refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. An embodiment of the present invention includes a pusher provided to be movable through a through-hole of a tray, and the pusher may include a part positioned inside or outside a cell in the movement process. The part may include a cell wall forming at least a portion of the cell, and the cell wall may include a cell surface forming a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present specification relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker.Background Art

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a home appliance capable of storing food at low temperatures in an internal storage space shielded by a door, and by cooling the inside of the storage space using cold, stored food may be kept in a refrigerated or frozen state. Typically, a refrigerator is provided with an ice maker for making ice.

[0003] The ice maker generates ice by receiving water supplied from a water source or a water tank into a tray and then cooling the water. In addition, the ice maker may release the ice from the ice tray using a heating method or a twisting method. An ice maker that automatically supplies water and releases ice in this manner is formed to open upward to scoop out the molded ice.

[0004] Ice produced in an ice maker of such a structure has at least one flat surface, such as a crescent shape or a cubic shape. On the other hand, if the ice is formed in a spherical shape, it may be more convenient to use the ice and may provide a unique user experience. Furthermore, during storage of the manufactured ice, sticking between ice pieces may be minimized by reducing the contact area between the ice pieces. Recently, attempts have also been made to manufacture transparent ice.Summary of the Invention Technical Problem

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker capable of implementing ice of a desired shape during ice-making by providing a pusher for ice-releasing with a cell wall forming a portion of a cell.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during water supply, a pusher moves into the cell to open a through-hole of a tray, and water supply may be performed through the opened space.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during ice-making, a pusher moves to form a cell wall of a cell and cold is supplied to perform ice-making.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during ice-releasing, a pusher moves in a direction away from a cell so that primary ice-releasing between the pusher and ice may be performed.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during ice-releasing, a pusher moves in a direction toward a cell to press the ice, so that secondary ice-releasing may be performed.Technical Solution

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention includes a pusher moveably provided through a through-hole of a tray, and the pusher may include a part located inside or outside a cell during a moving process.

[0011] The part may include a cell wall forming at least a portion of the cell.

[0012] The cell wall may include a cell surface forming a portion of an inner circumferential surface of the cell.

[0013] The pusher may be moveably provided in conjunction with a movement of the tray.

[0014] The tray may form a through-hole (or an opening), and the pusher may be moveably provided through the through-hole.

[0015] During water supply to the tray, the pusher may move through the through-hole to open the through-hole.

[0016] To open the through-hole, at least a portion of the pusher may be located inside the cell.

[0017] At least a portion of the pusher may include the cell wall of the pusher.

[0018] During ice-making process of the tray, the cell wall may be positioned to align with a wall of the tray to complete the cell.

[0019] During ice-releasing process of the tray, the cell wall may move in a direction away from the cell to perform primary ice-releasing between the cell wall and the ice.

[0020] During ice-releasing process of the tray, the cell wall may move in a direction approaching the cell to press the ice, thereby performing secondary ice-releasing in which the ice is separated from the tray.

[0021] A driving part for applying a driving force to the pusher may be included, and the pusher may receive the driving force through a link.

[0022] A tray supporter for supporting the tray may be included, and the link may be connected to a link connection part of the tray supporter.

[0023] The pusher may move linearly so as to pass through the through-hole of the tray.

[0024] The pusher may move in conjunction with the movement of the tray.

[0025] In one aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include: a storage space in which food is stored; a door for opening and closing the storage space; an ice-making space provided in the door or the storage space; a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space; a cell provided in the ice-making space, the cell being a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a tray forming at least a portion of the cell; a wall part forming another portion of the cell; a pusher provided at different positions in a water supply position, an ice-making position, and an ice-releasing position of the tray; and a driving part for providing a driving force to move at least one of the second tray or the pusher.

[0026] The driving part may include a driving motor.

[0027] The driving part may include a power transmission device for transmitting power generated from the driving motor to the second tray or the pusher. For example, the power transmission device may include mechanical elements such as a shaft, a gear, or a cam.

[0028] The tray may include an opening forming a space into which a liquid substance or cold is introduced, and the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part opens or shields the opening.

[0029] In the water supply position of the tray, the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part opens the opening.

[0030] In the water supply position of the tray, the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part is located inside the opening.

[0031] In the ice-making position of the tray, the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part shields the opening.

[0032] The wall part may include a cell surface to define a cell forming a portion of the cell in the ice-making position of the tray.

[0033] The cell surface may form a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the cell.

[0034] The wall part may include a guide surface for guiding the liquid substance into the tray in the water supply position of the tray.

[0035] The guide surface may be located inside the tray in the water supply position of the tray.

[0036] The ice-releasing position of the tray may include a first ice-releasing position in which the pusher moves in a direction away from the opening so that the wall part is separated from the phase-changed substance.

[0037] The ice-releasing position of the tray may include a second ice-releasing position in which the pusher moves through the opening so that the tray is separated from the phase-changed substance.

[0038] Based on one point of the tray, heights of the pusher in the water supply position, the ice-making position, and the ice-releasing position may form different heights.

[0039] The tray may include a first tray (e.g., an upper tray) and a second tray (e.g., a lower tray), and a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the ice-making position based on one point of the first tray may be greater than a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the water supply position.

[0040] The tray may include a first tray (e.g., an upper tray) and a second tray (e.g., a lower tray), and a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the ice-releasing position based on one point of the first tray may be greater than a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the ice-making position.

[0041] The tray may include a first tray (e.g., an upper tray) and a second tray (e.g., a lower tray), and in a maximum ice-releasing position of the tray, a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) based on one point of the first tray may be less than a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the water supply position.

[0042] The tray may include a first tray and a second tray, and may include a guide bar provided at one side of the first tray to which the pusher is moveably coupled, and a link moveably provided together with the second tray.

[0043] The guide bar may form a slot formed linearly so that the pusher moves linearly in conjunction with a movement of the link.

[0044] The refrigerator includes an arm connected to the driving part and being moveable, and including a first part coupled to a tray supporter supporting the tray and a second part disposed opposite to the first part; and a spring having both ends supported by the second part of the arm and the tray supporter.

[0045] The cell may include a plurality of cells arranged in a first direction, and the pusher may include a plurality of bars provided in a number corresponding to the plurality of cells and a connection part connecting the plurality of bars and extending in the first direction.

[0046] In another aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a storage space in which food is stored; a door for opening and closing the storage space; an ice-making space provided in the door or the storage space; a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space; a cell provided in the ice-making space, the cell being a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a tray forming at least a portion of the cell and forming an opening; and a pusher moving through the opening to release the phase-changed substance generated in the cell.

[0047] The pusher may include a wall part shielding the opening to form another portion of the cell in the ice-making position of the tray.

[0048] The pusher may be provided to move in a first direction to open the opening in a first ice-releasing position of the tray, and to move in a second direction to open the opening in a second ice-releasing position of the tray.

[0049] The first direction and the second direction may be opposite to each other.Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, ice of a desired shape may be implemented during ice-making by providing a pusher for ice-releasing with a cell wall forming a portion of a cell.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during water supply, the pusher moves into the cell to open a through-hole of the tray, and water supply may be easily performed through the opened space.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during ice-making, the pusher moves to form the cell wall of the cell and cold is supplied, so that ice-making may be easily performed.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during ice-releasing, the pusher moves in a direction away from the cell, so that primary ice-releasing between the pusher and ice may be easily performed.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during ice-releasing, the pusher moves in a direction toward the cell to press the ice, so that secondary ice-releasing may be easily performed.Brief Description of Drawings

[0055] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a lower perspective view of the ice maker of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is a view showing some components of an ice maker of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2. FIG.8 a front view showing some components of an ice maker of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the ice maker in a water supply position. FIG. 11 is an upper perspective view showing a configuration of a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a lower perspective view showing a configuration of a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.13 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a link of an embodiment of the invention. FIG.14 is a side view showing a configuration of a link of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in a water supply position. FIG. 16 is a side view showing the ice maker in a water supply position. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in an ice-making position. FIG. 18 is a side view showing the ice maker in an ice-making position. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in a first ice-releasing position. FIG. 20 is a side view showing the ice maker in a first ice-releasing position. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in a second ice-releasing position. FIG. 22 is a side view showing the ice maker in a second ice-releasing position. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0056] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same components are given the same numerals as much as possible even if they are displayed on different drawings. In addition, in describing an embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function interferes with an understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] In describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, a, and b may be used. These terms are only for distinguishing the component from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the corresponding component is not limited by the term. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "joined" to another component, the component may be directly "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "joined" to the other component, but it should be understood that another component may also be "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "joined" between each component.

[0058] Meanwhile, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A and B" may be understood as including three embodiments meaning (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B.

[0059] Also, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A or B" may be understood as including three embodiments meaning (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. That is, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A or B" may be the same as the meaning of the description "at least one of components A and B."

[0060] The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a storage space where items (for example, food, medicine, etc.) are stored. The refrigerator may include a door for opening and closing the storage space. In the refrigerator, the items may be stored in a refrigerated or frozen state. The refrigerator may include an ice-making space in which at least a part of an ice maker to be described later is disposed. The ice-making space may be provided in the storage space and / or the door.

[0061] An ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cell which is a space where the item (for example, water) undergoes a phase change into ice. The ice maker may include a tray assembly. The tray assembly may include a tray, a tray case, or both the tray and the tray case. The tray may include a wall forming at least a part of the cell. The tray case may include a wall connected to the tray, coupled to the tray, supported by the tray, or surrounding at least a part of the tray. The tray case may include at least one of a tray cover or a tray supporter. The tray assembly may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly. The first tray assembly may include a first tray, a first tray case, or both the first tray and the first tray case. The first tray may include a wall forming a first part of the cell. The first tray case may include a wall connected to the first tray, coupled to the first tray, supported by the first tray, or surrounding at least a part of the first tray. The first tray case may include at least one of a first tray cover or a first tray supporter. The second tray assembly may include a second tray, a second tray case, or both the second tray and the second tray case. The second tray may include a wall forming a second part of the cell. The second tray case may include a wall connected to the second tray, coupled to the second tray, supported by the second tray, or surrounding at least a part of the second tray. The second tray case may include at least one of a second tray cover or a second tray supporter. The ice maker may include a bracket. The bracket may cover at least a part of the tray assembly or accommodate at least a part of the tray assembly.

[0062] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a pusher. The pusher may be provided to press the ice and / or the tray assembly so that the ice is separated from the tray assembly. The pusher may include a first edge on which a surface for pressing the ice and / or the tray assembly is formed. The pusher may include a bar extending from the first edge. The pusher may include a second edge located at an end of the bar.

[0063] A pressing part that the pusher presses may be formed on the tray assembly, and the pusher may be configured to apply pressure to one surface of the tray assembly. The pusher may be defined as a non-penetrating pusher.

[0064] The first edge of the pusher may move along a surface of a tray defining at least a part of the cell from a first point outside the cell. The pusher may be defined as a movable pusher. The pusher may be connected to a driving part, a rotation shaft of the driving part, or a tray assembly movable by being connected to the drive part.

[0065] The pusher may additionally press the pressing part after contacting the pressing part at the first point outside the cell. The pusher may be coupled to a fixed end. The pusher may be defined as a fixed pusher.

[0066] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a heater. The heater (for example, a wire heater, a cord heater, a radiant heater, etc.) may supply heat to the cell and / or the storage space. The heater may contact the tray assembly and / or the cell to directly supply heat. The heater may supply heat indirectly (for example, hot or warm air) in a state where the heater is not connected to the tray assembly and / or the cell.

[0067] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a cooler (for example, an evaporator, a refrigerant pipe, a refrigerant valve, a fan, a damper, a thermoelectric module, etc.). The cooler may contact the tray assembly and / or the cell to directly supply cold. The cooler may supply heat (for example, cold or cold air) indirectly in a state where the cooler is not connected to the tray assembly and / or the cell.

[0068] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be provided to detect a temperature of an item (for example, water) or ice in the cell.

[0069] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a driving device. The driving device may be connected to the tray assembly and / or the pusher.

[0070] The refrigerator of the present invention may include a tray assembly forming a part of a cell which is a space where water undergoes a phase change into ice, a cooler for supplying cold to the cell, a water supply part for supplying water to the cell, and a controller. The refrigerator may further include a driving part capable of moving the tray assembly. The refrigerator may further include a storage space in which food is stored in addition to the cell. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature in the storage space. The controller may control at least one of the water supply part or the cooler. The controller may control at least one of the heater or the driving part.

[0071] After moving the tray assembly to an ice-making position, the controller may control the cooler to supply cold to the cell. After the generation of ice in the cell is completed, the controller may control the tray assembly to move in a forward direction to an ice-releasing position to take out the ice from the cell. After ice-releasing is completed, the controller may control the tray assembly to move in a reverse direction to a water supply position and then start water supply, and after the water supply is completed, the controller may control the tray assembly to move to the ice-making position.

[0072] In the present invention, a cell may be defined as a space located inside the storage space where water undergoes a phase change into ice. The circumference of the cell refers to an outer surface of the cell, regardless of the shape of the cell. In another aspect, the outer circumferential surface of the cell may refer to an inner surface of a wall forming the cell. The center of the cell refers to a center of gravity or a center of volume of the cell. The center may pass through a line of symmetry of the cell.

[0073] In the present invention, a tray may be defined as a wall partitioning the cell and the inside of the storage space. The tray may be defined as a wall forming at least a portion of the cell. The tray may be configured to entirely surround or only partially surround the cell. A plurality of trays may be present. The plurality of trays may be in contact with each other.

[0074] In the present invention, a refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly configured to move by being connected to a driving part. The driving part is configured to move the tray assembly in at least one axial direction among X, Y, and Z axes, or to perform a rotational movement about at least one axis among the X, Y, and Z axes. The present invention may include a refrigerator having the remaining configurations except for the driving part and a power transmission member connecting the driving part and the tray assembly from the contents described in the detailed description. In the present invention, the tray assembly may be moved in a first direction.

[0075] In the present invention, the refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly in which the heater is disposed. The heater may be disposed near the tray assembly to heat a cell formed by the tray assembly. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter referred to as a "transparent ice heater") controlled to be turned on during at least a part of a period while the cooler supplies cold so that bubbles dissolved in water inside the cell move from a portion where ice is generated toward water in a liquid state to generate transparent ice. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter referred to as an "ice-releasing heater") controlled to be turned on during at least a part of a period after ice making is completed so that ice may be easily separated from the tray assembly.

[0076] In the present invention, the cell may be cooled by the cooler that cools the storage space. For example, the storage space where the cell is located is a freezing space that may be controlled at a temperature lower than 0 degrees, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler that cools the freezing space.

[0077] In the present invention, the cell may be cooled by a cooler other than the cooler that cools the storage space. For example, the storage space where the cell is located is a refrigerating space that may be controlled at a temperature higher than 0 degrees, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler other than the cooler that cools the refrigerating space. That is, the refrigerator may include a refrigerating space and a freezing space, the cell may be located inside the refrigerating space, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler that cools the freezing space. The cell may be located on a door that opens and closes the storage space.

