refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. In an aspect of the present invention, the refrigerator comprises: a storage chamber storing food; a door opening / closing the storage chamber; an ice-making chamber provided on the door or in the storage chamber; a cooler for supplying cold air to the storage chamber; cells which are provided in the ice-making chamber and are spaces where a phase of a material changes from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a first tray providing a first wall forming at least some parts of the cells; and a second tray providing a second wall forming another parts of the cells. The degree of adhesion between the material that is phase-changed into the solid phase and the first tray may be less than the degree of adhesion between the material that is phase-changed to the solid phase and the second tray.

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.

[0003] Typically, a refrigerator is provided with an ice maker for making ice. 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.

[0005] Recently, attempts have also been made to manufacture transparent ice.Summary of the Invention Technical Problem

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker including an ice-making device with improved structures of a first tray and a second tray to manufacture ice of a desired shape, and / or a refrigerator equipped with the ice maker.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a tray assembly including a first tray and a second tray having an ice-making space larger than that of the first tray, so that the ice adhesion of the first tray may be less than the ice adhesion of the second tray.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a tray assembly in which a contact area between the first tray and the ice is smaller than a contact area between the second tray and the ice, thereby reducing the ice adhesion in the first tray.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a tray assembly in which the height of the first tray is less than the height of the second tray based on an ice-releasing direction, thereby reducing the ice adhesion in the first tray.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with the ice maker, wherein a tray having an opening smaller than the size of the ice is provided, and the tray may be made of a deformable material so that the opening expands during an ice-releasing process.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with the ice maker, wherein ice may be easily separated from the tray assembly during the ice-releasing process.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a tray assembly in which water may be supplied to an ice-making space through a first tray or a second tray to facilitate water supply.

[0013] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with the ice maker, which may prevent an air pocket phenomenon at an ice-making position of the tray by providing a tray having a through-hole (vent hole) through which air in a cell may be discharged.

[0014] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with the ice maker, including a tray having a drainage part connected to a through-hole to reduce a phenomenon in which water introduced through the through-hole freezes.Technical Solution

[0015] An embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray forming a part of a cell and a second tray forming another part of the cell.

[0016] An adhesion between the first tray and the ice may be less than an adhesion between the second tray and the ice.

[0017] The first tray may be made of a material capable of reducing the ice adhesion. For example, the first tray may be made of a silicone material.

[0018] The size of the first tray may be smaller than the size of the second tray so that the area of the part of the cell may be smaller than the area of the other part of the cell.

[0019] Based on an ice-releasing direction of ice produced in the cell, a height of the first tray may be less than a height of the second tray.

[0020] An ice-making space of the second tray may be larger than an ice-making space of the first tray.

[0021] A contact area between the first tray and the ice may be smaller than a contact area between the second tray and the ice.

[0022] A coating part capable of reducing ice adhesion may be provided on a surface of the first tray to which the ice is attached.

[0023] The first tray may be disposed to cover an opening of the second tray.

[0024] A diameter of the opening of the second tray may be less than a diameter of the manufactured ice.

[0025] The second tray may be made of a deformable material so that the opening expands during an ice-releasing process.

[0026] A plurality of cells may be provided, and a diameter of the first tray may be formed differently for each cell so that an ice-releasing force in each cell varies over time during the ice-releasing process. Accordingly, the torque of a motor may be distributed during the ice-releasing process.

[0027] A plurality of cells may be provided, and a diameter of the opening of the second tray may be formed differently for each cell so that an ice-releasing force in each cell varies over time during the ice-releasing process. Accordingly, the torque of a motor may be distributed during the ice-releasing process.

[0028] A plurality of cells may be provided, and a diameter of the ice or the cell may be formed differently for each cell so that an ice-releasing force in each cell varies over time during the ice-releasing process. Accordingly, the torque of a motor may be distributed during the ice-releasing process.

[0029] For each cell, the contact area between the ice and the second tray may be formed differently. In this case, the smaller the contact area between the ice and the second tray, the easier the ice-releasing occurs, and the motor torque may be distributed.

[0030] The ice maker may include pushers contacting the second tray during the ice-releasing process, and a plurality of pushers may be provided to correspond to the plurality of cells.

[0031] The plurality of pushers may have different lengths, such that a longer pusher first contacts one cell to start ice-releasing, and then a shorter pusher contacts another cell to perform ice-releasing. Accordingly, the motor torque during the ice-releasing process may be distributed.

[0032] The cell may have a spherical or elliptical shape.

[0033] As an example, to facilitate the ice-releasing, the cell may have an elliptical shape such that a diameter in a direction perpendicular to the ice-releasing direction forms a minor axis diameter.

[0034] The ice maker may include a water supply part for supplying fluid, and water discharged from the water supply part may be supplied to the ice-making space through the first tray or the second tray.

[0035] Fluid discharged from the water supply part may be introduced into an internal space of the cell through a guide surface of the first tray.

[0036] Fluid discharged from the water supply part may be introduced into the internal space of the cell through an extension wall of the second tray.

[0037] According to this configuration, there is no need to form a water supply through-hole in the first tray or the second tray to supply water to the cell. Therefore, it may solve the problem where it is difficult to realize a desired ice shape due to material expansion through the water supply through-hole during ice making.

[0038] The second tray may be moved or located at a moved position relative to the first tray so that the cell may be opened to the outside during the water supply process through the water supply part.

[0039] The first tray may form a through-hole through which air in the cell may be discharged, thereby preventing an air pocket phenomenon during the ice-making process.

[0040] To reduce a phenomenon in which water introduced through the through-hole freezes, the first tray may have a drainage part connected to the through-hole.

[0041] When the first tray and the second tray are in an ice-making position, a portion of the first tray and a portion of the second tray may contact each other.

[0042] The first tray may include a first portion forming an ice-making shell and a second portion extending outward from the first portion.

[0043] The second tray may include a first portion forming another part of the ice-making shell and a second portion extending outward from the first portion.

[0044] The first portion of the first tray and the first portion of the second tray may extend smoothly to form an outer surface of the ice.

[0045] The first tray may include a first contact end contacting the second tray, and the first contact end may be formed at a boundary between the first portion and the second portion of the first tray.

[0046] The second portion of the first tray may extend outward from the first contact end.

[0047] The second tray may include a second contact end contacting the first contact end of the first tray, and the second contact end may be formed at a boundary between the first portion and the second portion of the second tray.

[0048] The second portion of the second tray may extend outward from the second contact end.

[0049] A radius of curvature of the second portion of the first tray and a moving radius (or a rotation radius) of the second portion of the second tray may be formed at different positions. Accordingly, sealing between the first and second trays may be improved at the ice-making position, and interference of the second tray with the first tray may be prevented when the second tray moves from the ice-releasing position to the ice-making position.

[0050] In one aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a storage space in which food is stored, a door that opens and closes 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 and defining a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase, a first tray providing a first wall forming at least a portion of the cell, and a second tray providing a second wall forming another portion of the cell.

[0051] An adhesion between the material phase-changed into the solid phase and the first tray may be less than an adhesion between the material phase-changed into the solid phase and the second tray.

[0052] A contact area between the first tray and the material phase-changed into the solid phase may be smaller than a contact area between the second tray and the material phase-changed into the solid phase.

[0053] The first tray may form a first opening contacting the second tray, and the second tray may form a second opening contacting the first tray, wherein a size of the first opening may be smaller than a size of the second opening.

[0054] Based on a center C1 of the cell, a diameter D1 of the cell may be greater than a diameter D2 of a portion where a first cell surface constituting an inner peripheral surface of the first wall and a second cell surface constituting an inner peripheral surface of the second wall contact each other.

[0055] Based on the center C1 of the cell, a central angle formed by the first cell surface may be less than a central angle formed by the second cell surface.

[0056] The first wall and the second wall may contact each other to constitute the cell, and a circumferential length of the first wall may be less than a circumferential length of the second wall.

[0057] The first tray and the second tray may contact each other in a first direction (for example, a vertical direction), and a height of the first tray in the first direction (vertical direction) may be less than a height of the second tray in the first direction (vertical direction).

[0058] A material of the first tray may be composed of a material having lower adhesion than a material of the second tray.

[0059] The first tray may include irregularities contacting the material phase-changed into the solid phase so that an adhesion area of the first tray may be smaller than an adhesion area of the second tray.

[0060] The first tray may include a coating part provided on a portion contacting the material phase-changed into the solid phase so that the adhesion area of the first tray may be smaller than the adhesion area of the second tray.

[0061] To realize an elliptical shape of the cell, a diameter D3 of the cell in a direction corresponding to an ice-releasing direction may be greater than a diameter D1 of the cell in a direction perpendicular to the ice-releasing direction.

[0062] The refrigerator may include a bracket that couples the first tray and forms a suction hole through which the cold is supplied, and the second tray may perform a relative movement with respect to the first tray.

[0063] The refrigerator may include a water supply part for supplying the material to the cell, and the water supply part may be disposed to overlap the first tray or the second tray so as to drop the material onto a surface of the first tray or a surface of the second tray.

[0064] The first wall may include a first cell surface forming a part of an inner peripheral surface of the cell and an outer peripheral surface forming an outer wall of the first cell surface, and the outer peripheral surface may form a guide surface overlapping the water supply part so that the material discharged from the water supply part contacts the guide surface.

[0065] The second tray may include an extension wall surrounding at least a portion of the first tray, and the extension wall may include a portion overlapping the water supply part so that the material discharged from the water supply part contacts the extension wall.

[0066] The first tray may include a through-hole formed in the first wall to remove air from the cell, and a drainage hole connected to the through-hole and discharging the material.

[0067] The first tray may include a guide wall extending from the first wall and including a fastening part coupled to the ice-making space, and the drainage hole may be formed in the guide wall.

[0068] The first tray may include a through-hole formed in the first wall to remove air from the cell, and a drainage guide including a portion extending to surround at least a portion of the through-hole and guiding the discharge of the material.

[0069] The first wall of the first tray may include a first cell wall defining at least a portion of the cell and an extension wall extending from the first cell wall and coupled to the ice-making space.

[0070] A heater accommodating part for disposing a heater may be formed in a space defined by the first cell wall and the extension wall.

[0071] In another aspect, a refrigerator may include a storage space in which food is stored, a door that opens and closes 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 and defining a space where a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase, a water supply part for supplying the substance to the cell, a first tray providing a first wall forming at least a portion of the cell, and a second tray providing a second wall forming another portion of the cell.

[0072] The first wall may include a guide surface overlapping the water supply part so that the material discharged from the water supply part contacts the guide surface before being introduced into the cell.Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0073] According to an embodiment of the present invention, ice of a desired shape may be easily manufactured by improving the structures of the first tray and the second tray.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by including the first tray and the second tray having an ice-making space larger than that of the first tray, ice adhesion of the first tray may be less than ice adhesion of the second tray.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a contact area between the first tray and the ice is formed smaller than a contact area between the second tray and the ice, so that the ice adhesion in the first tray may be reduced.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the height of the first tray is formed less than the height of the second tray based on an ice-releasing direction, so that the ice adhesion in the first tray may be reduced.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a tray having an opening smaller than the size of ice is provided, and the tray is made of a deformable material so that the opening expands during an ice-releasing process, thereby facilitating the release of ice.

[0078] According to an embodiment of the present invention, water may be easily supplied to the ice-making space through the first tray or the second tray.

[0079] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing a tray having a through-hole capable of discharging air in the cell, an air pocket phenomenon may be prevented at an ice-making position of the tray, and ice of a desired shape may be manufactured.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the tray has a drainage part connected to the through-hole, a phenomenon in which water introduced through the through-hole freezes may be reduced, and ice of a desired shape may be manufactured.Brief Description of Drawings

[0081] FIG. 1 is a view showing a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an ice maker according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view of the ice maker of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the ice maker of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the ice maker of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4. FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the ice maker in a state where the tray assembly is removed according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view showing a configuration of a bracket according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an arrangement of a water supply part and a first tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a plan view of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a perspective view regarding an arrangement of a water supply part and a tray assembly when water is supplied through the tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15. FIG. 17 is a plan view regarding an arrangement of a water supply part and a tray assembly when water is supplied through the tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 18 to 21 are views showing aspects in which ice making, ice releasing, and water supply are performed in the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view showing a configuration of a bracket according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 25 is a bottom view showing a configuration of the first tray according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26 of FIG. 24. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an ice maker according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 28 and 29 are views showing modifications regarding the configurations of a first tray and an ice-releasing heater in the ice maker according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32 is a bottom view showing a configuration of the first tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33 of FIG. 31. FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an ice maker according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view showing an operating state of an ice-releasing guide when an ice-releasing operation is performed in the ice maker according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 37 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 38 is a plan view showing a configuration of the first tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 39 is a bottom view showing a configuration of the first tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 41 is a bottom perspective view showing a configuration of a bracket according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 42 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 43 is a plan view showing a configuration of the first tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 44-44 of FIG. 42. FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 45-45 of FIG. 42. FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an ice maker according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a plurality of cells according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view showing an additional embodiment regarding the configuration of the plurality of cells. FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view showing another additional embodiment regarding the configuration of the plurality of cells. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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."

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In the present invention, the cell is located inside the storage space and may be defined as a space where water undergoes a phase change into ice. A circumference of the cell is independent of a shape of the cell and means an outer surface of the cell. In another aspect, an outer peripheral surface of the cell may mean an inner surface of a wall forming the cell.

