Refrigerator

Abstract

This invention relates to a refrigerator. [Solution] An embodiment of the present invention may include a tray having a circumferential surface to which water is supplied, and a cold air duct arranged to supply cold air toward the circumferential surface of the tray.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present specification relates to a refrigerator.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In general, a refrigerator is a home electric appliance that can store food and drink at a low temperature in an internal storage space shielded by a door. The refrigerator can cool the inside of the storage space using cold air, thereby storing the stored food and drink in a refrigerated or frozen state.

[0003] In general, a freezer compartment of a refrigerator is provided with an ice maker for producing ice. The ice maker stores water supplied from a water supply source or a water tank in a tray, and then cools the water to generate ice. The ice generated by the ice maker is stored in an ice bin. For the ice stored in the ice bin, a user can open the freezer compartment door, approach the ice bin, and take out the ice in the ice bin.

[0004] On the other hand, since ice is formed to be hard, there is a problem that children, the elderly and the infirm, or consumers with weak teeth feel inconvenience when biting and eating ice. Accordingly, there has been a demand from consumers for ice having a relatively low strength that allows the ice to be bitten and eaten.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator capable of producing ice having such a strength that consumers can bite and eat the ice.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that is provided with a tray including a peripheral surface on which ice is generated, and can cool water supplied to the peripheral surface to produce ice with a small thickness (ice in the first state).

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that can produce powdered ice (second state ice) by providing a blade on one side of the tray to separate the thin ice from the circumferential surface.

[0008] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator capable of compressing the powdered ice to produce molded ice (ice in a third state) having a predetermined strength.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that can cool the water present on the circumferential surface of the tray by providing a cold air supply device that supplies cold air to the tray.

[0010] The present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a cold air duct is provided to supply cold air in the circumferential direction of the tray, thereby ensuring a smooth supply of cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which the downstream cross-sectional area of ​​the cold air duct is formed to be smaller than the upstream cross-sectional area, with reference to the direction of cold air flow, so that cold air is concentrated on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that includes a bracket that forms a tray storage space, and the bracket includes a guide device to ensure that cold air flows smoothly around the tray.

[0013] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which the tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material, so that the tray is rapidly cooled by the supplied cold air.

[0014] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which at least one of a protrusion and a recess is formed on the circumferential surface of the tray to improve the ice-making performance of the tray, and at least one of the protrusion and recess is provided with a space or surface for ice formation.

[0015] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a perforation is formed in the tray to increase the cooling area of ​​the tray, and a cold air passage is formed in the perforation.

[0016] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator equipped with a water storage tank for storing water, wherein at least a portion of a tray is placed in contact with the water storage tank, and water is smoothly supplied to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0017] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a refrigerator in which a bracket is provided to support a water tank, and the bracket includes a wall that extends toward the space between the circumferential surface of a tray and the water tank, so as to restrict the supply of cold air to the water tank. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] An embodiment of the present invention may include a tray having a circumferential surface (or circumferential wall) to which water is supplied, and may include a cold air duct arranged to supply cold air toward the circumferential surface of the tray. However, a liquid other than water may be supplied to the circumferential surface.

[0019] The cold air duct may include portions that extend in the tangential direction of the tray or in a direction corresponding thereto.

[0020] The refrigerator includes a bracket that forms a space for accommodating the tray, and the cold air duct may be coupled so as to be inclined with respect to the bracket.

[0021] The circumferential surface of the tray may include a portion that extends in a rounded shape.

[0022] The circumferential surface of the tray may include portions having an arc shape.

[0023] The circumferential surface of the tray may include portions having a circular shape.

[0024] Said tray may include a drum.

[0025] Said cold air duct may include a portion extending in a tangential direction relative to the peripheral surface of said tray or a direction corresponding thereto, and the cold air supplied through said portion may be intensively supplied to said peripheral surface.

[0026] Said bracket may define an opening for introducing cold air, and said cold air duct may include a discharge portion coupled to said opening.

[0027] Said bracket may include a guide wall provided on the outer side of said tray to guide cold air to the peripheral surface of the tray.

[0028] With reference to said tray, a cold air duct may be provided on one side of said tray, and a guide wall for guiding cold air to the peripheral surface of the tray may be provided on the other side of said tray.

[0029] One side of the tray where said cold air duct is provided and the other side of the tray where said guide wall is provided may be opposite to each other with respect to the center of said tray. Accordingly, the flow of cold air along the peripheral surface of the tray is smoothly performed.

[0030] Said refrigerator may be provided on one side of said tray and may include a first blade for separating ice (ice in the first state) generated on said peripheral surface from said tray.

[0031] One side of the tray where said cold air duct is provided and the other side of the tray where said first blade is provided may be opposite to each other with respect to the center of said tray. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the first blade from exerting resistance on the flow of cold air.

[0032] Said refrigerator includes a water storage tank for supplying water to said tray, and said water storage tank may be disposed on the opposite side of the cold air flow path supplied to the peripheral surface of the tray via the cold air duct.

[0033] With respect to the center of the tray, the cold air passage extending from the cold air duct toward the circumferential surface of the tray and the water storage tank may be positioned on opposite sides of each other. Therefore, the cold air flowing in through the cold air duct can directly act on the water storage tank, preventing the water in the tank from freezing.

[0034] The water storage tank may be located below the tray with respect to the direction of gravity, and the cold air passage may be located above the tray.

[0035] The refrigerator includes a bracket having a wall that supports a water tank, and the bracket may include a portion located in the space between the circumferential surface of the tray and the water tank. The portion of the bracket can prevent cold air from being supplied to the water tank.

[0036] The refrigerator includes a bracket that forms a storage space for trays, and the bracket can form an opening through which ice separated from the trays can move.

[0037] The opening is formed on the opposite side of the cold air duct with respect to the tray, allowing the cold air supplied to the tray to easily diffuse through the opening.

[0038] The opening may be defined as the space between a guide wall that guides cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray and the wall of the bracket to which the first blade is connected.

[0039] Based on the direction of flow of the cold air supplied from the cold air duct, the downstream cross-sectional area of ​​the cold air duct is formed to be smaller than the upstream cross-sectional area, so that the cold air is concentrated and supplied to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0040] The tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal, and can be rapidly cooled by cold air.

[0041] At least one of a protrusion and a recess is formed on the circumferential surface of the tray, and at least one of the protrusion and recess provides a space or surface for ice formation, thereby improving ice-making performance and allowing the ice formed on the circumferential surface to be easily separated by a blade.

[0042] Due to the configuration of the recess and protrusion, the thickness of the ice formed in the recess is greater than the thickness of the ice formed in the protrusion. When the ice is separated by the blade, the ice formed in the recess is easily separated using the protrusion as a reference, making it easy to discharge the ice as powder.

[0043] The recess and projection may be arranged axially from the circumferential surface.

[0044] Numerous recesses and protrusions may be formed, and these recesses and protrusions may be arranged alternately.

[0045] The tray may be rotatably mounted. The tray can be referred to as a rotating body.

[0046] The tray may include an axial coupling portion provided at the center of the tray to which an axis is connected, a first tray portion forming the circumferential surface, and a second tray portion extending radially to connect the axial coupling portion and the first tray portion.

[0047] Multiple of the second tray units may be provided.

[0048] The first tray portion may include an outer circumferential surface forming the circumferential surface and an inner circumferential surface facing the axial coupling portion.

[0049] The tray may include perforations through which cold air passes, thereby increasing the cooling area of ​​the tray.

[0050] The through portion may be formed to penetrate the tray in the axial direction.