[0078] In the present invention, a degree of internal deformation resistance (degree of deformation resistance) represents a degree to which an object resists deformation caused by an external force applied to the object, and is defined as a value determined by a shape including a thickness of the object, a material of the object, and the like.

[0079] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of the object, a large degree of internal deformation resistance of the object may mean that the rigidity of the object is large. Thermal conductivity may be an inherent material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of the object is the same, the degree of internal deformation resistance may vary depending on the shape of the object or the like. The degree of internal deformation resistance may be affected by a deformation resistance reinforcement part extending in a direction in which the external force is applied. As the rigidity of the deformation resistance reinforcement part increases, the degree of internal deformation resistance may increase. As a height of the extended deformation resistance reinforcement part increases, the degree of internal deformation resistance may increase.

[0080] In the present invention, a degree of restoration represents a degree to which an object deformed by an external force is restored to the shape of the object before the external force was applied after the external force is removed, and is defined as a value determined by a shape including a thickness of the object, a material of the object, and the like.

[0081] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of the object, a large degree of restoration of the object may mean that the elastic modulus of the object is large. The elastic modulus may be an inherent material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of the object is the same, the degree of restoration may vary depending on the shape of the object or the like.

[0082] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the refrigerator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0083] FIG. 1 is a view showing a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet 14 including a storage space and a door for opening and closing the storage space.

[0085] The storage space may include a refrigerating space 18 and a freezing space 32. The refrigerating space 18 is disposed at an upper side, and the freezing space 32 is disposed at a lower side, so that each storage space may be individually opened and closed by each door. As another example, it is also possible that the freezing space is disposed at the upper side and the refrigerating space is disposed at the lower side. Alternatively, it is also possible that the freezing space is disposed on one of the left and right sides and the refrigerating space is disposed on the other side.

[0086] The freezing space 32 may be divided into first and second spaces (for example, a lower space and an upper space), and a drawer 40 that may be moved in and out of the first space may be provided in the first space.

[0087] The door may include a plurality of doors 10, 20 and 30 for opening and closing the refrigerating space 18 and the freezing space 32. The plurality of doors 10, 20 and 30 may include some or all of doors 10 and 20 that open and close the storage space and a door 30 that opens and closes the storage space in a sliding manner.

[0088] The freezing space may be provided to be divided into two spaces, even if the freezing space may be opened and closed by a single door. In this embodiment, the freezing space may be referred to as a first storage space, and the refrigerating space may be referred to as a second storage space.

[0089] An ice maker 200 capable of manufacturing ice may be provided in the freezing space 32. The ice maker 200 may be located, for example, in a partial space (for example, an upper space) of the freezing space 32.

[0090] An ice bin 600 in which ice produced in the ice maker is dropped and stored may be disposed at one side (for example, a lower side) of the ice maker. A user may take out the ice bin 600 from the freezing space and use the ice stored in the ice bin. The ice bin 600 may be coupled to one side (for example, an upper side) of a wall partitioning a first space (for example, an upper space) and a second space (for example, a lower space) of the freezing space.

[0091] Although not shown, the cabinet is provided with a duct (not shown) for supplying cold to the ice maker. The duct guides cold, which has exchanged heat with a refrigerant flowing through an evaporator, toward the ice maker. For example, the duct may be disposed at one side (for example, a rear side) of the cabinet to discharge cold air toward the other side (for example, a front side) of the cabinet. The ice maker may be located at the other side (for example, the front side) of the duct. Without being limited thereto, a discharge port of the duct may be provided on at least one of a first side wall (for example, a rear side wall) or a second side wall (for example, an upper side wall) of the freezing space.

[0092] Although it has been described above that the ice maker 200 is provided in the freezing space 32, a space where the ice maker 200 may be located is not limited to the freezing space 32, and the ice maker 200 may be located in various spaces as long as cold may be supplied. Therefore, hereinafter, it will be described that the ice maker 200 is located in the storage space.

[0093] FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a lower perspective view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a bracket for supporting a tray assembly. Each component of the ice maker may be provided inside or outside the bracket, so that the ice maker may constitute one assembly.

[0095] The bracket may be coupled to at least one surface of the storage space.

[0096] The bracket may include a first wall. At least a portion of the first wall may extend in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) and may be coupled to one surface of the storage space.

[0097] A fastening hole 228 through which a fastening member passes may be formed on a corner side of the first wall 221. The bracket 220 may be coupled to the storage space through the fastening member coupled to the fastening hole 228.

[0098] The first wall 221 may include a guide protrusion 228a for guiding an electric wire connected to the ice maker. A plurality of guide protrusions 228a are provided and may be provided in various shapes according to an extension direction of the electric wire.

[0099] The bracket 220 may include two second walls 222 extending in one direction (for example, downward) from both sides of the first wall 221. A space between the two second walls 222 may form a space in which a tray assembly is disposed.

[0100] A driving part 510 may be disposed on an inner side of any one of the two second walls 222.

[0101] The other of the two second walls 222 may function as a prevention plate for preventing ice falling into the ice bin 600 or ice stored in the ice bin 600 from falling out, and may form a wall through-hole 222a at least a portion of which is penetrated to prevent frost formation.

[0102] The bracket 220 may include a third wall 223 protruding from the first wall 221. The third wall 223 may protrude from the first wall 221 in a direction toward the storage space. The third wall 223 may include a first part 223a extending in a direction corresponding to one direction (for example, a front-rear direction) of the storage space and a second part 223b extending in another direction (for example, a left-right direction) from one end (for example, a front end) of the first part 223a. The third wall 223 may include a hook 223c coupled to one surface (for example, an upper surface) of the storage space. For example, the hook 223c may be provided on the second part 223b.

[0103] A water supply part 240 may be coupled to the second part 223b. The water supply part 240 includes a hook 248, and the hook 248 may be caught at one end (for example, an upper end) of the second part 223b.

[0104] The bracket 220 may be formed with a suction hole 224a through which cold of the storage space is introduced toward the tray assembly. The suction hole 224a may be formed in a side wall of the bracket 220. For example, the suction hole 224a may be formed in a space between the second wall 222 and the third wall 223. From another aspect, the suction hole 224a may be formed by penetrating at least a part of the second wall 222.

[0105] Cold may be sucked from a side of the bracket 220 toward the tray assembly through the suction hole 224a to act as cold for ice making.

[0106] The bracket 220 may include a guide wall 225 that guides the cold sucked through the suction hole 224a toward the tray assembly. The guide wall 225 may extend from the third wall 223 toward a center of the bracket 220.

[0107] As an example, the guide wall 225 may include a portion extending roundly from the third wall 223 toward the cell 360. The cell 360 may be disposed closer to the other end (for example, a front end) than to one end (for example, a rear end).

[0108] The bracket 220 may include a blocking plate 227a for preventing cold sucked through the suction hole 224a from being discharged from the bracket 220 without being directed toward a tray assembly. For example, the blocking plate 227a may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the first wall 221. The blocking plate 227a may be laterally spaced apart from the suction hole 224a, and a plurality of cells 360 may be disposed between the suction hole 224a and the blocking plate 227a.

[0109] The blocking plate 227a is disposed further from the suction hole 224a than the cell 360 furthest from the suction hole 224a, thereby preventing a phenomenon in which the cold bypasses the plurality of cells 360 and is discharged from the bracket 220.

[0110] The bracket 220 may include a fourth wall 224 to which the second pusher 540 is coupled. The fourth wall 224 extends in one direction (for example, downward) from one end (for example, a rear end) of the first wall 221 and may form a wall of one surface (for example, a rear surface) of the bracket 220.

[0111] The ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly.

[0112] The first tray assembly may include a first tray 300, may include a first tray case, or may include the first tray 300 and the first tray case. For example, in this embodiment, the first tray assembly may include the first tray 300.

[0113] The second tray assembly may include a second tray 400, may include a second tray case, or may include the second tray 400 and the second tray case.

[0114] The second tray case may include at least one of a second tray supporter or a second tray cover.

[0115] The bracket 220 may define at least a portion of a space for accommodating the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly.

[0116] The bracket 220 may be disposed, for example, on an upper wall of the freezing space 32. A water supply part 240 may be disposed on the bracket 220. The water supply part 240 may guide water supplied from one side (for example, an upper side) to the other side (for example, a lower side) of the water supply part 240. A water supply pipe (not shown) through which water is supplied may be disposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the water supply part 240.

[0117] Since the water supply part 240 is disposed below the water supply pipe, water is guided in one direction (for example, downward) without splashing to the water supply part 240, and even if the water moves in the one direction (for example, downward) due to the lowered height, the amount of splashing water may be reduced.

[0118] The water supply part 240 may be supported by the bracket 220. The water supply part 240 may include a hook 248 coupled to the bracket 220. As an example, the hook 248 may be caught on the second part 223b of the bracket 220.

[0119] The ice maker 200 may include a cell (refer to 360 in FIG. 6), which is a space where water undergoes a phase change into ice by cold air.

[0120] The first tray 300 may form at least a portion of the cell 360. The second tray 400 may form another portion of the cell 360. The cell 360 may include a first cell 321a (refer to FIG. 7) formed by the first tray 300 and a second cell 411a (refer to FIG. 7) formed by the second tray 400.

[0121] The first tray 300 may be coupled to the bracket 220.

[0122] The bracket 220 may include a coupling wall 229 that protrudes from the first wall 221 in one direction (for example, downward) and is coupled to the first tray 300. The coupling wall 229 may be coupled to a circumference of the first tray 300.

[0123] The second tray 400 may be disposed to be relatively movable with respect to the first tray 300. The second tray 400 may perform linear motion or rotational motion.

[0124] During the ice-making process, the second tray 400 moves with respect to the first tray 300, so that the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may contact each other. When the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 contact each other, the cell 360 may be defined.

[0125] During the ice-releasing process after completion of ice making, the second tray 400 moves with respect to the first tray 300, so that the second tray 400 may be spaced apart from the first tray 300.

[0126] In this embodiment, the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may be arranged in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) in a state where the cell 360 is formed. The first tray 300 may be referred to as an upper tray, and the second tray 400 may be referred to a lower tray.

[0127] A plurality of cells 360 may be defined by the first tray 300 and the second tray 400. As an example, the plurality of cells 360 may include three cells 360.

[0128] When water is cooled by the cold while water is supplied to the cell 360, ice of the same or similar shape as the cell 360 may be generated. As an example, the cell 360 may be formed in a spherical shape or a shape similar to a sphere. Of course, it is also possible that the cell 360 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape or a polygonal shape.

[0129] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts. The number of the plurality of tray parts may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0130] The first tray 300 may define a first cell, which is a portion of the cell 360. Each of the plurality of tray parts may define the first cell.

[0131] The first tray 300 may include a first tray wall 321 forming a portion of the cell 360.

[0132] The first tray 300 may include a first extension wall 327 extending in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) from the first tray wall 321. For example, the first extension wall 327 may extend in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) around an upper end of the first tray wall 321.

[0133] The ice maker 200 may include a first pusher 700. The first pusher 700 may be moveably provided by receiving power from a driving part 510. The first pusher 700 may be named a "movable pusher."

[0134] The ice maker 200 may include a guide bar 350 forming a slot 355 that guides a movement of the first pusher 700. For example, the guide bar 350 may be configured to extend in one direction (for example, upward) from both sides of the first extension wall 327 of the first tray 300.

[0135] However, alternatively, the guide bar 350 may be provided as a separate part separated from the first tray 300.

[0136] A protrusion 740 of the first pusher 700 may be inserted into the slot 355. The protrusion 740 may be guided along the guide slot 355.

[0137] The first pusher 700 may include at least one bar 720. For example, the first pusher 700 may include bars 720 provided in the same number as the cells 360, but is not limited thereto.

[0138] When the ice maker includes a plurality of cells 360, the first pusher 700 may include a plurality of bars 720. Two adjacent bars 720 may be connected by a connection member 710.

[0139] For example, the connection member 710 may extend in a direction in which the plurality of bars 720 are arranged so as to connect ends of one side (for example, an upper side) of the bars 720 to each other. For example, the connection member 710 may include a connection bar. Accordingly, the connection member 710 may be prevented from interfering with the first tray 300 while the bars 720 are inserted into the cells 360.

[0140] The bars 720 may push out ice located in the cells 360 during an ice-releasing process. For example, the bars 720 may be inserted into the cells 360 by passing through openings 324 (through-holes) of the first tray 300.

[0141] The first pusher 700 may include a wall part 730 for forming at least a portion of the cell 360.

[0142] The wall part 730 may be provided at an end of the bar 720.

[0143] The wall part 730 may be configured to have a curvature corresponding to a curvature of a cell surface so as to form a portion of the cell surface of the cell 360.

[0144] The wall part 730 may have a diameter greater than a diameter of the bar 720.

[0145] The first pusher 700 may be coupled to a link 490. At this time, the first pusher 700 may be moveably coupled to the link 490. Accordingly, when the link 490 moves, the first pusher 700 may also be moved along the slot 355.

[0146] The second tray case may include, for example, a second tray cover 480 and a second tray supporter 450. The second tray cover 480 and the second tray supporter 450 may be integrally formed, or may be coupled after being manufactured as separate configurations.

[0147] In this embodiment, the second tray cover 480 and the second tray supporter 450 may be coupled after being manufactured as separate configurations. For example, the second tray 400, the second tray supporter 450, and the second tray cover 480 may be coupled by a fastening member.

[0148] At least a portion of the second tray cover 480 may be located at one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray 400.

[0149] The second tray cover 480 may include a cover wall 481 forming an opening 482.

[0150] The opening 482 may be formed by passing through at least a portion of the second tray cover 480 so that at least a portion of the second tray 400 passes through the opening 482.

[0151] The opening 482 may be configured to have an area greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area of the plurality of second cells so that the plurality of second cells of the second tray 400 may pass through the opening 482.

[0152] The cover wall 481 may be placed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the first extension wall 420 of the second tray 400.

[0153] The second tray cover 480 may include a cover extension wall 483 protruding from the cover wall 481 and surrounding a peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400.

[0154] A coupling groove 484 may be formed in the cover extension wall 483.

[0155] A protrusion 434 of the second tray 400 may be inserted into the coupling groove 484. The protrusion 434 may be provided to protrude from the peripheral wall 430. A plurality of the protrusions 434 may be provided at positions corresponding to the plurality of cells 360. By the configuration in which the protrusions 434 are inserted into the coupling grooves 484, the second tray 400 may be prevented from shaking in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) and may be stably supported by the second tray cover 480.

[0156] The second tray cover 480 may include a cover fastening part 485 protruding in one direction (for example, downward) from the cover wall 481. A plurality of the cover fastening parts 485 may be provided along a circumference of one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the cover wall 481, and may be coupled to at least one of a fastening part 425 of the second tray 400 or a supporter fastening part 456 of the second tray supporter 450. At least a portion of the second tray supporter 450 may be located at one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400.

[0157] The second tray supporter 450 may support the second tray 400 at one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400. For example, at least a portion of a second tray wall 410 forming the second cell 411a of the second tray 400 may be supported by the second tray supporter 450.

[0158] The second tray wall 410 may include a second cell surface 410a defining the second cell 411a.

