Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to one embodiment comprises: an ice-making chamber providing a space in which ice is made; a cooler for supplying cold to the ice-making chamber; and an ice maker having ice-making cells, which are spaces in which water phase-changes into ice by means of the cold, wherein the ice maker includes: a first tray assembly including a first tray forming a portion of the ice-making cells; a second tray assembly including a second tray forming the other portion of the ice-making cells; and a pusher for separating the ice from the second tray.

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 space that is covered by a door. The refrigerator is configured to keep stored food in in a refrigerated state or frozen state by cooling an inside of the storage space using cold air.

[0003] Typically, an ice maker to make ice is provided in a freezing chamber of a refrigerator. The ice maker receives water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and cools the water to make ice. The ice generated in the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin. Ice stored in the ice bin can be taken out of the ice bin by a user opening a freezing chamber door and approaching the ice bin.

[0004] A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as "first prior art document".

[0005] A refrigerator of a first prior art document includes a storage chamber where food is stored; a first tray assembly provided in the storage chamber and forming a part of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by cold; and a second tray assembly forming another part of the ice making cell.

[0006] In the case of the first prior art document, spherical ice can be generated using the first and second tray assemblies, but there is a disadvantage in that a user must open a door to use the ice.

[0007] In the case of the first prior art document, since only a small amount of ice can be generated at one time, there is a disadvantage in that a lot of waiting time is required when a large amount of ice is to be used.

[0008] An ice maker and an ice bank provided in a refrigerating chamber door is disclosed in Chinese Patent Publication No. 114174740A10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as "second prior art document").

[0009] Ice stored in the ice bank can be taken out through a dispenser assembly. The ice maker includes an elastic mold that forms a cavity and is formed of an elastic material, a heat exchanger that is connected to the elastic mold and freezes water in the cavity, an elevating mechanism that easily discharges the ice from the cavity, and a driving mechanism that drives the elevating mechanism. The driving mechanism includes a motor and a rotating cam.

[0010] In the case of the second prior art document, spherical ice cannot be generated, and in a structure where the elevating mechanism presses the elastic mold from below, there is a disadvantage that it is difficult for the ice to separate from the elastic mold and fall downward. In order to completely separate the ice from the elastic mold, a vertical movement range of the elevating mechanism must be increased, and in this case, a size of the rotating cam must be increased, which has the disadvantage of increasing an overall size of the ice maker.[Disclosure] / [Technical Problem]

[0011] One embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of increasing a number of generated ices during one ice making process.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which ice can be smoothly separated from each of a plurality of ice making cells.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of generating spherical ice from a door.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of easily discharging generated ice from a dispenser of a door.[Technical Solution]

[0015] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include a cooler. The cooler may supply cold or operable to supply cold to the ice making chamber. The ice making chamber may be provided in a cabinet and / or a door.

[0016] The refrigerator may further include an ice maker. The ice maker may be disposed in the ice making chamber. An ice maker of one aspect may include a first tray assembly. The first tray assembly may define a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by cold. The ice maker may further include a second tray assembly. The second tray assembly may define another portion of the ice making cell.

[0017] The first tray assembly may include a first tray to define a portion of the ice making cell. The second tray assembly may include a second tray to define another portion of the ice making cell.

[0018] The ice maker may further include a pusher to separate ice from the second tray.

[0019] The ice making cell may be arranged in a plurality of rows. The pusher may include a first column. The pusher may include a second column. The pusher may include a first column in a first row for separating ice in a first row of the plurality of rows. The pusher may further include a second column in a second row for separating ice in a second row of the plurality of rows. The first column may be arranged to face a space between the plurality of second columns.

[0020] The pusher may include a plurality of first columns in a first row and a plurality of second columns in a second row. A number of the plurality of first columns may be less than a number of the plurality of second columns.

[0021] The pusher may include a first column and a second column provided spaced apart from the first bar. When the second tray assembly moves relative to the pusher, the second tray assembly may be in contact with the second column after the second tray assembly is in contact with the first column.

[0022] A number of first columns may be less than a number of second columns.

[0023] The refrigerator may further include a cold guide provided at outside the ice making cell as a path through which the cooler supplies cold to the ice making cell.

[0024] The cold guide may include a first opening as a path through which the cold flows into inside of a space formed by the cold guide. Among ice making cells, an ice making cell corresponding to the first column may be arranged upstream from an ice making cell corresponding to the second column with respect to the first opening.

[0025] The pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and a third column provided spaced apart from the first and second columns. A line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, and a portion of an outer surface of the third column may form an equilateral triangle. At least a portion of outer surfaces of the first to third columns may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface. One or more ribs may be positioned within the equilateral triangle.

[0026] Alternatively, the pusher may include a pusher body, a first column and a second column protruding from the pusher body, and a rib may protrude from the pusher body. The rib may be in contact with at least one of the first column or the second column, or may be adjacent to at least one of the first column or the second column.

[0027] Alternatively, the pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, and a portion of an outer surface of the third column may form a non-equilateral triangle.

[0028] Alternatively, the pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a fourth column spaced apart from the first column to the third column, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, a portion of an outer surface of the third column, and a portion of the fourth column may form a square. At least a portion of outer surfaces of the first column to the fourth column may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface. One or more ribs may be positioned within the square.

[0029] Alternatively, the pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a fourth column spaced apart from the first column to the third column, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, a portion of an outer surface of the third column, and a portion of the fourth column may form a non-square.

[0030] The pusher may comprise a plurality of columns provided spaced apart from each other, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of columns may form a regular polygon. At least a portion of the outer surface of the plurality of columns may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface.

[0031] The pusher may comprise a plurality of columns provided spaced apart from each other, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of columns may form a non-regular polygon.

[0032] The pusher may include a plurality of first columns in a first row for separating ice in a first row of a plurality of rows, and a plurality of second columns in a second row for separating ice in a second row of a plurality of rows.

[0033] At least one of the plurality of first columns may include a rib protruding outward from an outer surface. At least one of the plurality of second columns may include a rib protruding outward from an outer surface.

[0034] The pusher may further include a pusher body from which the plurality of first columns and the plurality of second columns extend.

[0035] A rib of the first column may include an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the pusher body as going outward from the first column. A rib of the second column may include an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the pusher body as going outward from the second column.

[0036] A number of ribs of one of the plurality of first columns may be different from a number of ribs of another of the plurality of first columns. A number of ribs of one of the plurality of second columns may be different from a number of ribs of another of the plurality of second columns.

[0037] The first column may include an edge for pressing ice of the first row. The second column may include an edge for pressing ice of the second row. At a water supply position or an ice making position, the edge of the first column may be positioned closer to the ice making cell or a vertical center line of the ice making cell than the edge of the second column.

[0038] An inclination angle of the edge of the first column with respect to a vertical line may be different from an inclination angle of the edge of the second column. An inclination angle of the edge of the first column with respect to a vertical line may be less than an inclination angle of the edge of the second column.

[0039] In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber provided in the door. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker provided in the ice making chamber and generating ice. The refrigerator may further include an ice bin for storing ice generated by the ice maker. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided in the door and for discharging ice stored in the ice bin.

[0040] The ice maker may include the first tray, the second tray, and the pusher described above.[Advantageous Effects]

[0041] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that a number of generated ices in one ice making process can be increased.

[0042] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that ice can be smoothly separated from each of a plurality of ice making cells.

[0043] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that spherical ice can be generated in a refrigerator door.

[0044] According to one embodiment, generated spherical ice can be easily discharged from a dispenser of a door.[Description of Drawings]

[0045] FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first r refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door, and FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A. FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of the present embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side of the present embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side of the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side of the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from a lower side of the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a bracket according to the present embodiment. FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 17B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a second tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18B is a perspective view of a second tray cover as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from one side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 19B is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from another side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from a lower side of the embodiment. FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a second tray supporter as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21B is a perspective view of a second tray supporter as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a second pusher as viewed from a front side of the embodiment. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a second pusher as viewed from a rear side of the embodiment. FIG. 24A is a front view of a second pusher according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 24B is a bottom view of a second pusher according to the present embodiment. FIG. 25A is a side view of a second pusher according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25B-25B of FIG. 24A. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker when a second tray assembly is to a full ice detection position in an ice separation process. FIG. 29A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray, and FIG. 29B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray. FIG. 30A is a drawing showing a state where a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position, and FIG. 30B is a drawing showing a state where a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position. FIG. 31 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment. [Mode for Invention]

[0046] 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. Additionally, at least one of component A or component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B. 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. 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", "joined" or "supported" to another component, the former may be directly connected, coupled, jointed or supported to the latter or may be "connected", coupled", "joined" or "supported" to the latter with a third component interposed therebetween.

[0047] FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated. FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated.

[0048] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present. FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door, and FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a cabinet 2. The cabinet 2 may have a storage space. The refrigerator 1 may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space. The door may be movably connected to the cabinet 2. The storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 18. The storage chamber may alternatively or additionally include a freezing chamber 19. As an example, FIG. 1B illustrates that the storage space includes a refrigerating chamber 18 and a freezing chamber 19.

[0050] The door may include a refrigerating chamber door 5 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 18. The refrigerating chamber 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating chamber doors 5.

[0051] The door may further include a freezing chamber door 30 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 19. The freezing chamber 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing chamber doors 30.

[0052] Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the refrigerating chamber 18 is opened and closed by a first refrigerating chamber door 10 and a second refrigerating chamber door 20.