[0051] The shaft coupling portion, the first tray portion, and the second tray portion can define the through portion.

[0052] An embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment, a door for opening and closing the cabinet, a tray rotatably mounted on the door and having a circumferential surface that receives water to generate ice, an ice-making bracket that houses the tray and forms a passage for cold air to cool the tray, and a cold air duct connected to the ice-making bracket and arranged to supply cold air toward the other side opposite one side of the tray.

[0053] The cold air duct may extend in a direction tangential to the circumferential surface or a direction corresponding thereto so as to supply cold air toward the circumferential surface.

[0054] The ice-making bracket includes a wall that forms an opening connected to the cold air duct, and the cold air duct may extend so as to be inclined with respect to the wall of the ice-making bracket.

[0055] The door includes an ice-making compartment in which the ice-making bracket is installed, and a door duct may be embedded in the wall of the ice-making compartment, and the cold air duct may be arranged to connect the door duct and the ice-making bracket.

[0056] The cold air duct may extend inclined relative to the door duct and be connected to the ice-making bracket.

[0057] The cold air duct may be formed so that the width or flow cross-sectional area on the downstream side is smaller than the width or flow cross-sectional area on the upstream side, with respect to the direction of cold air flow.

[0058] The ice-making bracket includes a first opening for introducing cold air and a second opening for discharging cold air, and the first and second openings may be positioned opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray.

[0059] The ice-making bracket may include guide walls that protrude toward the outer circumference of the tray and guide cold air flowing along the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0060] The guide wall may be formed to have a curvature set to correspond to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0061] The tray includes a water tank for supplying water to its circumferential surface, the cold air duct is positioned so as to face one side with respect to the center of the tray, and the water tank is positioned on the other side with respect to the center of the tray, and the one side and the other side can form opposite sides to each other.

[0062] The ice-making bracket may include a first wall to which a water tank is attached, and a second wall that protrudes from the first wall toward the circumferential surface of the tray and restricts the flow of cold air along the circumferential surface of the tray into the water tank.

[0063] The refrigerator may include a blade installed on the second wall for separating ice formed on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0064] The tray may include a water supply pipe that supplies water to the surrounding surface.

[0065] In another aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the cabinet; a tray provided in the cabinet or door and having a circumferential surface for receiving a water supply to produce ice in a first state; an ice-making bracket housing the tray and forming a passage for cold air for cooling the tray; a piston provided to be reciprocally movable to recombine ice in a second state separated from the tray; and a cold air duct connected to the ice-making bracket for supplying cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0066] The tray may be rotatably provided and include blades provided on the outside of the tray's rotation path for separating the ice in the first state from its circumferential surface.

[0067] The ice-making bracket may include a first opening to which the cold air duct is connected, and a second opening formed on the opposite side of the first opening for discharging ice in a second state, separated by the blade, to the ice-making bracket.

[0068] The ice-making bracket may include a guide wall formed in the second opening that guides the flow of cold air toward the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0069] The refrigerator includes a transfer tube for containing the ice in the second state, and the piston may be positioned inside the transfer tube to recombine the ice in the second state.

[0070] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the cabinet; a tray provided in the cabinet or door and having a circumferential surface for receiving a water supply to produce ice in a first state; an ice-making bracket housing the tray and forming a first opening for introducing cold air and a second opening for discharging cold air; and a cold air duct connected to the first opening of the ice-making bracket for supplying cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0071] The ice-making bracket includes a first wall that shields at least a portion of one side of the tray, and a guide wall that protrudes from the first wall and guides the flow of cold air along the circumferential surface, and one side of the second opening may be defined by the guide wall.

[0072] The refrigerator includes a water tank provided on one side of the tray, and the ice-making bracket may include a second wall connected to the first wall to support the water tank and defining the other side of the second opening. [Effects of the Invention]

[0073] According to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to produce ice that has sufficient strength to be chewed and eaten by consumers, thereby improving consumer satisfaction.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a tray is provided that includes a circumferential surface on which ice is generated, and by cooling the water supplied to the circumferential surface, a thin layer of ice (ice in a first state) can be easily produced.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a blade is provided on one side of the tray to separate the thin ice from the circumferential surface, making it easy to produce powdered ice (ice in a second state).

[0076] According to embodiments of the present invention, the powdered ice can be compressed to easily produce molded ice (ice in a third state) having a predetermined strength.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cold air supply device is provided that supplies cold air to the tray, making it possible to easily cool the water present on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0078] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cold air duct is provided to supply cold air in the circumferential direction of the tray, thereby ensuring a smooth supply of cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0079] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the downstream cross-sectional area of ​​the cold air duct is formed to be smaller than the upstream cross-sectional area with respect to the direction of cold air flow, thereby allowing cold air to be concentrated on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a bracket is provided that forms a storage space for the tray, and the bracket includes a cold air guide device, so that cold air flows smoothly to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0081] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal material, and is rapidly cooled by the supplied cold air.

[0082] According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one of a protrusion and a recess is formed on the circumferential surface of the tray to improve its ice-making performance, and at least one of the protrusion and recess is provided with a space or surface for ice formation, thereby improving the ice-making performance of the tray.

[0083] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a through-hole is formed in the tray, and a cold air passage is formed in the through-hole, thereby increasing the cooling area of ​​the tray.

[0084] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a water storage tank is provided for storing water, and the tray is positioned so that at least a portion of it is in contact with the water storage tank, thereby ensuring a smooth supply of water to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0085] Embodiments of the present invention provide a bracket that supports the water storage tank, and the bracket includes a wall that extends toward the space between the circumferential surface of the tray and the water storage tank, thereby restricting the supply of cold air to the water storage tank and preventing the water stored in the tank from freezing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0086] [Figure 1] Figure 1(A) is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 1(B) is a drawing showing one door of the refrigerator separated. [Figure 2] Figure 2(A) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front, and Figure 2(B) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the rear. [Figure 3] Figure 3(A) shows a state in which the basket and filter have been separated from the first refrigerator compartment door, and Figure 3(B) shows a state in which the ice-making compartment door and cover member have been separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the ice maker located inside the ice-making compartment, with the ice-making compartment door separated from the first refrigerator compartment door. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice maker and door duct according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a front perspective view showing the configuration of an ice maker and ice maker bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of an ice maker and ice-making chamber bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of an ice maker and ice maker bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a tray assembly and a water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11a] Figure 11a is a diagram showing the tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention when it is in a first position. [Figure 11b] Figure 11b is a diagram showing the tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention when it is in the second position. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the compression part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a transfer pipe and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a plan view showing the configuration of a transfer pipe and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15a] Figure 15a is a diagram showing the piston according to an embodiment of the present invention in a first position, and how ice released from the tray assembly falls into the transfer pipe. [Figure 15b] Figure 15b is a diagram showing how the piston according to an embodiment of the present invention moves to the second position and the ice in the transfer pipe is compressed by the piston. [Figure 15c] Figure 15c is a diagram showing how the piston according to an embodiment of the present invention moves to the third position and the transfer guide device supplies ice to the transfer pipe. [Figure 15d] Figure 15d is a diagram showing how the piston according to an embodiment of the present invention returns to the first position and the transfer guide device moves to its original position. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a plan view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a left side view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice-making machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a right side view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice-making machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a front view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a left-side perspective view showing the configuration of a cold air duct according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a bottom perspective view showing the configuration of a cold air duct according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the ice-making part according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a diagram showing Figure 22 with the tray assembly and water tank removed. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 24-24 in Figure 8. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 25-25 in Figure 8. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a diagram showing how, in a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention, cold air is supplied to the ice-making compartment and the cold air from the ice-making compartment is returned to the outside of the refrigerator door. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice-making part according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice-making part according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice-making part according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0087] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to illustrative drawings. In assigning reference numerals to the components in each drawing, care has been taken to ensure that identical components have the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in other drawings. Furthermore, in describing embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known configuration or function would hinder the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such a detailed description will be omitted.