[0099] In the present invention, a tray may be defined as a wall that partitions the cell and an interior of the storage space. The tray may be defined as a wall forming at least a part of the cell.

[0100] 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, or Z axis or to rotate the tray assembly about at least one axis among X, Y, or Z axis.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] In the present invention, adhesion refers to a degree to which ice and a container adhere during a process in which water contained in the container becomes ice, and is defined as a value determined by a shape including a thickness of the container, a material of the container, an elapsed time after becoming ice in the container, and the like.

[0105] Transparent ice will be described. Bubbles are dissolved in water, and ice solidified while containing the bubbles may have low transparency due to the bubbles. Therefore, in the process of water solidifying, if the bubbles are induced to move from a portion that freezes first in the cell to another portion that has not yet frozen, the transparency of the ice may be increased.

[0106] In the ice-making process, if bubbles are induced to move or be collected from a region where water first solidifies in the cell to another constant region in a liquid state, the transparency of the produced ice may be increased. A direction in which the bubbles move or are collected may be similar to an ice-making direction. The constant region may be a region where water is intended to be induced to solidify late in the cell.

[0107] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the refrigerator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0108] FIG. 1 is a view showing a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] 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. 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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. The freezing space 32 may be provided to be separated into two spaces even if the freezing space 32 may be opened and closed by one door 30.

[0112] In this embodiment, the freezing space 32 may be referred to as a first storage space, and the refrigerating space 18 may be referred to as a second storage space. 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.

[0113] An ice bin 60 in which ice produced in the ice maker 200 drops and is stored may be disposed on one side (for example, a lower side) of the ice maker 200. A user may take the ice bin 60 out of the freezing space 32 and use the ice stored in the ice bin 60. The ice bin 60 may be coupled to one side (for example, an upper side) of a wall partitioning the first space (for example, an upper space) and the second space (for example, a lower space) of the freezing space 32.

[0114] Although not shown, the cabinet 14 is provided with a duct for supplying cold to the ice maker 200 (not shown). The duct guides cold heat-exchanged with refrigerant flowing through an evaporator toward the ice maker 200. For example, the duct is disposed at one side (for example, a rear side) of the cabinet 14 and may discharge cold toward the other side (for example, a front side) of the cabinet 14. The ice maker 200 may be located at one side (for example, a front side) of the duct. Without being limited, an outlet of the duct may be provided on one or more of a first side wall (for example, a rear side wall) and a second side wall (for example, an upper side wall) of the freezing space 32.

[0115] 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.

[0116] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an ice maker according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a front view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is a plan view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, and FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 6, an ice maker 200 according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a bracket 220 supporting a tray assembly. Each component of the ice maker 200 is provided inside or outside the bracket 220, so that the ice maker 200 may constitute one assembly. The bracket 220 may be coupled to at least one surface of the storage space.

[0118] The bracket 220 may include a first wall 221 in which a through-hole 226 is formed. At least a part of the first wall 221 extends in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) and may be coupled to one surface of the storage space. 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 where the tray assembly and the driving part 510 are disposed.

[0121] One of the two second walls 222 may cover the driving part 510. The other of the two second walls 222 functions as a prevention plate for preventing ice dropping into the ice bin 60 or ice stored in the ice bin 60 from falling, and may form a wall through-hole 222a through which at least a part of the other of the two second walls 222 passes to prevent frost formation.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] The through-hole 226 of the first wall 221 may function as an outlet through which cold that has passed through the tray assembly is discharged. A plurality of through-holes 226 may be provided and formed in the first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) of the first wall 221.

[0127] At least a part of the water supply part 240 may be disposed in a first through-hole 226a among the plurality of through-holes 226. The water supply part 240 may extend toward the tray assembly by passing through the first through-hole 226a while being supported by the third wall 223. A discharge part 243 (see FIG. 7) of the water supply part 240 may be located on one side (for example, a lower side) of the first through-hole 226a.

[0128] The plurality of through-holes 226 may include a second through-hole 226b and a third through-hole 226c formed on both sides of the first through-hole 226a. Through the second through-hole 226b and the third through-hole 226c, one end (for example, an upper end) of the tray assembly may be exposed at one side (for example, an upper side) of the bracket 220.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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).

[0131] The bracket 220 may include a blocking plate 227a that prevents the cold sucked through the suction hole 224a from being discharged from the bracket 220 without heading toward the tray assembly. As an example, the blocking plate 227a may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the first wall 221. The blocking plate 227a is spaced apart in one direction (for example, laterally) from the suction hole 224a, and a plurality of cells 360 may be disposed between the suction hole 224a and the blocking plate 227a.

[0132] That is, 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.

[0133] The bracket 220 may include a stopper 250 contacting the tray assembly. The stopper 250 extends in another direction (for example, downward) from the first wall 221 and may be disposed to contact at least a portion of the tray assembly. The stopper 250 may have the shape of a bar.

[0134] One end (for example, a lower end) of the first wall 221 may include a stopper coupler 227 to which the stopper 250 is coupled. The stopper 250 extends in one direction (for example, downward) from the stopper coupler 227 and may contact the second tray 400.

[0135] When the second tray 400 moves in the forward direction and is at the ice-making position, a peripheral portion of the second tray 400 may contact the stopper 250. By this configuration, further movement of the second tray 400 may be restricted by the stopper 250.

[0136] To allow the stopper 250 and the second tray 400 to be in close contact, the stopper 250 and the second tray 400 may be composed of different materials. As an example, the stopper 250 may be composed of a metal material or a plastic material, and the second tray 400 may be composed of a flexible material. As another example, the stopper 250 may be composed of a flexible material, and the second tray 400 may be composed of a metal material or a plastic material.

[0137] According to this configuration, the second tray 400 may move slightly further by the driving part 510 than the point where the second tray 400 starts to contact the stopper 250, and in this process, the degree of close contact between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 may be improved. Consequently, complete formation of the cell 360 may be achieved.

[0138] The bracket 220 may include a fourth wall 224 to which the 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.

[0139] The ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly. The bracket 220 may define at least a part of a space accommodating the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly.

[0140] The bracket 220 may be disposed, for example, on one side wall (for example, an upper side 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] The ice maker 200 may include a cell 360 (refer to FIG. 7) which is a space where water undergoes a phase change into ice by the cold.

[0144] 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 formed by the first tray 300 and a second cell formed by the second tray 400.

[0145] The first tray 300 may be coupled to the bracket 220. 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c. The number of the plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0152] Each of the plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c may form at least a portion of one cell. Based on a total surface area of one cell 360, a surface area of a portion of the cell formed by each tray part may be smaller than a surface area of another portion of the cell formed by the second tray 400.

[0153] 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 coupled after being manufactured as separate configurations. As an example, the second tray 400, the second tray supporter 450, and the second tray cover 480 may be coupled by a fastening member 457.

[0154] 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. The second tray cover 480 may include a cover wall 481 forming an opening 482. The cover wall 481 may be placed on one side (for example, an upper side) of a first extension wall 420 (refer to FIG. 10) of the second tray 400.

[0155] The first extension wall 420 may be provided with a contact protrusion 428 contacting the second tray cover 480. The contact protrusion 428 may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the first extension wall 420. An insertion hole 481a into which the contact protrusion 428 is inserted may be formed in the cover wall 481 of the second tray cover 480. The contact protrusion 428 may contact the stopper 250. In the process of moving the second tray 400 to the ice-making position, the contact protrusion 428 is pressed by the stopper 250, so that the closeness of contact between the first and second trays 300 and 400 may be improved.

[0156] 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. The opening 482 may be formed to have a predetermined curvature corresponding to a shape of an outer peripheral surface of the cell 360. 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.

[0157] 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 cover fastening parts 485 are 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 hole 425 (refer to FIG. 10) of the second tray 400 or a supporter fastening part 456 of the second tray supporter 450. In a state where the cover fastening part 485 is coupled to the fastening hole 425 and the supporter fastening part 456, the fastening member 457 may be fastened from one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray supporter 450.

[0158] 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. The second tray supporter 450 may support the second tray 400 from a lower side of the second tray 400. As an example, at least a portion of a wall forming the second cell of the second tray 400 may be supported by the second tray supporter 450.

[0159] The second tray 400 may include a peripheral wall 430 (refer to FIG. 10) surrounding a portion of the first tray 300 in a state of contacting the first tray 300.

[0160] The ice maker 200 may include a driving part 510 providing a driving force. The driving part 510 may include a driving motor. Receiving the driving force of the driving part 510, the second tray 400 may relatively move with respect to the first tray 300.

[0161] The second tray supporter 450 may include two extension parts 455 in which a through-hole 455a is formed. The two extension parts 455 may be provided on both side portions of the second tray supporter 450.

[0162] The ice maker 200 may include a shaft 520 passing through the through-hole 455a. The shaft 520 extends between the two extension parts 455 and may be rotated by receiving power from the driving part 510.

[0163] The second tray supporter 450 may include two first walls 451 forming both side surfaces. The two extension parts 455 may be respectively provided at one end (for example, a rear end) of the first wall 451.

[0164] The second tray supporter 450 may include a second wall 452 connecting the other ends (for example, front ends) of the two first walls 451. The second wall 452 may form one surface portion (for example, a front portion) of the second tray supporter 450.

[0165] The second tray supporter 450 may include a third wall 453 forming another surface portion (for example, an upper surface portion) of the second tray supporter 450. A first extension wall 420 (refer to FIG. 10) of the second tray 400 may be seated on the third wall 453. A coupling part 459 to which a first edge 422a (refer to FIG. 11) of the second tray 400 is coupled may be formed on the third wall 453. The coupling part 459 may include a through-hole into which the first edge 422a is inserted.

[0166] An insertion part 458a to which a second edge 422b (refer to FIG. 11) of the second tray 400 is coupled may be formed on the third wall 453. The insertion part 458a may include a groove recessed from the third wall 453 so that the second edge 422b is inserted.

[0167] The second tray supporter 450 may include at least one of a fourth wall 454 and a fifth wall 458 extending in one direction (for example, downward) from the third wall 453. The fourth wall 454 is one wall (for example, a rear wall) of the second tray supporter 450, and the fifth wall 458 may be understood as another wall (for example, an inner wall) spaced forward from the fourth wall 454. The insertion part 458a may be a space formed between the fourth wall 454 and the fifth wall 458.

[0168] The second tray supporter 450 may be formed with an accommodation space 453a recessed in one direction (for example, downward) from the third wall 453. At least a portion of the second tray 400 may be located in the accommodation space 453a. As an example, a portion of the second cell of the second tray 400 may be accommodated in the accommodation space 453a.

[0169] A transparent ice heater 490 for applying heat to the second tray 400 during an ice-making process may be disposed in the accommodation space 453a. The transparent ice heater 490 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. The transparent ice heater 490 may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0170] The second tray supporter 450 may include a fourth wall 454 forming one surface portion (for example, a rear surface portion) of the second tray supporter 450. An outer surface of the second tray supporter 450 may be defined by the first to fourth walls 451, 452, 453 and 454.

[0171] Holders 530 may be provided at both ends of the shaft 520. The holder 530 may include a first holder 531 connecting the shaft 520 and the driving part 510. The first holder 531 is coupled to one end of the shaft 520 and may be disposed between the extension part 455 and the driving part 510.

[0172] The first holder 531 includes an open end so that the shaft 520 passes through the open end, and the shaft 520 may pass through the first holder 531 to be coupled to the driving part 510.

[0173] The holder 530 may include a second holder 532 coupled to the other end of the shaft 520. The second holder 532 is disposed outside the extension part 455, and the shaft 520 may pass through the through-hole 455a and be supported by the second holder 532.

[0174] The driving part 510 may include a motor and a plurality of gears. A full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the driving part 510. The full ice detection lever 550 is moved by power provided from the driving part 510, and may detect ice stored in the ice bin 60 in the process of being moved.

[0175] The driving part 510 may include a cam that is moved or rotated by receiving power from the motor. The ice maker 200 may include a sensor for detecting movement or rotation of the cam.

[0176] 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. For example, a water supply position, an ice-making position, and an ice-releasing position, which will be described later, may be distinguished and determined based on the signal output from the sensor.

[0177] The ice maker 200 may further include a pusher 540. The pusher 540 may be disposed, for example, on the bracket 220.

[0178] The pusher 540 may include a coupling plate 542 coupled to the bracket 220 and at least one pushing bar 544 extending from the coupling plate 542. As an example, the pusher 540 may include pushing bars 544 provided in the same number as the number of the cells 360, but is not limited thereto.

[0179] The pushing bar 544 may push out ice located in the cell 360. As an example, the pushing bar 544 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 tray 400 may be formed of a non-metallic material. As an example, when pressed by the pusher 540, the second tray 400 may be formed of a flexible or soft material whose shape may be deformed. Although not limited, the second tray 400 may be formed of, for example, a silicone material.

[0181] While the second tray 400 is being pressed by the pusher 540, the second tray 400 is deformed and the pressing force of the pusher 540 is transmitted to the ice, and the ice may be separated from the second tray 400 by the pressing force of the pusher 540.

[0182] 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.

[0183] If the second tray 400 is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or soft material, after the second tray 400 is deformed by the pusher 540, when the pressing force of the pusher 540 is removed, the second tray 400 may be easily restored to its original shape.