[0159] The second tray supporter 450 may include a first wall 451 forming an outer surface. The first wall 451 may include a first side wall (for example, a front wall), a second side wall (for example, a side wall), and a third side wall (for example, a rear wall) of the second tray supporter 450.

[0160] The second tray supporter 450 may include a second wall 453 forming one surface portion (for example, an upper surface portion) of the second tray supporter 450.

[0161] The first extension wall 420 of the second tray 400 may be seated on the second wall 453.

[0162] A first coupling part 459a to which a first edge 422a (refer to FIG. 7) of the second tray 400 is coupled may be formed on the second wall 453.

[0163] An insertion part 458a to which a second edge 422b (refer to FIG. 7) of the second tray 400 is coupled may be formed on the second wall 453. The insertion part 458a may include a groove recessed from the second wall 453 so that the second edge 422b is inserted into the insertion part 458a.

[0164] The second tray supporter 450 may include a tray support wall 452 recessed in one direction (for example, downward) from the second wall 453 to support at least a portion of the second tray wall 410 of the second tray 400. The tray support wall 452 may be named a "third wall."

[0165] The tray support wall 452 may be surrounded by the first wall 451.

[0166] The second tray supporter 450 may include two extension parts 455 provided at both sides of one end (for example, a rear end) of the first wall 451. The two extension parts 455 may protrude in one direction (for example, backward) from one end (for example, the rear end) of the first wall 451.

[0167] A through-hole 455a into which a shaft connection part 463 of an arm 460 is inserted may be formed in each of the extension parts 455.

[0168] The arms 460 may be provided at both ends of a shaft 520.

[0169] A first arm among the two arms 460 may include a drive connection part 462 connected to a driving part 510. The first arm may constitute a drive arm.

[0170] A second arm among the two arms 460 may constitute a driven arm.

[0171] Each of the two arms 460 may include a shaft connection part 463 coupled to the shaft 520.

[0172] In the case of the first arm, the drive connection part 462 and the shaft connection part 463 may be disposed on opposite sides to each other.

[0173] One end of the arm 460 may be connected to one end of a spring 470, so that when the spring 470 is tensioned, the position of the arm 460 may be moved to an initial position by a restoring force.

[0174] The second tray supporter 450 may include a link connection part 457a to which a link 490 is coupled. The link connection parts 457a may be provided on both side walls of the second tray supporter 450 so that two links 490 may be respectively coupled to the link connection parts 457a.

[0175] In the process of moving the second tray 400, the link 490 may be moveably coupled to the second tray supporter 450 through the link connection part 457a.

[0176] The second tray supporter 450 may include a spring coupling part 457b for coupling the spring 470. The spring coupling part 457b may include a hook so that one end (for example, a lower end) of the spring 470 is caught.

[0177] The ice maker 200 may include a second pusher 540. The second pusher 540 may be coupled to, for example, the bracket 220. The second pusher 540 may be named a "fixed pusher."

[0178] The second pushers 540 may be provided in the same number as the cells 360, but is not limited thereto.

[0179] The second pusher 540 may push out ice located in the cell 360. For example, the second pusher 540 may pass through the second tray supporter 450 to contact the second tray 400 forming the cell 360, and may press the contacted second tray 400.

[0180] The second pusher 540 may include a coupling plate 542 coupled to the bracket 220 and at least one pushing bar 544 provided on the coupling plate 542. A plurality of pushing bars 544 may be connected to the coupling plate 542 in a state of being spaced apart in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction).

[0181] The ice maker 200 may include heaters 530 and 535.

[0182] The heaters 530 and 535 may include a first heater 530 disposed in a recessed accommodation space 453a of the second tray supporter 450 to apply heat to the second tray 400.

[0183] The first heater 530 may be disposed adjacent to or in contact with one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400 so as to supply heat to a portion (for example, a lower portion) of the second tray 400.

[0184] The first heater 530 may function as an ice-releasing heater that supplies heat to the second tray 400 during an ice-releasing process of ice, or may operate to help generate transparent ice during an ice-making process.

[0185] The first heater 530 may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0186] The heaters 530 and 535 may include a second heater 535 controlled to be turned on in at least a portion of a period after ice-making is completed so that ice may be easily separated from the tray assembly.

[0187] The second heater 535 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the first tray 300. The second heater 535 may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0188] For example, the second heater 535 may be disposed to contact the first tray 300 or may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the first tray 300 by a predetermined distance. In either case, the second heater 535 may supply heat to the first tray 300, and the heat supplied to the first tray 300 may be transferred to the cell 360.

[0189] The ice maker 200 may include a driving part 510 providing a driving force. The second tray 400 may move relative to the first tray 300 by receiving the driving force of the driving part 510.

[0190] The ice maker 200 may include a shaft 520 passing through the through-hole 455a of the second tray supporter 450. The shaft 520 may extend between the two extension parts 455 and may be rotated by receiving power from the driving part 510.

[0191] The driving part 510 may include a motor and a plurality of gears.

[0192] The driving part 510 may include a cam that is rotated or moved by receiving power from the motor. The ice maker 200 may include a sensor for sensing the rotation or movement of the cam.

[0193] For example, the cam may be provided with a magnet, and the sensor may be a Hall sensor for sensing magnetism of the magnet during the rotation or movement of the cam. Depending on whether the sensor senses the magnet, the sensor may output a first signal and a second signal, which are different outputs. One of the first signal and the second signal may be a "High" signal, and the other may be a "Low" signal.

[0194] A controller of the refrigerator may determine a position of the second tray 400 (or the second tray assembly) based on a type and pattern of a signal output from the sensor. That is, since the second tray 400 and the cam are moved by the motor, the position of the second tray 400 may be indirectly determined based on a detection signal of a magnet provided on the cam.

[0195] For example, a water supply position, an ice-making position, and an ice-releasing position may be distinguished and determined based on a signal output from the sensor.

[0196] The second tray 400 may be formed of a non-metallic material. For example, the second tray 400 may be formed of a flexible or soft material whose shape may be deformed when pressed by the second pusher 540. Without being limited thereto, the second tray 400 may be formed of, for example, a silicone material.

[0197] Accordingly, in a process in which the second tray 400 is pressed by the second pusher 540, the second tray 400 may be deformed, and a pressing force of the second pusher 540 may be transferred to ice. The ice and the second tray 400 may be separated by the pressing force of the second pusher 540.

[0198] If the second tray 400 is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or soft material, a coupling force or an adhesion force between the ice and the second tray 400 may be reduced, so that the ice may be easily separated from the second tray 400.

[0199] When the second tray 400 is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or soft material, after the shape of the second tray 400 is deformed by the second pusher 540, the second tray 400 may be easily restored to its original shape when the pressing force of the second pusher 540 is removed.

[0200] For example, the first tray 300 may be formed of a metallic material or a plastic material. In this case, a bonding force or an adhesive force per unit area between the first tray 300 and ice may be relatively strong.

[0201] As another example, the first tray 300 may be formed of a non-metallic material. In this case, the coupling force or adhesion force per unit area between the first tray 300 and the ice may be relatively weak. Therefore, the ice releasing may be easily performed. Although not limited, the first tray 300 may be formed of, for example, a silicone material.

[0202] The first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may be formed of the same material. In this case, a hardness of the first tray 300 and a hardness of the second tray 400 may be different so that sealing performance is maintained at a contact portion between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0203] In this embodiment, since the second tray 400 is pressed and deformed by the second pusher 540, the hardness of the second tray 400 may be lower than the hardness of the first tray 300 to facilitate the shape deformation of the second tray 400.

[0204] FIG. 5 is a view showing a partial configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the first tray 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be coupled to a bracket 220.

[0206] The first tray 300 may include at least one of a coupling protrusion 329a or a boss 329b coupled to the bracket 220.

[0207] The coupling protrusion 329a or the boss 329b may be provided on the first extension wall 327 and configured to protrude in one direction (for example, upward).

[0208] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts. The number of the plurality of tray parts may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0209] The plurality of tray parts may be arranged in a line in one direction (for example, an X-axis direction).

[0210] The first tray 300 may form an upper tray.

[0211] The first tray 300 may include a first portion 322 defining a portion of the cell 360. For example, the first portion 322 may be a portion of the first tray wall 321.

[0212] The first portion 322 may include a first cell surface 322b forming a first cell 321a.

[0213] The first portion 322 may include an opening 324. The opening 324 may communicate with the first cell 321a.

[0214] The first portion 322 may include a portion to which the second heater 535 is coupled.

[0215] A lowermost end of the first portion 322 may form a contact surface contacting the second tray 400.

[0216] The first tray 300 may include a second portion 323 extending from a certain point of the first portion 322. The certain point of the first portion 322 may be one end of the first portion 322. Alternatively, the certain point of the first portion 322 may be a point on the contact surface contacting the second tray 400.

[0217] A portion of the second portion 323 may be formed by the first tray wall 321, and another portion may be formed by the first extension wall 327.

[0218] The first tray 300 may include an auxiliary storage space 325 communicating with the cell 360. For example, water overflowing from the cell 360 may be stored in the auxiliary storage space 325.

[0219] The auxiliary storage space 325 may be formed by a storage space wall 325a. The storage space wall 325a may extend in one direction (for example, upward) around the opening 324.

[0220] The first pusher 700 may pass through the opening 324 after passing the storage space wall 325a.

[0221] When the first tray 300 defines a plurality of first cells 321a, at least one 325b among a plurality of storage space walls 325a may support a water supply part 240.

[0222] The first pusher 700 may extend between two guide bars 350. Both side portions of the first pusher 700 may be located outside the guide bars 350 by passing through slots 355 of the guide bars 350.

[0223] Links 490 may be respectively coupled to both side portions of the first pusher 700.

[0224] The link 490 may include a link body 491. The link body 491 may have a bent or rounded shape. Based on the shape of the link body 491, the link 490 may move the first pusher 700 while the link 490 is allowed to move during a movement process of the second tray assembly.

[0225] The link 490 may include a first connection part 493 provided at one end of the link body 491 and a second connection part 495 provided at the other end of the link body 491.

[0226] The first connection part 493 may be coupled to the second tray supporter 450. The first connection part 493 may include a first coupling hole for coupling with a link connection part 457a provided on the second tray supporter 450.

[0227] The first connection part 493 may be connected to the second tray supporter 450 at a position spaced apart from a center of the shaft 520 or a center of the second tray assembly.

[0228] The second connection part 495 may include a second coupling hole for coupling with the first pusher 700. The first pusher 700 may be connected to the second connection part 495 after passing through the slot 355.

[0229] By the movement of the second tray assembly, the links 490 connected to the second tray assembly move together. When the link 490 moves, the first pusher 700 connected to the link 490 moves along the slot 355. The link 490 may serve to convert a movement force of the second tray assembly into a movement force of the first pusher 700.

[0230] Arms 460 may be coupled to both sides of the second tray supporter 450.

[0231] The arm 460 may include an arm body 461. The arm body 461 may have a bent or rounded shape.

[0232] The arm 460 may include a shaft connection part 463 that protrudes from the arm body 461 toward the shaft 520 and is coupled to the shaft 520. The shaft connection part 463 may pass through the through-hole 455a of the extension part 455.

[0233] The shaft connection part 463 may be provided at one end of the arm 460.

[0234] Among the two arms 460, a first arm 460 connected to the driving part 510 may include a drive connection part 462. The drive connection part 462 may be axially coupled to the driving part 510.

[0235] A spring 470 may be connected to the other end of the arm 460. The spring 470 may provide an elastic force to the second tray supporter 450 so that the second tray 400 may maintain a state of being in contact with the first tray 300.

[0236] The other end of the arm 460 may include a spring connection part 465 to which the spring 470 is coupled. The spring connection part 465 may include a coupling hole so that an end of the spring 470 is coupled to the coupling hole.

[0237] The first tray 300 may include a first cell surface 322b defining a first cell 321a. The second tray 400 may include a second cell surface 410a defining a second cell 411a.

[0238] When the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 are in a closed position, that is, an ice-making position, the first cell 321a and the second cell 411a may be combined to form a cell 360.

[0239] The second tray 400 may include a second tray wall 410 forming the second cell 411a and a peripheral wall 430 extending upward from the second tray wall 410 to surround the second portion 323 of the first tray 300.

[0240] In a process in which the second tray 400 moves from a water supply position to the ice-making position, it is possible to reduce leakage of water supplied to the cell 360 between the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly. In addition, it is possible to reduce a phenomenon in which water expanding during an ice-making process leaks between the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly and freezes.

[0241] A recessed part 412 may be formed at a lower end portion of the second tray wall 410. By the recessed part 412, a desired ice shape may be realized even if the second tray wall 410 is deformed in a process where ice undergoes ice-making expansion.

[0242] FIGS. 6 and 7 show a state in which the first pusher 700 has ascended to the furthest distance (for example, a maximum height) based on a certain point of the first tray or the second tray. In a state where the first pusher 700 has ascended to the maximum height, a wall part 730 of the first pusher 700 may be at a position higher than one end (for example, an upper end) of the storage space wall 325a.

[0243] FIG. 8 is a front view showing a partial configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ice maker at a water supply position.

[0244] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may be moveably disposed to contact each other to form a cell 360.

[0245] The first tray 300 may be disposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray 400.

[0246] The second tray supporter 450 may support one side (for example, a lower side) of at least a portion of the second tray 400. The second tray cover 480 may cover the other side (for example, an upper side) of at least a portion of the second tray 400.

[0247] A guide bar 350 extending in one direction (for example, upward) of the cell 360 may be included. The guide bar 350 may be disposed at a position higher than a first extension wall 327 of the first tray 300.

[0248] A peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400 may be disposed to surround a first portion 322 which is a part of a first tray wall 321.

[0249] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c arranged in a first direction (for example, an X-axis direction) to define a plurality of cells 360.

[0250] The plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c may include a central first tray part 300a and second and third tray parts 300b and 300c on both sides.

[0251] Water supply is performed to the first tray part 300a, and water may first fill the first tray part 300a and then fill the second and third tray parts 300b and 300c through a water spreading phenomenon.

[0252] The peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400 may be surrounded by a cover extension wall 483 of the second tray cover 480.

[0253] The second tray 400 may be supported by the second tray cover 480 through a protrusion 434.

[0254] FIG. 9 shows a state in which a wall part 730 of a first pusher 700 shields an opening 324 of the first tray 300. At this time, the first and second tray assemblies may be in an ice-making position.

[0255] FIG. 10 shows a state when the first and second tray assemblies are in a water supply position. In the water supply position, the second tray assembly may be in a state of having moved by a predetermined angle in a forward direction by the driving of a driving part 510.

[0256] In the water supply position, a first contact surface 323a formed at one end (for example, a lower end portion) of the first tray 300 is located at a position spaced apart from a second contact surface 415 formed at one end (for example, an upper end) of a second tray wall 410.

[0257] When the second tray assembly moves in a reverse direction from the water supply position to the ice-making position, the first contact surface 323a may contact the second contact surface 415.

[0258] The water supply part 240 may be disposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the opening 324 of any one of the plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c.

[0259] When water is supplied through the water supply part 240, the water may be supplied to an internal space of the first and second trays 300 and 400 through the opening 324 of the first tray 300.