[0053] At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for discharging water and / or ice. Of course, depending on a type of a refrigerator, it is also possible for the freezing chamber door 30 to be provided with the dispenser 11.

[0054] At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include at least one ice maker 200.

[0055] If a refrigerator includes a plurality of ice makers, types of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. Sizes (or volumes) of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. A transparency of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. In ice makers, structures for generating ice and methods for separating generated ice may be the same or different.

[0056] Hereinafter, an example in which an ice maker 200 is provided in the first refrigerating chamber door 10 will be described. Of course, if necessary, an ice maker may also be provided in the second refrigerating chamber door 20 or the freezing chamber door 30. At this time, the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be provided in the same door. Alternatively, an additional ice maker may be provided in the refrigerating chamber 18 or the freezing chamber 19.

[0057] In FIG. 1B, the refrigerator 1 is exemplarily illustrated as a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but it should be noted that an idea of the present invention can be equally applied to a side-by-side type refrigerator or a top-mount type refrigerator. In a case of a side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerator, a freezing chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser, or a refrigerating chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser.

[0058] The dispenser 11 may be positioned at a front side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. A portion of the dispenser 11 may be recessed rearward to provide a space in which a container may be positioned.

[0059] The dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the ice maker 200. At least a portion of the ice maker 200 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11.

[0060] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include an outer case 101. The outer case 101 may form a front exterior of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a door liner 102. The door liner 102 may be directly or indirectly connected to the outer case 101. The door liner 102 may open and close the refrigerating chamber 18.

[0061] In a state in which the outer case 101 and the door liner 102 are connected, an insulating space may be formed between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102. An insulator may be provided in the insulating space. The insulator may be formed by hardening a foaming agent injected from an outside. Alternatively, a vacuum insulator may be provided in the insulating space. It is also possible for the insulator and the vacuum insulator to be provided together in the insulating space.

[0062] The refrigerator 1 may include an ice making chamber 122 that provides a space where ice is generated. The ice making chamber 122 may be provided, for example, in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The ice maker 200 may be disposed in the ice making chamber 122. For example, the door liner 102 may form the ice making chamber 122. The ice making chamber 122 may be formed as one surface of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101.

[0063] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice bin 600 in which ice generated in the ice maker 200 is stored. Ice stored in the ice bin 600 may be discharged to the dispenser 11. The ice bin 600 may be received in the ice making chamber 122 together with the ice maker 200. The ice bin 600 may be disposed below the ice maker 200.

[0064] Cold generated in a cooler 110 (see FIG. 24) may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122. That is, a cooler 110 may be configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122. Alternatively, the cooler 110 may be a component configured to operate to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122.

[0065] The cooler 110 may be configured to cool the ice making chamber 122, including at least one of a refrigerant cycle or a thermoelectric element. For example, cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122.

[0066] The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply passage 2a that guides cold air of the freezing chamber 19 or cold air of a space where an evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 is disposed to the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge passage 2b that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 to the freezing chamber 19 or a space where the evaporator is disposed. The supply passage 2a and the discharge passage 2b may be provided in the cabinet 2.

[0067] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a cold air inlet 123a. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air inlet 123a may be communicated with the supply passage 2a. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air outlet 123b. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air outlet 123b may be communicated with the discharge passage 2b. The cold air inlet 123a may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the supply passage 2a is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed. The cold air outlet 123b may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the discharge passage 2b is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed.

[0068] The ice maker 200 may form ice having a spherical shape. The "spherical shape" mentioned in this specification means not only a geometrically spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape.

[0069] The one side of the door liner 102 may include a first side portion 102a and a second side portion 102b having different widths in the front-back direction. A width of the second side portion 102b may be formed to be greater than a width of the first side portion 102a. At least one of the cold air inlet 123a or the cold air outlet 123b may be formed in the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102. The second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber 18 than the first side portion 102a.

[0070] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice making chamber door 130 that opens and closes the ice making chamber 122. The ice making chamber door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulator provided therein. The ice making chamber door 130 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge.

[0071] Meanwhile, a basket 136 (a first basket) capable of storing food, may be connected to the ice making chamber door 130. Of course, a basket 137 (a second basket) may also be provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10. For example, the second basket 137 may be positioned below the first basket 136.

[0072] A component space 123 for receiving a component may be formed in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. At least one of a valve 750 for controlling the flow of water, a filter (not shown) for purifying water, or a water tank 700 for storing water may be received in the component space 123. The component space 123 may be formed by the door liner 102. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cover member 132 that covers the component space 123. A holder 125 to which the filter is coupled may be provided in the component space 123.

[0073] The cover member 132 may include an opening 133. The filter may be coupled to the holder 125 through the opening 133. The second basket 137 may cover the opening 133. When the second basket 137 is separated, the opening 133 may be exposed. The holder 125 may be exposed to the opening 133.

[0074] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a space 11b. A container such as a cup may be positioned in the space 11b. Water or ice may be discharged into the space 11b.

[0076] At least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 may overlap the component space 123 in a vertical direction. The ice maker 200 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction. The ice bin 600 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction. As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may include a second pusher 530. The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice bin 600 in a vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction.

[0077] The ice bin 600 may include an ice discharging portion 630 that operates to discharge stored ice. The ice discharging portion 630 may include, for example, a rotating member that rotates.

[0078] An ice chute 800 may be arranged at a lower side of the ice making chamber 122. The ice chute 800 may be opened and closed by a cap duct 820. An ice guide 840 may be positioned at a lower side of the ice chute 800. The ice chute 800 may provide a path for ice to move. The ice chute 800 may guide ice discharged from the ice bin 600 to the ice guide 840. The ice guide 840 may guide ice to the space 11b. The ice chute 800 may overlap at least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the ice chute 800 may overlap the ice maker 200 in a vertical direction.

[0079] The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice chute 800 in the vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the cap duct 820 in a vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.

[0080] As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510. The second pusher 530 may be positioned closer to the outer case 101 than the first pusher 510. A horizontal distance between the second pusher 530 and a front surface of the outer case 101 may be less than a horizontal distance between a path formed by the ice chute 800 and a front surface of the outer case 101.

[0081] The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice discharging portion 630 in a vertical direction. The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice chute 800 in a vertical direction. The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.

[0082] The ice maker 200 may overlap the water tank 700 in a vertical direction.

[0083] FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner of the present embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner of the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct of the present embodiment.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the door liner 102 may include an ice making chamber wall 140 forming the ice making chamber 122. The door liner 102 may further include a peripheral wall 102c. The peripheral wall 102c may be spaced apart from the ice making chamber wall 140 at an outer side of the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0085] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air duct 900. The cold air duct 900 may guide cold air introduced through the cold air inlet 123a to the ice making chamber 122. The cold air duct 900 may guide cold air of the ice making chamber 122 to the cold air outlet 123b.

[0086] The cold air duct 900 may include a first duct 910 forming a first passage. The first passage may communicate the cold air inlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122. The cold air duct 900 may further include a second duct 920. The second duct 920 may form the first passage together with the first duct 910.

[0087] A portion of the first duct 910 may be aligned with the cold air inlet 123a. A portion of the second duct 920 may be in contact with the ice making chamber wall 140. A first through hole 140a may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140. The first through hole 140a is a supply through hole through which cold air is supplied to the ice making chamber 122. A portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the first through hole 140a. One surface of the second duct 920 may form the first passage.

[0088] The cold air duct 900 may further include a third duct 930. The third duct 930 may form a second passage. The second passage may communicate the cold air outlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122. The third duct 930 may form the second passage together with the second duct 920. For example, another surface of the second duct 920 may form the second passage. A second through hole 140b may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140. The second through hole 140b is a discharge through hole through which cold air is discharged from the ice making chamber 122. The second through hole 140b may be located below the first through hole 140a. Another portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the cold air outlet 123b. A portion of the third duct 930 may be aligned with the second through hole 140b.

[0089] If the ice maker 200 is provided in the freezing chamber door 30, the cold air duct 900 may be omitted.

[0090] The ice making chamber wall 140 may include a front wall 141. The front wall 141 may be a wall facing the outer case 101. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a first side wall 143. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a second side wall 144 positioned opposite the first side wall 143. The cold air duct 900 may be positioned between the second side wall 144 and the peripheral wall 102c. The first through hole 140a and the second through hole 140b may be formed in the second side wall 144. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include an upper wall 142. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a lower wall 148.

[0091] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a supporting portion 150 on which the ice maker 200 is installed. The supporting portion 150 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. As another example, a portion or all of the supporting portion 150 may be integrally formed with the ice making chamber wall 140. Alternatively, the supporting portion 150 may be omitted and the ice maker 200 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. In either case, the ice maker 200 may be described as being supported on the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0092] The supporting portion 150 may include a first member 152. The first member 152 may extend in a vertical direction. The ice maker 200 may be installed on the first member 152. The first member 152 may include a mounting portion 155. The mounting portion 155 may be disposed at an upper portion of the first member 152. For example, the first member 152 may be provided with a slot 154 through which a portion of the ice maker 200 passes. A motor assembly for driving an ice discharging portion 630 of the ice bin 600 may be mounted on the first member 152.

[0093] The supporting portion 150 may further include a second member 153. The second member 153 may extend in a horizontal direction from the first member 152. The ice bin 600 may be seated on the second member 153. An ice through hole 153a through which ice passes may be formed in the second member 153.