[0184] As an example, the first tray 300 may be formed of a metal material or a plastic material. In this case, the coupling force or adhesion force per unit area between the first tray 300 and the ice may be relatively strong. However, since the first cell formed inside the first tray 300 has a small surface area (or ice contact area), ice releasing may be easily performed.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] In the case of this embodiment, since the second tray 400 is pressed by the pusher 540 to undergo shape deformation, the hardness of the second tray 400 may be lower than the hardness of the first tray 300 so that the shape deformation of the second tray 400 is easy.

[0188] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4, FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the ice maker in a state where the tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention is removed, and FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view showing a configuration of a bracket according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, a bracket 220 according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a first wall 221 forming one surface (for example, an upper surface) of the bracket 220. The bracket 220 may include two second walls 222 extending in one direction (for example, downward) from both sides of the first wall 221. The bracket 220 may include a fourth wall 224 connecting one end (for example, a rear end) of the two second walls 222. An internal space of the bracket 220 may be defined by the first wall 221, the second wall 222, and the fourth wall 224.

[0190] The internal space of the bracket 220 may include a first space 220a in which the driving part 510 is located and a second space 220b in which the tray assembly is located. The bracket 220 may include a step 220c protruding in one direction (for example, forward) from the fourth wall 224 to distinguish the first space 220a from the second space 220b. By the step 220c, at least a portion of the first space 220a may be formed at another side (for example, a rear side) of the second space 220b.

[0191] A shaft coupler 237 for supporting both ends of the shaft 520 may be provided in the internal space of the bracket 220. As an example, the shaft coupler 237 may be configured to protrude from one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the first wall 221.

[0192] A coupling plate 542 of the pusher 540 is coupled to the fourth wall 224, and a pushing bar 544 may extend in one direction (for example, forward) from the coupling plate 542.

[0193] The first tray 300 may be coupled to the bracket 220. The bracket 220 may include a coupling wall 221a coupled to the first tray 300. The coupling wall 221a may be stepped in one direction (for example, downward) from the first wall 221 forming one surface (for example, an upper surface) of the bracket 220. A distance between the coupling wall 221a and the first tray 300 may be shorter than a distance between the first wall 221 and the first tray 300.

[0194] The first tray 300 may be fastened to the coupling wall 221a by a predetermined fastening member. A fastening groove 325 to which the fastening member is coupled may be formed in a portion (for example, an upper portion) of the first tray 300.

[0195] The bracket 220 may include a support wall 229 for supporting the first tray 300. The support wall 229 may extend in one direction (for example, downward) from the coupling wall 221a. The support wall 229 may be configured to support a guide wall 320 of the first tray 300. The support wall 229 may have a bent or rounded shape corresponding to a shape of the guide wall 320.

[0196] The support wall 229 may be in contact with the guide wall 320. The support wall 229 may extend along the bent or rounded guide wall 320. The support wall 229 may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the guide wall 320.

[0197] The first tray 300 includes a plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c, and the plurality of tray parts may be disposed to be spaced apart in one direction (for example, a horizontal direction).

[0198] The first tray 300 may form a through-hole 323 that induces air to escape to the outside of the cell at an ice-making position. The through-hole 323 may be formed so that at least a portion of the first tray 300 passes through the through-hole 323. The through-hole 323 may be formed in a portion (for example, an upper portion) of the first tray 300.

[0199] A water supply part 240 may be coupled to a portion (for example, an upper portion) of the bracket 220. A storage space 241 in which fluid is stored may be formed inside the water supply part 240. A first portion of the water supply part 240 may be located outside the tray assembly and supported by the bracket 220.

[0200] A second portion of the water supply part 240 is located inside the tray assembly to allow fluid to be supplied to the cell 360. When the fluid is supplied, the tray assembly may be at a water supply position.

[0201] A discharge part 243 for discharging fluid may be formed in the water supply part 240. The discharge part 243 may be formed at one end (for example, a lower end) of the water supply part 240. The discharge part 243 may include a discharge hole for discharging fluid.

[0202] The water supply part 240 may be supported by the tray assembly. A portion where the water supply part 240 is supported by the tray assembly may form a boundary portion between the first portion and the second portion of the water supply part 240.

[0203] At the ice-making position of the tray assembly, the first tray 300 and the second tray 400 contact each other to form the cell 360 corresponding to a desired shape of ice.

[0204] An inner peripheral surface of the cell 360 may include a first cell surface 310a formed by the first tray 300 and a second cell surface 410a formed by the second tray 400. The first cell surface 310a and the second cell surface 410a may extend in a circumferential direction to form the cell 360.

[0205] Based on a center C1 of the cell 360, a diameter D1 of the cell 360 may be formed to be greater than a diameter D2 of a portion where the first cell surface 310a and the second cell surface 410a contact each other.

[0206] The portion where the first cell surface 310a and the second cell surface 410a contact each other may be understood as a boundary between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400.

[0207] The diameter D2 may form a diameter of an opening 313 of the first tray 300. The opening 313 of the first tray 300 may form an end of the first tray 300. The diameter D2 may form a diameter of an opening 413 of the second tray 400. The opening 413 of the second tray 400 may form one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray 400.

[0208] From one perspective, the first tray 300 may be understood as functioning as a cover member that covers the opening of the second tray 400.

[0209] Based on the center C1 of the cell 360, a circumferential length of the first cell surface 310a may be formed to be less than a circumferential length of the second cell surface 410a. Based on the center C1 of the cell 360, a central angle formed by the first cell surface 310a may be formed to be less than a central angle formed by the second cell surface 410a.

[0210] When defining a horizontal (X-axis) diameter D1 and a vertical (Z-axis) diameter D3 of the cell 360, the diameter D1 and the diameter D3 may be formed to be the same to implement a spherical cell.

[0211] As another example, the diameter D3 may be formed to be greater than the diameter D1 to implement an elliptical cell having a major axis in one direction (for example, a vertical direction). Since the cell is configured in an elliptical shape, the diameter D1 in a direction perpendicular to an ice-releasing direction (Z-axis direction) is formed to be less than the diameter D3 corresponding to the ice-releasing direction, so that ice-releasing torque may be reduced.

[0212] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10.

[0213] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray 300 and a second tray 400.

[0214] The first tray 300 may define a first cell 310b which is a part of the cell 360. The first tray 300 may include a first tray wall 310 forming the part of the cell 360. The first tray wall 310 may define the first cell 310b. An inner peripheral surface of the first tray wall 310 forms a first cell surface 310a, and the first cell surface 310a may be understood as defining an outer peripheral surface of the first cell 310b.

[0215] The first tray 300 may include a plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c, each of the plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c defining a first cell 310b. The plurality of first cells 310b may be arranged in a line, for example. Based on FIG. 10, the plurality of first cells 310b may be arranged in one direction (for example, the X-axis direction).

[0216] The first tray 300 may include a first opening 313. The first opening 313 forms an end of the first tray 300 and may contact the second tray 400.

[0217] The first tray 300 may include a guide wall 320 extending from the first tray wall 310. The guide wall 320 may extend in a direction toward the bracket 220. For example, the guide wall 320 may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the first tray wall 310.

[0218] The guide wall 320 may form a through-hole 323. The through-hole 323 may be formed to penetrate from the inner peripheral surface of the first tray wall 310, that is, the first cell surface 310a, to an outer surface of the guide wall 320.

[0219] A first end, that is, an inflow-side end of the through-hole 323 may be connected to the first cell surface 310a. A second end, that is, an outflow-side end of the through-hole 323 may be connected to an upper end of the guide wall 320. During an ice-making process, bubbles in the cell 360 are discharged through the through-hole 323, so that an air pocket phenomenon of the cell 360 may be prevented.

[0220] The guide wall 320 may include a drain part 324 that is connected to the through-hole 323 and penetrates in one direction (for example, forward) of the guide wall 320. The drain part 324 sends fluid discharged through the through-hole 323 to the outside of the first tray 300, thereby preventing residual ice from being formed in the through-hole 323. As an example, the drain part 324 may include a drain hole.

[0221] A fastening part 325 to which a fastening member is coupled may be formed on the guide wall 320. The fastening part 325 may include a fastening groove recessed from one end (for example, an upper end) of the guide wall 320. The fastening member is coupled to the bracket 220 and / or fastened to the fastening part 325, thereby coupling the first tray 300 to the bracket 220.

[0222] The second tray 400 includes a second tray wall 410 forming another part of the cell 360, and the second tray wall 410 may define a second cell 410b. An inner peripheral surface of the second tray wall 410 forms a second cell surface 410a, and the second cell surface 410a may be understood as defining an outer peripheral surface of the second cell 410b.

[0223] The second tray 400 may define a plurality of second cells 410b, for example. The plurality of second cells 410b may be arranged in the X-axis direction, for example. To define the plurality of second cells 410b, a plurality of second tray walls 410 are provided, and each of the plurality of second tray walls 410 may be arranged in one direction (for example, the X-axis direction).

[0224] The second tray 400 may include a second opening 413. The second opening 413 forms one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray 400 and may contact the first tray 300.

[0225] The second tray 400 may include a first extension wall 420 extending in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) toward an outside of the second tray wall 410. The first extension wall 420 may be seated on the third wall 453 of the second tray supporter 450.

[0226] A plurality of second tray walls 410 defining the plurality of second cells 410b are provided, and the first extension wall 420 may extend to the outside of the plurality of second tray walls 410. For example, the first extension wall 420 may include a rectangular planar wall.

[0227] The first extension wall 420 may be formed at a position through which an extension line in the first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) bisecting a height in a second direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the cell 360 passes. When defining the center C1 of the cell 360, the extension line in the first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) passing through the center C1 may pass through the first extension wall 420.

[0228] A fastening hole 425 to which a cover fastening part 485 of the second tray cover 480 is coupled may be formed at an edge of the first extension wall 420. A plurality of fastening holes 425 may be formed.

[0229] The second tray wall 410 may include a first part 411 located on one side (for example, a lower side) of the first extension wall 420 based on the first extension wall 420. The first part 411 may form a portion (for example, a lower portion) of the cell 360.

[0230] One end (for example, a lower end) of the first part 411 forms a recessed part 401, and as water expands during the ice-making process, the recessed part 401 may be deformed (expanded) into a desired shape of the cell.

[0231] The first part 411 may be accommodated in an accommodation space 453a of the second tray supporter 450 and supported by the second tray supporter 450.

[0232] The second tray wall 410 may include a second part 412 located on one side (for example, an upper side) of the first extension wall 420 based on the first extension wall 420. The second part 412 may form a part of a certain region (for example, an upper region) of the cell 360.

[0233] One end (for example, an upper end) of the second part 412 may form the opening 413. The second part 412 may be understood as a portion not accommodated in the accommodation space 453a.

[0234] By the second part 412, the second tray 400 may extend to a position higher than the center C1 of the cell 360. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce a size of a portion where ice is deformed into an undesired shape due to water leakage between the first tray 300 and the second tray 400. In addition, by reducing a size of the first tray 300, a degree of ice adhesion to the first tray 300 may be reduced.

[0235] The second tray wall 410 may include a plurality of portions having different deformation resistances. The plurality of portions may include a first portion 412a having a first deformation resistance and a second portion 412b having a second deformation resistance. The deformation resistance of the first portion 412a may be greater than the deformation resistance of the second portion 412b.

[0236] For example, a first thickness t1 of the first portion 412a may be greater than a second thickness t2 of the second portion 412b. The first portion 412a may be formed in the second part 412 of the second tray wall 410. The second portion 412b may be formed in the second part 412 of the second tray wall 410.

[0237] Since the first part 411 of the second tray wall 410 is supported by the second tray supporter 450, a desired shape of ice may be implemented during a process in which fluid expands during ice making. However, the second part 412 of the second tray wall 410 protrudes toward one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray supporter 450 and may not be directly supported by the second tray supporter 450. Therefore, it may not be easy to implement a desired shape of ice during the process in which the fluid expands during ice making.

[0238] To solve this, the first portion 412a and the second portion 412b may be configured such that a portion of the second part 412 adjacent to the first extension wall 420 undergoes relatively less deformation and a portion far from the first extension wall 420 undergoes relatively more deformation.

[0239] The first portion 412a forms a portion adjacent to the first extension wall 420 and may have a first thickness t1 that is relatively large. The portion adjacent to the first extension wall 420 may be understood as a portion adjacent to the center C1 of the cell 360 forming the diameter D1 of the ice. In other words, the first portion 412a may be understood as a portion adjacent to an extension line passing through the center C1 of the cell 360 in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction).

[0240] The second portion 412b forms a portion relatively far from the first extension wall 420 and may have a second thickness t2 that is relatively small. The portion relatively far from the first extension wall 420 may be understood as a portion far from the center C1 of the cell 360 forming the diameter D1 of the ice.

[0241] The second portion 412b may be understood as a portion adjacent to the opening 413 of the second tray 400. In this way, a portion of the second part 412 close to the center of the ice in the cell 360 may have a small amount of deformation during the ice-releasing process by increasing the deformation resistance or forming a large thickness.

[0242] Meanwhile, another portion of the second part 412 far from the center of the ice in the cell 360 may have a large amount of deformation during the ice-releasing process by decreasing the deformation resistance or forming a small thickness. According to this configuration, when ice is discharged while the second opening 413 of the second tray 400 expands during the ice-releasing process, the amount of deformation in the portion adjacent to the second opening 413 increases, so that ice releasing may be easily performed.