[0260] The first pusher 700 may be in a state of having moved in one direction (for example, downward) to open the opening 324. At this time, based on a certain point of the first tray or the second tray, the height of the first pusher 700 may be at a position lower than the maximum height in FIG. 6.

[0261] The wall part 730 of the first pusher 700 is located inside the first tray 300, and a bar 720 of the first pusher 700 is at a position passing through the opening 324.

[0262] Water supplied from the water supply part 240 may be supplied into the first and second trays 300 and 400 through a space between the bar 720 and the opening 324.

[0263] FIG. 11 is an upper perspective view showing a configuration of a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a lower perspective view showing the configuration of the first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a link according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a side view showing the configuration of the link according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0264] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, the first pusher 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a connection member 710 extending in a first direction (for example, an X-axis direction) corresponding to a direction in which a plurality of cells 360 are arranged.

[0265] The first pusher 700 may include a bar 720 extending from the connection member 710 toward the cell 360. A plurality of bars 720 may be provided to correspond to the plurality of cells 360.

[0266] The bar 720 may extend in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) and may be formed in a straight shape or a curved shape where at least a portion is rounded. A diameter of the bar 720 may be less than a diameter of the opening 324 of the first tray 300. The bar 720 may be inserted into the cell 360 by passing through the opening 324. The first pusher 700 may be named a "through-type pusher."

[0267] The connection member 710 may connect ends of one side (for example, an upper side) of the plurality of bars 720 to each other.

[0268] The first pusher 700 may include a protrusion 740 protruding laterally from the connection member 710. A plurality of protrusions 740 may be provided on both sides of the connection member 710.

[0269] The protrusion 740 may include a guide connection part 741 passing through a slot 355. For example, a cross-section of the guide connection part 741 may be formed in a circular, elliptical, or polygonal shape. The guide connection part 741 may be located in a guide slot 355.

[0270] In a state of being positioned in the guide slot 355, the guide connection part 741 may move in a longitudinal direction along the guide slot 355. For example, the guide connection part 741 may move in one direction (for example, a vertical direction).

[0271] The protrusion 740 may include a link connection part 743 for coupling with a link 490. The link connection part 743 may be formed in a cylindrical shape so that relative movement is possible while the link connection part 743 is coupled with the link 490.

[0272] The link connection part 743 may be inserted into a second connection part 495 of the link 490. The link connection part 743 may have a lower height based on one direction (for example, a vertical direction) than the guide connection part 741.

[0273] The protrusion 740 may include a catching part 745 supporting the link 490. The catching part 745 extends to an outside of the link connection part 743 and may have a height higher than a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the link connection part 743.

[0274] The link connection part 743 passes through the second connection part 495 of the link 490, and the catching part 745 is located outside the second connection part 495 to support the link 490. By the catching part 745, separation of the link 490 from the first pusher 700 may be prevented.

[0275] A shape of the second connection part 495 corresponds to a shape of the catching part 745, and the second connection part 495 may be formed slightly larger than the catching part 745.

[0276] When assembling the link 490 to the first pusher 700, the link 490 is positioned and pushed so that the catching part 745 passes through the second connection part 495, allowing the link connection part 743 to be inserted into the second connection part 495. Then, by moving the link 490, the link 490 and the catching part 745 may be made to interfere with each other.

[0277] The link 490 may include a link body 491. The link body 491 may include a first body 491a extending in a first direction and a second body 491b extending in a second direction.

[0278] The link body 491 may include a bent part 491c connecting the first body 491a and the second body 491b. The bent part 491c may have a bent or rounded shape. By the bent part 491c, the link body 491 may be configured to include a plurality of portions extending in different directions.

[0279] The link 490 may include a first connection part 493 provided at one end of the link body 491. The first connection part 493 may be formed at an end of the first body 491a.

[0280] The first connection part 493 may be moveably coupled to a link connection part 457a of a second tray supporter 450.

[0281] The link 490 may include a second connection part 495 provided at the other end of the link body 491. The second connection part 495 is formed at an end of the second body 491b and may be moveably coupled to the link connection part 743 of the first pusher 700.

[0282] When the second tray assembly moves, the link 490 moves together, and in this process, the first pusher 700 connected to the link 490 may move along the slot 355.

[0283] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in a water supply position, and FIG. 16 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the water supply position.

[0284] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, when the second tray assembly is in the water supply position, the second tray assembly, that is, the second tray 400, may be at a position moved in a forward direction by a predetermined angle (Θ) by the driving part 510. For example, the predetermined angle may be a value within a range of 7~15°.

[0285] According to the movement of the second tray 400, the link 490 moves together with the second tray 400, and the first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, downward) by the second connection part 495 of the link 490.

[0286] The first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, descend) to a position where the wall part 730 may open the opening 324 of the first tray 300. The bar 720 of the first pusher 700 may be at a position passing through the opening 324.

[0287] The wall part 730 may further move in one direction (for example, downward) from the opening 324 to be located inside a first cell 321a. Through a space between the bar 720 and the opening 324, water flows into the first cell 321a and fills an interior of a second cell 411a of the second tray 400.

[0288] Water supplied from an outside of the opening 324 passes through the opening 324 and may strike the wall part 730. An outer surface (for example, an upper surface) of the wall part 730 may include a guide surface 735 that guides water into the first cell 321a.

[0289] Water striking the guide surface 735 may flow (for example, fall) in one direction (for example, downward) while spreading. By the guide surface 735, a phenomenon in which water splashes during the water supply process may be prevented.

[0290] Water supply may be performed to any one of the plurality of cells 360 through the water supply part 240. For example, water supply may be performed to a central cell.

[0291] When a predetermined amount of water supply is completed, it is possible to wait for a predetermined time so that water spreads and is supplied from the central cell 360 to the cells 360 on both sides. At this time, the water may flow along the peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400.

[0292] Since water supply is performed in a state where the second tray 400 has moved in the forward direction by the predetermined angle, water spreading to the plurality of cells 360 may be easily achieved.

[0293] In the water supply position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a first height H1. A reference point for determining the height may be a certain point of the first tray 300, for example, the first extension wall 327.

[0294] In the water supply position, a first compression force F1 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400.

[0295] Another embodiment regarding the water supply position is proposed.

[0296] In FIGS. 15 and 16, it has been described that the wall part 730 moves to the inside of the opening 324 of the first tray 300 to open the opening 324 while the first pusher 700 moves (for example, descends). Alternatively, it may be configured such that the wall part 730 moves to an outside (for example, an upper side) of the opening 324 of the first tray 300 to open the opening 324 while the first pusher 700 ascends.

[0297] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in an ice-making position, and FIG. 18 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the ice-making position.

[0298] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, when the second tray assembly is in the ice-making position, the second tray assembly, that is, the second tray 400, may be in a state of being in contact with the first tray 300 by moving in a reverse direction from the water supply position by the driving part 510.

[0299] The driving part 510 may rotate in the reverse direction at an angle slightly greater than the predetermined angle to reach the ice-making position for sealing between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0300] The cell 360 may be defined by the contact between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0301] According to the reverse movement of the second tray 400, the link 490 moves together with the second tray 400, and the first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, upward) by the second connection part 495 of the link 490.

[0302] The first pusher 700 may move (for example, ascend) to a position where the wall part 730 shields the opening 324 of the first tray 300.

[0303] The wall part 730 may define a third cell forming at least a portion of the cell 360. The third cell may be defined by a third cell surface 732 constituting one surface of the wall part 730.

[0304] The third cell surface 732 may form at least a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the cell 360.

[0305] The third cell surface 732 may be formed on one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the wall part 730.

[0306] For example, the third cell surface 732 may be formed to be rounded with a predetermined curvature.

[0307] That is, the cell 360 may be defined by a first cell surface 322b of the first tray 300, a second cell surface 410a of the second tray 400, and the third cell surface 732 of the wall part 730.

[0308] The first cell surface 322b, the second cell surface 410a, and the third cell surface 732 may also be named "first to third cell walls," respectively.

[0309] In the ice-making position, cold is supplied to the ice maker to perform an ice-making process, and ice I may be generated in the cell 360. The ice I may be attached to the third cell surface 732 of the wall part 730.

[0310] In the ice-making position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a second height H2. The second height H2 may be greater than the first height H1.

[0311] Based on the height of the wall part 730 (height relative to the bottom of the ice maker), the second height of the wall part 730 in the ice-making position may be higher than the first height of the wall part 730 in the water supply position.

[0312] In the ice-making position, a second compression force F2 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400. The second compression force F2 may be formed in a magnitude that allows sealing between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400. The second compression force F2 may be greater than the first compression force F1.

[0313] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in a first ice-releasing position, and FIG. 20 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the first ice-releasing position.

[0314] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, when ice-making is completed, the driving part 510 may drive further in the reverse direction. At this time, the second tray 400 maintains a sealed state in contact with the first tray 300, and the arm 460 may move by the shaft 520 to move the first pusher 700 in one direction (for example, upward). For example, the arm 460 may move further clockwise based on FIG. 20.

[0315] According to the movement of the arm 460, the first pusher 700 moves upward, causing the wall part 730 to be separated from the ice I. This ice-releasing state in which the wall part 730 is separated from the ice I may be understood as "primary ice-releasing."

[0316] Since the area where the wall part 730 and the ice are attached is relatively small, the separation of the wall part 730 and the ice may be easily achieved according to the movement of the first pusher 700 in one direction (for example, upward).

[0317] During the primary ice-releasing, the second heater 535 may be driven.

[0318] In the primary ice-releasing position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a third height H3. The third height H3 may be greater than the second height H2.

[0319] Based on the height of the wall part 730, the third height of the wall part 730 in the primary ice-releasing position may be higher than the second height of the wall part 730 in the ice-making position.

[0320] In the primary ice-releasing position, a third compression force F3 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400. The third compression force F3 may be greater than the second compression force F2.

[0321] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in a secondary ice-releasing position, and FIG. 22 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the secondary ice-releasing position.

[0322] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, when the primary ice-releasing is completed, the driving part 510 may drive in the forward direction to perform secondary ice-releasing. When the angle of the second tray 400 in the ice-making position is 0°, the second tray 400 may move in the forward direction within a range of approximately 110° to 120° in the secondary ice-releasing position.

[0323] In the process of moving the second tray 400, the ice I may be separated from the first cell surface 322b of the first tray 300 or from the second cell surface 410a of the second tray 400.

[0324] Regardless of which tray the ice I is located in, the ice I may be released from the tray by the first pusher 700 or the second pusher 540.

[0325] According to the forward movement of the second tray 400, the link 490 moves together with the second tray 400, and the first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, downward) by the second connection part 495 of the link 490.

[0326] The first pusher 700 may descend to a position where the wall part 730 opens the opening 324 of the first tray 300 and is located inside the first cell 321a. For example, one end (for example, a lower end portion) of the first pusher 700, that is, the wall part 730, may move (for example, descend) to a position corresponding to one end (for example, a lower end portion) of the first tray 300.

[0327] The bar 720 of the first pusher 700 may be at a position passing through the opening 324.

[0328] Even if the ice I is in a state of being attached to the first tray 300, as the first pusher 700 moves (for example, descends), the ice I may be pressed by the first pusher 700.

[0329] That is, the wall part 730 may function as a "pushing part" that presses the ice I. When the wall part 730 presses the ice I, the ice I may be pressed by the third cell surface 732 of the wall part 730 or by an edge of the wall part 730.

[0330] When the second tray 400 is in the secondary ice-releasing position, a lower end portion of the second tray 400 may contact the pusher 540 and be deformed. If ice exists in the second tray 400, the ice may be separated from the second tray 400 by the pressing of the pusher 540.

[0331] The secondary ice-releasing position of the second tray 400 may be named a "maximum ice-releasing position." In comparison, the primary ice-releasing position of the second tray 400 may be named an "ice-releasing position."

[0332] The second tray 400 may be formed of a flexible or soft material whose shape may be deformed when pressed by the second pusher 540.

[0333] During the secondary ice-releasing, at least one of the first heater 530 or the second heater 535 may be driven.

[0334] In the secondary ice-releasing position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a fourth height H4. The fourth height H4 may be lower than the first height H1.

[0335] Based on the height of the wall part 730, the fourth height of the wall part 730 in the secondary ice-releasing position may be lower than the first height of the wall part 730 in the water supply position.

[0336] In the secondary ice-releasing position, the first compression force F1 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400.

[0337] Ice separated from the second tray 400 may fall and be stored in the ice bin 600. When the secondary ice-releasing operation is completed, the driving part 510 is operated to move the second tray assembly in the reverse direction to return to the ice-making position (FIGS. 17 and 18).

[0338] When the water supply operation starts, the second tray assembly may move in the forward direction toward the water supply position (FIGS. 15 and 16). At the water supply position, fluid is supplied through the water supply part 240, and the fluid may be supplied to a plurality of cells 360.Industrial Applicability

[0339] The present invention relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker. By providing a pusher for ice-releasing with a cell wall that forms a part of a cell, ice of a desired shape may be realized during ice-making, and thus industrial applicability is significant.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0056]Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same components are given the same numerals as much as possible even if they are displayed on different drawings. In addition, in describing an embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function interferes with an understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057]In describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, a, and b may be used. These terms are only for distinguishing the component from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the corresponding component is not limited by the term. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," "supported," or...

Technical Field

[0001] The present specification relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker.Background Art

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a home appliance capable of storing food at low temperatures in an internal storage space shielded by a door, and by cooling the inside of the storage space using cold, stored food may be kept in a refrigerated or frozen state. Typically, a refrigerator is provided with an ice maker for making ice.

[0003] The ice maker generates ice by receiving water supplied from a water source or a water tank into a tray and then cooling the water. In addition, the ice maker may release the ice from the ice tray using a heating method or a twisting method. An ice maker that automatically supplies water and releases ice in this manner is formed to open upward to scoop out the molded ice.

[0004] Ice produced in an ice maker of such a structure has at least one flat surface, such as a crescent shape or a cubic shape. On the other hand, if the ice is formed in a spherical shape, it may be more convenient to use the ice and may provide a unique user experience. Furthermore, during storage of the manufactured ice, sticking between ice pieces may be minimized by reducing the contact area between the ice pieces. Recently, attempts have also been made to manufacture transparent ice.Summary of the Invention Technical Problem

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker capable of implementing ice of a desired shape during ice-making by providing a pusher for ice-releasing with a cell wall forming a portion of a cell.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during water supply, a pusher moves into the cell to open a through-hole of a tray, and water supply may be performed through the opened space.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during ice-making, a pusher moves to form a cell wall of a cell and cold is supplied to perform ice-making.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during ice-releasing, a pusher moves in a direction away from a cell so that primary ice-releasing between the pusher and ice may be performed.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker in which, during ice-releasing, a pusher moves in a direction toward a cell to press the ice, so that secondary ice-releasing may be performed.Technical Solution

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention includes a pusher moveably provided through a through-hole of a tray, and the pusher may include a part located inside or outside a cell during a moving process.

[0011] The part may include a cell wall forming at least a portion of the cell.

[0012] The cell wall may include a cell surface forming a portion of an inner circumferential surface of the cell.