[0088] Furthermore, in describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. Such terms are merely for distinguishing a component from other components and do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the component. When it is stated that a component is “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to or connected to the other components, but that other components may also be “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” between each component.

[0089] On the other hand, in the description of the components of the embodiments of the present invention, the phrase "at least one of components A and B" can be understood to include three types of embodiments: (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B.

[0090] Furthermore, in the description of the components of the embodiments of the invention, the phrase "at least one of component A or B" can be understood to include three types of embodiments: (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. In other words, the phrase "at least one of component A or B" is equivalent to the phrase "at least one of component A and B."

[0091] Figure 1(A) is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1(B) is a drawing showing one door of the refrigerator separated, Figure 2(A) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator compartment door according to an embodiment of the present invention as seen from the front, and Figure 2(B) is a perspective view of the first refrigerator compartment door according to an embodiment of the present invention as seen from the rear.

[0092] Figure 3(A) shows a state in which the basket and filter have been separated from the first refrigerator compartment door, and Figure 3(B) shows a state in which the ice-making compartment door and cover member have been separated from the first refrigerator compartment door.

[0093] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, a refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet 10. The cabinet 10 may have a storage compartment. The refrigerator 1 may further include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. The door may be rotatably or movably connected to the cabinet 10.

[0094] The storage room may include a refrigerator 18. The storage room may optionally or additionally include a freezer 19. As an example, Figure 1(B) illustrates a storage room that includes a refrigerator 18 and a freezer 19. The refrigerator 18 and the freezer 19 may be separated by a partition wall.

[0095] The door may include refrigerator doors 20, 30 for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment 18. The refrigerator compartment 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerator doors 20, 30. The door may include a freezer door 50 for opening and closing the freezer compartment 19. The freezer compartment 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezer doors 50.

[0096] In the following explanation, we will describe the case where the refrigerator compartment 18 is opened and closed by the first refrigerator compartment door 20 and the second refrigerator compartment door 30 as an example.

[0097] One or more of the first refrigerator door 20 and the second refrigerator door 30 may include a dispenser 40 for draining water and / or ice. Of course, depending on the type of refrigerator, the freezer door 50 may also be equipped with the dispenser 40.

[0098] At least one of the first refrigerator compartment door 20 and the second refrigerator compartment door 30 may include one or more ice makers 100.

[0099] In the following explanation, we will describe the case in which the ice maker 100 is installed in the first refrigerator compartment door 20 as an example. Of course, it is also possible to install ice makers in the second refrigerator compartment door 30 or the freezer compartment door 50 as needed. In this case, the dispenser 40 and the ice maker may be installed in the same door. Alternatively, additional ice makers may be installed in the refrigerator compartment 18 or the freezer compartment 19.

[0100] Figure 1(B) illustrates that the refrigerator 1 is a bottom-freezer type refrigerator, but it is not limited to this, and the concept of the present invention can be similarly applied to side-by-side type refrigerators and top-mount type refrigerators. In the case of side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerators, the freezer door may include an ice maker and dispenser, or the refrigerator door may include an ice maker and dispenser.

[0101] The dispenser 40 can be located in front of the first refrigerator door 20. A portion of the dispenser 40 can be recessed backward to provide space in which a container can be placed.

[0102] The dispenser 40 can discharge ice produced by the ice maker 100. At least a portion of the ice maker 100 can be positioned higher than the dispenser 40.

[0103] The first refrigerator compartment door 20 may include an outer case 21. The outer case 21 may form the front exterior. The first refrigerator compartment door 20 may include a door liner 70. The door liner 70 may be directly or indirectly connected to the outer case 21. The door liner 70 can open and close the refrigerator compartment 18.

[0104] With the outer case 21 and the door liner 70 connected, an insulating space may be formed between the outer case 21 and the door liner 70. An insulating material may be provided in the insulating space. The insulating material may be formed by the hardening of a foaming liquid injected from the outside. Alternatively, a vacuum insulating body may be provided in the insulating space. It is also possible for both the insulating material and the vacuum insulating body to be provided in the insulating space.

[0105] The refrigerator 1 may include an ice-making compartment 25 that provides a space for ice to be produced. The ice-making compartment 25 may, for example, be provided in the first refrigerator door 20. The ice maker 100 may be located in the ice-making compartment 25. For example, the door liner 70 may form the ice-making compartment 25. The ice-making compartment 25 may be formed by one side of the door liner 70 being recessed toward the outer case 21.

[0106] The first refrigerator door 20 may further include an ice bin 500 in which ice produced by the ice maker 100 is stored. The ice stored in the ice bin 500 can be discharged to the dispenser 40. The ice bin 500 may be housed in the ice-making compartment 25 together with the ice maker 100. The ice bin 500 may be located below the ice maker 100.

[0107] As an example, the ice-making compartment 25 may be supplied with cold air generated by a cooler. That is, the cooler may be configured to supply cold air to the ice-making compartment 25. Alternatively, the cooler may be configured to operate in order to supply cold air to the ice-making compartment 25. Thus, the ice-making compartment 25 may be cooled by an indirect cooling method using cold air, or as another example, the ice-making compartment 25 may be cooled by a direct cooling method using refrigerant pipes.

[0108] The cooler may be configured to cool the ice-making compartment 25 by including at least one of a refrigerant cycle and a thermoelectric element. For example, cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 19 may be supplied to the ice-making compartment 25.

[0109] The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply channel 16 that guides cold air from the freezer compartment 19 or the space where an evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezer compartment 19 is located to the first refrigerator compartment door 20. The refrigerator 1 may also include a discharge channel 17 that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerator compartment door 20 to the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located. The supply channel 16 and the discharge channel 17 may be provided in the cabinet 10. The cold air circulating in the supply channel 16 and the discharge channel 17 can be flowed by a fan (not shown) located, for example, in the freezer compartment 19 or the space where the evaporator is located.

[0110] A first opening 16a may be formed in the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18, forming the end of the supply channel 16. Cold air from the supply channel 16 can be discharged from the supply channel 16 through the first opening 16a. A second opening 17a may be formed in the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 18, forming the end of the discharge channel 17. Cold air from the supply channel 16 can flow into the discharge channel 16 through the second opening 17a. The first opening 16a and the second opening 17a may be formed in one of the many inner walls of the refrigerator compartment 18.

[0111] The first refrigerator door 20 may include a cold air inlet 75. When the first refrigerator door 20 is closed, the cold air inlet 75 may communicate with the supply passage 16 through the first opening 16a. The first refrigerator door 20 may include a cold air outlet 76. When the first refrigerator door 20 is closed, the cold air outlet 76 may communicate with the discharge passage 17 through the second opening 17a.

[0112] The cold air inlet 75 may be formed on one side of the door liner 70. The one side of the door liner 70 is, but is not limited, the surface facing the inner wall in the refrigerator compartment 18 where the supply passage 16 is located when the first refrigerator compartment door 20 is closed. The cold air outlet 76 may be formed on one side of the door liner 70. The one side of the door liner 70 is, but is not limited, the surface facing the inner wall in the refrigerator compartment 18 where the discharge passage 17 is located when the first refrigerator compartment door 20 is closed.