[0243] In the second part 412, the size of the second portion 412b having the second thickness t2 may increase from the first extension wall 420 toward the second opening 413. As an example, a plurality of first portions 412a having the first thickness t1 are provided to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, and the second portion 412b may be provided between the plurality of first portions 412a. The area of the second portion 412b may become larger as it extends toward the second opening 413 in one direction (for example, upward). According to this configuration, an expansion rate may be evenly maintained in the circumferential direction of the second part 412 during the ice-making process.

[0244] The second tray 400 may include a peripheral wall 430 extending along a circumference of one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray wall 410. For example, the peripheral wall 430 is formed integrally with the second tray wall 410 and may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray wall 410.

[0245] As another example, the peripheral wall 430 is formed separately from the second tray wall 410 and may be located around one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray wall 410. In this case, the peripheral wall 430 may contact the second tray wall 410 or be spaced apart from the second tray wall 410. In either case, the peripheral wall 430 may surround at least a part of the first tray 300.

[0246] If the second tray 400 includes the peripheral wall 430, the second tray 400 may surround the first tray 300. A space between the peripheral wall 430 and the first tray 300 may form a flow space for fluid when water is supplied from the water supply part 240. The space between the peripheral wall 430 and the first tray 300 may form a storage space for the discharged fluid when fluid is discharged through the drain part 324 of the first tray 300.

[0247] The peripheral wall 430 may include a second extension wall 431 extending in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) along a circumference of one end (for example, an upper end) of the second part 412. The second extension wall 431 may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the first tray 300.

[0248] A part of an inner peripheral surface of the second extension wall 431 may contact the first tray 300. At least a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the first tray wall 310 may form a first contact surface 312a contacting the second extension wall 431.

[0249] The second extension wall 431 may extend obliquely or roundly in a direction away from the first tray 300. The portion extending obliquely or roundly may form a contact surface 431a contacting the first contact surface 312a. The contact surface 431a may extend obliquely upward by a predetermined angle θ with respect to one direction (for example, the X-axis direction). That is, the contact surface 431a may form an inclined contact surface.

[0250] Based on one point of the first tray 300 or the second extension wall 431, a height of a portion where the first contact surface 312a of the first tray 300 and the second extension wall 431 contact may be formed at a position lower than a height of the drain part 324 of the first tray 300. Therefore, the fluid discharged through the drain part 324 may be easily stored in the space between the first tray 300 and the peripheral wall 430.

[0251] The second extension wall 431 may reduce the transfer of heat from the transparent ice heater 490 to the second tray 400 to the first cell 310b formed by the first tray 300. That is, the second extension wall 431 serves to move a heat conduction path away from the first cell 310b.

[0252] The second extension wall 431 may extend to a position higher than the drain part 324 of the first tray 300. That is, one end 431b of the second extension wall 431 may be formed at a position higher than the drain part 324. According to this configuration, water discharged through the drain part 324 may be prevented from leaking to the outside of the second tray 400 over the second extension wall 431.

[0253] The second tray 400 may include a partition wall 432 provided between the plurality of second extension walls 431. The partition wall 432 may connect one end (for example, a rear end) of the plurality of second extension walls 431. By the partition wall 432, the plurality of second extension walls 431 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0254] The second tray 400 may include a plurality of tray parts defining a plurality of cells. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the plurality of tray parts may include a first tray part defining a first cell, a second tray part defining a second cell, and a third tray part defining a third cell.

[0255] A plurality of partition walls 432 may be provided. As an example, the partition walls 432 may include a first partition wall 432a provided between the second extension wall 431 of the first tray part and the second extension wall 431 of the second tray part. The partition walls 432 may include a second partition wall 432b provided between the second extension wall 431 of the second tray part and the second extension wall 431 of the third tray part.

[0256] The second tray 400 may include a third extension wall 433 disposed at a portion (for example, a rear portion) of the first tray 300. For example, the second extension wall 431 is disposed at another portion (for example, a front portion) of the first tray 300, and the third extension wall 433 may be provided on the opposite side of the second extension wall 431.

[0257] At least a portion of the third extension wall 433 may guide flow or form a flow path when water is supplied from the water supply part 240 to the cell 360. The third extension wall 433 may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the second tray wall 410.

[0258] The third extension wall 433 may be formed to be stepped. As an example, the third extension wall 433 may include a first part 433a extending in one direction (for example, upward) from the opening 413 of the second tray wall 410.

[0259] The first part 433a may form a contact surface contacting the first tray 300. The first tray 300 may form a second contact surface 312b contacting the first part 433a. The second contact surface 312b may form a contact surface in one direction (for example, a vertical direction).

[0260] The third extension wall 433 may include a second part 433b extending obliquely in one direction (for example, upward) from the first part 433a. The second part 433b may extend obliquely in a direction away from the first tray 300. The third extension wall 433 may include a third part 433c extending in one direction (for example, upward) from the second part 433b.

[0261] The first tray 300 may include a guide surface 311 (refer to FIG. 12) contacting fluid during a water supply process. Fluid discharged from the water supply part 240 may fall to the guide surface 311.

[0262] The first tray 300 may include a water supply guide 327 provided on at least one side of the guide surface 311. The water supply guide 327 protrudes from the first tray wall 310 of the first tray 300 and may prevent fluid from leaking to the outside of the guide surface 311. As an example, the water supply guide 327 may include a protruding rib.

[0263] The water supply guide 327 may protrude from at least one side of the guide surface 311. The guide surface 311 may be understood as a surface defined between the water supply guides 327 on both sides of the outer surface of the first tray wall 310. The water supply guide 327 may extend from the guide wall 320 toward the third extension wall 433. A space in which fluid is stored or a space in which fluid flows may be formed between the third extension wall 433 and the water supply guide 327.

[0264] The second tray 400 may include a connection wall 434 connecting the second extension wall 431 and the third extension wall 433. The connection wall 434 may extend roundly or obliquely in one direction (for example, backward) from the second extension wall 431 toward the third extension wall 433. The connection wall 434 may be provided on both sides of the second tray 400.

[0265] The second extension wall 431, the partition wall 432, the connection wall 434, and the third extension wall 433 may define a space where the first tray 300 is located. The space may form a space in which fluid flows or is stored during the water supply process.

[0266] The second tray 400 may include a reinforcement rib 436 for reinforcing the strength of the second tray 400. The reinforcement rib 436 may be provided on the second tray wall 410 or the peripheral wall 430.

[0267] The second tray 400 may be composed of a flexible material. The reinforcement rib 436 may prevent undesired deformation from occurring when water is supplied to the second tray 400 or during a process in which the second tray 400 is moved to an ice-releasing position (or an ice-making position).

[0268] For example, the reinforcement rib 436 may be provided on at least one of the second extension wall 431 or the partition wall 432. The reinforcement rib 436 may be disposed on a surface of the at least one wall to extend in one direction (for example, a vertical direction). The reinforcement rib 436 is provided at a position of the second tray 400 where strength is relatively weak, thereby preventing undesired expansion or deformation from occurring during an ice-making process. For example, at least a portion of the reinforcement rib 436 may be disposed on a second portion 412b having a second thickness t2 among the second tray wall 410, particularly the second part 412.

[0269] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an arrangement of a water supply part and a first tray according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14 is a plan view of FIG. 13, FIG. 15 is a perspective view relating to an arrangement of the water supply part and a tray assembly when water is supplied through the tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15, and FIG. 17 is a plan view relating to an arrangement of the water supply part and the tray assembly when water is supplied through the tray assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0270] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 17, the first tray 300 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c. The plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c may be composed of separate components.

[0271] For example, the plurality of tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c may include a first tray part 300a provided at a center of the first tray 300 and second and third tray parts 300b and 300c provided at both sides of the first tray part 300a.

[0272] The second and third tray parts 300b and 300c may have the same shape. The first tray part 300a may have a different shape from the second and third tray parts 300b and 300c.

[0273] The first tray 300 may include a first tray wall 310 forming a first cell 310b. An inner peripheral surface of the first tray wall 310 may form a first cell surface 310a. For example, the first cell surface 310a may include a rounded surface to form a portion (for example, an upper portion) of a cell 360.

[0274] The first tray 300 may include a guide wall 320 extending or protruding from the first tray wall 310. The guide wall 320 extends in one direction (for example, upward) from the first tray wall 310 and may be fastened to the bracket 220.

[0275] The guide wall 320 may include a through-hole 323 through which air in the cell 360 is discharged during an ice-making process. The through-hole 323 may be formed to penetrate from one end (for example, a lower end) of the guide wall 320 to the other end (for example, an upper end). The through-hole 323 and the fastening groove 325 may be arranged in one direction (for example, the X-axis direction).

[0276] The guide wall 320 may include a drain part 324 fluidly connected to the through-hole 323 and allowing fluid discharged through the through-hole 323 to be drained to an outside of the guide wall 320. The drain part 324 may be formed to penetrate from the through-hole 323 to one surface (for example, a front surface) of the guide wall 320.

[0277] A direction is defined. The front of the guide wall 320 may be understood as a direction in which the water supply part 240 is located with respect to the guide wall 320. From the perspective of an overall structure of the tray assembly, the front based on a center C1 of the cell 360 is the direction in which the water supply part 240 is located, and the rear may be understood as the direction in which the shaft 520 is located.

[0278] The first tray 300 may include a guide surface 311 for guiding fluid so that a surface from which the fluid is discharged from the drain part 324 may flow down along the first tray wall 310. The guide surface 311 forms a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the first tray wall 310 and may extend in one direction (for example, forward) from the drain part 324. The drain part 324 may be formed in each of the first to third tray parts 300a, 300b and 300c.

[0279] The first tray 300 may include a water supply guide 327 for preventing fluid from splashing to an outside of the guide surface 311. The water supply guide 327 may protrude in one direction (for example, upward) from the first tray wall 310.

[0280] A plurality of water supply guides 327 are provided, and the plurality of water supply guides 327 may be provided on both sides of the drain part 324. The plurality of water supply guides 327 may include a first water supply guide 327a provided on one side of the drain part 324 and a second water supply guide 327b provided on the other side of the drain part 324. The guide surface 311 may be formed between the first and second water supply guides 327a and 327b.

[0281] The first and second water supply guides 327a and 327b are provided on the first tray part 300a and may not be provided on the second and third tray parts 300b and 300c. This may be due to a structural feature in which the water supply part 240 is disposed on one side (for example, an upper side) of the first tray part 300a.

[0282] Fluid discharged from the water supply part 240 falls to the guide surface 311 from one side (for example, an upper side) of the first tray part 300a and may be introduced into the plurality of cells 360. Specifically, it flows in one direction (for example, downward) from the guide surface 311 and may be introduced into the cell 360 defined by the first tray part 300a, that is, a central cell. In this process, the first and second water supply guides 327a and 327b may guide the fluid flowing (for example, falling) to the guide surface 311 to be introduced into the central cell defined by the first tray part 300a.

[0283] Fluid added after the fluid is introduced into the central cell may flow in one direction (for example, left and right directions) through the third extension wall 433 and be introduced into a first side cell (for example, a left cell) and a second side cell (for example, a right cell). The first side cell is a cell 360 defined by the second tray part 300b, and the second side cell may be a cell 360 defined by the third tray part 300c.

[0284] The water supply part 240 may include a water supply wall 242 forming a storage space 241. The water supply wall 242 includes a wall closed in a circumferential direction to store fluid, and the wall may include a plurality of walls bent and extending in the circumferential direction to have a cup shape.

[0285] The wall may be provided with a hook 248 for coupling the water supply part 240 to the bracket 220. For example, the hook 248 may be provided on a wall provided at one portion (for example, a front portion) of the water supply part among the walls of the water supply part 240.

[0286] The water supply part 240 may include a discharge part 243 extending in one direction (for example, downward) from the water supply wall 242. A length of one end (for example, a front end) of the discharge part 243 may be formed to be longer than a length of the other end (for example, a rear end) of the discharge part 243. That is, the discharge part 243 may extend obliquely downward from the other end (the rear end) toward the one end (the front end).

[0287] The first tray wall 310 may extend downward from a center of one end (for example, an upper end) to an outer peripheral surface of the other end (for example, a lower end). Corresponding to such a shape of the first tray wall 310, by differently configuring lengths of the one end (the front end) and the other end (the rear end) of the discharge part 243, a distance between the discharge part 243 and the first tray wall 310 may be differently implemented. Therefore, a phenomenon of water splashing during a water supply process may be prevented.

[0288] For example, the discharge part 243 may include a first discharge wall 243a forming a wall of a portion (for example, a front end) of the discharge part 243. The discharge part 243 may include two second discharge walls 243b forming side walls of the discharge part 243. The discharge part 243 may include a third discharge wall 243c forming a wall of another portion (for example, a rear end) of the discharge part 243. A length of the first discharge wall 243a may be formed to be longer than a length of the third discharge wall 243c.

[0289] A discharge end 243d of the discharge part 243 may be formed obliquely between the first discharge wall 243a and the third discharge wall 243c.

[0290] The discharge part 243 and the guide surface 311 of the first tray 300 may overlap in one direction (for example, a vertical direction). Therefore, fluid discharged from the discharge part 243 falls to the guide surface 311 and may flow down in one direction (for example, downward) of the first tray 300 along the guide surface 311.