[0013] The pusher may be moveably provided in conjunction with a movement of the tray.

[0014] The tray may form a through-hole (or an opening), and the pusher may be moveably provided through the through-hole.

[0015] During water supply to the tray, the pusher may move through the through-hole to open the through-hole.

[0016] To open the through-hole, at least a portion of the pusher may be located inside the cell.

[0017] At least a portion of the pusher may include the cell wall of the pusher.

[0018] During ice-making process of the tray, the cell wall may be positioned to align with a wall of the tray to complete the cell.

[0019] During ice-releasing process of the tray, the cell wall may move in a direction away from the cell to perform primary ice-releasing between the cell wall and the ice.

[0020] During ice-releasing process of the tray, the cell wall may move in a direction approaching the cell to press the ice, thereby performing secondary ice-releasing in which the ice is separated from the tray.

[0021] A driving part for applying a driving force to the pusher may be included, and the pusher may receive the driving force through a link.

[0022] A tray supporter for supporting the tray may be included, and the link may be connected to a link connection part of the tray supporter.

[0023] The pusher may move linearly so as to pass through the through-hole of the tray.

[0024] The pusher may move in conjunction with the movement of the tray.

[0025] In one aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include: a storage space in which food is stored; a door for opening and closing the storage space; an ice-making space provided in the door or the storage space; a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space; a cell provided in the ice-making space, the cell being a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a tray forming at least a portion of the cell; a wall part forming another portion of the cell; a pusher provided at different positions in a water supply position, an ice-making position, and an ice-releasing position of the tray; and a driving part for providing a driving force to move at least one of the second tray or the pusher.

[0026] The driving part may include a driving motor.

[0027] The driving part may include a power transmission device for transmitting power generated from the driving motor to the second tray or the pusher. For example, the power transmission device may include mechanical elements such as a shaft, a gear, or a cam.

[0028] The tray may include an opening forming a space into which a liquid substance or cold is introduced, and the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part opens or shields the opening.

[0029] In the water supply position of the tray, the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part opens the opening.

[0030] In the water supply position of the tray, the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part is located inside the opening.

[0031] In the ice-making position of the tray, the driving part may move the pusher such that the wall part shields the opening.

[0032] The wall part may include a cell surface to define a cell forming a portion of the cell in the ice-making position of the tray.

[0033] The cell surface may form a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the cell.

[0034] The wall part may include a guide surface for guiding the liquid substance into the tray in the water supply position of the tray.

[0035] The guide surface may be located inside the tray in the water supply position of the tray.

[0036] The ice-releasing position of the tray may include a first ice-releasing position in which the pusher moves in a direction away from the opening so that the wall part is separated from the phase-changed substance.

[0037] The ice-releasing position of the tray may include a second ice-releasing position in which the pusher moves through the opening so that the tray is separated from the phase-changed substance.

[0038] Based on one point of the tray, heights of the pusher in the water supply position, the ice-making position, and the ice-releasing position may form different heights.

[0039] The tray may include a first tray (e.g., an upper tray) and a second tray (e.g., a lower tray), and a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the ice-making position based on one point of the first tray may be greater than a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the water supply position.

[0040] The tray may include a first tray (e.g., an upper tray) and a second tray (e.g., a lower tray), and a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the ice-releasing position based on one point of the first tray may be greater than a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the ice-making position.

[0041] The tray may include a first tray (e.g., an upper tray) and a second tray (e.g., a lower tray), and in a maximum ice-releasing position of the tray, a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) based on one point of the first tray may be less than a distance to the farthest point of the pusher (e.g., a maximum top height) in the water supply position.

[0042] The tray may include a first tray and a second tray, and may include a guide bar provided at one side of the first tray to which the pusher is moveably coupled, and a link moveably provided together with the second tray.

[0043] The guide bar may form a slot formed linearly so that the pusher moves linearly in conjunction with a movement of the link.

[0044] The refrigerator includes an arm connected to the driving part and being moveable, and including a first part coupled to a tray supporter supporting the tray and a second part disposed opposite to the first part; and a spring having both ends supported by the second part of the arm and the tray supporter.

[0045] The cell may include a plurality of cells arranged in a first direction, and the pusher may include a plurality of bars provided in a number corresponding to the plurality of cells and a connection part connecting the plurality of bars and extending in the first direction.

[0046] In another aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a storage space in which food is stored; a door for opening and closing the storage space; an ice-making space provided in the door or the storage space; a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space; a cell provided in the ice-making space, the cell being a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a tray forming at least a portion of the cell and forming an opening; and a pusher moving through the opening to release the phase-changed substance generated in the cell.

[0047] The pusher may include a wall part shielding the opening to form another portion of the cell in the ice-making position of the tray.

[0048] The pusher may be provided to move in a first direction to open the opening in a first ice-releasing position of the tray, and to move in a second direction to open the opening in a second ice-releasing position of the tray.

[0049] The first direction and the second direction may be opposite to each other.Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, ice of a desired shape may be implemented during ice-making by providing a pusher for ice-releasing with a cell wall forming a portion of a cell.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during water supply, the pusher moves into the cell to open a through-hole of the tray, and water supply may be easily performed through the opened space.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during ice-making, the pusher moves to form the cell wall of the cell and cold is supplied, so that ice-making may be easily performed.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during ice-releasing, the pusher moves in a direction away from the cell, so that primary ice-releasing between the pusher and ice may be easily performed.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, during ice-releasing, the pusher moves in a direction toward the cell to press the ice, so that secondary ice-releasing may be easily performed.Brief Description of Drawings

[0055] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a lower perspective view of the ice maker of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is a view showing some components of an ice maker of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2. FIG.8 a front view showing some components of an ice maker of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the ice maker in a water supply position. FIG. 11 is an upper perspective view showing a configuration of a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a lower perspective view showing a configuration of a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.13 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a link of an embodiment of the invention. FIG.14 is a side view showing a configuration of a link of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in a water supply position. FIG. 16 is a side view showing the ice maker in a water supply position. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in an ice-making position. FIG. 18 is a side view showing the ice maker in an ice-making position. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in a first ice-releasing position. FIG. 20 is a side view showing the ice maker in a first ice-releasing position. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice maker in a second ice-releasing position. FIG. 22 is a side view showing the ice maker in a second ice-releasing position. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0056] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same components are given the same numerals as much as possible even if they are displayed on different drawings. In addition, in describing an embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function interferes with an understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] In describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, a, and b may be used. These terms are only for distinguishing the component from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the corresponding component is not limited by the term. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "joined" to another component, the component may be directly "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "joined" to the other component, but it should be understood that another component may also be "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "joined" between each component.

[0058] Meanwhile, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A and B" may be understood as including three embodiments meaning (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B.

[0059] Also, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A or B" may be understood as including three embodiments meaning (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. That is, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A or B" may be the same as the meaning of the description "at least one of components A and B."

[0060] The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a storage space where items (for example, food, medicine, etc.) are stored. The refrigerator may include a door for opening and closing the storage space. In the refrigerator, the items may be stored in a refrigerated or frozen state. The refrigerator may include an ice-making space in which at least a part of an ice maker to be described later is disposed. The ice-making space may be provided in the storage space and / or the door.

[0061] An ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cell which is a space where the item (for example, water) undergoes a phase change into ice. The ice maker may include a tray assembly. The tray assembly may include a tray, a tray case, or both the tray and the tray case. The tray may include a wall forming at least a part of the cell. The tray case may include a wall connected to the tray, coupled to the tray, supported by the tray, or surrounding at least a part of the tray. The tray case may include at least one of a tray cover or a tray supporter. The tray assembly may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly. The first tray assembly may include a first tray, a first tray case, or both the first tray and the first tray case. The first tray may include a wall forming a first part of the cell. The first tray case may include a wall connected to the first tray, coupled to the first tray, supported by the first tray, or surrounding at least a part of the first tray. The first tray case may include at least one of a first tray cover or a first tray supporter. The second tray assembly may include a second tray, a second tray case, or both the second tray and the second tray case. The second tray may include a wall forming a second part of the cell. The second tray case may include a wall connected to the second tray, coupled to the second tray, supported by the second tray, or surrounding at least a part of the second tray. The second tray case may include at least one of a second tray cover or a second tray supporter. The ice maker may include a bracket. The bracket may cover at least a part of the tray assembly or accommodate at least a part of the tray assembly.

[0062] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a pusher. The pusher may be provided to press the ice and / or the tray assembly so that the ice is separated from the tray assembly. The pusher may include a first edge on which a surface for pressing the ice and / or the tray assembly is formed. The pusher may include a bar extending from the first edge. The pusher may include a second edge located at an end of the bar.

[0063] A pressing part that the pusher presses may be formed on the tray assembly, and the pusher may be configured to apply pressure to one surface of the tray assembly. The pusher may be defined as a non-penetrating pusher.

[0064] The first edge of the pusher may move along a surface of a tray defining at least a part of the cell from a first point outside the cell. The pusher may be defined as a movable pusher. The pusher may be connected to a driving part, a rotation shaft of the driving part, or a tray assembly movable by being connected to the drive part.

[0065] The pusher may additionally press the pressing part after contacting the pressing part at the first point outside the cell. The pusher may be coupled to a fixed end. The pusher may be defined as a fixed pusher.

[0066] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a heater. The heater (for example, a wire heater, a cord heater, a radiant heater, etc.) may supply heat to the cell and / or the storage space. The heater may contact the tray assembly and / or the cell to directly supply heat. The heater may supply heat indirectly (for example, hot or warm air) in a state where the heater is not connected to the tray assembly and / or the cell.

[0067] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a cooler (for example, an evaporator, a refrigerant pipe, a refrigerant valve, a fan, a damper, a thermoelectric module, etc.). The cooler may contact the tray assembly and / or the cell to directly supply cold. The cooler may supply heat (for example, cold or cold air) indirectly in a state where the cooler is not connected to the tray assembly and / or the cell.

[0068] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be provided to detect a temperature of an item (for example, water) or ice in the cell.

[0069] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a driving device. The driving device may be connected to the tray assembly and / or the pusher.

[0070] The refrigerator of the present invention may include a tray assembly forming a part of a cell which is a space where water undergoes a phase change into ice, a cooler for supplying cold to the cell, a water supply part for supplying water to the cell, and a controller. The refrigerator may further include a driving part capable of moving the tray assembly. The refrigerator may further include a storage space in which food is stored in addition to the cell. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature in the storage space. The controller may control at least one of the water supply part or the cooler. The controller may control at least one of the heater or the driving part.

[0071] After moving the tray assembly to an ice-making position, the controller may control the cooler to supply cold to the cell. After the generation of ice in the cell is completed, the controller may control the tray assembly to move in a forward direction to an ice-releasing position to take out the ice from the cell. After ice-releasing is completed, the controller may control the tray assembly to move in a reverse direction to a water supply position and then start water supply, and after the water supply is completed, the controller may control the tray assembly to move to the ice-making position.

[0072] In the present invention, a cell may be defined as a space located inside the storage space where water undergoes a phase change into ice. The circumference of the cell refers to an outer surface of the cell, regardless of the shape of the cell. In another aspect, the outer circumferential surface of the cell may refer to an inner surface of a wall forming the cell. The center of the cell refers to a center of gravity or a center of volume of the cell. The center may pass through a line of symmetry of the cell.

[0073] In the present invention, a tray may be defined as a wall partitioning the cell and the inside of the storage space. The tray may be defined as a wall forming at least a portion of the cell. The tray may be configured to entirely surround or only partially surround the cell. A plurality of trays may be present. The plurality of trays may be in contact with each other.

[0074] In the present invention, a refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly configured to move by being connected to a driving part. The driving part is configured to move the tray assembly in at least one axial direction among X, Y, and Z axes, or to perform a rotational movement about at least one axis among the X, Y, and Z axes. The present invention may include a refrigerator having the remaining configurations except for the driving part and a power transmission member connecting the driving part and the tray assembly from the contents described in the detailed description. In the present invention, the tray assembly may be moved in a first direction.

[0075] In the present invention, the refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly in which the heater is disposed. The heater may be disposed near the tray assembly to heat a cell formed by the tray assembly. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter referred to as a "transparent ice heater") controlled to be turned on during at least a part of a period while the cooler supplies cold so that bubbles dissolved in water inside the cell move from a portion where ice is generated toward water in a liquid state to generate transparent ice. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter referred to as an "ice-releasing heater") controlled to be turned on during at least a part of a period after ice making is completed so that ice may be easily separated from the tray assembly.

[0076] In the present invention, the cell may be cooled by the cooler that cools the storage space. For example, the storage space where the cell is located is a freezing space that may be controlled at a temperature lower than 0 degrees, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler that cools the freezing space.

[0077] In the present invention, the cell may be cooled by a cooler other than the cooler that cools the storage space. For example, the storage space where the cell is located is a refrigerating space that may be controlled at a temperature higher than 0 degrees, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler other than the cooler that cools the refrigerating space. That is, the refrigerator may include a refrigerating space and a freezing space, the cell may be located inside the refrigerating space, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler that cools the freezing space. The cell may be located on a door that opens and closes the storage space.

[0078] In the present invention, a degree of internal deformation resistance (degree of deformation resistance) represents a degree to which an object resists deformation caused by an external force applied to the object, and is defined as a value determined by a shape including a thickness of the object, a material of the object, and the like.

[0079] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of the object, a large degree of internal deformation resistance of the object may mean that the rigidity of the object is large. Thermal conductivity may be an inherent material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of the object is the same, the degree of internal deformation resistance may vary depending on the shape of the object or the like. The degree of internal deformation resistance may be affected by a deformation resistance reinforcement part extending in a direction in which the external force is applied. As the rigidity of the deformation resistance reinforcement part increases, the degree of internal deformation resistance may increase. As a height of the extended deformation resistance reinforcement part increases, the degree of internal deformation resistance may increase.

[0080] In the present invention, a degree of restoration represents a degree to which an object deformed by an external force is restored to the shape of the object before the external force was applied after the external force is removed, and is defined as a value determined by a shape including a thickness of the object, a material of the object, and the like.

[0081] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of the object, a large degree of restoration of the object may mean that the elastic modulus of the object is large. The elastic modulus may be an inherent material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of the object is the same, the degree of restoration may vary depending on the shape of the object or the like.

[0082] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the refrigerator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0083] FIG. 1 is a view showing a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet 14 including a storage space and a door for opening and closing the storage space.

[0085] The storage space may include a refrigerating space 18 and a freezing space 32. The refrigerating space 18 is disposed at an upper side, and the freezing space 32 is disposed at a lower side, so that each storage space may be individually opened and closed by each door. As another example, it is also possible that the freezing space is disposed at the upper side and the refrigerating space is disposed at the lower side. Alternatively, it is also possible that the freezing space is disposed on one of the left and right sides and the refrigerating space is disposed on the other side.

[0086] The freezing space 32 may be divided into first and second spaces (for example, a lower space and an upper space), and a drawer 40 that may be moved in and out of the first space may be provided in the first space.