[0113] One side surface of the door liner 70 may include a first side surface 72 and a second side surface 74 having different widths in the front-rear direction. The front-rear width of the second side surface 74 may be greater than the width of the first side surface 72. One or more of the cold air inlet 75 and the cold air outlet 76 may be formed on the second side surface 74 of the door liner 70. The second side surface 74 may protrude further toward the refrigerator compartment 18 than the first side surface 72.

[0114] The first refrigerator compartment door 20 may include an ice-making compartment door 60 that opens and closes the ice-making compartment 25. The ice-making compartment door 60 may be an insulated door with insulating material inside. The ice-making compartment door 60 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerator compartment door 20 by a hinge.

[0115] The ice-making compartment door 60 may be equipped with a first basket 62 capable of storing food and beverages. The first refrigerator compartment door 20 may be equipped with a second basket 65. For example, the second basket 65 can be positioned below the first basket 62. The length of the second basket 65 in the front-to-back direction may be shorter than the length of the first basket 62 in the front-to-back direction. The second basket 65 can overlap the dispenser 40 in the front-to-back direction.

[0116] The first refrigerator door 20 may have a component space 63 for housing components. The component space 63 may house one or more of the following: a valve 68 for regulating water flow, a filter (not shown) for purifying water, and a water tank 69 for storing water. The component space 63 may be formed by the door liner 70, or the component space 63 may be formed by a separate wall connected to the door liner 70. The first refrigerator door 20 may include a cover member 64 that covers the component space 63. The component space 63 may be provided with a holder 67 to which the filter is coupled.

[0117] The cover member 64 may include an opening 63. The filter may be coupled to the holder 67 through the opening 63. The second basket 65 can cover the opening 63. When the second basket 65 is separated, the opening 63 can be exposed. The holder 67 can be exposed to the opening 63.

[0118] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the ice maker located inside the ice maker compartment with the ice maker compartment door separated from the first refrigerator compartment door, and Figure 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the ice maker and the cold air circulation duct to the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the refrigerator door 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an ice-making compartment 25 for housing an ice maker 100. The refrigerator door 20 may include a number of walls 80 that define the ice-making compartment 25.

[0120] The aforementioned number of walls can constitute at least a portion of the door liner 70.

[0121] The plurality of walls may include a lower wall 80a defining the lower part of the ice-making compartment 25, an upper wall 80b defining the upper part of the ice-making compartment 25, and two side walls 81 defining both sides of the ice-making compartment 25. The plurality of walls may further include a front wall 80c defining the front of the ice-making compartment 25.

[0122] The lower wall 80a can form a dispensing section 84 for dispensing ice stored in the ice bin 500 to the dispenser 40.

[0123] The ice maker 100 can be located between the upper wall 80b and the ice bin 500. For example, the ice maker 100 may be positioned adjacent to the upper wall 80b.

[0124] The side wall 81 may be provided with a first duct 90 connected to the cold air inlet 75 to supply cold air to the ice-making compartment 25. For example, the first duct 90 may be embedded in the side wall 81 so as not to be exposed to the ice-making compartment 25. The first duct 90 may extend upward from the cold air inlet 75 to the top of the refrigerator door 20 where the ice maker 100 is located.

[0125] The first duct 90 includes a duct discharge section 91 for discharging cold air, and the cold air discharged from the duct discharge section 91 can flow into the cold air duct 400 of the ice maker 100.

[0126] A supply section 82 for guiding cold air to the cold air duct 400 may be formed in the side wall 81. The duct discharge section 91 may be connected to the supply section 82, and the cold air duct 400 may be connected to the duct discharge section 91 via the supply section 82.

[0127] A return section 83 may be formed in the side wall 81 for sending the cold air from the ice-making compartment 25 to the cold air outlet 76. For example, the return section 83 may be formed at the height where the ice bin 500 is located.

[0128] A second duct 95 may be connected to the return section 83. The second duct 95 may include a duct inlet 96 for introducing cold air discharged through the return section 83. The duct inlet 96 may be connected directly or indirectly to the return section 83. For example, the second duct 95 may be embedded in the side wall 81 so as not to be exposed to the ice-making compartment 25. The second duct 95 may extend downward from the return section 83 to the bottom of the refrigerator door 20 and be connected to the cold air outlet 76.

[0129] The ice maker 100 may include an ice-making part 200 that receives a water supply, cools it in a tray assembly 240, and then releases the cooled ice. However, the tray assembly 240 may be supplied with a liquid other than water.

[0130] The ice maker 100 may include a compression part 300 that transfers the ice detached from the tray assembly 240 and recombines or compresses the transferred ice to produce ice in a third state. The ice in the third state may have a predetermined thickness. The ice in the third state may have a cylindrical or polygonal prism shape, for example, corresponding to the inner surface shape of the cylinder 360 or discharge pipe 370 described later.

[0131] The ice maker 100 may include a cold air duct 400 that supplies cold air to the ice-making part 200. The cold air duct 400 can be understood as being positioned between the side wall 81 and the tray assembly 240, which will be described later.

[0132] The detailed configuration of the ice maker 100 will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0133] Figure 6 is a front perspective view showing the configuration of an ice maker and ice-making compartment bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 7 is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of an ice maker and ice-making compartment bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of an ice maker and ice-making compartment bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the ice maker 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be installed in the ice-making compartment 25 of the refrigerator door 20. The refrigerator door 20 may include an ice-making compartment plate 85 that forms at least a portion of the wall 80 of the ice-making compartment 25. The ice-making compartment plate 85 may be configured to include the lower wall 80a and the front wall 80c.

[0135] The ice maker 100 may be supported on the front wall 80c of the ice-making chamber 25. The ice maker 100 may be coupled to the front wall 80c by wall couplings 329. Multiple wall couplings 329 may be provided on both sides of the ice maker 100. For example, the wall couplings 329 can be understood as fastening devices provided on the compression part 300.

[0136] The ice maker 100 is supported on the upper part of the front wall 80c, and the ice bin 500 can be located below the ice maker 100. The refrigerator door 20 may include a take-out motor (not shown) that provides driving force to discharge the ice stored in the ice bin 500 to the dispenser 40.

[0137] The wall of the ice-making chamber 25 may include a motor housing 86 that surrounds the extraction motor. The extraction motor is connected to a gear assembly located in front of the front wall 80c, and when the gear assembly is driven by the extraction motor, the auger (not shown) of the ice bin 500 is activated and ice is extracted. The front wall 80c may have a through-hole 87 through which a shaft connecting the gear assembly and the ice bin 500 passes. The ice extracted from the ice bin 500 can be discharged to the dispenser 40 via an extraction section 84 of the lower wall 80a.

[0138] The ice maker 100 may include an ice-making part 200, which includes a first motor 210. The first motor 210 may be referred to as an "ice-making motor" that provides driving force to move the tray assembly 240 (see Figure 9).

[0139] The ice-making part 200 may include ice-making brackets 220 and 230 that form cold air passages. A cold air duct 400 is connected to one side of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230, and the cold air supplied through the cold air duct 400 can flow through the cold air passages formed inside the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. The cold air duct 400 may also be defined as the "first cold air duct," and the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 as the "second cold air duct."

[0140] The first motor 210 may be connected to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0141] The ice-making brackets 220 and 230 may include a first bracket 220 that forms a housing space for the tray assembly 240. A cold air duct 400 is connected to the first bracket 220, and cold air supplied through the cold air duct 400 can flow into the housing space. The cold air duct 400 may include an inlet 420 connected to a supply section 82 of the side wall 81.