[0094] The ice maker 200 may further include a bracket 220 supported by the supporting portion 150 or supported by the ice making chamber wall 140. When the ice maker 200 is directly supported by the ice making chamber wall 140, the ice maker 200 may be supported by the front wall 141.

[0095] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of the present embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 11, the ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly 201. The first tray assembly 201 may form a portion of an ice making cell 203. The ice maker 200 may further include a second tray assembly 202. The second tray assembly 202 may form another portion of the ice making cell 203. The ice making cell 203 is a space where water is phase-changed by cold.

[0097] A driver 480 may be mounted on one side of the bracket 220. The driver 480 may provide driving force to the second tray assembly 202. The first tray assembly 201 may be installed on the bracket 220. The second tray assembly 202 may move relative to the first tray assembly 201. For example, the second tray assembly 202 may move linearly, curvedly, or rotationally.

[0098] The driver 480 may include a motor housing 481. The driver 480 may further include a motor received in the motor housing 481 and a power transfer portion. A coupling portion 482 may be formed at an upper side of the motor housing 481. The coupling portion 482 may be coupled to the bracket 220 by a coupling member. The driver 480 may be positioned adjacent to the first side wall 143. That is, the driver 480 may be positioned opposite a first through hole (inlet through hole) 140a through which cold air is introduced.

[0099] The ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550 for detecting a full ice of the ice bin 600. One end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the driver 480. Another end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the bracket 220.

[0100] The ice making chamber wall 140 may be provided with a recess formed at a position corresponding to the driver 480. The recess may include a first recess 145a formed in the first side wall 143. The recess may further include a second recess 145b formed in the front wall 141.

[0101] The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a third recess 145c in which a portion of the supporting portion 150 is positioned. The third recess 145c may be formed in the front wall 141. The third recess 145c may be connected to the second recess 145b.

[0102] The ice maker 200 may further include a cold guide. The cold guide may provide a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203. The cold guide may be provided outside the ice making cell 203. Hereinafter, an example in which the cold is cold air will be described. The cold guide may include, for example, a cold air guide 270. Accordingly, all configurations described in the cold air guide may be understood as configurations of the cold guide. In the present specification, a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203 may be formed by the cold air guide, the first tray, and the first tray cover. Accordingly, at least a portion of each of the cold guide, the first tray and the first tray cover may serve as the cold guide.

[0103] The cold air guide 270 may be adjacent to or in contact with the second side wall 144. The cold air guide 270 may be a separate component from the first tray case described below or may be a portion of the first tray case. The cold air guide 270 may include a first opening 272. Cold air may be introduced into the first opening 272 to be supplied to the ice making cell 203.

[0104] The driver 480 may be located at an opposite side of the second side wall 144 or the cold air guide 270 with respect to the ice maker 200. The ice making chamber wall 140 may have slots 146, 147 formed therein through which a water pipe through which water flows and one or more connectors (or wire) for connection with the ice maker 200 pass. The slots 146, 147 may be formed in the front wall 141.

[0105] A portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the first tray assembly 201. Another portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the second tray assembly 202. In a state in which an ice making is completed, a portion of ice may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. In a state in which an ice making is completed, another portion of ice may be in contact with the second tray assembly 202.

[0106] The first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray 320. The first tray 320 may form a portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.

[0107] At least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material to facilitate a transfer of cold air. The first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray case. The first tray case may include a portion that is in contact with the first tray 320 or that is supported by the first tray 320.

[0108] The first tray case may further include a first tray cover 300. The first tray cover 300 may be coupled to the first tray 320. The first tray cover 300 may be disposed at one side of the first tray 320.

[0109] The first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220. For example, the first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220 in a state in which the first tray cover 300 is coupled to one side of the first tray 320. Alternatively, when the bracket 220 is omitted, the first tray 320 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0110] The ice maker 200 may further include a heater 330 to provide heat to the ice making cell 203. For example, the first tray assembly 201 may include the heater 330.

[0111] The heater 330 may operate at least in an ice separation process to provide heat to the first tray 320 after an ice making is completed. The heater 330 may function as an ice separation heater. The heater 330 may be in contact with the first tray 320.

[0112] The first tray assembly 201 may further include a heater case 340 (or a heater cover).

[0113] The heater case 340 may include a portion in contact with the heater 330 or supported by the heater 330. The heater case 340 may be a separate component from the first tray cover 300 or may be integrally formed with the first tray cover 300.

[0114] The heater case 340 may press the heater 330 toward the first tray 320. The heater case 340 may be positioned between the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300. For example, the heater case 340 may be positioned at an upper side of a portion of the first tray 320 and at a lower side of a portion of the first tray cover 300.

[0115] The second tray assembly 202 may include a second tray 360. The second tray 360 may form another portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.

[0116] At least a portion of the second tray 360 may be formed of a deformable material so that ice may be easily separated.

[0117] The second tray assembly 202 may further include a second tray case. The second tray case may include a portion in contact with or to support the second tray 360.

[0118] The second tray case may include a second tray cover 350. A portion of the second tray cover 350 may be positioned closer to the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360. The second tray case may further include a second tray supporter 380. A portion of the second tray supporter 380 may be positioned farther way from the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360.

[0119] The ice maker 200 may further include a water supply 240 for supplying water to the ice making cell. The water supply 240 may supply water to some of a plurality of ice making cells. The water supply 240 may be installed on the bracket 220. The water supply 240 may be provided with a slot 242 through which a water pipe passes. The water supply 240 may include a through hole 241 through which water is discharged.

[0120] The cold air guide 270 may be installed on, for example, the bracket 220, the first tray 320, or the first tray cover 300. The cold air guide 270 may guide cold air to the ice making cell 203. The cold air guide 270 may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. The cold air guide 270 may be in contact with one or more of the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300.

[0121] A portion of the cold air guide 270 may be positioned at an opposite side of the driver 480 with respect to the first tray assembly 201. Cold air guided by the cold air guide 270 may flow in a direction close to the driver 480. The driver 480 may be prevented from acting as a flow resistance of cold air by an arrangement of the driver 480.

[0122] The ice maker 200 may further include a temperature sensor 710 for detecting a temperature of water or ice in an ice making cell. For example, the temperature sensor 710 may detect a temperature of the first tray 320. The temperature sensor 710 may be seated on the first tray 320. The temperature sensor 710 may be covered by an insulator 720. The insulator 720 may prevent cold air from directly contacting the temperature sensor 710.

[0123] The ice maker 200 may further include a transfer portion 420, 421 for transmitting a power of the driver 480. For example, a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the second tray assembly 202 by a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421. A first transfer portion 420 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be connected to the driver 480. The first transfer portion 420 may be coupled to one side of the second tray supporter 380. A second transfer portion 421 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be coupled to another side of the second tray supporter 380.

[0124] The ice maker 200 may further include a shaft 410 coupled to each of the plurality of transfer portions 420 and 421. The first transfer portion 420 may be movably supported by one side of the first tray 320. The second transfer portion 421 may be movably supported by another side of the first tray 320.

[0125] A material of the transfer portions 420, 421 is different from a material of the first tray 320. The transfer portions 420, 421 may be, for example, a plastic injection molded product. To prevent direct friction between two components having different materials, an intermediate member 416 may be coupled to one of the transfer portions 420, 421 and the first tray 320. For example, the intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the first tray 320. The transfer portions 420, 421 may pass through the intermediate member 416 and be in contact with the intermediate member 416.

[0126] The ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510 to press ice or a first tray assembly 201 in an ice separation process. The first pusher 510 may push ice so that ice is separated from the first tray 320. The first pusher 510 may pass through the first tray cover 300 to push ice, for example. The first pusher 510 may push ice by passing through the first tray 320.

[0127] The first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480. For example, the first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480 transmitted to the second tray assembly 202.

[0128] The ice maker 200 may further include a pusher link 440. For example, a plurality of pusher links 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510. One side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510, and another side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202. For example, the other side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray supporter 380.

[0129] The ice maker 200 may further include an elastic member 460. One end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the transfer portion 420, 421, and another end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202. When the elastic member 460 is tensioned, a position of the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be moved to an initial position by a restoring force. The elastic member 460 may increase an adhesion force between the first tray assembly 201 and the second tray assembly 202 at an ice making position. The other end of the elastic member 460 may be coupled to the second tray supporter 380.

[0130] The ice maker 200 may further include a second pusher 530 to press ice or the second tray assembly 202 in an ice separation process. The second pusher 530 may be installed on the bracket 220, for example. If the bracket 220 is omitted, the second pusher 530 may be installed on the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0131] The ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550. The full ice detection lever 550 may include a lever body 552 extending in one direction. The full ice detection lever 550 may further include a first extension 553 extending from one end of the lever body 552. The full ice detection lever 550 may further include a second extension 554 extending from another end of the lever body 552. The first extension 553 may be connected to the driver 480. The second extension 554 may be connected to the bracket 220.

[0132] The driver 480 may include an extension rib 484 for insertion into or passing through the bracket 220. For example, a plurality of extension ribs 484 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal or vertical direction. For example, the extension ribs 484 may protrude from the motor housing 481.

[0133] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the first tray 320 may define a first cell 321, which is a portion of the ice making cell 203. The first tray 320 may include a first cell wall 322 to form the first cell 321. The first cell 321 may be formed in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere, for example.