[0291] At the water supply position of the tray assembly, the second tray 400 may be partially released from a contact state with the first tray 300 and move in a direction in which a distance from the first tray 300 increases. For example, the second tray 400 may move in a direction in which contact is released while the third extension wall 433 is in contact with the second contact surface 312b.

[0292] The second tray 400 may move (rotate) in a forward direction by a predetermined angle θ based on the shaft 520. According to the movement of the second tray 400, fluid falling along the guide surface 311 may be introduced into the central cell among the plurality of cells 360 through a space between the third extension wall 433 and the second contact surface 312b of the first tray 300.

[0293] The supplied fluid may be first supplied to the central cell, and after filling an interior of the central cell, the fluid may be introduced into the first side cell and the second side cell on both sides. After filling an interior of the second tray 400 defining the central cell, additionally supplied fluid may be branched and supplied (water spreading) to the first side cell and the second side cell along a water supply flow path 435.

[0294] The water supply flow path 435 may be formed on one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray wall 410. The water supply flow path 435 may be formed between the second extension wall 431 and the third extension wall 433. The water supply flow path 435 may be formed in an inner space of the third extension wall 433.

[0295] The water supply flow path 435 may be formed in at least a portion among first to third parts 433a, 433b and 433c of the third extension wall 433. The water supply flow path 435 may include a first water supply flow path extending from the central cell to the first side cell and a second water supply flow path extending from the central cell to the second side cell.

[0296] FIGS. 18 to 21 are views showing aspects in which ice making, ice releasing, and water supply are performed in the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0297] FIG. 18 is a view showing a state in which ice making is performed in the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. When ice making is completed at the ice-making position of the first and second tray assemblies, ice I is generated, and the second tray assembly may be moved to an ice-releasing position as shown in FIG. 19.

[0298] A direction in which the second tray assembly moves from the ice-making position of FIG. 18 to the ice-releasing position of FIG. 19 may be referred to as forward movement (or forward rotation). On the other hand, a direction of moving from the ice-releasing position of FIG. 19 to the ice-making position of FIG. 18 may be referred to as backward movement (or backward rotation).

[0299] FIG. 19 shows a position where ice releasing starts. When the driving part 510 is driven in the forward direction by a predetermined angle, the ice and the first tray 300 are separated, and the ice I may move while being located in the second tray 400. Since the adhesive force (or contact area) between the ice and the second tray 400 is formed to be larger than the adhesive force (or contact area) between the ice and the first tray 300, the ice and the first tray 300 may be easily separated during the ice-releasing process.

[0300] Additional embodiments may be proposed to facilitate separation of the ice and the first tray 300. As an example, in order to reduce the contact area between the ice and the first tray 300, small irregularities may be added to the inner first cell surface 310a of the first tray 300. As another example, the material of the first tray 300 may be composed of a flexible or soft material to reduce ice adhesion. As another example, a coating part capable of reducing ice adhesion may be provided on the first cell surface 310a. As another example, a heat source (heater) may be added to the first tray wall 310 of the first tray 300 to melt the ice surface, thereby reducing ice adhesion.

[0301] Meanwhile, in order to facilitate ice releasing at the position of FIG. 18, the transparent ice heater 490 may be operated and wait for a set time.

[0302] FIG. 20 shows a state in which the second tray assembly moves further in the forward direction from FIG. 19, so that the second tray 400 is pressed by the pusher 540 and moved to a maximum pressing position of the pusher 540. By the pusher 540 pressing one end (for example, a lower end) of the second tray 400, the ice may start to be separated from the second tray 400.

[0303] In a process in which the ice is separated from the second tray 400, the second tray 400 may be deformed in a direction in which the opening 413 expands. To this end, the second tray 400 may be composed of, for example, a flexible or soft material. In this process, the ice may be completely separated from the second tray 400 and stored in the ice bin 60. In order to increase the reliability of ice releasing, the ice-releasing operations of FIGS. 19 and 20 may be repeatedly performed for a predetermined number of times or more.

[0304] When the ice-releasing operation is completed, the second tray assembly may move in the backward direction and return to the ice-making position as shown in FIG. 18. When a water supply operation starts at the ice-making position, the second tray assembly may move in the forward direction toward a water supply position as shown in FIG. 21. At the water supply position, a material M is supplied through the water supply part 240, and fluid may be supplied to the plurality of cells 360 (refer to FIGS. 16 and 17).

[0305] When the water supply is completed, the second tray assembly moves in the backward direction to the ice-making position and may perform an ice-making operation. During the ice-making process, cold air is supplied to the ice maker, and the transparent ice heater 490 operates to produce transparent ice. During ice making, the transparent ice heater 490 may be turned off for a predetermined time and then wait so that ice may be frozen at a lower portion of the cell 360.

[0306] Hereinafter, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. Since the other embodiments have differences in some configurations compared to the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described, and for the same parts as those of the first embodiment, the description and reference numerals of the first embodiment are cited.

[0307] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0308] Referring to FIG. 22, an ice maker 200a according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray 600 forming at least a portion of a cell 360. The ice maker 200a may include a second tray 400a forming another portion of the cell 360.

[0309] A plurality of cells 360 may be defined by the first tray 600 and the second tray 400a. As an example, the plurality of cells 360 may include three cells 360.

[0310] The first tray 600 may include a plurality of tray parts 600a, 600b and 600c. The number of the plurality of tray parts 600a, 600b and 600c may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0311] The ice maker 200a may include a second tray cover 480a and a second tray supporter 450a. A second tray 400a may be disposed between the second tray cover 480a and the second tray supporter 450a.

[0312] At least a portion of the second tray cover 480a may be located on one side (for example, an upper side) of the second tray 400a. The second tray cover 480a may include a cover wall 481 forming an opening 482. The cover wall 481 may be placed on one side (for example, an upper side) of the first extension wall 420 of the second tray 400a. The first extension wall 420 may include a tray protrusion 429 contacting the second tray cover 480a.

[0313] The second tray cover 480a may include a protrusion accommodation part 486 protruding in one direction (for example, upward) from the cover wall 481 to accommodate the tray protrusion 429. The tray protrusion 429 may pass through the cover wall 481 and be inserted into the protrusion accommodation part 486.

[0314] A protrusion 562 of a lift 560 may contact a bottom surface of the first extension wall 420. When the lift 560 further moves, the protrusion 562 presses the first extension wall 420, and in this process, the tray protrusion 429 or the first extension wall 420 may be deformed.

[0315] For example, the protrusion 562 may be pushed into the tray protrusion 429 while deforming a part of the tray protrusion 429 or the first extension wall 420. The lift 560 may be understood as a tight contact mechanism that moves based on a center of the shaft 520 so that the second tray assembly may be in tight contact with the first tray 600.

[0316] The second tray cover 480a may include an ice-releasing guide 487 provided on the cover wall 481 to help release ice during an ice-releasing process. The ice-releasing guide 487 is provided at a portion (for example, a rear portion) of the cover wall 481 and may have a groove 487a surrounding at least a portion of the shaft 520.

[0317] A plurality of ice-releasing guides 487 may be provided corresponding to the number of the plurality of cells 360. During the ice-releasing process, the ice-releasing guide 487 may press residual ice attached to the first tray 600 or residual ice existing in a contact area between the first tray 600 and the second tray 400a and allow the residual ice to be separated from the first tray 600.

[0318] At least a portion of the second tray supporter 450a may be located on one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400a. The second tray supporter 450a may support the second tray 400a at one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400a.

[0319] The ice maker 200a may include heaters 490 and 495.

[0320] The heaters 490 and 495 may include a transparent ice heater 490 disposed in a recessed accommodation space 453a (refer to FIG. 6) of the second tray supporter 450a for applying heat to the second tray 400a during an ice-making process. The transparent ice heater 490 may be disposed adjacent to or in contact with one side (for example, a lower side) of the second tray 400a to supply heat to a portion (for example, a lower portion) of the second tray 400a.

[0321] The heaters 490 and 495 may include an ice-releasing heater 495 controlled to be turned on in at least a partial section after ice making is completed so that ice may be easily separated from the tray assembly. The ice-releasing heater 495 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the first tray 600. The ice-releasing heater 495 may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0322] The ice-releasing heater 495 may be disposed to contact the first tray 600 or may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the first tray 600 by a predetermined distance. In either case, the ice-releasing heater 495 may supply heat to the first tray 600, and the heat supplied to the first tray 600 may be transferred to the cell 360.

[0323] The lift 560 may be coupled to the shaft 520 or holders 531 and 532. Therefore, the lift 560 may move together with the shaft 520 and the holders 531 and 532.

[0324] The lift 560 may be provided on at least one side of the shaft 520. For example, a plurality of lifts 560 may be provided on both sides of the shaft 520. The plurality of lifts 560 may be located outside both side walls of the second tray supporter 450a.

[0325] The lift 560 may include a support bar 561 supporting a portion (for example, a lower portion) of the second tray 400a. The support bar 561 may be disposed outside a side wall of the second tray supporter 450a.

[0326] The lift 560 may include an extension part 563 coupled to the holders 531 and 532. The extension part 563 may form a through-hole 564 into which the holders 531 and 532 are inserted.

[0327] The lift 560 may include a protrusion 562 protruding from the support bar 561 in a direction toward the second tray 400a. The protrusion 562 may press one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the tray protrusion 429 of the second tray 400a to bring the second tray 400a into tight contact with the first tray 600 side.

[0328] At the ice-making position of the tray assembly, the lift 560 may move further in one direction (for example, upward) based on an axis of the shaft 520 so that the second tray 400a is in tight contact with the first tray 600 side. In this process, the protrusion 562 provides a force toward the first tray 600 to the second tray 400a through the tray protrusion 429, and the second tray 400a may transfer a force for being in tight contact with the second tray cover 480a in one direction (for example, upward).

[0329] FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view showing a configuration of a bracket according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 25 is a bottom view showing the configuration of the first tray according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26 of FIG. 24, and FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the ice maker according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0330] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 27, a first tray 600 according to a second embodiment of the present invention defines a first cell 610b that is a part of a cell 360, and may include a plurality of tray parts 600a, 600b and 600c, each of the plurality of tray parts 600a, 600b and 600c defining the first cell 610b. The plurality of tray parts may include a first tray part 600a defining a central cell, a second tray part 600b defining a first side cell, and a third tray part 600c defining a second side cell.

[0331] The first tray 600 may include a first tray wall 610 forming a part of the cell 360. For example, the first tray wall 610 may define the first cell 610b.

[0332] The first tray wall 610 may include a first cell wall 611 defining a first cell surface 610a. An inner peripheral surface of the first cell wall 611 forms the first cell surface 610a, and the first cell surface 610a may be understood as defining an outer peripheral surface of the first cell 610b.

[0333] The first tray wall 610 may include a first opening 610c. The first opening 610c forms an end of the first tray wall 610 and may contact the second tray 400a.

[0334] The first tray wall 610 may include a first extension wall 613 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from a portion of a circumference of the first cell wall 611. For example, the first extension wall 613 may constitute at least one of a partial wall (for example, a front wall) or another partial wall (for example, a side wall) of the first tray 600.

[0335] The first tray wall 610 may include a second extension wall 614 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from another portion of the circumference of the first cell wall 611. For example, the second extension wall 614 may constitute a partial wall (for example, a rear wall) of the first tray 600.

[0336] The first extension wall 613 may be located inside the peripheral wall 430 of the second tray 400a, particularly the second extension wall 431 (refer to FIG. 10). At an ice-making position of the tray assembly, one end (for example, an upper end) of the first extension wall 613 of the first tray 600 may be located higher than one end (for example, an upper end) of the second extension wall 431 of the second tray 400a by a first height △h.

[0337] The first tray 600 may be exposed in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction), that is, laterally, without being covered by other components.

[0338] In a relative positional relationship between the first extension wall 613 of the first tray 600 and the second extension wall 431 of the second tray 400a, a gap between the first extension wall 613 and the second extension wall 431 may increase toward one direction (for example, upward). Therefore, when the second tray 400a moves in a forward direction from the ice-making position to an ice-releasing position or moves in a backward direction from the ice-releasing position to the ice-making position, a phenomenon of interference with the first tray 600 may be prevented.

[0339] The first tray 600 may include a guide wall 615 extending from the first tray wall 610. The guide wall 615 may extend in a direction toward the bracket 220a. For example, the guide wall 615 may extend in one direction (for example, upward) from the first tray wall 610.

[0340] The guide wall 615 may form a through-hole 615a. The through-hole 615a may be formed to penetrate from the inner peripheral surface of the first tray wall 610, that is, the first cell surface 610a, to an outer surface of the guide wall 615.

[0341] A first end, that is, an inlet-side end of the through-hole 615a is connected to the first cell surface 610a, and a second end, that is, an outlet-side end of the through-hole 615a may be connected to one end (for example, an upper end) of the guide wall 615. During an ice-making process, bubbles in the cell 360 are discharged through the through-hole 615a, so that an air pocket phenomenon of the cell 360 may be prevented.

[0342] The guide wall 615 may include a drain part 615b that is connected to the through-hole 615a and penetrates in one direction (for example, forward) of the guide wall 615. The drain part 615b may send fluid discharged through the through-hole 615a to an outside of the first tray 600 to prevent residual ice from being formed in the through-hole 615a.

[0343] One surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the drain part 615b may include an inclined surface 615c extending obliquely toward one direction (for example, laterally) of the through-hole 615a.