[0087] The door may include a plurality of doors 10, 20 and 30 for opening and closing the refrigerating space 18 and the freezing space 32. The plurality of doors 10, 20 and 30 may include some or all of doors 10 and 20 that open and close the storage space and a door 30 that opens and closes the storage space in a sliding manner.

[0088] The freezing space may be provided to be divided into two spaces, even if the freezing space may be opened and closed by a single door. In this embodiment, the freezing space may be referred to as a first storage space, and the refrigerating space may be referred to as a second storage space.

[0089] An ice maker 200 capable of manufacturing ice may be provided in the freezing space 32. The ice maker 200 may be located, for example, in a partial space (for example, an upper space) of the freezing space 32.

[0090] An ice bin 600 in which ice produced in the ice maker is dropped and stored may be disposed at one side (for example, a lower side) of the ice maker. A user may take out the ice bin 600 from the freezing space and use the ice stored in the ice bin. The ice bin 600 may be coupled to one side (for example, an upper side) of a wall partitioning a first space (for example, an upper space) and a second space (for example, a lower space) of the freezing space.

[0091] Although not shown, the cabinet is provided with a duct (not shown) for supplying cold to the ice maker. The duct guides cold, which has exchanged heat with a refrigerant flowing through an evaporator, toward the ice maker. For example, the duct may be disposed at one side (for example, a rear side) of the cabinet to discharge cold air toward the other side (for example, a front side) of the cabinet. The ice maker may be located at the other side (for example, the front side) of the duct. Without being limited thereto, a discharge port of the duct may be provided on at least one of a first side wall (for example, a rear side wall) or a second side wall (for example, an upper side wall) of the freezing space.

[0092] Although it has been described above that the ice maker 200 is provided in the freezing space 32, a space where the ice maker 200 may be located is not limited to the freezing space 32, and the ice maker 200 may be located in various spaces as long as cold may be supplied. Therefore, hereinafter, it will be described that the ice maker 200 is located in the storage space.

[0093] FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a lower perspective view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a bracket for supporting a tray assembly. Each component of the ice maker may be provided inside or outside the bracket, so that the ice maker may constitute one assembly.

[0095] The bracket may be coupled to at least one surface of the storage space.

[0096] The bracket may include a first wall. At least a portion of the first wall may extend in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) and may be coupled to one surface of the storage space.

[0097] A fastening hole 228 through which a fastening member passes may be formed on a corner side of the first wall 221. The bracket 220 may be coupled to the storage space through the fastening member coupled to the fastening hole 228.

[0098] The first wall 221 may include a guide protrusion 228a for guiding an electric wire connected to the ice maker. A plurality of guide protrusions 228a are provided and may be provided in various shapes according to an extension direction of the electric wire.

[0099] The bracket 220 may include two second walls 222 extending in one direction (for example, downward) from both sides of the first wall 221. A space between the two second walls 222 may form a space in which a tray assembly is disposed.

[0100] A driving part 510 may be disposed on an inner side of any one of the two second walls 222.

[0101] The other of the two second walls 222 may function as a prevention plate for preventing ice falling into the ice bin 600 or ice stored in the ice bin 600 from falling out, and may form a wall through-hole 222a at least a portion of which is penetrated to prevent frost formation.

[0102] The bracket 220 may include a third wall 223 protruding from the first wall 221. The third wall 223 may protrude from the first wall 221 in a direction toward the storage space. The third wall 223 may include a first part 223a extending in a direction corresponding to one direction (for example, a front-rear direction) of the storage space and a second part 223b extending in another direction (for example, a left-right direction) from one end (for example, a front end) of the first part 223a. The third wall 223 may include a hook 223c coupled to one surface (for example, an upper surface) of the storage space. For example, the hook 223c may be provided on the second part 223b.

[0103] A water supply part 240 may be coupled to the second part 223b. The water supply part 240 includes a hook 248, and the hook 248 may be caught at one end (for example, an upper end) of the second part 223b.

[0104] The bracket 220 may be formed with a suction hole 224a through which cold of the storage space is introduced toward the tray assembly. The suction hole 224a may be formed in a side wall of the bracket 220. For example, the suction hole 224a may be formed in a space between the second wall 222 and the third wall 223. From another aspect, the suction hole 224a may be formed by penetrating at least a part of the second wall 222.

[0105] Cold may be sucked from a side of the bracket 220 toward the tray assembly through the suction hole 224a to act as cold for ice making.

[0106] The bracket 220 may include a guide wall 225 that guides the cold sucked through the suction hole 224a toward the tray assembly. The guide wall 225 may extend from the third wall 223 toward a center of the bracket 220.

[0107] As an example, the guide wall 225 may include a portion extending roundly from the third wall 223 toward the cell 360. The cell 360 may be disposed closer to the other end (for example, a front end) than to one end (for example, a rear end).

[0108] The bracket 220 may include a blocking plate 227a for preventing cold sucked through the suction hole 224a from being discharged from the bracket 220 without being directed toward a tray assembly. For example, the blocking plate 227a may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the first wall 221. The blocking plate 227a may be laterally spaced apart from the suction hole 224a, and a plurality of cells 360 may be disposed between the suction hole 224a and the blocking plate 227a.

[0109] The blocking plate 227a is disposed further from the suction hole 224a than the cell 360 furthest from the suction hole 224a, thereby preventing a phenomenon in which the cold bypasses the plurality of cells 360 and is discharged from the bracket 220.

[0110] The bracket 220 may include a fourth wall 224 to which the second pusher 540 is coupled. The fourth wall 224 extends in one direction (for example, downward) from one end (for example, a rear end) of the first wall 221 and may form a wall of one surface (for example, a rear surface) of the bracket 220.

[0111] The ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly.

[0112] The first tray assembly may include a first tray 300, may include a first tray case, or may include the first tray 300 and the first tray case. For example, in this embodiment, the first tray assembly may include the first tray 300.

[0113] The second tray assembly may include a second tray 400, may include a second tray case, or may include the second tray 400 and the second tray case.

[0114] The second tray case may include at least one of a second tray supporter or a second tray cover.

[0115] The bracket 220 may define at least a portion of a space for accommodating the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly.

[0116] The bracket 220 may be disposed, for example, on an upper wall of the freezing space 32. A water supply part 240 may be disposed on the bracket 220. The water supply part 240 may guide water supplied from one side (for example, an upper side) to the other side (for example, a lower side) of the water supply part 240. A water supply pipe (not shown) through which water is supplied may be disposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the water supply part 240.

[0117] Since the water supply part 240 is disposed below the water supply pipe, water is guided in one direction (for example, downward) without splashing to the water supply part 240, and even if the water moves in the one direction (for example, downward) due to the lowered height, the amount of splashing water may be reduced.

[0118] The water supply part 240 may be supported by the bracket 220. The water supply part 240 may include a hook 248 coupled to the bracket 220. As an example, the hook 248 may be caught on the second part 223b of the bracket 220.

[0119] The ice maker 200 may include a cell (refer to 360 in FIG. 6), which is a space where water undergoes a phase change into ice by cold air.

[0120] The first tray 300 may form at least a portion of the cell 360. The second tray 400 may form another portion of the cell 360. The cell 360 may include a first cell 321a (refer to FIG. 7) formed by the first tray 300 and a second cell 411a (refer to FIG. 7) formed by the second tray 400.

[0121] The first tray 300 may be coupled to the bracket 220.

[0122] The bracket 220 may include a coupling wall 229 that protrudes from the first wall 221 in one direction (for example, downward) and is coupled to the first tray 300. The coupling wall 229 may be coupled to a circumference of the first tray 300.

[0123] The second tray 400 may be disposed to be relatively movable with respect to the first tray 300. The second tray 400 may perform linear motion or rotational motion.

[0124] During the ice-making process, the second tray 400 moves with respect to the first tray 300, so that the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may contact each other. When the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 contact each other, the cell 360 may be defined.

[0125] During the ice-releasing process after completion of ice making, the second tray 400 moves with respect to the first tray 300, so that the second tray 400 may be spaced apart from the first tray 300.

[0126] In this embodiment, the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may be arranged in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) in a state where the cell 360 is formed. The first tray 300 may be referred to as an upper tray, and the second tray 400 may be referred to a lower tray.

[0127] A plurality of cells 360 may be defined by the first tray 300 and the second tray 400. As an example, the plurality of cells 360 may include three cells 360.

[0128] When water is cooled by the cold while water is supplied to the cell 360, ice of the same or similar shape as the cell 360 may be generated. As an example, the cell 360 may be formed in a spherical shape or a shape similar to a sphere. Of course, it is also possible that the cell 360 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape or a polygonal shape.

[0129] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts. The number of the plurality of tray parts may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0130] The first tray 300 may define a first cell, which is a portion of the cell 360. Each of the plurality of tray parts may define the first cell.

[0131] The first tray 300 may include a first tray wall 321 forming a portion of the cell 360.

[0132] The first tray 300 may include a first extension wall 327 extending in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) from the first tray wall 321. For example, the first extension wall 327 may extend in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) around an upper end of the first tray wall 321.

[0133] The ice maker 200 may include a first pusher 700. The first pusher 700 may be moveably provided by receiving power from a driving part 510. The first pusher 700 may be named a "movable pusher."

[0134] The ice maker 200 may include a guide bar 350 forming a slot 355 that guides a movement of the first pusher 700. For example, the guide bar 350 may be configured to extend in one direction (for example, upward) from both sides of the first extension wall 327 of the first tray 300.

[0135] However, alternatively, the guide bar 350 may be provided as a separate part separated from the first tray 300.

[0136] A protrusion 740 of the first pusher 700 may be inserted into the slot 355. The protrusion 740 may be guided along the guide slot 355.

[0137] The first pusher 700 may include at least one bar 720. For example, the first pusher 700 may include bars 720 provided in the same number as the cells 360, but is not limited thereto.

[0138] When the ice maker includes a plurality of cells 360, the first pusher 700 may include a plurality of bars 720. Two adjacent bars 720 may be connected by a connection member 710.

[0139] For example, the connection member 710 may extend in a direction in which the plurality of bars 720 are arranged so as to connect ends of one side (for example, an upper side) of the bars 720 to each other. For example, the connection member 710 may include a connection bar. Accordingly, the connection member 710 may be prevented from interfering with the first tray 300 while the bars 720 are inserted into the cells 360.

[0140] The bars 720 may push out ice located in the cells 360 during an ice-releasing process. For example, the bars 720 may be inserted into the cells 360 by passing through openings 324 (through-holes) of the first tray 300.

[0141] The first pusher 700 may include a wall part 730 for forming at least a portion of the cell 360.

[0142] The wall part 730 may be provided at an end of the bar 720.

[0143] The wall part 730 may be configured to have a curvature corresponding to a curvature of a cell surface so as to form a portion of the cell surface of the cell 360.

[0144] The wall part 730 may have a diameter greater than a diameter of the bar 720.

[0145] The first pusher 700 may be coupled to a link 490. At this time, the first pusher 700 may be moveably coupled to the link 490. Accordingly, when the link 490 moves, the first pusher 700 may also be moved along the slot 355.

[0146] The second tray case may include, for example, a second tray cover 480 and a second tray supporter 450. The second tray cover 480 and the second tray supporter 450 may be integrally formed, or may be coupled after being manufactured as separate configurations.

[0147] In this embodiment, the second tray cover 480 and the second tray supporter 450 may be coupled after being manufactured as separate configurations. For example, the second tray 400, the second tray supporter 450, and the second tray cover 480 may be coupled by a fastening member.

[0148] At least a portion of the second tray cover 480 may be located at one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray 400.

[0149] The second tray cover 480 may include a cover wall 481 forming an opening 482.

[0150] The opening 482 may be formed by passing through at least a portion of the second tray cover 480 so that at least a portion of the second tray 400 passes through the opening 482.

[0151] The opening 482 may be configured to have an area greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area of the plurality of second cells so that the plurality of second cells of the second tray 400 may pass through the opening 482.

[0152] The cover wall 481 may be placed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the first extension wall 420 of the second tray 400.

[0153] The second tray cover 480 may include a cover extension wall 483 protruding from the cover wall 481 and surrounding a peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400.

[0154] A coupling groove 484 may be formed in the cover extension wall 483.

[0155] A protrusion 434 of the second tray 400 may be inserted into the coupling groove 484. The protrusion 434 may be provided to protrude from the peripheral wall 430. A plurality of the protrusions 434 may be provided at positions corresponding to the plurality of cells 360. By the configuration in which the protrusions 434 are inserted into the coupling grooves 484, the second tray 400 may be prevented from shaking in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) and may be stably supported by the second tray cover 480.

[0156] The second tray cover 480 may include a cover fastening part 485 protruding in one direction (for example, downward) from the cover wall 481. A plurality of the cover fastening parts 485 may be provided along a circumference of one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the cover wall 481, and may be coupled to at least one of a fastening part 425 of the second tray 400 or a supporter fastening part 456 of the second tray supporter 450. At least a portion of the second tray supporter 450 may be located at one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400.

[0157] The second tray supporter 450 may support the second tray 400 at one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400. For example, at least a portion of a second tray wall 410 forming the second cell 411a of the second tray 400 may be supported by the second tray supporter 450.

[0158] The second tray wall 410 may include a second cell surface 410a defining the second cell 411a.

[0159] The second tray supporter 450 may include a first wall 451 forming an outer surface. The first wall 451 may include a first side wall (for example, a front wall), a second side wall (for example, a side wall), and a third side wall (for example, a rear wall) of the second tray supporter 450.

[0160] The second tray supporter 450 may include a second wall 453 forming one surface portion (for example, an upper surface portion) of the second tray supporter 450.

[0161] The first extension wall 420 of the second tray 400 may be seated on the second wall 453.

[0162] A first coupling part 459a to which a first edge 422a (refer to FIG. 7) of the second tray 400 is coupled may be formed on the second wall 453.

[0163] An insertion part 458a to which a second edge 422b (refer to FIG. 7) of the second tray 400 is coupled may be formed on the second wall 453. The insertion part 458a may include a groove recessed from the second wall 453 so that the second edge 422b is inserted into the insertion part 458a.

[0164] The second tray supporter 450 may include a tray support wall 452 recessed in one direction (for example, downward) from the second wall 453 to support at least a portion of the second tray wall 410 of the second tray 400. The tray support wall 452 may be named a "third wall."

[0165] The tray support wall 452 may be surrounded by the first wall 451.

[0166] The second tray supporter 450 may include two extension parts 455 provided at both sides of one end (for example, a rear end) of the first wall 451. The two extension parts 455 may protrude in one direction (for example, backward) from one end (for example, the rear end) of the first wall 451.

[0167] A through-hole 455a into which a shaft connection part 463 of an arm 460 is inserted may be formed in each of the extension parts 455.

[0168] The arms 460 may be provided at both ends of a shaft 520.

[0169] A first arm among the two arms 460 may include a drive connection part 462 connected to a driving part 510. The first arm may constitute a drive arm.

[0170] A second arm among the two arms 460 may constitute a driven arm.

[0171] Each of the two arms 460 may include a shaft connection part 463 coupled to the shaft 520.

[0172] In the case of the first arm, the drive connection part 462 and the shaft connection part 463 may be disposed on opposite sides to each other.