[0135] The first tray 320 may include a first contact surface 322a in contact with the second tray 360. The first contact surface 322a may be one surface of the first cell wall 322.

[0136] The first tray 320 may form, for example, a plurality of first cells 321. A plurality of first cells 321 may be arranged in a plurality of rows so as to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of ices. The plurality of first cells 321 may include a first cell portion 321a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 321b arranged in a second row.

[0137] The first cell portion 321a may form a portion of a first ice making cell of the first row, and the second cell portion 321b may form a portion of a second ice making cell of the second row. The first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing. The Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door.

[0138] The first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 321a. The second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 321b.

[0139] The first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row. The second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.

[0140] A number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a may be the same as or different from a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b. A number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a is less than a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b.

[0141] One first cell portion 321a may be arranged to correspond to an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. Alternatively, one first cell portion 321a may be arranged to face an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. The first cell portion 321a and the second cell portion 321b may be arranged in a zigzag arrangement.

[0142] The first tray 320 may further include through holes 323a, 323b that provide a path for water or cold air. The through holes 323a, 323b may be provided in the same number as a number of the plurality of first cells 321.

[0143] The first tray 320 may further include an auxiliary storage chamber 323d. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may allow water or cold air to pass through. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be disposed at an upper side of the through holes 323a, 323b. The first tray 320 may further include an extension wall 323c. The extension wall 323c may extend upward from a periphery of the through holes 323a, 323b to form the auxiliary storage chamber 323d. The extension wall 323c may extend from the first cell wall 322.

[0144] The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a space where ice is generated. Alternatively, the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a portion of an ice making cell 203. When an ice making is completed, an upper end of ice may be located in the through hole 323a, 323b or adjacent to the through hole 323a, 323b. Accordingly, generated ice may have a spherical shape or a shape that is almost spherical.

[0145] The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store water supplied in excess to the ice making cell 203. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store ice that expands in a process of supplied water being phase-changed.

[0146] The first tray 320 may further include an extension 324. The extension 324 may include a portion extending from the first cell wall 322. The extension 324 may be in contact with a portion of the cold air guide 270 or may support the cold air guide 270.

[0147] The extension 324 may include a portion spaced apart from the cold air guide 270. Cold air may flow through a space between the extension 324 and the cold air guide 270.

[0148] The extension portion 324 may include a first extension wall 324e. The extension 324 may further include a second extension wall 324d. The second extension wall 324d may extend in a direction crossing the first extension wall 324e. The first and second extension walls 324d, 324e may be in contact with the guide wall or be spaced apart from the guide wall at the corner portion.

[0149] The first tray 320 may further include one or more coupling parts to be coupled to the bracket 220. For example, the first tray 320 may include a first coupling part 324a. The first tray 320 may further include a second coupling part 324b. When the bracket 220 is omitted, the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may be in contact with or be supported by the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0150] The extension 324 may further include the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b. For example, the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may extend from one end of the first extension wall 324e in a direction away from the second tray 360. The first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction (a direction crossing a Y-axis, for example, a horizontal direction). The first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may include a coupling hole 324c.

[0151] The first tray 320 may further include a supporter 325 that supports a component for a movement of the second tray assembly 202. For example, a plurality of supporters 325 may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction. The supporter 325 may extend in one direction from the extension 324.

[0152] The supporter 325 may include a hole 325a. For example, the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be movably coupled to the supporter 325. For example, the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be rotatably coupled to the supporter 325. The intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the hole 325a of the supporter 325, and a slot 325b into which a portion of the intermediate member 416 is inserted may be provided in the supporter 325 to prevent the intermediate member 416 from rotating with respect to the supporter 325. The slot 325b may extend outwardly from the hole 325a.

[0153] The intermediate member 416 may be formed of a different material than the first tray 320. An entirety of the first tray 320 may be formed of the same material, or at least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material.

[0154] The first tray 320 may further include a bracket coupling portion 325c to be coupled to the bracket 220. The bracket coupling portion 325c may protrude from the extension 324. The bracket coupling portion 325c may be positioned between a plurality of supports 325.

[0155] The first tray 320 may further include a cover coupling portion 327 to be coupled to the first tray cover 300. For example, a plurality of cover coupling portions 327 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a left-right direction or a front-back direction. For example, the cover coupling portion 327 may protrude from the extension 324.

[0156] The first tray 320 may further include a sensor mounting portion 326 on which the temperature sensor 710 is mounted. The sensor mounting portion 326 may be formed in a recessed shape toward the second tray 360. The temperature sensor 710 may be received in the sensor mounting portion 326.

[0157] The first tray 320 may further include a receiving portion 326a for receiving an insulator 720 seated on the temperature sensor 710.

[0158] The first tray 320 may further include a plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c. The plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may include a first coupling boss 328a. The heater case 340 may be seated on the first coupling boss 328a. The first coupling boss 328a may be coupled to a coupling member passing through the first tray cover 300 and the heater case 340.

[0159] The plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may further include a second coupling boss 328b. The first tray cover 300 may be seated on the second coupling boss 328b. The second coupling boss 328b may be coupled to a coupling member that is coupled to the first tray cover 300.

[0160] The plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may further include a third coupling boss 328c. The third coupling boss 328c may be coupled to a coupling member passing through the first tray cover 300.

[0161] The first tray 320 may further include a heater seating portion 329 on which the heater 330 is seated. The heater seating portion 329 may be formed, for example, by a portion of the first tray 320 being recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360.

[0162] The first tray 320 may further include a guide groove 329a for guiding a portion of the heater 330 disposed outside the heater seating portion 329.

[0163] The first tray 320 may further include a recess 329c recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360 from the extension 324 or the first cell wall 322. The heater seating portion 329 may be formed by being recessed in the recess 329c. Of course, the recess 329c may be omitted.

[0164] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0165] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the first tray cover 300 may include a first portion 301. At least a portion of the first portion 301 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, at least a portion of the first portion 301 may be positioned at an upper side of the first tray 320.

[0166] The first tray cover 300 may further include a second portion 302 extending from one side of the first portion 301. The second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction crossing the first portion 301. For example, the second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction away from the first tray 320.

[0167] The second portion 302 may cover the first pusher 510 at an ice making position. The second portion 302 may minimize an exposure of the first pusher 510. The second portion 302 may be positioned between the first pusher 510 and the ice making chamber door 130. A hole 302a may be formed in the second portion 302. A coupling member may pass through the hole 302a.

[0168] The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide 303. The guide 303 may extend from the first portion 301 and provide a movement path of the first pusher 510. The guide 303 may extend in a direction crossing the first portion 301 from the first portion 301. The guide 303 may include a guide slot 303a.

[0169] The first tray cover 300 may further include a water supply hole 301a. The water supply hole 301a may be aligned with a through hole 241 of the water supply 240.

[0170] The first tray cover 300 may further include a communication hole 301b aligned with the auxiliary storage chamber 323d (or a through hole 323a, 323b) of the first tray 320. For example, a plurality of communication holes 301b may be formed in the first portion 301.

[0171] The first tray cover 300 may further include a first coupling hole 301d aligned with the first coupling boss 328a. A coupling member may be coupled to the first coupling boss 328a by passing through the first coupling hole 301d and the heater case 340.

[0172] The first tray cover 300 may further include a coupling portion 301e aligned with the second coupling boss 328b. The coupling portion 301e may protrude from the first portion 301. A coupling member may be coupled to the second coupling boss 328b by passing through the coupling portion 301e.

[0173] The first tray cover 300 may further include a second coupling hole 301f aligned with the third coupling boss 328c. A coupling member may be coupled to the third coupling boss 328c by passing through the second coupling hole 301f.

[0174] The first portion 301 may further include a receiving groove 301g in which an extension wall 323c of the first tray 320 is received. A rib 301c may be formed in a portion of the receiving groove 301g corresponding to the communication hole 301b.

[0175] The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide cover 304 in contact with a portion of the cold air guide 270. The guide cover 304 may cover a portion of the cold air guide 270. The guide cover 304 may be bent at the first portion 301.

[0176] The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide contact portion 304a in contact with the cold air guide 270. The guide contact portion 304a may extend upward from the first portion 301.

[0177] The first tray cover 300 may further include a tray seating portion 305 seated on the first tray 320. For example, a plurality of tray seating portions 305 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first portion 301. The tray seating portion 305 may extend downward from both ends of the first portion 301. The first portion 301 may be spaced apart from a portion of the first tray 320 by the tray seating portion 305.

[0178] The first tray cover 300 may further include a tray coupling portion 306 to be coupled to the first tray 320. The cover coupling portion 327 may be coupled to the tray coupling portion 306. For example, the cover coupling portion 327 may be inserted into the tray coupling portion 306.

[0179] The first tray cover 300 may further include a case contact portion 307. The case contact portion 307 may protrude from the first portion 301. The case contact portion 307 may be in contact with the heater case 340. The case contact portion 307 may press the heater case 340. For example, a plurality of case contact portions 307 may be arranged to be spaced apart in a front-back direction and a left-right direction.

[0180] The first tray cover 300 may further include a pressing protrusion 308. The pressing protrusion 380 may press the insulator 720. For example, a plurality of pressing protrusions 308 may protrude from the first portion 301.

[0181] The first tray cover 300 may further include a heater guide 309. The heater guide 309 may be positioned adjacent to one tray seating portion of a plurality of tray seating portions 305. The heater guide 309 may protrude from the first portion 301. A portion of the heater 330 may be positioned between the heater guide 309 and the one tray seating portion 305.