[0344] One end 614a of the second extension wall 614 may be formed at a point equal to or higher than one surface (for example, the bottom surface) of the drain part 615b. Therefore, the fluid discharged from the drain part 615b may be prevented from leaking to the outside of the first tray 600 over the second extension wall 614.

[0345] The first tray 600 may include a space part 618 defined by the first cell wall 611, the first extension wall 613, the second extension wall 614, and the guide wall 615. The space part 618 may form a storage space in which the fluid discharged through the drain part 615b is stored. The space part 618 may form a space on one side (for example, an upper space) of the first cell wall 611. The space part 618 may form a space that is recessed with respect to one end (for example, an upper end) of the guide wall 615.

[0346] The space part 618 may form a heater accommodation part of an ice-releasing heater 495. A bottom surface of the space part 618 may form a heater seating part 618a on which the ice-releasing heater 495 is seated. The ice-releasing heater 495 may be placed on the heater seating part 618a.

[0347] The ice-releasing heater 495 is disposed along a circumference of the guide wall 615 and may be covered by the bracket 220a. Therefore, the fluid discharged through the drain part 615b may be prevented from contacting the ice-releasing heater 495.

[0348] The bracket 220a may include a heater fixing part 221b for coupling the ice-releasing heater 495. The heater fixing part 221b may protrude in one direction (for example, downward) from one surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the bracket 220a. For example, the heater fixing part 221b may protrude in one direction (for example, downward) from a coupling wall 221a (refer to FIG. 7) of the bracket 220a.

[0349] The heater fixing part 221b may be located in the space part 618. The heater fixing part 221b is disposed to surround at least a portion of the ice-releasing heater 495, so that fluid may be prevented from flowing to the ice-releasing heater 495.

[0350] The heater fixing part 221b may include a first wall 221d supporting at least a portion of the first tray 600. The first wall 221d may have a shape surrounding the guide wall 615. For example, the first wall 221d may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The ice-releasing heater 495 may be disposed on an inner peripheral surface side of the first wall 221d.

[0351] The heater fixing part 221b may include a second wall 221e provided outside the first wall 221d. The second wall 221e may be provided to surround at least a portion of the first wall 221d. For example, the second wall 221e may have a cylindrical shape with both sides open and a hollow interior.

[0352] A heater groove 221c in which the ice-releasing heater 495 is located may be formed between the first wall 221d and the second wall 221e. When the ice-releasing heater 495 is coupled to the heater groove 221c, the ice-releasing heater 495 is coupled between the first wall 221d and the second wall 221e, so that fluid may be prevented from entering the heater groove 221c.

[0353] Both sides of the second wall 221e may include an opening 221f through which the ice-releasing heater 495 passes. The ice-releasing heater 495 extends in one direction (for example, a horizontal direction) to be located in the tray parts defining the plurality of cells 360, and may pass through the opening 221f.

[0354] The first tray 600 may be formed with fastening grooves 616a and 616b to which fastening members are coupled. A plurality of fastening grooves may be provided, and the plurality of fastening grooves 616a and 616b include a first fastening groove 616a provided in the second extension wall 614 and a second fastening groove 616b provided in the guide wall 615. The fastening members are coupled to the bracket 220a and fastened to the plurality of fastening grooves 616a and 616b, so that the first tray 600 may be coupled to the bracket 220a.

[0355] The first tray 600 may include a coupling protrusion 613b extending in one direction (for example, upward) from the first extension wall 613. The coupling protrusion 613b is inserted into the bracket 220a to guide assembly of the first tray 600 and the bracket 220a.

[0356] The first tray 600 may include a coupling groove 613a recessed in one direction (for example, downward) from one end (for example, an upper end) of the first extension wall 613. The coupling groove 613a is coupled to the bracket 220a to guide assembly of the first tray 600 and the bracket 220a.

[0357] The first opening 610c formed at one end (for example, a lower end) of the first tray 600 may contact the second opening 413 formed at one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray 400a. A portion of the first tray wall 610 forming the first opening 610c and a portion of the second tray wall 410 forming the second opening 413 may contact each other.

[0358] A portion where the first tray wall 610 and the second tray wall 410 contact each other may be formed lower than the through-hole 615a. Therefore, air discharge from the cell 360 may be easily performed through the through-hole 615a located relatively on one side (for example, an upper side).

[0359] FIGS. 28 and 29 are views showing modifications relating to configurations of a first tray and an ice-releasing heater in an ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0360] Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, a first tray 650 has the same configuration as the first tray 600 of the second embodiment except for a drainage structure of fluid. Therefore, the description of the first tray 600 may be cited for the same parts.

[0361] The first tray wall 610 of the first tray 650 may include a first extension wall 613 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from a portion of a circumference of the first cell wall 611. For example, the first extension wall 613 may constitute at least one of a partial wall (for example, a front wall) and another partial wall (for example, a side wall) of the first tray 650.

[0362] The first tray 650 may include a guide wall 615 forming a through-hole 615a and a drain part 615b. The drain part 615b is connected to the through-hole 615a and may penetrate in one direction (for example, laterally) of the guide wall 615.

[0363] The first extension wall 613 may form an opening 615d fluidly connected to the drain part 615b. The drain part 615b may guide fluid discharged through the through-hole 615a to the opening 615d, thereby discharging the fluid to an outside of the first tray 650.

[0364] The first extension wall 613 includes a coupling protrusion 613b coupled to the bracket 220a, and the opening 615d may be formed on one side (for example, a lower side) of the coupling protrusion 613b. According to such a configuration, fluid discharged from the cell 360 through the through-hole 615a is discharged to the outside of the first tray 650 through the drain part 615b and the opening 615d, so that a problem in which fluid acts on the ice-releasing heater 495 may be prevented.

[0365] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0366] Referring to FIG. 30, an ice maker 200b according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray 700 forming at least a portion of a cell 360. The ice maker 200b may include a second tray 400b forming another portion of the cell 360.

[0367] A plurality of cells 360 may be defined by the first tray 700 and the second tray 400b.

[0368] The first tray 700 may include a plurality of tray parts 700a, 700b and 700c. The number of the plurality of tray parts 700a, 700b and 700c may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells 360.

[0369] The ice maker 200b may include a second tray cover 480b and a second tray supporter 450b. For the description of the second tray cover 480b and the second tray supporter 450b, the contents described in the previous embodiments may be cited.

[0370] The ice maker 200b may include a transparent ice heater 490. The ice maker 200b may include an ice-releasing heater 495. For the description of the heaters 490 and 495, the contents described in the previous embodiments may be cited.

[0371] FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 32 is a bottom view showing the configuration of the first tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33 of FIG. 31, and FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the ice maker according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0372] Referring to FIGS. 31 to 34, a first tray 700 according to the third embodiment of the present invention may define a first cell 710b that is a part of a cell 360.

[0373] The first tray 700 may include a plurality of tray parts 700a, 700b and 700c, each of the plurality of tray parts 700a, 700b and 700c defining a first cell 710b. The plurality of tray parts may include a first tray part 700a defining a central cell, a second tray part 700b defining a first side cell, and a third tray part 700c defining a second side cell.

[0374] The first tray 700 may include a first tray wall 710 forming a part of the cell 360. The first tray wall 710 may define the first cell 710b.

[0375] The first tray wall 710 may include a first cell wall 711 defining a first cell surface 710a. An inner peripheral surface of the first cell wall 711 forms the first cell surface 710a, and the first cell surface 710a may be understood as defining an outer peripheral surface of the first cell 710b.

[0376] The first tray wall 710 may include a first opening 710c. The first opening 710c forms an end of the first tray wall 710 and may contact the second tray 400b.

[0377] The first tray wall 710 may include a first extension wall 713 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from a portion of a circumference of the first cell wall 711. The first tray wall 710 may include a second extension wall 714 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from another portion of the circumference of the first cell wall 711. For the description of the first extension wall 713 and the second extension wall 714, the contents described in the previous embodiments may be cited.

[0378] The first tray 700 may include a guide wall 715 extending from the first tray wall 710. The guide wall 715 may form a through-hole 715a. The through-hole 715a may be formed to penetrate from the inner peripheral surface of the first tray wall 710, that is, the first cell surface 710a, to an outer surface of the guide wall 715.

[0379] The guide wall 715 may include a drain part 715b that is connected to the through-hole 715a and penetrates in one direction (for example, forward) of the guide wall 715. The drain part 715b may send fluid discharged through the through-hole 715a to an outside of the first tray 700 to prevent residual ice from being formed in the through-hole 715a.

[0380] One surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the drain part 715b may include an inclined surface 715c extending obliquely toward one direction (for example, laterally) of the through-hole 715a. One end 714a of the second extension wall 714 may be formed at a point equal to or higher than one surface (for example, the bottom surface) of the drain part 715b.

[0381] The first tray 700 may include a space part 718 defined by the first cell wall 711, the first extension wall 713, the second extension wall 714, and the guide wall 715. The space part 718 may form a storage space in which the fluid discharged through the drain part 715b is stored.

[0382] One surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the space part 718 may form a heater seating part 718a on which the ice-releasing heater 495 is seated. The bracket 220 may include a heater cover part 221b covering the ice-releasing heater 495. As described above, the description of the configuration of the first tray wall 710 and the seating structure of the ice-releasing heater 495 may cite the description of the second embodiment.

[0383] The first tray 700 may be formed with a fastening groove 716 to which a fastening member is coupled. For example, the fastening member is coupled to the bracket 220 and fastened to the fastening groove 716, so that the first tray 700 may be coupled to the bracket 220.

[0384] The first tray 700 may include a coupling groove 713a recessed in one direction (for example, downward) from one end (for example, an upper end) of the first extension wall 713. The coupling groove 713a is coupled to the bracket 220 to guide assembly of the first tray 700 and the bracket 220.

[0385] The first opening 710c formed at one end (for example, a lower end) of the first tray 700 may contact a second opening 413 formed at one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray 400b. A portion of the first tray wall 710 forming the first opening 710c and a portion of the second tray wall 410 forming the second opening 413 may contact each other.

[0386] A portion where the first tray wall 710 and the second tray wall 410 contact each other may be formed lower than the through-hole 715a. Therefore, air discharge from the cell 360 may be easily performed through the through-hole 715a located relatively on one side (for example, an upper side).

[0387] An end (for example, a lower end) defining the first opening 710c of the first tray 700 may include a first contact end 719 contacting the second tray 400b. The first contact end 719 extends in a circumferential direction and may form a border of the first opening 710c. For example, the first contact end 719 may have a ring shape.

[0388] The second tray wall 410 of the second tray 400b may include a first part 411 located on one side (for example, a lower side) of the first extension wall 420 based on the first extension wall 420. The first part 411 may form an area of a portion (for example, a lower portion) of the cell 360.

[0389] The second tray wall 410 may include a second part 412 located on one side (for example, an upper side) of the first extension wall 420 based on the first extension wall 420. The second part 412 may form a portion of another portion (for example, an upper portion) of the cell 360.

[0390] The second part 412 includes a second contact end 412c contacting the first tray 700. The second contact end 412c may contact the first contact end 719 of the first tray 700. The second contact end 412c includes a portion protruding radially from an inner peripheral surface of the second part 412 on which the first contact end 719 is seated.

[0391] The second contact end 412c may be formed in an area where the second part 412 and the third extension wall 433 meet. For example, the second contact end 412c may have a ring shape. A contact surface where the first contact end 719 and the second contact end 412c contact each other may include a surface extending in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction).

[0392] The third extension wall 433 of the second tray 400b may contact the first tray 700. The first extension wall 713 of the first tray 700 includes a first portion extending in one direction (for example, upward), and the first portion may contact a first part 433a of the third extension wall 433.

[0393] A first surface (for example, a vertical surface) of the first part 433a may contact a second surface (for example, a vertical surface) provided on the first extension wall 713 of the first tray 700. Therefore, in an area where the third extension wall 433 is provided, the first tray 700 and the second tray 400b contact each other through at least one of two contact surfaces in different directions (for example, a vertical contact surface and a horizontal contact surface), so that coupling may be maintained. Therefore, stable contact and coupling may be achieved between the first tray 700 and the second tray 400b. Such a contact structure between the first tray 700 and the second tray 400b may be equally applied to the second embodiment described above.

[0394] Based on the contact surfaces of the first and second contact ends 719, 412c, the second extension wall 714 of the first tray 700 may extend obliquely in one direction (for example, upward). An upper end 714a of the second extension wall 714 of the first tray 700 may be located higher than one end 431b of the second extension wall 431 of the second tray 400b.

[0395] The second extension wall 714 of the first tray 700 may extend roundly to have a radius of curvature R1 set based on a center C2 of the shaft 520. The second extension wall 431 of the second tray 400b may have a movement radius R2 set based on a predetermined center C3.

[0396] The center C2 of the shaft 520 and the center C3 may be formed at different positions. For example, the center C3 may be formed at a lower position than the center C2 of the shaft 520. According to this configuration, when the second tray 400b returns from the ice-releasing position to the ice-making position, a phenomenon of the second tray 400b being folded and inserted into an area of the first cell 710b due to interference with the coupled first tray 700 may be prevented. And, the contact and sealing effects between the first tray 700 and the second tray 400b may be improved.

