein when the second door is closed, the storage space is shielded, and when the second door is opened, the storage space is exposed to an outside.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the storage space includes a first space that overlaps the ice making chamber in a front-back direction, and a second space communicated with the first space and that does not overlap the ice making chamber in the front-back direction.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the second space is disposed below the first space and a recessed depth of the second space is greater than a recessed depth of the first space.

4. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein ice generated in the ice maker is discharged into the second space.

5. The refrigerator of claim 2, further comprising a basket positioned in the storage space in a state in which the second door is closed.

6. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the basket is coupled to the second door.

7. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the basket includes at least one of a first basket positioned in the first space in a state in which the second door is closed or a second basket positioned in the second space in a state in which the second door is closed.

8. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising a first cold air duct to supply cold air to the ice making chamber, and a second cold air duct to supply cold air to the storage space.

9. The refrigerator of claim 8, wherein the storage chamber includes a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber, and wherein the first cold air duct includes a first supply duct that guides cold air heat-exchanged by a freezing chamber evaporator for cooling the freezing chamber to the ice making chamber, and a first discharge duct through which cold air discharged from the ice making chamber flows.

10. The refrigerator of claim 8, wherein the second cold air duct includes a second supply duct that guides cold air from an outside of the storage space toward the storage space, and a second discharge duct through which cold air discharged from the storage space flows.

11. The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein the second supply duct extends from the cabinet toward the storage space.

12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the first door is provided with a guide duct that guides cold air discharged from the second supply duct to the storage space.

13. The refrigerator of claim 12, wherein cold air discharged from the guide duct is supplied to an upper side of the storage space.

14. The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein the second discharge duct is provided in the first door and cold air flowing through the second discharge duct is discharged to the storage chamber.

15. The refrigerator of claim 14, wherein cold air at a lower side of the storage space is discharged to the second discharge duct.

16. The refrigerator of claim 14, wherein the first door further includes a receiving portion that accommodates at least one of a filter for purifying water, a valve for controlling a flow of water, or a water tank for storing water, and a connection duct that guides cold air of the storage space to the receiving portion.

17. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having a storage chamber; a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber and having an ice making chamber to accommodate an ice maker; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a storage space formed by at least one of the first door or the second door, at least a portion of the storage space being positioned in front of the ice making chamber; and a basket positioned in the storage space.

18. The refrigerator of claim 17, wherein a portion of a rear surface of the first door is recessed forward to form the ice making chamber, and a portion of a front surface of the first door is recessed backward to form the storage space.

19. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having a storage chamber; a first door that opens and closes the storage chamber and having an ice making chamber to accommodate an ice maker; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a storage space formed by at least one of the first door or the second door, wherein at least a portion of the storage space does not overlap the ice making chamber; and a basket positioned in the storage space, wherein when the second door is closed, the storage space is shielded, and when the second door is opened, the storage space is opened.

20. The refrigerator of claim 19, wherein a portion of a rear surface of the first door is recessed forward to form the ice making chamber, and a portion of a front surface of the first door is recessed backward to form the storage space.

Images