[0182] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a bracket according to the present embodiment.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 16, the bracket 220 may include a first portion 221. The first tray assembly 201 may be coupled to the first portion 221. The first portion 221 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150. The bracket 220 may further include a second portion 230 extending from the first portion 221. The driver 480 may be coupled to the second portion 230.

[0184] The water supply 240 may be coupled to the first portion 221. The cold air guide 270 may be coupled to the first portion 221.

[0185] The second pusher 530 may be coupled to the first portion 221. The first portion 221 may further include a pusher supporter 227c on which the second pusher 530 is supported. A portion of the second pusher 530 may be inserted into the pusher supporter 227c. The first portion 221 may further include a coupling portion 227d through which a coupling member coupled to the second pusher 530 passes.

[0186] The first portion 221 may further include a slot 227a into which a portion of the second pusher 530 is inserted or for exposing a portion of the second pusher 530. The coupling member may be coupled to the supporting portion 150 by passing through the second pusher 530 in a state in which a portion of the second pusher 530 is aligned with the slot 227a. For example, the first portion 221 may include a plurality of slots 227a. The plurality of slots 227a may be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal direction or a vertical direction. The slot 227a may be disposed between the coupling member 227d and the pusher supporter 227c.

[0187] The first portion 221 may include a first wall 221a. At least a portion of the first wall 221a may extend in a vertical direction. The first portion 221 may further include a second wall 221b extending from a lower end of the first wall 221a. The second wall 221b may be inclined from the first wall 221a. For example, in a state in which the first tray assembly 201 is supported by the bracket 220, the second wall 221b may extend in a direction away from the first tray assembly 201 or an ice making cell 203 or an ice making chamber door 130. The first portion 221 may further include a third wall 221c extending from the second wall 221b. The third wall 221c can be divided into a part extending horizontally or inclined with respect to a horizontal plane, and a part extending vertically or inclined with respect to a horizontal plane. Alternatively, the second wall 221b may be omitted, and the third wall 221c may also extend from a lower side of the first wall 221a.

[0188] The bracket 220 may further include a lever coupling portion 228 to which a second extension 554 of the full ice detection lever 550 is coupled. The lever coupling portion 228 may include a lever through hole 228a. The lever coupling portion 228 may be disposed at an opposite side of the second portion 230 in the first portion 221.

[0189] The second portion 230 may surround the driver 480. The second portion 230 may be provided with an opening 232 through which a component for connecting the driver 480 and the second tray assembly 202 passes.

[0190] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 17B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0191] Referring to FIG. 17, the second tray 360 may be seated on the second tray supporter 380. When the second tray 360 is seated on the second tray supporter 380, a portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray supporter 380.

[0192] In a state in which the second tray 360 is seated on the second tray supporter 380, the second tray cover 350 may be seated on the second tray 360. A portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray cover 350.

[0193] The second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the second tray cover 350 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S4. The coupling member S4 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.

[0194] The second tray assembly 202 may further include a fixing portion 390. Although not limited, when the second tray assembly 202 is divided into three regions in an X-axis direction (left and right direction), the fixing portion 390 may be positioned in a region located in a center portion. The fixing portion 390 may be seated on the second tray 360. In a state in which the fixing portion 390 is seated on the second tray 360, a portion of the fixing portion 390 may pass through the second tray 360.

[0195] The fixing portion 390 passing through the second tray 360 may be in contact with the second tray supporter 380 or may pass through the second tray supporter 380.

[0196] The second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the fixing portion 390 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S5. The coupling member S5 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.

[0197] The second tray 360 may define a second cell 361, which is another portion of the ice making cell. The second tray 360 may include a second cell wall 362 forming the second cell 361. The second cell 361 may be formed, for example, in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere.

[0198] The second tray 360 may form, for example, a plurality of second cells 361. In order to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of generated ices, a plurality of second cells 361 may be arranged in a plurality of rows.

[0199] The plurality of second cells 361 may include a first cell portion 361a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 361b arranged in a second row. The first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing. The Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door. The first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 361a. The second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 361b.

[0200] The first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row. The second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.

[0201] Since a second cell 361 in the second tray 360 may be arranged to correspond to a first cell 321 of the first tray 320, a description of specific arrangement of the second cell 361 will be omitted.

[0202] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a second tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18B is a perspective view of a second tray cover as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 16 and FIG. 18, the second tray cover 350 may include a cover body 351. The cover body 351 may be formed in a closed loop shape. That is, the cover body 351 may form an opening 352 through which the second tray 360 passes.

[0204] The cover body 351 may include a rounded surface 351a. The rounded surface 351a may be formed to correspond to a curved wall 365a of the second tray 360, which will be described later. The rounded surface 351a may be in contact with the curved wall 365a of the second tray 360.

[0205] The cover body 351 may further include a plurality of coupling protrusions 353, 353a. The plurality of coupling protrusions 353, 353a may pass through the second tray 360 and be coupled to the second tray supporter 380.

[0206] The plurality of coupling protrusions 353, 353a may include a first coupling protrusion 353. The first coupling protrusion 353 may protrude from the cover body 351. The plurality of coupling protrusions 353, 353a may further include a second coupling protrusion 353a. The cover body 351 may be provided with an extension 351b extending to the opening 352. The second coupling protrusion 353a may extend from the extension 351b.

[0207] The cover body 351 may include a first groove 355 in which a first protrusion 368a, which will be described later, is received. When the first protrusion 368a is received in the first groove 355, the first protrusion 368a may be exposed to an outside. Conversely, it is also possible for the first protrusion to be formed in the cover body 351 and the first groove (or first hole) to be formed in the second tray 360.

[0208] The second tray cover 350 may further include a recess 356. The recess 356 may be provided in the cover body 351. The recess 356 may be provided in a position corresponding to the first coupling protrusion 353 in the cover body 351. The recess 356 may be recessed toward the first coupling protrusion 353 in the cover body 351.

[0209] FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from one side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 19B is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from another side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0210] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 20, the second tray 360 may define a second cell 361, which is another portion of the ice making cell. The second tray 360 may include a second cell wall 362 forming the second cell 361. The second cell 361 may be formed, for example, in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere.

[0211] A first cell portion 361a may be positioned to correspond to an area between two adjacent second cell portions 361b or to face an area between two adjacent second cell portions 361b. That is, the first cell portion 361a and the second cell portion 361b may be arranged in a zigzag arrangement.

[0212] The second tray 360 may further include a pusher contact portion 362a in contact with the second pusher 530 during an ice separation process. The pusher contact portion 362a may be formed on the second cell wall 362. A thickness of the second cell wall 362 in a circumferential direction may be different from a thickness of the pusher contact portion 362a. A thickness of the pusher contact portion 362a may be greater than a thickness of the second cell wall 362. The pusher contact portion 362a may include a flat surface.

[0213] The second tray 360 may further include a peripheral wall 365. The peripheral wall 365 may extend from the second cell wall 362 toward the first tray 320. The peripheral wall 365 may surround the first cell wall 322.

[0214] The peripheral wall 365 may include a curved wall 365a. The curved wall 365a may be positioned adjacent to the first cell portion 361a. The peripheral wall 365 may further include a straight wall 365b. The straight wall 365b may, for example, be parallel to a Z-axis. The straight wall 365b may be positioned adjacent to the second cell portion 361b.

[0215] The peripheral wall 365 may further include a connecting wall 365c connecting the straight wall 365b and the curved wall 365a. The connecting wall 365c may be rounded in a Z-axis direction. A curvature of the curved wall 365a may be different from a curvature of the connecting wall 365c. A curvature of the curved wall 365a may be greater than a curvature of the connecting wall 365c. The cover body 351 may surround an outer surface of the peripheral wall 365.

[0216] The second tray 360 may further include an extension 367. The extension 367 may extend from the second cell wall 362 or the peripheral wall 365. Alternatively, the extension 367 may extend from a boundary portion between the second cell wall 362 and the peripheral wall 365. The extension 367 may extend in a direction crossing the peripheral wall 365.

[0217] The second tray cover 350 may be seated on one surface of the extension 367. Another surface of the extension 367 may be seated on the second tray supporter 380.

[0218] A first protrusion 368a may be formed on one surface of the extension 367. A second protrusion 368 may be formed on another surface of the extension 367.

[0219] The first protrusion 368a may be bent one or more times in a horizontal direction. For example, the first protrusion 368a may include a first part and a second part inclined from the first part. The first protrusion 368a may be formed in a shape such as a "V", for example.

[0220] The second protrusion 368 may be bent one or more times in a horizontal direction. For example, the second protrusion 368 may include a first part and a second part inclined from the first part. The second protrusion 368 may be formed in a shape such as a "V", for example.

[0221] A third protrusion 369 may be provided on another surface of the extension 367 to be coupled to the second tray supporter 380. The third protrusion 369 may overlap the curved wall 365a in a Z-axis direction, for example.

[0222] The second protrusion 368 may be positioned closer to the straight wall 365b than the curved wall 365a. The first protrusion 368a may be positioned closer to the second cell portion 361b. The second protrusion 368 may be positioned closer to the second cell portion 361b. The third protrusion 369 may be positioned closer to the first cell portion 361a.