[0397] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view showing an operation of an ice-releasing guide when an ice-releasing operation is performed in an ice maker according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0398] Referring to FIG. 35, when the driving part 510 is driven in the forward direction by a predetermined angle in a state where ice making is completed, the ice and the first tray 700 are separated, and the ice I may move while being located in the second tray 400b. Since the adhesive force (or contact area) between the ice and the second tray 400b is formed to be greater than the adhesive force (or contact area) between the ice and the first tray 700, the ice and the first tray 700 may be easily separated during the ice-releasing process.

[0399] When the second tray 400b moves in the forward direction, the ice-releasing guide 487 of the second tray cover 480b may move in the forward direction together with the second tray 400b. The ice-releasing guide 487 may move along an outer surface of the second extension wall 714 of the first tray 700. At this time, an end of the ice-releasing guide 487 may move in contact with the second extension wall 714 or in a state adjacent to the second extension wall without contacting the second extension wall 714.

[0400] An end of the ice-releasing guide 487 may move to the first contact end 719 of the first tray 700 or to a position adjacent to the first contact end 719. In this process, ice debris I d that may exist at the first and second contact ends 719 and 412c may be separated from the tray assembly.

[0401] FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0402] Referring to FIG. 36, an ice maker 200c according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray 800 forming at least a portion of a cell 360. The ice maker 200c may include a second tray 400c forming another portion of the cell 360.

[0403] The ice maker 200c may include a second tray cover 480c and a second tray supporter 450c. For the description of the second tray cover 480c and the second tray supporter 450c, the contents described in the previous embodiments may be cited.

[0404] The ice maker 200c includes a first tray supporter 350, and at least a portion of the first tray supporter 350 may be located on one side (for example, a lower side) of the first tray 800.

[0405] The first tray supporter 350 may include a supporter wall 351 forming an opening 352. The supporter wall 351 may be placed on one side (for example, a lower side) of the second extension wall 815 of the first tray 800.

[0406] The opening 352 may be formed by penetrating at least a portion of the first tray supporter 350 so that at least a portion of the first tray 800 passes therethrough the opening 352. The opening 352 has a predetermined curvature corresponding to a shape of an outer peripheral surface of the cell 360, and may be configured to have an area equal to or larger than a cross-sectional area of the plurality of first cells so that the plurality of first cells of the first tray 800 may penetrate the opening 352.

[0407] The first tray supporter 350 may include a tray coupling part 354 protruding in one direction (for example, upward) from the supporter wall 351. A plurality of tray coupling parts 354 are provided along a circumference of one surface (for example, an upper surface) of the supporter wall 351 and may be inserted into a fastening part 815a of the first tray 800.

[0408] The bracket 220 may include a fastening boss 220e fastened to the first tray 800. The fastening boss 220e may be provided on a coupling wall 221a (refer to FIG. 7). In a state where the tray coupling part 354 is coupled to the fastening part 815a, the first tray 800 and the first tray supporter 350 are disposed on one side (for example, a lower side) of the bracket 220 and may be fastened to the fastening boss 220e of the bracket 220 by a fastening member.

[0409] FIG. 37 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 38 is a plan view showing the configuration of the first tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 39 is a bottom view showing the configuration of the first tray according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0410] Referring to FIGS. 37 to 39, a first tray 800 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may define a first cell 810b that is a part of a cell 360. Considering the ice maker 200c provided with a plurality of cells 360, the first tray 800 may include a plurality of first cells 810b.

[0411] The first tray 800 may include a first tray wall 810 forming a part of the cell 360. The first tray wall 810 may include a first cell wall 811 defining a first cell surface 810a. An inner peripheral surface of the first cell wall 811 forms the first cell surface 810a, and the first cell surface 810a may be understood as defining an outer peripheral surface of the first cell 810b.

[0412] The first tray wall 810 may include a first opening 810c. The first opening 810c forms an end of the first tray wall 810 and may contact the second tray 400c.

[0413] The first tray wall 810 may include a first extension wall 813 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from a portion of a circumference of the first cell wall 811. A plurality of first extension walls 813 may be provided on both sides of the first cell wall 811.

[0414] An opening 813a is formed between the plurality of first extension walls 813, and the first cell wall 811 may be exposed to an outside of the first tray 800 through the opening 813a.

[0415] The first tray wall 810 may include a second extension wall 815 connected to one end (for example, an upper end) of the first extension wall 813 and extending in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction). The second extension wall 815 may extend from one side (for example, an upper side) of the plurality of first cells 810b. A fastening part 815a coupled to the first tray supporter 350 may be formed on the second extension wall 815.

[0416] The first tray wall 810 may include a first connection wall 816 extending from the second extension wall 815 and connecting a space between the plurality of first cells 810b.

[0417] The first tray wall 810 may include a second connection wall 817 extending to be recessed from the second extension wall 815 and connected to the first cell wall 811. The second connection wall 817 may be connected to the circumference of the first cell wall 811.

[0418] The second connection wall 817 includes a first wall 817a extending in one direction (for example, a left-right direction) from a center of the first cell wall 811. The second connection wall 817 includes a second wall 817b extending obliquely or roundly from the first wall 817a toward one side.

[0419] The second connection wall 817 may include a third wall 817c extending obliquely or roundly from the first wall 817a toward the other side. The second wall 817b and the third wall 817c may extend to both sides of the first wall 817a. The second connection wall 817 and the first cell wall 811 may define a space (for example, an upper space) on one side of the first cell wall 811.

[0420] The first to third walls 817a, 817b and 817c may extend in one direction (for example, downward) from the second extension wall 815 to the outer peripheral surface of the first cell wall 811. At this time, the first to third walls 817a, 817b and 817c may extend in an inclined direction toward one side (for example, downward).

[0421] The first tray 800 may include a drain guide 818 extending toward one side (for example, an upper side) of the first cell wall 811. The drain guide 818 is disposed to surround at least a portion of through-holes 811a, 811b and 811c, so that fluid discharged through the through-holes 811a, 811b and 811c may be guided to one side (for example, forward) of the first cell wall 811.

[0422] The through-holes 811a, 811b and 811c may be understood as parts for discharging air during an ice-making process in order to prevent an air pocket phenomenon in the cell 360. For example, the drain guide 818 may be configured to cover a first part (for example, a side part) and a second part (for example, a rear part) of the through-holes 811a, 811b and 811c and to be open toward a third part (for example, a front part).

[0423] A plurality of first cell walls 811 defining the plurality of first cells 810b are provided, and the through-holes 811a, 811b and 811c may be formed in each of the first cell walls 811.

[0424] Among the plurality of first cell walls 811, a first through-hole 811a may be formed in the first cell wall 811 defining the first cell 810b at a central side of the plurality of first cells. Among the plurality of first cell walls 811, a second through-hole 811b and a third through-hole 811c may be formed in the first cell walls 811 defining the first cells 810b on the left and right sides, respectively.

[0425] In the first cell 810b at the central side, water supply through the water supply part 240 may be performed. Water is first supplied to the first cell 810b at the central side, and then additional fluid may be branched and supplied (water spread) to a first side cell and a second side cell along the water supply flow path 435 (refer to FIG. 17).

[0426] The discharge part 243 of the water supply part 240 may overlap the first cell wall 811 defining the first cell 810b at the central side. Therefore, fluid discharged from the water supply part 240 falls to the first cell wall 811 and may flow in one direction (for example, downward) along the first cell wall 811. Therefore, the first cell wall 811 at the central side may be understood as performing the function of the guide surface 311 described in the first embodiment.

[0427] FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0428] Referring to FIG. 40, an ice maker 200d according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray 900 forming at least a portion of a cell 360. The ice maker 200d may include a second tray 400d forming another portion of the cell 360.

[0429] The ice maker 200d may include a second tray cover 480d and a second tray supporter 450d. For the description of the second tray cover 480d and the second tray supporter 450d, the contents described in the previous embodiments may be cited.

[0430] The ice maker 200d may include a first tray supporter 350. For the description of the first tray supporter 350, the description of the fourth embodiment is cited.

[0431] FIG. 41 is a bottom perspective view showing a configuration of a bracket according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 42 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 43 is a plan view showing the configuration of the first tray according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 44-44 of FIG. 42, FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 45-45 of FIG. 42, and FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the ice maker according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0432] Referring to FIGS. 41 to 46, a first tray 900 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may define a first cell 910b that is a part of a cell 360. Considering the ice maker 200d provided with a plurality of cells 360, the first tray 900 may include a plurality of first cells 910b.

[0433] The first tray 900 may include a first tray wall 910 forming a part of the cell 360. The first tray wall 910 may include a first cell wall 911 defining a first cell surface 910a. An inner peripheral surface of the first cell wall 911 forms the first cell surface 910a, and the first cell surface 910a may be understood as defining an outer peripheral surface of the first cell 910b.

[0434] The first tray wall 910 may include a first opening 910c. The first opening 910c forms an end of the first tray wall 910 and may contact the second tray 400d.

[0435] The first tray wall 910 may include a first extension wall 913 extending in one direction (for example, upward) from a portion of a circumference of the first cell wall 911. A plurality of first extension walls 913 may be provided on both sides of the first cell wall 911. An opening 913a is formed between the plurality of first extension walls 913, and the first cell wall 911 may be exposed to an outside of the first tray 900 through the opening 913a.

[0436] The first tray wall 910 may include a second extension wall 915 connected to one end (for example, an upper end) of the first extension wall 913 and extending in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction). The second extension wall 915 may extend from one side (for example, an upper side) of the plurality of first cells 910b. A fastening part 915a coupled to the first tray supporter 350 may be formed on the second extension wall 915.

[0437] The first tray wall 910 may include a first connection wall 916 extending from the second extension wall 915 and connecting a space between the plurality of first cells 910b.

[0438] The first tray wall 910 may include a second connection wall 917 extending to be recessed from the second extension wall 915 and connected to the first cell wall 911. The second connection wall 917 may be connected to a circumference of the first cell wall 911. The second connection wall 917 includes a first wall 917a extending in one direction (for example, a left-right direction) from a rear of the first cell wall 911.

[0439] The second connection wall 917 may include a second wall 917b extending obliquely or roundly from the first wall 917a toward one side. The second connection wall 917 may include a third wall 917c extending obliquely or roundly from the first wall 917a toward the other side. The second wall 917b and the third wall 917c may extend to both sides of the first wall 917a.

[0440] The first to third walls 917a, 917b and 917c may extend in one direction (for example, downward) from the second extension wall 915 to an outer peripheral surface of the first cell wall 911. At this time, the first to third walls 917a, 917b and 917c may extend in an inclined direction toward one side (for example, downward).

[0441] The first tray 900 may include a drain guide 918 extending toward one side (for example, an upper side) of the first cell wall 911. The drain guide 918 is disposed to surround at least a portion of through-holes 911a, 911b and 911c, so that fluid discharged through the through-holes 911a, 911b and 911c may be guided to an outside of the first cell wall 911.

[0442] The through-holes 911a, 911b and 911c may be understood as parts for discharging air during an ice-making process in order to prevent an air pocket phenomenon in the cell 360.

[0443] The drain guide 918 may include a first drain guide 918a provided on an outside of the first cell 910b at a central side among a plurality of central cells 360. The first drain guide 918a may be configured to cover a first part (for example, a side part) and a second part (for example, a rear part) of the first through-hole 911a and to be open toward a third part (for example, a front part).

[0444] The fluid discharged through the first through-hole 911a is prevented from flowing to the first part (for example, the side part) and the second part (for example, the rear part) of the first cell wall 911 by the first drain guide 918a, and may be discharged toward the third part (for example, the front part). A space part 919a may be formed between the first drain guide 918a and the first wall 917a.

[0445] The first cell wall 911 forming the first cell 910b at the central side may form a guide surface through which fluid discharged from the water supply part 240 flows down. Therefore, even if fluid is discharged through the first through-hole 911a and exists as residual ice on the first cell wall 911, the residual ice is washed away by the fluid supplied from the water supply part 240, so that a problem caused by the residual ice may not occur.

[0446] Both ends of the first drain guide 918a are connected to the first extension wall 913, and a portion where the first drain guide 918a and the first extension wall 913 are connected may define the opening 913a.

[0447] The drain guide 918 includes a second drain guide 918b and a third drain guide 918c provided on an outside of the left and right first cells 910b among the plurality of central cells 360. The second drain guide 918b and the third drain guide 918c may have the same configuration.

[0448] The second drain guide 918b may be provided on the outside of the first cell 910b at the first side. The third drain guide 918c may be provided on the outside of the first cell 910b at the second side. Hereinafter, the second drain guide 918b will be described as a standard, and the description thereof may be equally applied to the third drain guide 918c.

[0449] The second drain guide 918b may be configured to cover a first part (for example, a side part) and a second part (for example, a rear part) of the second through-hole 911b and to be open toward a third part (for example, a front part).

[0450] Water supply through the water supply part 240 is not performed to the first cell wall 911 defining the first cell 910b at the first side, and as described above, water may be supplied as fluid supplied to the central cell is branched through a water spreading phenomenon. Therefore, when residual ice occurs on the first cell wall 911 at the first side, washing by water supply is limited. To solve this, the second drain guide 918b may guide fluid discharged through the second through-hole 911b to flow to one side (for example, a rear side) of the first cell wall 911.

[0451] Both ends of the second drain guide 918b may be connected to the first wall 917a of the second connection wall 917 (refer to FIG. 43).