[0142] The ice-making brackets 220 and 230 may include a second bracket 230 connected to the first bracket 220, which together with the first bracket 220 forms a cold air passage. For example, one side of the first bracket 220 may be open, and the open side may be covered by the second bracket 230, forming a cold air passage inside it.

[0143] The second bracket 230 can form a housing space for accommodating gear assemblies 235 and 236 (see Figure 9), which are interlocked by the drive of the first motor 210.

[0144] The first bracket 220 and the second bracket 230 may be connected in the front-rear direction. The first motor 210 is connected to one side of the second bracket 230, and the gear assemblies 235 and 236 can be driven in conjunction with the first motor 210. For example, the first motor 210 and the second bracket 230 may be arranged in the front-rear direction.

[0145] The ice-making compartment plate 85 may include a support wall 85a for supporting the ice-making part 200. The support wall 85a may constitute the upper part of the ice-making compartment plate 85, and the ice-making part 200 may be supported on the upper part of the ice-making compartment plate 85 via the support wall 85a.

[0146] The ice-making brackets 220 and 230 may include a plate coupling portion 229 supported by the ice-making chamber plate 85. For example, the plate coupling portion 229 may be provided on the first bracket 220 and coupled to a coupling hole 88 formed in the support wall 85a.

[0147] As an example, the plate coupling portion 229 may include ribs protruding from the first bracket 220. However, the plate coupling portions 229 provided on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 may be provided in various forms, such as bosses or fastening holes to which fastening members are coupled. Correspondingly, the coupling holes 88 of the ice-making chamber plate 85 may be provided in the form of ribs or bosses.

[0148] The plate connecting portion 229 may be provided in multiple locations on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0149] The ice-making unit 200 may include a water storage tank 250 for storing water. The water storage tank 250 can supply water to the tray assembly 240.

[0150] The first bracket 220 may include a water supply pipe connecting portion 221b that guides a water supply pipe 120 (see Figure 11a) for supplying water to the water storage tank 250. The water supply pipe connecting portion 221b may be formed on the surface of the first bracket 220 facing the front wall 80c.

[0151] As an example, the water supply pipe 120 may be inserted into the water supply pipe connecting section 221b, and at least a portion of the water supply pipe 120 may extend into the interior of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0152] The ice maker 100 may include a compression part 300, which includes a second motor 310. The second motor 310 may be referred to as a “compression motor” that provides driving force to move a piston 335 (see Figure 12) for compressing or recombining ice.

[0153] The compression part 300 may include a first bracket 320 connected to a second motor 310. The first bracket 320 can support components that make up the compression part 300.

[0154] The compression part 300 may include an outlet 328 for discharging ice produced by the ice maker 100 into an ice bin 500. For example, the outlet 328 may be formed on the lower surface of the first bracket 320, and the ice discharged through the outlet 328 may fall into the ice bin 500.

[0155] The compression part 300 may include a cylinder 360 that defines a space for the movement of ice (powdered ice) produced in the ice-making part 200. The ice that flows into the cylinder 360 may be compressed into ice (molded ice) of a predetermined volume by a reciprocating piston 335.

[0156] The compression part 300 is provided on the inlet side of the cylinder 360 and may include a transfer pipe 340 for transferring ice (powdered ice) discharged from the ice-making part 200 to the cylinder 360. A space for containing the powdered ice is formed inside the transfer pipe 340, and the powdered ice can move into the cylinder 360.

[0157] The compression part 300 may include a discharge pipe 370 provided on the outlet side of the cylinder 360, which provides a predetermined resistance force to compress the ice present in the cylinder 360.

[0158] As an example, in order to provide the resistance, the discharge pipe 370 may be formed such that its cross-sectional area is smaller with respect to the direction in which the ice is moving.

[0159] The discharge pipe 370 may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as silicone, in order to provide the resistance.

[0160] The outlet of the discharge pipe 370 is open, and the molded ice, which is compressed or recombined as it passes through the discharge pipe 370, can be discharged through the open outlet of the discharge pipe 370.

[0161] The compression part 300 may be positioned at a set distance from the outlet of the discharge pipe 370 and may include a cutter wall 380 that interferes with the molded ice discharged through the discharge pipe 370. The cutter wall 380 may be supported by the first bracket 320 and positioned adjacent to the upper side of the discharge port 328.

[0162] The cutter wall 380 includes an inclined surface facing the discharge pipe 370, and the molded ice discharged from the discharge pipe 370 may be cut while being interfered with by the inclined surface. The cut ice can then fall into the ice bin 500 through the discharge port 328.

[0163] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the tray assembly and water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 11a is a drawing showing the tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention in a first position, and Figure 11b is a drawing showing the tray assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention in a second position.

[0164] First, referring to Figures 9 and 10, the ice-making part 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray assembly 240 that forms an ice-making space.

[0165] The tray assembly 240 may include a tray 241 that receives a water supply and performs ice making. The tray 241 may be provided so that it can be moved by power transmitted from the first motor 210. For example, the tray 241 may be provided so as to be rotatable.

[0166] The tray 241 may include circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b (also called circumferential walls) that form water storage spaces. The circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b can be understood to include cells for ice formation.

[0167] As an example, the tray 241 may have the shape of a drum with a circumferential surface. The circumferential surface may form the outer circumferential surface of the drum. That is, the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b can be understood to extend in the circumferential direction to form the outer circumferential surface of the tray 241.

[0168] From another perspective, the tray 241 may have a disc shape or a plate shape including both side walls and a circumferential surface.

[0169] The circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b may include a first circumferential surface 242a that forms a water storage space. The first circumferential surface 242a may form at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the tray 241. When the first circumferential surface 242a is positioned facing the water storage tank 250, it may include a surface that comes into contact with the water stored in the water storage tank 250.

[0170] The first circumferential surface 242a may be positioned adjacent to the first blade 280 such that the ice generated on the first circumferential surface 242a comes into contact with the first blade 280.

[0171] The first circumferential surface 242a may include at least one of a first part defining a recessed portion and a second part defining a protruding portion to increase the water contact area (cooling area). The first part may include a recess 241a, and the second part may include a protrusion 241b.

[0172] When the recessed portion of the first circumferential surface 242a is viewed as a reference position, the first circumferential surface 242a can be understood to include the protruding portion 241b, and when the protruding portion of the first circumferential surface 242a is viewed as a reference position, the first circumferential surface 242a can be understood to include the recess 241a.

[0173] The configuration of the recess 241a and the projection 241b allows us to understand that the first circumferential surface 242a includes an uneven structure.

[0174] The recesses 241a and protrusions 241b may each be provided in large numbers. The structure may have multiple recesses 241a (see Figure 17) and multiple protrusions 241b (see Figure 17) arranged alternately.

[0175] The circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b may include a second circumferential surface 242b. The second circumferential surface 242b may include a surface that does not come into contact with the water stored in the water storage tank 250 when it is positioned to face the water storage tank 250.

[0176] The second circumferential surface 242b may be positioned relatively far away from the first blade 280 so that the ice generated on the second circumferential surface 242b does not come into contact with the first blade 280.

[0177] The distance from the center of the tray 241 to the second circumferential surface 242b (center distance) may be smaller than the distance from the center of the tray 241 to the first circumferential surface 242a (center distance). For example, the second circumferential surface 242b may have a shape that is cut out from the edge of the first circumferential surface 242a in a direction toward the center of the tray 241.