[0223] The extension 367 may be provided with a plurality of holes 367a through which the coupling protrusions 353, 353a pass. A portion of the extension 367 where the coupling protrusions 353, 353a are formed (referred to as a "fixed end") is fixed to the second tray cover 350 and the second tray supporter 380. When the second pusher 530 presses the second tray 360, walls forming each of the second cells 361 must be independently deformed so that ice can be easily separated from the second cells 361.

[0224] However, since a distance between each of the plurality of second cells 361 and the fixed end is different, a wall of a portion disposed far from the fixed end may not be deformed independently, but may simply move together with ice while maintaining its original shape or with a small amount of deformation. In this case, ice may not be separated from the second cell 361. For example, when the second tray 360 is divided into three regions in left and right directions, an separation performance may be degraded in a central region.

[0225] In order to improve an ice separation performance, the fixing portion 390 may fix a central region of the second tray 320. Since the fixing portion 390 functions as the fixing end, some of the second cells are positioned adjacent to the fixing portion 390. Walls of the second cells positioned adjacent to the fixing portion 390 can be independently deformed during an ice separation process, so that an ice separation performance can be improved.

[0226] The second tray 360 may further include a fixing groove 364 in which the fixing portion 390 is received. The second tray 360 may further include a protruding wall 364a extending from a portion corresponding to the fixing groove 364. The fixing portion 390 may pass through the fixing groove 364 and be positioned within the protruding wall 364a.

[0227] FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a second tray supporter as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21B is a perspective view of a second tray supporter as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0228] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 21, the second tray supporter 380 may include a supporter body 381 that supports the second tray 360. The supporter body 381 may include a receiving portion 381a in which a portion of the second tray 360 is received. The receiving portion 381a may receive each of a plurality of second cells 361 of the second tray 360. A second cell wall 362 may be received in the receiving portion 381a.

[0229] The second tray supporter 380 may further include a supporter opening 382 through which the second tray 360 passes. The supporter openings 382 may also be arranged in a first row and a second row.

[0230] The supporter body 381 may include a first support surface 383a and a second support surface 383b stepped from the first support surface 383a. The first support surface 383a may support the second cell wall 362 or the peripheral wall 365. The second support surface 383b may support the extension 367. However, a shape of the supporter body 381 may be modified into various shapes.

[0231] The second tray supporter 380 may include a plurality of through holes 384, 384a through which the coupling protrusions 353, 353a pass.

[0232] A plurality of through holes 384, 384a may include a first through hole 384 through which the first coupling protrusion 353 passes. The plurality of through holes 384, 384a may include a first through hole 384a through which the second coupling protrusion 353a passes.

[0233] The second tray supporter 380 may include a first protrusion groove 385 in which the second protrusion 368 is received. The second protrusion 368 may be exposed to an outside in a state in which the second protrusion 368 is received in the first protrusion groove 385.

[0234] The second tray supporter 380 may further include a second protrusion groove 385a in which the third protrusion 369 is received. In a state in which the third protrusion 369 is received in the second protrusion groove 385a, the third protrusion 369 may be exposed to an outside.

[0235] The second tray supporter 380 may further include a coupling portion 386, 386a extending from the supporter body 381. For example, a plurality of coupling portions 386, 386a may be arranged to be spaced apart in a horizontal direction (X-axis direction).

[0236] The plurality of coupling portions 386, 386b may include a first coupling portion 386a to which the first transfer portion 420 is coupled. The plurality of coupling portions 386, 386a may further include a second coupling portion 386 to which the second transfer portion 421 is coupled. Each of the plurality of coupling portions 386, 386a may include a coupling hole 386b. A rotation center of the second tray assembly 202 may be disposed in the coupling hole 386b.

[0237] The second tray supporter 380 may further include a link coupling portion 387 to which the pusher link 440 is coupled. The link coupling portion 387 may be formed in a cylindrical shape, for example. The link coupling portion 387 may protrude from the supporter body 381 in a horizontal direction. The link coupling portion 387 may be positioned closer to a lower end of the supporter body 381 than the rotation center.

[0238] The second tray supporter 380 may further include an elastic member coupling portion 388 to which the elastic member 460 is coupled. A distance between the elastic member coupling portion 388 and the link coupling portion 387 in a Z-axis direction may be less than a distance between the link coupling portion 387 and the rotation center.

[0239] The second tray supporter 380 may further include a hole 389 through which the fixing portion 390 passes. The protruding wall 364a may be received in the hole 389.

[0240] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a second pusher as viewed from a front side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a second pusher as viewed from a rear side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 24A is a front view of a second pusher according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 24B is a bottom view of a second pusher according to the present embodiment. FIG. 25A is a side view of a second pusher according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25B-25B of FIG. 24A.

[0241] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 25, the pusher 530 may include a first column 532. the pusher 530 may include a second column 533. The pusher 530 may include a plurality of columns 532, 533. The plurality of columns 532, 533 may include a first column 532 arranged in a first row and a second column 533 arranged in a second row. The first column 532 and the second column 533 may be spaced apart from each other in a Z-axis direction. The first row may include a plurality of first columns 532. The second row may include a plurality of second columns 533.

[0242] The second pusher 530 may include a pusher body 531. The pusher body 531 may be formed to be elongated in an X-axis direction, for example. The plurality of columns 532, 533 may extend from the pusher body 531.

[0243] The second row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 than the first row. The first row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the second row. At a water supply position or an ice making position, the first row may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second row.

[0244] A number of the plurality of first columns 532 may be the same as or different from a number of the plurality of second columns 533. For example, a number of the plurality of first columns 532 may be less than a number of the plurality of second columns 533.

[0245] The first column 532 may be positioned to correspond to an area between two adjacent second columns 533 or to face an area between two adjacent second columns 533. That is, the first column 532 and the second column 533 may be arranged in a zigzag shape.

[0246] Each of the first column 532 and the second column 533 may include a groove 532a, 533a. A strength of the first column 532 and the second column 533 may be improved by the groove 532a, 533a.

[0247] The second pusher 530 may include a first coupling portion 531a and a second coupling portion 531b that extend from the pusher body 531 to both sides.

[0248] The first coupling portion 531a may be inserted into the pusher supporter 227c of the bracket 220. The second coupling portion 531b may be aligned with a coupling portion 227d of the bracket 220. A coupling hole 531c may be formed in each of the first coupling portion 531a and the second coupling portion 531b.

[0249] The pusher body 531 may include a recess 536. A coupling opening 536a may be formed in the recess 536. A coupling member may be coupled to the supporting portion 150 by passing through the fastening opening 536a and a slot 227a of the bracket 220.

[0250] The pusher body 531 may further include a stepped surface 531d. Based on the stepped surface 531d, the pusher body 531 may be divided into a first body 531e provided with the first column 532 and a second body 531f provided with the second column 533. The first body 531e and the second body 531f may be arranged in a Z-axis direction. A surface of the first body 531e on which the first column 532 is provided may include an inclined surface. A surface of the second body 531f on which the second column 533 is provided may include an inclined surface. In the present embodiment, the first body 531e may be coupled to the bracket 220.

[0251] The first column 532 may press an ice making cell of the first row, and the second column 533 may press an ice making cell of the second row. The ice making cell of the first row may be arranged upstream from the ice making cell of the second row with respect to the first opening 272.

[0252] The first column 532 may protrude in a straight shape or in a curved shape from the pusher body 531. The second column 533 may protrude in a straight shape or in a curved shape from the pusher body 531.

[0253] A curved portion of the first column 532 may include a portion having a different curvature from a curved portion of the second column 533. For example, a curved portion of the first column 532 may include a portion having a curvature greater than a curvature of a curved portion of the second column 533.

[0254] A length of the first column 532 may be the same as or different from a length of the second column 533.

[0255] A distance between two adjacent first columns 532 may be the same as or different from a distance between two other adjacent first columns 532. A distance between two adjacent second columns 533 may be the same as or different from a distance between two other adjacent first columns 533.

[0256] Each of the first column 532 and the second column 553 may include a first edge 532b, 533b. The first edge 532b of the first column 532 may push a portion corresponding to a first row in the second tray 360. The first edge 533b of the second column 533 may push a portion corresponding to a second row in the second tray 360. That is, the first edges 532b, 533b of the first column 532 and the second column 553 may include a pushing surface that pushes the second tray 360 (or the ice).

[0257] The first column 532 and second column 553 may include second edges 532c, 533c positioned on opposite sides of the first edges 532b, 533b. The second edges 532c, 533c may be, for example, portions connected to the pusher body 531.

[0258] A first edge 532b of the first column 532 may be inclined with respect to a vertical line. A first edge 533b of the second column 533 may be inclined with respect to the vertical line. An inclination angle of the first edge 532b of the first column 532 with respect to the vertical line may be different from an inclination angle of the first edge 533b of the second column 533. For example, an inclination angle of the first edge 532b of the first column 532 with respect to the vertical line may be less than an inclination angle of the second edge 533b of the second column 533.

[0259] By a position and shape of the first column and the second column, during an ice separation process, the second tray assembly 202 may start to contact the second column 533 after the second tray assembly 202 starts to contact the first column 532.

[0260] At least one of a plurality of first columns 532 of the first row may include a rib protruding outward from an outer surface. At least one of a plurality of second columns 533 of the second row may include a rib protruding outward from an outer surface. As another example, the rib may protrude from the push body and may be in contact with or be adjacent to the column.