[0173] One end of the arm 460 may be connected to one end of a spring 470, so that when the spring 470 is tensioned, the position of the arm 460 may be moved to an initial position by a restoring force.

[0174] The second tray supporter 450 may include a link connection part 457a to which a link 490 is coupled. The link connection parts 457a may be provided on both side walls of the second tray supporter 450 so that two links 490 may be respectively coupled to the link connection parts 457a.

[0175] In the process of moving the second tray 400, the link 490 may be moveably coupled to the second tray supporter 450 through the link connection part 457a.

[0176] The second tray supporter 450 may include a spring coupling part 457b for coupling the spring 470. The spring coupling part 457b may include a hook so that one end (for example, a lower end) of the spring 470 is caught.

[0177] The ice maker 200 may include a second pusher 540. The second pusher 540 may be coupled to, for example, the bracket 220. The second pusher 540 may be named a "fixed pusher."

[0178] The second pushers 540 may be provided in the same number as the cells 360, but is not limited thereto.

[0179] The second pusher 540 may push out ice located in the cell 360. For example, the second pusher 540 may pass through the second tray supporter 450 to contact the second tray 400 forming the cell 360, and may press the contacted second tray 400.

[0180] The second pusher 540 may include a coupling plate 542 coupled to the bracket 220 and at least one pushing bar 544 provided on the coupling plate 542. A plurality of pushing bars 544 may be connected to the coupling plate 542 in a state of being spaced apart in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction).

[0181] The ice maker 200 may include heaters 530 and 535.

[0182] The heaters 530 and 535 may include a first heater 530 disposed in a recessed accommodation space 453a of the second tray supporter 450 to apply heat to the second tray 400.

[0183] The first heater 530 may be disposed adjacent to or in contact with one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400 so as to supply heat to a portion (for example, a lower portion) of the second tray 400.

[0184] The first heater 530 may function as an ice-releasing heater that supplies heat to the second tray 400 during an ice-releasing process of ice, or may operate to help generate transparent ice during an ice-making process.

[0185] The first heater 530 may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0186] The heaters 530 and 535 may include a second heater 535 controlled to be turned on in at least a portion of a period after ice-making is completed so that ice may be easily separated from the tray assembly.

[0187] The second heater 535 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the first tray 300. The second heater 535 may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0188] For example, the second heater 535 may be disposed to contact the first tray 300 or may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the first tray 300 by a predetermined distance. In either case, the second heater 535 may supply heat to the first tray 300, and the heat supplied to the first tray 300 may be transferred to the cell 360.

[0189] The ice maker 200 may include a driving part 510 providing a driving force. The second tray 400 may move relative to the first tray 300 by receiving the driving force of the driving part 510.

[0190] The ice maker 200 may include a shaft 520 passing through the through-hole 455a of the second tray supporter 450. The shaft 520 may extend between the two extension parts 455 and may be rotated by receiving power from the driving part 510.

[0191] The driving part 510 may include a motor and a plurality of gears.

[0192] The driving part 510 may include a cam that is rotated or moved by receiving power from the motor. The ice maker 200 may include a sensor for sensing the rotation or movement of the cam.

[0193] For example, the cam may be provided with a magnet, and the sensor may be a Hall sensor for sensing magnetism of the magnet during the rotation or movement of the cam. Depending on whether the sensor senses the magnet, the sensor may output a first signal and a second signal, which are different outputs. One of the first signal and the second signal may be a "High" signal, and the other may be a "Low" signal.

[0194] A controller of the refrigerator may determine a position of the second tray 400 (or the second tray assembly) based on a type and pattern of a signal output from the sensor. That is, since the second tray 400 and the cam are moved by the motor, the position of the second tray 400 may be indirectly determined based on a detection signal of a magnet provided on the cam.

[0195] For example, a water supply position, an ice-making position, and an ice-releasing position may be distinguished and determined based on a signal output from the sensor.

[0196] The second tray 400 may be formed of a non-metallic material. For example, the second tray 400 may be formed of a flexible or soft material whose shape may be deformed when pressed by the second pusher 540. Without being limited thereto, the second tray 400 may be formed of, for example, a silicone material.

[0197] Accordingly, in a process in which the second tray 400 is pressed by the second pusher 540, the second tray 400 may be deformed, and a pressing force of the second pusher 540 may be transferred to ice. The ice and the second tray 400 may be separated by the pressing force of the second pusher 540.

[0198] If the second tray 400 is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or soft material, a coupling force or an adhesion force between the ice and the second tray 400 may be reduced, so that the ice may be easily separated from the second tray 400.

[0199] When the second tray 400 is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or soft material, after the shape of the second tray 400 is deformed by the second pusher 540, the second tray 400 may be easily restored to its original shape when the pressing force of the second pusher 540 is removed.

[0200] For example, the first tray 300 may be formed of a metallic material or a plastic material. In this case, a bonding force or an adhesive force per unit area between the first tray 300 and ice may be relatively strong.

[0201] As another example, the first tray 300 may be formed of a non-metallic material. In this case, the coupling force or adhesion force per unit area between the first tray 300 and the ice may be relatively weak. Therefore, the ice releasing may be easily performed. Although not limited, the first tray 300 may be formed of, for example, a silicone material.

[0202] The first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may be formed of the same material. In this case, a hardness of the first tray 300 and a hardness of the second tray 400 may be different so that sealing performance is maintained at a contact portion between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0203] In this embodiment, since the second tray 400 is pressed and deformed by the second pusher 540, the hardness of the second tray 400 may be lower than the hardness of the first tray 300 to facilitate the shape deformation of the second tray 400.

[0204] FIG. 5 is a view showing a partial configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the first tray 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be coupled to a bracket 220.

[0206] The first tray 300 may include at least one of a coupling protrusion 329a or a boss 329b coupled to the bracket 220.

[0207] The coupling protrusion 329a or the boss 329b may be provided on the first extension wall 327 and configured to protrude in one direction (for example, upward).

[0208] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts. The number of the plurality of tray parts may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0209] The plurality of tray parts may be arranged in a line in one direction (for example, an X-axis direction).

[0210] The first tray 300 may form an upper tray.

[0211] The first tray 300 may include a first portion 322 defining a portion of the cell 360. For example, the first portion 322 may be a portion of the first tray wall 321.

[0212] The first portion 322 may include a first cell surface 322b forming a first cell 321a.

[0213] The first portion 322 may include an opening 324. The opening 324 may communicate with the first cell 321a.

[0214] The first portion 322 may include a portion to which the second heater 535 is coupled.

[0215] A lowermost end of the first portion 322 may form a contact surface contacting the second tray 400.

[0216] The first tray 300 may include a second portion 323 extending from a certain point of the first portion 322. The certain point of the first portion 322 may be one end of the first portion 322. Alternatively, the certain point of the first portion 322 may be a point on the contact surface contacting the second tray 400.

[0217] A portion of the second portion 323 may be formed by the first tray wall 321, and another portion may be formed by the first extension wall 327.

[0218] The first tray 300 may include an auxiliary storage space 325 communicating with the cell 360. For example, water overflowing from the cell 360 may be stored in the auxiliary storage space 325.

[0219] The auxiliary storage space 325 may be formed by a storage space wall 325a. The storage space wall 325a may extend in one direction (for example, upward) around the opening 324.

[0220] The first pusher 700 may pass through the opening 324 after passing the storage space wall 325a.

[0221] When the first tray 300 defines a plurality of first cells 321a, at least one 325b among a plurality of storage space walls 325a may support a water supply part 240.

[0222] The first pusher 700 may extend between two guide bars 350. Both side portions of the first pusher 700 may be located outside the guide bars 350 by passing through slots 355 of the guide bars 350.

[0223] Links 490 may be respectively coupled to both side portions of the first pusher 700.

[0224] The link 490 may include a link body 491. The link body 491 may have a bent or rounded shape. Based on the shape of the link body 491, the link 490 may move the first pusher 700 while the link 490 is allowed to move during a movement process of the second tray assembly.

[0225] The link 490 may include a first connection part 493 provided at one end of the link body 491 and a second connection part 495 provided at the other end of the link body 491.

[0226] The first connection part 493 may be coupled to the second tray supporter 450. The first connection part 493 may include a first coupling hole for coupling with a link connection part 457a provided on the second tray supporter 450.

[0227] The first connection part 493 may be connected to the second tray supporter 450 at a position spaced apart from a center of the shaft 520 or a center of the second tray assembly.

[0228] The second connection part 495 may include a second coupling hole for coupling with the first pusher 700. The first pusher 700 may be connected to the second connection part 495 after passing through the slot 355.

[0229] By the movement of the second tray assembly, the links 490 connected to the second tray assembly move together. When the link 490 moves, the first pusher 700 connected to the link 490 moves along the slot 355. The link 490 may serve to convert a movement force of the second tray assembly into a movement force of the first pusher 700.

[0230] Arms 460 may be coupled to both sides of the second tray supporter 450.

[0231] The arm 460 may include an arm body 461. The arm body 461 may have a bent or rounded shape.

[0232] The arm 460 may include a shaft connection part 463 that protrudes from the arm body 461 toward the shaft 520 and is coupled to the shaft 520. The shaft connection part 463 may pass through the through-hole 455a of the extension part 455.

[0233] The shaft connection part 463 may be provided at one end of the arm 460.

[0234] Among the two arms 460, a first arm 460 connected to the driving part 510 may include a drive connection part 462. The drive connection part 462 may be axially coupled to the driving part 510.

[0235] A spring 470 may be connected to the other end of the arm 460. The spring 470 may provide an elastic force to the second tray supporter 450 so that the second tray 400 may maintain a state of being in contact with the first tray 300.

[0236] The other end of the arm 460 may include a spring connection part 465 to which the spring 470 is coupled. The spring connection part 465 may include a coupling hole so that an end of the spring 470 is coupled to the coupling hole.

[0237] The first tray 300 may include a first cell surface 322b defining a first cell 321a. The second tray 400 may include a second cell surface 410a defining a second cell 411a.

[0238] When the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 are in a closed position, that is, an ice-making position, the first cell 321a and the second cell 411a may be combined to form a cell 360.

[0239] The second tray 400 may include a second tray wall 410 forming the second cell 411a and a peripheral wall 430 extending upward from the second tray wall 410 to surround the second portion 323 of the first tray 300.

[0240] In a process in which the second tray 400 moves from a water supply position to the ice-making position, it is possible to reduce leakage of water supplied to the cell 360 between the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly. In addition, it is possible to reduce a phenomenon in which water expanding during an ice-making process leaks between the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly and freezes.

[0241] A recessed part 412 may be formed at a lower end portion of the second tray wall 410. By the recessed part 412, a desired ice shape may be realized even if the second tray wall 410 is deformed in a process where ice undergoes ice-making expansion.

[0242] FIGS. 6 and 7 show a state in which the first pusher 700 has ascended to the furthest distance (for example, a maximum height) based on a certain point of the first tray or the second tray. In a state where the first pusher 700 has ascended to the maximum height, a wall part 730 of the first pusher 700 may be at a position higher than one end (for example, an upper end) of the storage space wall 325a.

[0243] FIG. 8 is a front view showing a partial configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the ice maker taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ice maker at a water supply position.

[0244] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may be moveably disposed to contact each other to form a cell 360.

[0245] The first tray 300 may be disposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray 400.

[0246] The second tray supporter 450 may support one side (for example, a lower side) of at least a portion of the second tray 400. The second tray cover 480 may cover the other side (for example, an upper side) of at least a portion of the second tray 400.

[0247] A guide bar 350 extending in one direction (for example, upward) of the cell 360 may be included. The guide bar 350 may be disposed at a position higher than a first extension wall 327 of the first tray 300.

[0248] A peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400 may be disposed to surround a first portion 322 which is a part of a first tray wall 321.

[0249] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c arranged in a first direction (for example, an X-axis direction) to define a plurality of cells 360.

[0250] The plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c may include a central first tray part 300a and second and third tray parts 300b and 300c on both sides.

[0251] Water supply is performed to the first tray part 300a, and water may first fill the first tray part 300a and then fill the second and third tray parts 300b and 300c through a water spreading phenomenon.

[0252] The peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400 may be surrounded by a cover extension wall 483 of the second tray cover 480.

[0253] The second tray 400 may be supported by the second tray cover 480 through a protrusion 434.

[0254] FIG. 9 shows a state in which a wall part 730 of a first pusher 700 shields an opening 324 of the first tray 300. At this time, the first and second tray assemblies may be in an ice-making position.

[0255] FIG. 10 shows a state when the first and second tray assemblies are in a water supply position. In the water supply position, the second tray assembly may be in a state of having moved by a predetermined angle in a forward direction by the driving of a driving part 510.

[0256] In the water supply position, a first contact surface 323a formed at one end (for example, a lower end portion) of the first tray 300 is located at a position spaced apart from a second contact surface 415 formed at one end (for example, an upper end) of a second tray wall 410.

[0257] When the second tray assembly moves in a reverse direction from the water supply position to the ice-making position, the first contact surface 323a may contact the second contact surface 415.

[0258] The water supply part 240 may be disposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the opening 324 of any one of the plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c.

[0259] When water is supplied through the water supply part 240, the water may be supplied to an internal space of the first and second trays 300 and 400 through the opening 324 of the first tray 300.

[0260] The first pusher 700 may be in a state of having moved in one direction (for example, downward) to open the opening 324. At this time, based on a certain point of the first tray or the second tray, the height of the first pusher 700 may be at a position lower than the maximum height in FIG. 6.

[0261] The wall part 730 of the first pusher 700 is located inside the first tray 300, and a bar 720 of the first pusher 700 is at a position passing through the opening 324.

[0262] Water supplied from the water supply part 240 may be supplied into the first and second trays 300 and 400 through a space between the bar 720 and the opening 324.

[0263] FIG. 11 is an upper perspective view showing a configuration of a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a lower perspective view showing the configuration of the first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a link according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a side view showing the configuration of the link according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0264] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, the first pusher 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a connection member 710 extending in a first direction (for example, an X-axis direction) corresponding to a direction in which a plurality of cells 360 are arranged.

[0265] The first pusher 700 may include a bar 720 extending from the connection member 710 toward the cell 360. A plurality of bars 720 may be provided to correspond to the plurality of cells 360.

[0266] The bar 720 may extend in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) and may be formed in a straight shape or a curved shape where at least a portion is rounded. A diameter of the bar 720 may be less than a diameter of the opening 324 of the first tray 300. The bar 720 may be inserted into the cell 360 by passing through the opening 324. The first pusher 700 may be named a "through-type pusher."

[0267] The connection member 710 may connect ends of one side (for example, an upper side) of the plurality of bars 720 to each other.

[0268] The first pusher 700 may include a protrusion 740 protruding laterally from the connection member 710. A plurality of protrusions 740 may be provided on both sides of the connection member 710.

[0269] The protrusion 740 may include a guide connection part 741 passing through a slot 355. For example, a cross-section of the guide connection part 741 may be formed in a circular, elliptical, or polygonal shape. The guide connection part 741 may be located in a guide slot 355.