[0178] When the first circumferential surface 242a is in a position where it is in contact with cold air and freezes, the second circumferential surface 242b is positioned to face the water storage tank 250. In this case, the second circumferential surface 242b does not come into contact with the water in the water storage tank 250, so the water storage tank 250 is not cooled by the tray 241 which forms a low temperature. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0179] The first circumferential surface 242a may be provided in the form of at least one. For example, there may be a plurality of first circumferential surfaces 242a, and the second circumferential surface 242b may be arranged between the plurality of first circumferential surfaces 242a with respect to the circumferential direction of the tray 241.

[0180] The second circumferential surface 242b may be provided in the form of at least one. For example, there may be a plurality of second circumferential surfaces 242b, and the first circumferential surface 242a may be arranged between the plurality of second circumferential surfaces 242b with respect to the circumferential direction of the tray 241.

[0181] The tray 241 may include side walls 244 (also called sides). The side walls 244 may include portions that extend radially from the tray 241.

[0182] The side walls 244 may be provided in multiple quantities, for example, two, to form both sides of the tray 241. The two side walls 244 may be spaced apart in the axial direction of the first motor 210. The circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b may be formed between the two side walls 244.

[0183] The tray 241 may include an inner circumferential wall 244a connected to the side wall 244. The inner circumferential wall 244a can be understood to form the inner circumferential surface of the tray 241 and may include the opposite side of the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b with respect to the side wall 244.

[0184] A bar 249 is connected to the tray 241 as the "central axis" of the tray 241. The bar 249 may have a non-circular shape.

[0185] The bar 249 may be positioned to pass through the center (or center of rotation) of the tray 241. The center of the tray 241 includes a center bracket 243, which may have a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the bar 249.

[0186] The bar 249 is coupled to the gear assemblies 235 and 236 and can rotate in conjunction with the gear assemblies 235 and 236. For example, the bar 249 may be formed integrally with the gear assemblies 235 and 236 or it may be provided separately.

[0187] Another example is suggested. The bar 249 may be removed, and the central shafts protruding from the gear assemblies 235, 236 may be directly coupled to the central bracket 243 of the tray 241.

[0188] The tray 241 may include an extension wall 243a extending from the central bracket 243 toward the side wall 244. The extension wall 243a may, for example, extend radially from the central bracket 243.

[0189] A plurality of extension walls 243a are provided, and the plurality of extension walls 243a may be spaced apart from each other and arranged in the circumferential direction.

[0190] The terms are defined in terms of direction. Throughout the specification, “axial direction” may mean the direction in which the axis of the first motor 210 or the second motor 310 extends, and “radial direction” may mean the direction toward the radius intersecting the axial direction.

[0191] The tray 241 can form tray holes 245. The tray holes 245 can be understood as holes that penetrate the tray 241 in the axial direction. Cold air can flow through the tray holes 245, increasing the cooling area of ​​the tray 241.

[0192] The tray hole 245 can be understood as a space defined by the central bracket 243 and a number of extension walls 243a and inner circumferential walls 244a. A number of tray holes 245 may be formed, and the number of tray holes 245 may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the tray 241.

[0193] The tray assembly 240 may include tray covers 246, 247 connected to the tray 241. The tray covers 246, 247 may be provided on the side walls 244 of the tray 241.

[0194] The tray covers 246 and 247 are arranged to cover at least one side of the tray 241 and can function to prevent water from the water tank 250 from flowing into the tray holes 245 of the tray 241.

[0195] The tray covers 246 and 247 may be made of a material with low thermal conductivity so as to limit ice formation. As an example, the material with low thermal conductivity may be a non-metallic material. Plastic material can be proposed as an example of the non-metallic material.

[0196] The tray covers 246, 247 may include a first tray cover 246 provided on one side wall 244 of the tray 241. The first tray cover 246 may include a first cover wall 246a that covers one side wall 244 of the tray 241. The radial length (or width) of the first cover wall 246a may be formed to be greater than the radial length (or width) of the side wall 244 of the tray 241 in order to prevent water from flowing into the tray holes 245 of the tray 241.

[0197] The first tray cover 246 may include a first through-hole 246b through which the central bracket 243 of the tray 241 passes. The first through-hole 246b may be aligned axially with the central bracket 243 of the tray 241.

[0198] The first tray cover 246 may include a first extension wall 246c extending from the first through-hole 246b toward the first cover wall 246a. The first extension wall 246c may be radially extended so as to cover the extension wall 243a of the tray 241. Multiple first extension walls 246c may be provided corresponding to the extension wall 243a.

[0199] The first tray cover 246 may include a first inner circumferential wall 246d connected to the first cover wall 246a. The first inner circumferential wall 246d can be understood to form the inner surface of the first tray cover 246.

[0200] The first tray cover 246 may include a first cover fastening portion 246e protruding from the first inner circumferential wall 246d. The first cover fastening portion 246e may include a boss, and a predetermined fastening member may pass through the boss and fasten to a second cover fastening portion 247e of the second tray cover 247. However, the shape of the first cover fastening portion 246e is not limited thereto, and it may be provided in the shape of a rib or a locking projection, as long as it can be coupled with the second cover fastening portion 247e.

[0201] The first tray cover 246 may include a first communication hole 246f that communicates with the through hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the through hole 245 via the first communication hole 246f.

[0202] The tray covers 246, 247 may include a second tray cover 247 provided on the other side wall 244 of the tray 241. The second tray cover 247 may include a second cover wall 247a that covers the other side wall 244 of the tray 241. The radial length of the second cover wall 247a may be formed to be greater than the radial length of the side wall 244 of the tray 241 in order to prevent water from flowing into the tray holes 245 of the tray 241.

[0203] The configuration of the second tray cover 247 is substantially similar to that of the first tray cover 246. The second tray cover 247 may include a second bar coupling portion 247b having a configuration corresponding to the first bar coupling portion 246b of the first tray cover 246.

[0204] The second tray cover 247 may include a second extension wall 247c having a configuration corresponding to the first extension wall 246c of the first tray cover 246.

[0205] The second tray cover 247 may include a second inner wall 247d having a configuration corresponding to the first inner wall 246d of the first tray cover 246.

[0206] The second tray cover 247 may include a second cover fastening portion 247e having a configuration corresponding to the first cover fastening portion 246e of the first tray cover 246.

[0207] The second tray cover 247 may include a second communication hole 247f that communicates with the through hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the first communication hole 246f and the through hole 245 to the second communication hole 247f.

[0208] Let me explain from a different perspective.

[0209] The first tray cover 246 and the second tray cover 247 can be understood as components of a "tray" in a broad sense. In this case, the tray assembly 240 can be referred to as a "tray," and the tray 241 as a "tray part," and the first and second tray covers 246 and 247 can constitute a part of the tray 240.

[0210] Another embodiment will be described. The first and second tray covers 246 and 247 described above may not be provided, and the tray assembly 240 may be configured to include only the tray 241.

[0211] The ice-making part 200 may include a first bracket 220 that forms the first storage space 220a of the tray assembly 240.

[0212] The first bracket 220 may include a first wall 221 supported by the ice-making compartment plate 85. The first wall 221 can be understood as a wall that shields at least a portion of one side of the tray assembly 240.

[0213] In another view, the first wall 221 may be positioned to support the tray 241. The first wall 221 may include an insertion hole 221a into which at least a portion of the tray 241 is inserted to support the tray 241. For example, the center bracket 243 of the tray 241 may be rotatably inserted into the insertion hole 221a.

[0214] The first wall 221 may include a water supply pipe connecting section 221b that guides the water supply pipe 120. The water supply pipe 120 is inserted into the water supply pipe connecting section 221b, and at least a portion of the water supply pipe 120 can be located in the first housing space 220a.