[0261] A plurality of first columns 532 of the first row may include a first outermost column 5321 and a second outermost column 5322 positioned at an outermost, and one or more intermediate columns 5323 positioned between the first outermost column 5321 and the second outermost column 5322.

[0262] The first outermost column 5321 may include a rib 534b, 534d. The first outermost column 5321 may include, for example, a plurality of ribs 534b, 534d. The plurality of ribs 534b, 534d may include a first rib 534b extending toward an adjacent first column (for example, an intermediate column) 5323. The plurality of ribs 534b, 534d may include a second rib 534d extending toward the second row.

[0263] The second outermost column 5322 may include a rib 534b, 534d. The first outermost column 5322 may include, for example, a plurality of ribs 534b, 534d. The plurality of ribs 534b, 534d may include a first rib 534b extending toward an adjacent first column (for example, an intermediate column 5323). The plurality of ribs 534b, 534d may include a second rib 534d extending toward the second row.

[0264] The intermediate column 5323 may include a rib 534b, 534c, 534d. The intermediate column 5323 may include, for example, a plurality of ribs 534b, 534c, 534d. A number of ribs of the intermediate column 5323 may be different from a number of ribs of the first outermost column 5321. A number of ribs of the intermediate column 5323 may be different from a number of ribs of the second outermost column 5322.

[0265] The plurality of ribs 534b, 534c, 534d of the intermediate column 5323 may include a first rib 534b and a third rib 534c that extend toward the adjacent first column. The first rib 534b and the third rib 534c of the intermediate column 5323 may be positioned opposite to each other. The plurality of ribs 534b, 534c, 534d of the intermediate column 5323 may include a second rib 534d that extends toward the second row.

[0266] The ribs 534b, 534c, 534d may extend from the first column 532 and may be in contact with the pusher body 531 or may be integrally formed with the pusher body 531. The ribs 534b, 534c, 534d may include an inclined surface.

[0267] The ribs 534b, 534c, 534d may be inclined toward the pusher body 531 as going outward from the first column 532. The ribs 534b, 534c, 534d may include a portion positioned closer to the second edge 532c than the first edge 532b.

[0268] A plurality of second columns 533 of the second row may include a first outermost column 5331 and a second outermost column 5332 positioned at an outermost, and one or more intermediate columns 5333 positioned between the first outermost column 5331 and the second outermost column 5332.

[0269] The first outermost column 5331 may include a rib 535b, 535d. The first outermost column 5331 may include, for example, a plurality of ribs 535b, 535d. The plurality of ribs 535b, 535d may include a first rib 535b extending toward an adjacent first column 532. The plurality of ribs 535b, 535d may include a second rib 535d extending in a direction toward the first row. For example, the second rib 535d may extend in a Z-axis direction, and the first rib 535b may extend in a direction crossing the Z-axis.

[0270] The intermediate column 5333 may include a rib 535b, 535c, 535d. The intermediate column 5333 may include, for example, a plurality of ribs 535b, 535c, 535d. A number of ribs of the intermediate column 5333 may be different from a number of ribs of the first outermost column 5331. A number of ribs of the intermediate column 5323 may be different from a number of ribs of the second outermost column 5332.

[0271] The intermediate column 5333 may include a first rib 535b extending toward an adjacent one the first column 532. The intermediate column 5333 may include a third rib 535c extending toward an adjacent another first column 532. The intermediate column 5333 may include a second rib 535d extending in a direction toward the first row. For example, the second rib 535c may be positioned between the first rib 535b and the third rib 535c.

[0272] Positions of the plurality of columns in the second pusher 530 are not limited to the above and may be changed to various positions, and accordingly, a positional relationship of the plurality of columns and ribs of the second pusher 530 may be as follows.

[0273] For example, the second pusher 530 may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and a third column provided spaced apart from the first and second columns. A line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, and a portion of an outer surface of the third column may form an equilateral triangle. At least a portion of the outer surfaces of the first to third columns may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface. Two or more of the first to third columns may be arranged spaced apart from each other in a Z-axis direction. One or more ribs may be positioned within the equilateral triangle.

[0274] As another example, the second pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column. A line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, and a portion of an outer surface of the third column may form a non-equilateral triangle. Two or more of the first to third columns may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the Z-axis direction. One or more ribs may be positioned within the non-equilateral triangle.

[0275] As further another example, the second pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a fourth column spaced apart from the first to the third columns. A line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, a portion of an outer surface of the third column, and a portion of an outer surface of the fourth column may form a square. At least a portion of the outer surfaces of the first to the fourth columns may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface. One or more ribs may be positioned within the square.

[0276] As further another example, the second pusher may include a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a fourth column spaced apart from the first to the third columns. A line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, a portion of an outer surface of the third column, and a portion of an outer surface of the fourth column may form a non-square. At least a portion of the outer surfaces of the first to the fourth columns may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface. One or more ribs may be positioned within the non-square.

[0277] As further another example, the second pusher may include a plurality of columns provided spaced apart from each other. A line connecting a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of columns may form a regular polygon. At least a portion of the outer surface of the plurality of columns may be provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface. One or more ribs may be positioned within the regular polygon.

[0278] As further another example, the second pusher may include a plurality of columns provided spaced apart from each other, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of columns may form an atypical polygon.

[0279] In the present embodiment, a rib formed in the column or push body may restrict ice from becoming stuck between the columns. For example, it can reduce ice from becoming stuck between the first column of the first row and the first column of the second row. Alternatively, the rib can reduce ice from becoming stuck between the plurality of first columns of the first row and the second columns of the second row. Alternatively, the rib can reduce ice from becoming stuck between the plurality of second columns of the second row and the first column of the first row. Alternatively, the rib can reduce ice from becoming stuck between the plurality of second columns of the first row and the plurality of columns of the second row. Alternatively, in the present embodiment, it can reduce ice from becoming stuck between three or more adjacent columns can be reduced.

[0280] In addition, the rib can improve a strength of the body.

[0281] As a size of generated ice is reduced and a number of ices is increased, a distance between two adjacent columns is reduced, which may cause ice to become stuck in a space between multiple columns. Therefore, in this embodiment, a rib is formed on a column, but alternatively, if a distance between two adjacent columns is increased, a rib may be omitted. However, as a distance between two columns increases, a number of generated ices may decrease.

[0282] Hereinafter, an operation of the ice maker 200 will be described.

[0283] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker when a second tray assembly is to a full ice detection position in an ice separation process.

[0284] FIG. 29A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray, and FIG. 29B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray.

[0285] FIG. 30A is a drawing showing a state where a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position, and FIG. 30B is a drawing showing a state where a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position. FIG. 31 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment.

[0286] Referring to FIGS. 26 to 31, the refrigerator may further include a controller 100. The controller 100 may be installed or separated from a component for control. The controller 100 may be disposed inside or outside the component for control.

[0287] The driver 480 may be controlled by the controller 100. The controller 100 may control the driver 480 so that the second tray assembly 202 moves to a water supply position, an ice making position, a full ice detection position, and an ice separation position.

[0288] A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 26 is a water supply position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 27 is an ice making position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 28 is a full ice detection position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 31 is an ice separation position.

[0289] The second tray assembly 202 may move in a first direction from the water supply position to the ice making position. The first direction is clockwise direction in the drawing. The second tray assembly 202 may move in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, from the ice making position to the water supply position. The second direction is counterclockwise direction in the drawing.

[0290] The second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the water supply position to the full ice detection position. The second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the full ice detection position to the ice separation position. The second tray assembly 202 may move in the first direction from the ice separation position to the water supply position.

[0291] Referring to FIG. 22, a water supply process may be performed at an water supply position of the second tray assembly 202. Water may be supplied to the ice making cell 203 through the water supply 240.

[0292] At the water supply position of the second tray assembly 202, at least a portion of the second tray 360 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, the first cell 321 and the second cell 361 may be spaced apart from each other. The first row may be positioned closer to a rotation center C1 of the second tray assembly 202 than the second row. A distance between the second cell portion 321b of the first tray 320 and the second cell portion 361b of the second tray 360 in the second row may be greater than a distance between the first cell portion 321a of the first tray 320 and the first cell portion 361a of the second tray 360 in the first row.

[0293] The first pusher 510 may include a first column 513. A first column 513 of the first pusher 510 may separate ice from an ice making cell 203 of the first row. The first column 513 may push ice of the ice making cell 203 of the first row. The first pusher 510 may include a second column 514. The second column 514 may separate ice from an ice making cell 203 of the second row. The second column 514 may push ice of the ice making cell 203 of the second row.

[0294] Each of the first column 513 and the second column 514 may include a first edge 513b, 514b to press ice, and a second edge 513c, 514c positioned opposite the first edge 513b, 514b. The first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second edge 513c, 514c.

[0295] At the water supply position and / or ice making position, the second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 may overlap the pusher body 511 in a horizontal direction.

[0296] When a water supply is completed, the second tray assembly 202 may move to an ice making position. When the second tray assembly 202 moves to the ice making position, the first tray 320 and the second tray 360 may be in contact with each other. In this state, a complete ice making cell 203 may be formed by the first cell 321 and the second cell 322. A portion of the water received in the second tray 360 may be distributed to the first cell 321 of the first tray 320.

[0297] At the ice making position, a portion of the full ice detection lever 550 may be positioned below the second pusher 530. For example, the lever body 552 may be positioned below the second pusher 530. At least a portion of the first extension 553 connected to the driver 480 may be extended in a direction close to the second pusher 530.