[0270] In a state of being positioned in the guide slot 355, the guide connection part 741 may move in a longitudinal direction along the guide slot 355. For example, the guide connection part 741 may move in one direction (for example, a vertical direction).

[0271] The protrusion 740 may include a link connection part 743 for coupling with a link 490. The link connection part 743 may be formed in a cylindrical shape so that relative movement is possible while the link connection part 743 is coupled with the link 490.

[0272] The link connection part 743 may be inserted into a second connection part 495 of the link 490. The link connection part 743 may have a lower height based on one direction (for example, a vertical direction) than the guide connection part 741.

[0273] The protrusion 740 may include a catching part 745 supporting the link 490. The catching part 745 extends to an outside of the link connection part 743 and may have a height higher than a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the link connection part 743.

[0274] The link connection part 743 passes through the second connection part 495 of the link 490, and the catching part 745 is located outside the second connection part 495 to support the link 490. By the catching part 745, separation of the link 490 from the first pusher 700 may be prevented.

[0275] A shape of the second connection part 495 corresponds to a shape of the catching part 745, and the second connection part 495 may be formed slightly larger than the catching part 745.

[0276] When assembling the link 490 to the first pusher 700, the link 490 is positioned and pushed so that the catching part 745 passes through the second connection part 495, allowing the link connection part 743 to be inserted into the second connection part 495. Then, by moving the link 490, the link 490 and the catching part 745 may be made to interfere with each other.

[0277] The link 490 may include a link body 491. The link body 491 may include a first body 491a extending in a first direction and a second body 491b extending in a second direction.

[0278] The link body 491 may include a bent part 491c connecting the first body 491a and the second body 491b. The bent part 491c may have a bent or rounded shape. By the bent part 491c, the link body 491 may be configured to include a plurality of portions extending in different directions.

[0279] The link 490 may include a first connection part 493 provided at one end of the link body 491. The first connection part 493 may be formed at an end of the first body 491a.

[0280] The first connection part 493 may be moveably coupled to a link connection part 457a of a second tray supporter 450.

[0281] The link 490 may include a second connection part 495 provided at the other end of the link body 491. The second connection part 495 is formed at an end of the second body 491b and may be moveably coupled to the link connection part 743 of the first pusher 700.

[0282] When the second tray assembly moves, the link 490 moves together, and in this process, the first pusher 700 connected to the link 490 may move along the slot 355.

[0283] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in a water supply position, and FIG. 16 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the water supply position.

[0284] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, when the second tray assembly is in the water supply position, the second tray assembly, that is, the second tray 400, may be at a position moved in a forward direction by a predetermined angle (Θ) by the driving part 510. For example, the predetermined angle may be a value within a range of 7~15°.

[0285] According to the movement of the second tray 400, the link 490 moves together with the second tray 400, and the first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, downward) by the second connection part 495 of the link 490.

[0286] The first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, descend) to a position where the wall part 730 may open the opening 324 of the first tray 300. The bar 720 of the first pusher 700 may be at a position passing through the opening 324.

[0287] The wall part 730 may further move in one direction (for example, downward) from the opening 324 to be located inside a first cell 321a. Through a space between the bar 720 and the opening 324, water flows into the first cell 321a and fills an interior of a second cell 411a of the second tray 400.

[0288] Water supplied from an outside of the opening 324 passes through the opening 324 and may strike the wall part 730. An outer surface (for example, an upper surface) of the wall part 730 may include a guide surface 735 that guides water into the first cell 321a.

[0289] Water striking the guide surface 735 may flow (for example, fall) in one direction (for example, downward) while spreading. By the guide surface 735, a phenomenon in which water splashes during the water supply process may be prevented.

[0290] Water supply may be performed to any one of the plurality of cells 360 through the water supply part 240. For example, water supply may be performed to a central cell.

[0291] When a predetermined amount of water supply is completed, it is possible to wait for a predetermined time so that water spreads and is supplied from the central cell 360 to the cells 360 on both sides. At this time, the water may flow along the peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400.

[0292] Since water supply is performed in a state where the second tray 400 has moved in the forward direction by the predetermined angle, water spreading to the plurality of cells 360 may be easily achieved.

[0293] In the water supply position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a first height H1. A reference point for determining the height may be a certain point of the first tray 300, for example, the first extension wall 327.

[0294] In the water supply position, a first compression force F1 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400.

[0295] Another embodiment regarding the water supply position is proposed.

[0296] In FIGS. 15 and 16, it has been described that the wall part 730 moves to the inside of the opening 324 of the first tray 300 to open the opening 324 while the first pusher 700 moves (for example, descends). Alternatively, it may be configured such that the wall part 730 moves to an outside (for example, an upper side) of the opening 324 of the first tray 300 to open the opening 324 while the first pusher 700 ascends.

[0297] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in an ice-making position, and FIG. 18 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the ice-making position.

[0298] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, when the second tray assembly is in the ice-making position, the second tray assembly, that is, the second tray 400, may be in a state of being in contact with the first tray 300 by moving in a reverse direction from the water supply position by the driving part 510.

[0299] The driving part 510 may rotate in the reverse direction at an angle slightly greater than the predetermined angle to reach the ice-making position for sealing between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0300] The cell 360 may be defined by the contact between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0301] According to the reverse movement of the second tray 400, the link 490 moves together with the second tray 400, and the first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, upward) by the second connection part 495 of the link 490.

[0302] The first pusher 700 may move (for example, ascend) to a position where the wall part 730 shields the opening 324 of the first tray 300.

[0303] The wall part 730 may define a third cell forming at least a portion of the cell 360. The third cell may be defined by a third cell surface 732 constituting one surface of the wall part 730.

[0304] The third cell surface 732 may form at least a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the cell 360.

[0305] The third cell surface 732 may be formed on one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the wall part 730.

[0306] For example, the third cell surface 732 may be formed to be rounded with a predetermined curvature.

[0307] That is, the cell 360 may be defined by a first cell surface 322b of the first tray 300, a second cell surface 410a of the second tray 400, and the third cell surface 732 of the wall part 730.

[0308] The first cell surface 322b, the second cell surface 410a, and the third cell surface 732 may also be named "first to third cell walls," respectively.

[0309] In the ice-making position, cold is supplied to the ice maker to perform an ice-making process, and ice I may be generated in the cell 360. The ice I may be attached to the third cell surface 732 of the wall part 730.

[0310] In the ice-making position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a second height H2. The second height H2 may be greater than the first height H1.

[0311] Based on the height of the wall part 730 (height relative to the bottom of the ice maker), the second height of the wall part 730 in the ice-making position may be higher than the first height of the wall part 730 in the water supply position.

[0312] In the ice-making position, a second compression force F2 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400. The second compression force F2 may be formed in a magnitude that allows sealing between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400. The second compression force F2 may be greater than the first compression force F1.

[0313] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in a first ice-releasing position, and FIG. 20 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the first ice-releasing position.

[0314] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, when ice-making is completed, the driving part 510 may drive further in the reverse direction. At this time, the second tray 400 maintains a sealed state in contact with the first tray 300, and the arm 460 may move by the shaft 520 to move the first pusher 700 in one direction (for example, upward). For example, the arm 460 may move further clockwise based on FIG. 20.

[0315] According to the movement of the arm 460, the first pusher 700 moves upward, causing the wall part 730 to be separated from the ice I. This ice-releasing state in which the wall part 730 is separated from the ice I may be understood as "primary ice-releasing."

[0316] Since the area where the wall part 730 and the ice are attached is relatively small, the separation of the wall part 730 and the ice may be easily achieved according to the movement of the first pusher 700 in one direction (for example, upward).

[0317] During the primary ice-releasing, the second heater 535 may be driven.

[0318] In the primary ice-releasing position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a third height H3. The third height H3 may be greater than the second height H2.

[0319] Based on the height of the wall part 730, the third height of the wall part 730 in the primary ice-releasing position may be higher than the second height of the wall part 730 in the ice-making position.

[0320] In the primary ice-releasing position, a third compression force F3 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400. The third compression force F3 may be greater than the second compression force F2.

[0321] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the ice maker is in a secondary ice-releasing position, and FIG. 22 is a side view showing the state in which the ice maker is in the secondary ice-releasing position.

[0322] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, when the primary ice-releasing is completed, the driving part 510 may drive in the forward direction to perform secondary ice-releasing. When the angle of the second tray 400 in the ice-making position is 0°, the second tray 400 may move in the forward direction within a range of approximately 110° to 120° in the secondary ice-releasing position.

[0323] In the process of moving the second tray 400, the ice I may be separated from the first cell surface 322b of the first tray 300 or from the second cell surface 410a of the second tray 400.

[0324] Regardless of which tray the ice I is located in, the ice I may be released from the tray by the first pusher 700 or the second pusher 540.

[0325] According to the forward movement of the second tray 400, the link 490 moves together with the second tray 400, and the first pusher 700 may move in one direction (for example, downward) by the second connection part 495 of the link 490.

[0326] The first pusher 700 may descend to a position where the wall part 730 opens the opening 324 of the first tray 300 and is located inside the first cell 321a. For example, one end (for example, a lower end portion) of the first pusher 700, that is, the wall part 730, may move (for example, descend) to a position corresponding to one end (for example, a lower end portion) of the first tray 300.

[0327] The bar 720 of the first pusher 700 may be at a position passing through the opening 324.

[0328] Even if the ice I is in a state of being attached to the first tray 300, as the first pusher 700 moves (for example, descends), the ice I may be pressed by the first pusher 700.

[0329] That is, the wall part 730 may function as a "pushing part" that presses the ice I. When the wall part 730 presses the ice I, the ice I may be pressed by the third cell surface 732 of the wall part 730 or by an edge of the wall part 730.

[0330] When the second tray 400 is in the secondary ice-releasing position, a lower end portion of the second tray 400 may contact the pusher 540 and be deformed. If ice exists in the second tray 400, the ice may be separated from the second tray 400 by the pressing of the pusher 540.

[0331] The secondary ice-releasing position of the second tray 400 may be named a "maximum ice-releasing position." In comparison, the primary ice-releasing position of the second tray 400 may be named an "ice-releasing position."

[0332] The second tray 400 may be formed of a flexible or soft material whose shape may be deformed when pressed by the second pusher 540.

[0333] During the secondary ice-releasing, at least one of the first heater 530 or the second heater 535 may be driven.

[0334] In the secondary ice-releasing position, the height of the first pusher 700, that is, the height of the uppermost end of the first pusher 700, may be located at a fourth height H4. The fourth height H4 may be lower than the first height H1.

[0335] Based on the height of the wall part 730, the fourth height of the wall part 730 in the secondary ice-releasing position may be lower than the first height of the wall part 730 in the water supply position.

[0336] In the secondary ice-releasing position, the first compression force F1 of the spring 470 may act between the arm 460 and the second tray 400.

[0337] Ice separated from the second tray 400 may fall and be stored in the ice bin 600. When the secondary ice-releasing operation is completed, the driving part 510 is operated to move the second tray assembly in the reverse direction to return to the ice-making position (FIGS. 17 and 18).

[0338] When the water supply operation starts, the second tray assembly may move in the forward direction toward the water supply position (FIGS. 15 and 16). At the water supply position, fluid is supplied through the water supply part 240, and the fluid may be supplied to a plurality of cells 360.Industrial Applicability

[0339] The present invention relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker. By providing a pusher for ice-releasing with a cell wall that forms a part of a cell, ice of a desired shape may be realized during ice-making, and thus industrial applicability is significant.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0056]Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same components are given the same numerals as much as possible even if they are displayed on different drawings. In addition, in describing an embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function interferes with an understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057]In describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, a, and b may be used. These terms are only for distinguishing the component from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the corresponding component is not limited by the term. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," "supported," or...

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a storage space in which food is stored; a door for opening and closing the storage space; an ice-making space provided in the door or the storage space; a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space; a cell provided in the ice-making space, the cell being a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a tray forming at least a portion of the cell; a pusher including a wall part forming another portion of the cell, the pusher being located at different positions at a water supply position, an ice-making position, and an ice-releasing position of the tray; and a driving part providing a driving force to move at least one of the tray or the pusher.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the tray includes an opening forming a space through which the liquid substance or the cold is introduced, and wherein the driving part moves the pusher so that the wall part opens or shields the opening.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein at the water supply position of the tray, the driving part moves the pusher so that the wall part opens the opening.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein at the water supply position of the tray, the driving part moves the pusher so that the wall part is located inside the opening.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein at the ice-making position of the tray, the driving part moves the pusher so that the wall part shields the opening.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the wall part includes a cell surface to define a portion of the cell at the ice-making position of the tray.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein the cell surface forms a part of an outer peripheral surface of the cell.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the wall part includes a guide surface for guiding the liquid substance into the tray at the water supply position of the tray.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein the guide surface is located inside the tray at the water supply position of the tray.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the ice-releasing position of the tray includes a first ice-releasing position in which the pusher moves in a direction away from the opening so that the wall part is separated from the phase-changed substance.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the ice-releasing position of the tray includes a second ice-releasing position in which the pusher moves through the opening so that the tray is separated from the phase-changed substance.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein based on a certain point of the tray, heights of the pusher at the water supply position, the ice-making position, and the ice-releasing position form different heights from each other.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein the tray includes a first tray and a second tray, and wherein a maximum height of the pusher at the ice-making position is higher than a maximum height of the pusher at the water supply position based on a certain point of the first tray.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein the tray includes a first tray and a second tray, and wherein a maximum height of the pusher at the ice-releasing position is higher than a maximum height of the pusher at the ice-making position based on a certain point of the first tray.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 12, wherein the tray includes a first tray and a second tray, and wherein at a maximum ice-releasing position of the tray, the pusher is disposed such that a maximum height of the pusher at the maximum ice-releasing position is lower than a maximum height of the pusher at the water supply position based on a certain point of the first tray.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the tray includes a first tray and a second tray, and wherein the refrigerator further comprises: a guide bar provided at one side of the first tray, to which the pusher is moveably coupled; and a link moveably provided together with the second tray, wherein the guide bar forms a linearly formed slot so that the pusher moves linearly in interlocking with movement of the link.

17. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising: an arm connected to the driving part and being movable, the arm including a first part coupled to a tray supporter that supports the tray, and a second part disposed opposite to the first part; and a spring having both ends supported by the second part of the arm and the tray supporter.

18. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the cell includes a plurality of cells arranged in a first direction, and the pusher includes a plurality of bars provided in a number corresponding to the plurality of cells and a connection member connecting the plurality of bars and extending in the first direction.

19. A refrigerator comprising: a storage space in which food is stored; a door for opening and closing the storage space; an ice-making space provided in the door or the storage space; a cooler for supplying cold to the storage space; a cell provided in the ice-making space, the cell being a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a tray forming at least a portion of the cell and forming an opening; and a pusher moving through the opening to release the phase-changed substance generated in the cell, wherein the pusher includes a wall part shielding the opening to form another portion of the cell at the ice-making position of the tray.

20. The refrigerator according to claim 19, wherein the pusher is provided to move in a first direction to open the opening at a first ice-releasing position of the tray and move in a second direction to open the opening at a second ice-releasing position of the tray, and wherein the first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

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