[0215] The first wall 221 can form at least a portion of a wall that guides the flow of cold air that enters through the cold air duct 400.

[0216] The ice-making part 200 may include a second wall 222 connected to the first wall 221. The second wall 222 may be connected to an end of the first wall 221, for example, its upper end, and may protrude in a direction toward the first motor 210. The second wall 222 may form the upper end of the ice-making part 200.

[0217] The ice-making part 200 may include a third wall 223 connected to the first wall 221. The third wall 223 may be connected to an end of the first wall 221, for example, its lower end, and may protrude in a direction toward the first motor 210. The third wall 223 may form the lower end of the ice-making part 200.

[0218] The ice-making part 200 may include a fourth wall 224 and a fifth wall 225 connected to the third wall 223. The fourth wall 224 may be connected to one side of the third wall 223, and the fifth wall 225 may be connected to the other side of the third wall 223. For example, the fourth wall 224 and the fifth wall 225 may protrude from both ends of the third wall 223.

[0219] The ice-making unit 200 may include a second storage space 220b in which a water tank 250 is placed. The second storage space 220b can be understood as the space defined by the third wall 223, the fourth wall 224, and the fifth wall 225. The second storage space 220b may be formed below the first storage space 220a.

[0220] The water storage tank 250 includes a case having a predetermined capacity, and the walls of the case may be provided with a water storage tank heater 255 that provides heat to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0221] The ice-making section 200 may include a water supply guide wall 224a that guides water supplied from the water supply pipe 120 to the water storage tank 250. The water supply guide wall 224a may form at least a portion of the fourth wall 224.

[0222] The water supply guide wall 224a is positioned adjacent to the discharge portion of the water supply pipe 120 and may include an inclined surface that guides the flow of water discharged from the water supply pipe 120. The inclined surface of the water supply guide wall 224a may extend at the water supply pipe connecting portion 221b so as to be inclined in the direction facing the water storage tank 250.

[0223] The water discharged from the water supply pipe 120 falls onto the inclined surface, and the fallen water can flow downward at a low speed along the inclined surface and into the water storage tank 250.

[0224] The ice-making part 200 may include a first blade 280 that contacts the ice made in the tray 241 to separate the ice made in the tray 241. The first blade 280 may be positioned adjacent to the rotation path of the tray 241. In particular, the first blade 280 may be positioned adjacent to the first circumferential surface 242a as the tray 241 rotates.

[0225] The first blade 280 may be provided on the fifth wall 225. For example, a water tank 250 may be located on the inner surface of the fifth wall 225, and the first blade 280 may be coupled to the outer surface of the fifth wall 225.

[0226] The ice-making part 200 may include a second blade 285 that comes into contact with the frozen ice in order to separate the ice formed in the tray assembly 240.

[0227] The second blade 285 can be positioned adjacent to both side walls of the tray assembly 240 so as to scrape off ice that has frozen onto the side walls of the tray assembly 240, i.e., the first cover wall 246a and the second cover wall 247a.

[0228] Multiple second blades 285 are provided, and any one of the second blades 285 may be provided on the first wall 221. Another second blade 285 may be provided on the outer wall of the second bracket 230, for example, on the outer wall of the gear bracket 231.

[0229] The first blade 280 and the second blade 285 may be positioned at a distance from each other, for example, facing each other with respect to the center of the tray assembly 240. This configuration prevents the cold air passage formed in the ice-making part 200 from being obstructed by the first and second blades 280 and 285.

[0230] More specifically, the cold air flowing in through the cold air duct 400 flows from the region where the second blade 285 is located to the opposite region where the first blade 280 is located, with reference to the center of the tray assembly 240. If the first and second blades 280 and 285 were arranged in only one region with reference to the center of the tray assembly 240, the problem would arise that these blades would act as flow resistance. Therefore, in this embodiment, by arranging the first and second blades 280 and 285 on both sides of the tray assembly 240, the effect of reducing resistance to cold air flow is achieved.

[0231] As the tray assembly 240 rotates, any ice that comes into contact with the second blade 285 is separated from the tray assembly 240, and the separated ice can flow into the water storage tank 250.

[0232] The second blade 285 may be positioned adjacent to the water tank 250 so that ice separated from the second blade 285 can flow into the water tank 250. For example, with respect to the height relative to the ground on which the refrigerator is supported, the water tank 250 may be positioned below the tray assembly 240, and the second blade 285 may be positioned lower than the center of the tray assembly 240.

[0233] In another view, the second blade 285 may be positioned to overlap vertically with the open upper end of the water tank 250. The open upper end of the water tank 250 can be understood as the end into which water flows.

[0234] A cold air passage may be formed inside the first bracket 220 through which cold air flowing in from the cold air duct 400 flows. At least a portion of the cold air passage may be formed in the first containment space 220a.

[0235] The first bracket 220 may include a first opening 224b to which the cold air duct 400 is connected and which forms a cold air inlet. The first opening 224b may be formed in the fourth wall 224 (also called the side wall) of the first bracket 220. For example, the first opening 224b may be formed on the side to which the water supply guide wall 224a is provided and located above the water supply guide wall 224a.

[0236] The first opening 224b and the water tank 250 can be located on opposite sides of the tray 241 with respect to its center. For example, the first opening 224b may be formed at a higher position than the center of the tray 241, and the water tank 250 may be positioned at a lower position than the center of the tray 241. With such a configuration, cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b is prevented from flowing directly into the water tank 250.

[0237] The ice-making part 200 may include a guide wall 226 positioned to guide cold air towards the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241. The guide wall 226 may be provided on the first wall 221 and may be formed in a rounded shape corresponding to the curvature of the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b.

[0238] The first portion of the guide wall 226 may be connected to the first wall 221, and the second portion may be connected to the second wall 222.

[0239] The guide wall 226 and the first opening 224b can be positioned on opposite sides of the tray 241 with respect to its center. Therefore, the air supplied to the outer circumferential surface of the tray 241 through the first opening 224b is guided by the guide wall 226 located opposite the first opening 224b, making it easy to form a cold air flow along the outer circumferential surface of the tray 241.

[0240] The space between the guide wall 226 and the first blade 280 forms a second opening 227 (see Figure 17) through which the ice powder separated from the tray 241 is discharged, and the cold air guided by the guide wall 226 can diffuse into the ice-making chamber 25 through the second opening 227.

[0241] The ice-making part 200 may include gear assemblies 235 and 236 that are interlocked with the first motor 210. The gear assemblies 235 and 236 may include a drive gear 235 connected to the first motor 210 and a driven gear 236 that is interlocked with the drive gear 235.

[0242] The number of teeth on the drive gear 235 is formed to be fewer than the number of teeth on the driven gear 236, so that the gear assemblies 235 and 236 can constitute a reduction gear. Therefore, the torque for rotating the tray assembly 240 can be increased.

[0243] The ice-making part 200 may include a second bracket 230 that houses the gear assemblies 235 and 236. The second bracket 230 can shield one open side of the first bracket 220 to form a cold air passage within the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0244] The second bracket 230 may include a gear bracket 231 that supports the gear assemblies 235 and 236. The gear bracket 231 includes a bracket wall 231a that covers one open side of the first bracket 220, and the bracket wall 231a can form at least one surface of a cold air passage.

[0245] The gear assemblies 235 and 236 may be rotatably supported on the bracket wall 231a. A hole is formed in the first center 235a of the drive gear 235 to which the shaft of the first motor 210 is connected, and the shaft of the first motor 210 may be supported on the bracket wall 231a via the hole.