[0298] At the ice making position, an ice making process may be performed. Through a first opening 272 of the cold air guide 270, cold air may flow an internal space of the cold air guide 270. Cold air guided by the cold air guide 270 may flow between the first tray cover 300 and the first tray 320.

[0299] In the present embodiment, cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during the water supply process. Alternatively, cold air can be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 only during an ice making process. Cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during an ice separation process.

[0300] During an ice making process, it may be determined whether an ice making is complete based on at least one of a temperature detected by the temperature sensor 710 or a time for supply cold air.

[0301] When an ice making is completed, an ice separation process may be performed. The ice separation process may include a heating process in which the heater 330 operates. When the heater 330 is turned on, heat of the heater 330 may be transferred to the ice making cell 203. Ice may be separated from the first tray 320 by heat of the heater 330. A turning off of the heater 330 may be determined based on at least one of an operating time of the heater 330 or a temperature detected by the temperature sensor 710.

[0302] The ice separation process may further include a moving process in which the second tray assembly 202 moves. The moving process may be performed after the heater 330 is turned off, or the moving process may be performed while the heater 330 is operating, and the heater 330 may be turned off during the moving process.

[0303] In the ice separation process, the second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction (direction of arrow A) from the ice making position toward the ice separation position.

[0304] In the ice separation process, while the second tray assembly 202 moves in the second direction, a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the full ice detection lever 550 to move. The full ice detection lever 550 may be maintained in a stopped state before the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by a predetermined angle in the second direction from the ice making position. The full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated when the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by the predetermined angle or more. At this time, the full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated in a first direction (direction of arrow B) opposite to a rotational direction of the second tray assembly 202.

[0305] In a state in which the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved to a full ice detection position. At this time, the lever body 552 may be spaced apart from the second tray assembly 202.

[0306] If a full ice is not detected in a state in which the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the full ice detection position, the second tray assembly 202 may be additionally moved in the second direction toward the ice separation position.

[0307] While the second tray assembly 202 is additionally moved in a state in which the full ice detection lever 550 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved in the second direction and returned to an initial position. Accordingly, an interference between the full ice detection lever 550 and the second tray assembly 202 may be prevented.

[0308] Meanwhile, while the second tray assembly 202 is moved from the ice making position to the ice separation position, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may be inserted into the first cell 321 by passing through the through holes 323a and 323b of the first tray 320. In a process of inserting the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 into the first cell 321, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may press ice.

[0309] While the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, the first column 532 of the second pusher 530 may first contact the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 28A.

[0310] The first column 532 may be positioned closer to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1 than the second column 533. Alternatively, at the water supply position and / or the ice making position, the first column 532 may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 or a vertical center line of the ice making cell 203 than the second column 533.

[0311] A distance between a first row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360 is different from a distance between a second row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360. Therefore, positions of the first column 532 and the second column 533 need to be different with respect to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1. A horizontal distance between the first column 532 and the vertical line V1 may be less than a horizontal distance between the second column 533 and the vertical line V1.

[0312] A first edge 532b of the first column 532 may press a portion corresponding to the first row in the second tray 360. A first edge 533b of the second column 533 may press a portion corresponding to the second row in the second tray 360.

[0313] A first edge 532b of the first column 532 may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1. A first edge 533b of the second column 533 may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1. An inclination angle of the first edge 532b of the first column 532 may be different from an inclination angle of the first edge 533b of the second column 533. For example, an inclination angle of the first edge 532b of the first column 532 with respect to a vertical line may be less than an inclination angle of the first edge 533b of the second column 533.

[0314] In a state in which the first column 532 is in contact with the second tray 360, the second column 533 may be spaced apart from the second tray 360. In this state, when the second tray assembly 202 is further moved in the second direction, the second column 533 may be in contact with the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 22B. The first column 532 may press the first row in the second tray 360, so that a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row can be deformed.

[0315] As in the present embodiment, since some of the columns of the second pusher first push some of ice making cells among a plurality of ice making cells of the second tray assembly and then remaining columns push remaining ice making cells, there is an advantage in that a torque of the driver 480 for moving the second tray assembly 202 can be reduced.

[0316] Referring to FIG. 30, when the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row is deformed by the first column 532, so that ice in the first row can be separated from the second tray 360. In addition, another portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the second row is deformed by the second column 533, so that ice in the second row can be separated from the second tray 360.

[0317] At the ice separation position, the first edges 513b, 514b of the first and second columns 513, 514 of the first pusher 510 may pass through the first cell 321 and be positioned outside of the first cell 321. For example, the first edges 513b, 514b may be positioned lower than the first tray 320 based on the drawing. According to the present embodiment, ice may be sufficiently pressed by the first edges 513b, 514b, so that ice separation performance may be improved.

[0318] Ice separated from the second tray assembly 202 may fall downward and be stored in the ice bin 600.

[0319] After the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, the second tray assembly 202 may be moved in the first direction toward the water supply position.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated; a cooler configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber; and an ice maker configured to define an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by the cold, wherein the ice maker includes a first tray assembly having a first tray to define a portion of the ice making cell, a second tray assembly having a second tray to define another portion of the ice making cell, and a pusher configured to separate ice from the second tray.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the ice making cell is arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein the pusher includes a first column in a first row for separating ice in a first row of the plurality of rows, and a second column in a second row for separating ice in a second row of the plurality of rows, and wherein the first column is arranged to face a space between a plurality of second columns.

3. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the ice making cell is arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein the pusher includes a plurality of first columns in a first row, and a plurality of second columns in a second row, and wherein a number of the plurality of first columns is less than a number of the plurality of second columns.

4. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a first column and a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and wherein when the second tray assembly moves relative to the pusher, the second tray assembly is in contact with the second column after the second tray assembly is in contact with the first column.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein a number of first columns is less than a number of second columns.

6. The refrigerator of claim 4, further comprising a cold guide provided at outside the ice making cell as a path through which the cooler supplies cold to the ice making cell, wherein the cold guide includes a first opening as a path through which the cold flows into inside of a space formed by the cold guide, and wherein among ice making cells, an ice making cell corresponding to the first column is arranged upstream from an ice making cell corresponding to the second column with the first opening.

7. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and a third column provided spaced apart from the first and second columns, wherein a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, and a portion of an outer surface of the third column forms an equilateral triangle, and wherein at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the first to third columns is provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface.

8. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein one or more ribs are positioned within the equilateral triangle.

9. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, and a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and wherein a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, and a portion of an outer surface of the third column forms a non-equilateral triangle.

10. The refrigerator of claim1, wherein the pusher includes a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a fourth column spaced apart from the first column to the third column, wherein a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, a portion of an outer surface of the third column, and a portion of the fourth column forms a square, and wherein at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the first column to the fourth column is provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface.

11. The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein one or more ribs are positioned within the square.

12. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a first column, a second column provided spaced apart from the first column, a third column provided spaced apart from the first column and the second column, and a fourth column spaced apart from the first column to the third column, and wherein a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of the first column, a portion of an outer surface of the second column, a portion of an outer surface of the third column, and a portion of the fourth column forms a non-square.

13. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a plurality of columns provided spaced apart from each other, wherein a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of columns forms a regular polygon, and wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of the plurality of columns is provided with a rib protruding outward from the outer surface.

14. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a plurality of columns provided spaced apart from each other, and a line connecting a portion of an outer surface of each of the plurality of columns forms a non-regular polygon.

15. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the ice making cell is arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein the pusher includes a plurality of first columns in a first row for separating ice in a first row of a plurality of rows, and a plurality of second columns in a second row for separating ice in a second row of a plurality of rows, wherein at least one of the plurality of first columns includes a rib protruding outward from an outer surface, and wherein at least one of the plurality of second columns includes a rib protruding outward from an outer surface.

16. The refrigerator of claim 15, wherein the pusher further includes a pusher body from which the plurality of first columns and the plurality of second columns extend, and wherein a rib of the first column includes an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the pusher body as going outward from the first column, or a rib of the second column includes an inclined surface inclined in a direction close to the pusher body as going outward from the second column.

17. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein a number of ribs of one of the plurality of first columns is different from a number of ribs of another of the plurality of first columns, or a number of ribs of one of the plurality of second columns is different from a number of ribs of another of the plurality of second columns.

18. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the ice making cell is arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein the pusher includes a plurality of first columns in a first row for separating ice in a first row of a plurality of rows, and a plurality of second columns in a second row for separating ice in a second row of the plurality of rows, wherein the plurality of first columns include an edge for pressing ice of the first row, wherein the plurality of second columns include an edge for pressing ice of the second row, and wherein at a water supply position or an ice making position, the edge of the plurality of first columns is positioned closer to the ice making cell or a vertical center line of the ice making cell than the edge of the plurality of second columns.

19. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the ice making cell is arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein the pusher includes a plurality of first columns in a first row for separating ice in a first row of a plurality of rows, and a plurality of second columns in a second row for separating ice in a second row of a plurality of rows, wherein the plurality of first columns include an edge for pressing ice of the first row, wherein the plurality of second columns include an edge for pressing ice of the second row, and wherein an inclination angle of the edge of the plurality of first columns with respect to a vertical line is different from an inclination angle of the edge of the plurality of second columns.

20. The refrigerator of claim 19, wherein an inclination angle of the edge of the plurality of first columns with respect to a vertical line is less than an inclination angle of the edge of the plurality of second columns.

Images