[0452] A drain opening 917d may be formed in the second connection wall 917 at a portion defining the first cell 910b at the first side. The drain opening 917d may be formed at one end (for example, a lower end) of the first wall 917a. By the drain opening 917d, one end (for example, the lower end) of the first wall 917a and the first cell wall 911 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0453] The fluid guided to one side (for example, the rear side) of the first cell wall 911 by the second drain guide 918b may flow through the drain opening 917d. However, the fluid does not flow into an inside of the cell 360 and may flow around the second extension wall 431 (refer to FIG. 11) of the second tray 400d.

[0454] In a space between the first tray 900 and the second extension wall 431, a channel through which fluid flows may be formed. For the formation of the channel, the second connection wall 917 of the first tray 900 and the second extension wall 431 of the second tray 400d may be spaced apart from each other.

[0455] The channel may be located on one side (for example, an upper side) of a portion where the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d contact each other to form the cell 360. Fluid or residual ice existing in the channel may be removed by the ice-releasing guide 487 during an ice-releasing process.

[0456] The third drain guide 918c is provided on an outside of the first cell wall 911 defining the first cell 910b at the second side, and may be configured to cover a first part (for example, a side part) and a second part (for example, a rear part) of the third through-hole 911c and to be open toward a third part (for example, a front part).

[0457] The bracket 220d may include a coupling wall 221a to which the first tray 900 is coupled. The coupling wall 221a may include a fastening boss 220e fastened to the first tray 800.

[0458] The bracket 220d may include a support wall 229 for supporting the first tray 900. The support wall 229 may extend in one direction (for example, downward) from the coupling wall 221a. The support wall 229 may perform a function of preventing ice-releasing failure due to deformation of the first tray 900 during an ice-releasing process by reducing a degree of deformation of the first tray 900. The first tray 900 may be composed of a flexible or soft material.

[0459] The support wall 229 may include a first support wall 229a supporting the drain guide 918 of the first tray 900. The first support wall 229a may have a shape bent corresponding to a shape of the drain guide 918.

[0460] The first support wall 229a may contact the drain guide 918. The first support wall 229a may extend along the bent drain guide 918. The first support wall 229a may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the drain guide 918.

[0461] As described above, since the first drain guide 918a and the second and third drain guides 918b and 918c have different shapes, a shape of the first support wall 229a provided on each first cell 910b side may be different.

[0462] The support wall 229 may include a second support wall 229b supporting the second connection wall 917 of the first tray 900. The second support wall 229b may have a shape bent corresponding to a shape of the second connection wall 917.

[0463] The second support wall 229b may contact the second connection wall 917. The second support wall 229b may extend along the second connection wall 917. The second support wall 229b may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the second connection wall 917.

[0464] Water supply through the water supply part 240 may be performed in the first cell 910b at the central side. Water is first supplied to the first cell 910b at the central side, and then additional fluid may be branched and supplied (water spread) to the first side cell and the second side cell along the water supply flow path 435 (refer to FIG. 17).

[0465] The discharge part 243 of the water supply part 240 may overlap the first cell wall 911 defining the first cell 910b at the central side. Therefore, fluid discharged from the water supply part 240 flows to the first cell wall 911 and may flow in one direction (for example, downward) along the first cell wall 911. Therefore, the first cell wall 911 at the central side may be understood as performing the function of the guide surface 311 described in the first embodiment.

[0466] FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a plurality of cells according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0467] Referring to FIG. 47, an ice maker 200d according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of cells 360. Diameters of the plurality of cells 360 may be formed differently from each other. For example, the plurality of cells 360 may include a first cell 360a at a central side, and a second cell 360b and a third cell 360c on both sides.

[0468] In order to configure the diameters of the plurality of cells 360 differently, sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the first cell 360a may be different from sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the second cell 360b.

[0469] Similarly, sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the second cell 360b may be different from sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the third cell 360c.

[0470] At least two of a diameter D11 of the first cell 360a, a diameter D12 of the second cell 360b, and a diameter D13 of the third cell 360c may be formed to have different sizes. For example, D11 may be greater than D12, and D13 may be greater than D11. For example, D11 may be formed to be 49 mm, D12 to be 48 mm, and D13 to be 50 mm.

[0471] At least two of a diameter D21 of a central side cell wall 9111 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the first cell 360a, a diameter D22 of a first side cell wall 9112 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the second cell 360b, and a diameter D23 of a second side cell wall 9113 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the third cell 360c may be formed to have different sizes. For example, D21 may be greater than D22, and D23 may be greater than D21. For example, D21 may be formed to be 47 mm, D22 to be 45 mm, and D23 to be 49 mm.

[0472] The D21, D22, and D23 correspond to diameters of openings of the second tray 400d. In order to implement such a configuration, a height ΔS1 of a portion where the first side cell wall 9112 and a portion of the second tray 400d contact each other with respect to a center of a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the second cell 360b may be greater than a height ΔS2 of a portion where the second side cell wall 9113 and a portion of the second tray 400d contact each other with respect to a center of a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the third cell 360c.

[0473] Based on a contact area between the first tray 900 and ice, a contact area of the second side cell wall 9113 may be greater than a contact area of the central side cell wall 9111. The contact area of the central side cell wall 9111 may be greater than a contact area of the first side cell wall 9112. Therefore, when releasing ice made in the plurality of cells 360, a deformation amount of the second tray 400d, that is, a deformation amount according to a difference between a diameter of the ice and a diameter of the opening of the second tray 400d, may vary over time, so that there is an advantage that ice-releasing torque may be reduced.

[0474] FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view showing a further embodiment regarding the configuration of the plurality of cells.

[0475] Referring to FIG. 48, in order to configure the diameters of the plurality of cells 360 differently, sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the first cell 360a may be different from sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the second cell 360b.

[0476] Sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the second cell 360b may be different from sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the third cell 360c.

[0477] At least two of a diameter D11' of the first cell 360a, a diameter D12' of the second cell 360b, and a diameter D13' of the third cell 360c may be formed to have different sizes. For example, D11' may be greater than D12', and D13' may be greater than D11'. For example, D11' may be formed to be 49 mm, D12' to be 48 mm, and D13' to be 50 mm.

[0478] A diameter D2' of a central side cell wall 9111 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the first cell 360a, a diameter D2' of a first side cell wall 9112 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the second cell 360b, and a diameter D2' of a second side cell wall 9113 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the third cell 360c may be the same or substantially the same. For example, D2' may be formed to be 47 mm.

[0479] The D2' may correspond to a diameter of an opening of the second tray 400d. In order to implement such a configuration, a height ΔS1' of a portion where the first side cell wall 9112 and a portion of the second tray 400d contact each other with respect to a center of a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the second cell 360b may be less than a height ΔS2' of a portion where the second side cell wall 9113 and a portion of the second tray 400d contact each other with respect to a center of a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the third cell 360c.

[0480] Based on a contact area between the first tray 900 and ice, contact areas of the central side cell wall 9111, the first side cell wall 9112, and the second side cell wall 9113 may be the same or substantially the same as each other. According to such a configuration, when releasing ice made in the plurality of cells 360 by driving the driving part 510, a deformation amount of the second tray 400d, that is, a deformation amount according to a difference between a diameter of the ice and a diameter of the opening of the second tray 400d, may vary over time, so that there is an advantage that ice-releasing torque may be reduced.

[0481] FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view showing another further embodiment regarding the configuration of the plurality of cells.

[0482] Referring to FIG. 49, in order to configure the diameters of the plurality of cells 360 differently, sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the first cell 360a may be different from sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the second cell 360b.

[0483] Sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the second cell 360b may be different from sizes of portions of the first tray 900 and the second tray 400d constituting the third cell 360c.

[0484] At least two of a diameter D11'' of the first cell 360a, a diameter D12" of the second cell 360b, and a diameter D13" of the third cell 360c may be formed to have different sizes. For example, D11'' may be greater than D12", and D13" may be greater than D11". For example, D11'' may be formed to be 49 mm, D12" to be 48 mm, and D13" to be 50 mm.

[0485] At least two of a diameter D21" of a central side cell wall 9111 defining a part of the first cell 360a, a diameter D22" of a first side cell wall 9112 defining a part of the second cell 360b, and a diameter D23" of a second side cell wall 9113 of the first tray 900 defining a part of the third cell 360c are formed to have different sizes. For example, D21" may be larger than D22", and D23" may be greater than D21". For example, D21" may be formed to be 46 mm, D22" to be 45 mm, and D23" to be 47 mm.

[0486] For such a configuration, a height ΔS3 of a portion where the first side cell wall 9112 and a portion of the second tray 400d contact each other with respect to a center of a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the second cell 360b may be the same or substantially the same as a height ΔS3 of a portion where the second side cell wall 9113 and a portion of the second tray 400d contact each other with respect to a center of a height in one direction (for example, a vertical direction) of the third cell 360c.

[0487] Based on a contact area between the first tray 900 and ice, a contact area of the second side cell wall 9113 may be greater than a contact area of the central side cell wall 9111. The contact area of the central side cell wall 9111 may be greater than a contact area of the first side cell wall 9112.

[0488] According to such a configuration, when releasing ice made in the plurality of cells 360 by driving the driving part 510, a deformation amount of the second tray 400d, that is, a deformation amount according to a difference between a diameter of the ice and a diameter of the opening of the second tray 400d, may vary over time, so that there is an advantage that ice-releasing torque may be reduced.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0489] The present specification is an ice maker and / or a refrigerator provided with the ice maker, and has significant industrial applicability because ice of a desired shape may be easily manufactured by improving structures of a first tray and a second tray.

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 and being a space in which a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a first tray providing a first wall forming at least a portion of the cell; and a second tray providing a second wall forming another portion of the cell, wherein an adhesion degree between the substance phase-changed into the solid phase and the first tray is formed to be less than an adhesion degree between the substance phase-changed into the solid phase and the second tray.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein a contact area between the first tray and the substance phase-changed into the solid phase is formed to be less than a contact area between the second tray and the substance phase-changed into the solid phase.

3. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first tray forms a first opening contacting the second tray, and the second tray forms a second opening contacting the first tray, and wherein a size of the first opening is formed to be smaller than a size of the second opening.

4. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein, based on a center C1 of the cell, a diameter D1 of the cell is formed to be greater than a diameter D2 of a portion where a first cell surface constituting an inner peripheral surface of the first wall and a second cell surface constituting an inner peripheral surface of the second wall contact each other.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein, based on the center C1 of the cell, a central angle formed by the first cell surface is formed to be less than a central angle formed by the second cell surface.

6. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first wall and the second wall contact each other to constitute the cell, and a circumferential length of the first wall is formed to be shorter than a circumferential length of the second wall.

7. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first tray and the second tray contact each other in a first direction, and a height of the first tray in the first direction is formed to be less than a height of the second tray in the first direction.

8. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein a material of the first tray is composed of a material having a lower adhesion degree than a material of the second tray.

9. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first tray includes irregularities contacting the substance phase-changed into the solid phase so that an adhesion area of the first tray and the substance phase-changed into the solid phase may be less than an adhesion area of the second tray and the substance phase-changed into the solid phase.

10. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first tray includes a coating part provided on a portion contacting the substance phase-changed into the solid phase so that an adhesion area of the first tray and the substance phase-changed into the solid phase may be less than an adhesion area of the second tray and the substance phase-changed into the solid phase.

11. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein a diameter D3 of the cell in a direction corresponding to an ice-releasing direction is formed to be greater than a diameter D1 of the cell in a direction perpendicular to the ice-releasing direction so that an elliptical shape of the cell is implemented.

12. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising a bracket coupled to the first tray and forming a suction hole through which the cold is supplied, wherein the second tray performs a relative movement with respect to the first tray.

13. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising a water supply part for supplying the substance to the cell, wherein the water supply part is disposed to overlap the first tray or the second tray to allow the substance to flow on a surface of the first tray or a surface of the second tray.

14. The refrigerator of claim 13, wherein the first wall includes a first cell surface forming a part of the inner peripheral surface of the cell and an outer peripheral surface forming an outer wall of the first cell surface, and wherein the outer peripheral surface forms a guide surface overlapping the water supply part so that the substance discharged from the water supply part contacts the guide surface.

15. The refrigerator of claim 13, wherein the second tray includes an extension wall surrounding at least a portion of the first tray, and the extension wall includes a portion overlapping the water supply part so that the substance discharged from the water supply part contacts the portion of the extension wall.

16. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first tray comprises: a through-hole formed in the first wall to remove air from the cell; and a drain hole connected to the through-hole and discharging the substance.

17. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the first tray includes a guide wall extending from the first wall and including a fastening part coupled to the ice-making space, and wherein the drain hole is formed in the guide wall.

18. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first tray comprises: a through-hole formed in the first wall to remove air from the cell; and a drain guide including a portion extending to surround at least a portion of the through-hole and guiding discharge of the substance.

19. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first wall of the first tray includes a first cell wall defining at least a portion of the cell and an extension wall extending from the first cell wall and coupled to the ice-making space, and wherein a heater accommodating part for arrangement of a heater is formed in a space defined by the first cell wall and the extension wall.

20. 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 and being a space in which a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid phase to a solid phase; a water supply part for supplying the substance to the cell; a first tray providing a first wall forming at least a portion of the cell; and a second tray providing a second wall forming another portion of the cell, wherein the first wall includes a guide surface overlapping the water supply part so that the substance discharged from the water supply part contacts the guide surface before being introduced into the cell.

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