[0246] The bar 249 may be connected to the second center 236a of the driven gear 236 via the bracket wall 231a. The second center 236a of the driven gear 236 may have a hole formed in it to which the bar 249 is connected, and the bar 249 may be supported by the bracket wall 231a via the hole.

[0247] The first central part 235a and the second central part 236a may each include brackets that form holes.

[0248] The second bracket 230 may include a gear cover 232 connected to the gear bracket 231. The gear cover 232 can shield one open side of the gear bracket 231. The gear bracket 231 and the gear cover 232 can constitute a "gear housing".

[0249] For example, the gear cover 232 may be fastened to the gear bracket 231. The gear bracket 231 includes a first fastening portion 231b that is fastened to the gear cover 232, and the gear cover 232 may include a second fastening portion 232a that is fastened to the first fastening portion 231b. A predetermined fastening member may be connected to the first fastening portion 231b and the second fastening portion 232a.

[0250] The gear bracket 231 may include a first coupling portion 231c fastened to the first bracket 220. The first bracket 220 may include a second coupling portion 222a fastened to the first coupling portion 231c. A predetermined fastening member may be connected to the first coupling portion 231c and the second coupling portion 222a.

[0251] The gear cover 232 may be coupled to the first motor 210. The first motor 210 includes fastening ribs 215, and the gear cover 232 may include fastening bosses 237 coupled to the fastening ribs 215. A predetermined fastening member may penetrate the fastening ribs 215 and be coupled to the fastening bosses 237.

[0252] The gear cover 232 may include a first through-hole 232b through which the shaft of the first motor 210 passes. The shaft of the first motor 210 may be coupled to the first center 235a of the drive gear 235 via the first through-hole 232b. The first center 235a of the drive gear 235 may be rotatably supported in the first through-hole 232b.

[0253] The gear cover 232 may include a second through-port 232c that supports the second central part 236a of the driven gear 236. The second central part 236a of the driven gear 236 may be rotatably supported in the second through-port 232c.

[0254] When the first motor 210 rotates, the drive gear 235 and the driven gear 236 move in conjunction, allowing the bar 249 connected to the driven gear 236 to rotate. The rotation of the bar 249 allows the tray assembly 240 to rotate.

[0255] The operation of the tray assembly 240 will be explained with reference to Figures 11a and 11b. Figure 11a shows the tray assembly 240 in the ice-making position (first position), and Figure 11b shows the tray assembly 240 in the water supply position (second position).

[0256] Referring to Figure 11a, the tray assembly 240 can be positioned in the ice-making position based on the drive of the first motor 210. In the ice-making position, the first circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241 can be positioned in the first housing space 220a of the first bracket 220 without contacting the water tank 250. As an example, as shown in Figure 11a, the two first circumferential surfaces 242a can be positioned on both sides of the upper part of the water tank 250.

[0257] At the ice-making location, the water supplied to the first circumferential surface 242a by the cold air supplied through the cold air duct 400 can be cooled and undergo a phase change to a thin ice state. The state of ice cooled on the first circumferential surface 242a can be referred to as the "first state". The ice in the first state may be formed at a predetermined height on the surface of the recess 241a and protrusion 241b provided on the first circumferential surface 242a. The ice in the first state can be understood as ice having a thin layer.

[0258] Once the time set at the ice-making position has elapsed, the first motor 210 is driven, allowing the tray assembly 240 to rotate. As an example, as shown in Figure 11a, the tray assembly 240 can rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0259] During the rotation of the tray assembly 240, when the first circumferential surface 242a is in the position of the first blade 280, the first blade 280 can come into contact with the ice formed on the first circumferential surface 242a. During this contact process, the ice is separated from the first circumferential surface 242a and released.

[0260] The detached ice can flow into the compression section 300, particularly the transfer pipe 340. The detached ice has the form of powdered ice, and this state of ice can be referred to as the "second state".

[0261] The de-icing process may be carried out over a period of time during which the tray 241 rotates once (360 degrees) so that the ice generated on the two first circumferential surfaces 242a is separated by the first blade 280.

[0262] Meanwhile, during this process, the first circumferential surface 242a, from which ice removal has been completed, rotates further and passes through the water supply position as shown in Figure 11b. Water can be supplied to the first circumferential surface 242a as it passes through the water supply position.

[0263] More specifically, at the position shown in Figure 11a, the tray assembly 240 rotates counterclockwise, and ice is removed from the first circumferential surface 242a, moving to the position shown in Figure 11b. At this time, the first circumferential surface 242a comes into contact with the water in the water tank 250. The water that comes into contact with the first circumferential surface 242a remains on the first circumferential surface 242a due to surface tension.

[0264] Such water supply operations may be carried out until water is supplied to the two first circumferential surfaces 242a. That is, when the tray assembly 240 rotates once at the position shown in Figure 11a, the water supply operation will occur simultaneously with the ice removal operation.

[0265] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the compression part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the transfer pipe and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 is a plan view showing the configuration of the transfer pipe and gear device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15a is a diagram showing the piston according to an embodiment of the present invention in a first position, with ice released from the tray assembly falling into the transfer pipe; and Figure 15b is a diagram showing the piston according to an embodiment of the present invention in a second position, with the ice in the transfer pipe being compressed by the piston.

[0266] First, referring to Figures 12 to 14, the ice maker 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a compression part 300 for compressing or recombining ice (powdered ice, ice in a second state) that has been separated from the ice-making part 200.

[0267] The compression part 300 may include a second motor 310 for providing driving force. The second motor 310 may include a motor shaft 312.

[0268] The compression part 300 may include a pinion gear 315 coupled to the motor shaft 312 and rotated by the drive of the second motor 310. The pinion gear 315 may include a shaft coupling portion 314 coupled to the motor shaft 312.

[0269] The compression part 300 may include a rack gear 330 that interlocks with the pinion gear 315. The rack gear 330 may include a bar-shaped rack body 331 and a first gear 332 formed on the rack body 331 that interlocks with the pinion gear 315.

[0270] The rack gear 330 may include a rail 334 that guides the movement of the rack gear 330. For example, the rail 334 may be provided at the lower end of the rack body 331. The rail 334 can move along a rail groove 324a provided in the fastening wall 324 of the first bracket 320.

[0271] Said compression part 300 may include a piston 335 that moves together with said rack gear 330. Said piston 335 includes a portion extending in a direction corresponding to the extending direction of said rack gear 330, and may be provided to be capable of reciprocating motion. Said piston 335 can also move to the inlet side of said cylinder 360, and can also move such that at least a portion of said piston 335 is inserted into said cylinder 360.

[0272] As an example, said piston 335 may have a substantially cylindrical shape corresponding to the internal shape of the second part 342 of the transfer pipe 340.

[0273] Said compression part 300 may include a coupling bracket 336 that is provided on one side of said piston 335 and couples said piston 335 and said rack gear 330. Said coupling bracket 336 may be coupled to the rack body 331. Said coupling bracket 336 may include a rack fastening portion 336a, and said rack body 331 may include a bracket fastening portion 331a. A predetermined fastening member may couple said rack fastening portion 336a and said bracket fastening portion 331a.

[0274] Said compression part 330 may include a transfer pipe 340 that forms a storage space 341a for ice in a second state (crushed ice). Said transfer pipe 340 may be arranged on the inlet side of said cylinder 360.

[0275] Said transfer pipe 340 may include a first part 341 having said storage space 341a. Said first part 341 may be formed with an opening to allow the ice in the second state to flow in.

[0276] Said transfer pipe 340 may include a second part 342 having an internal space communicating with said storage space 341a. The piston 335 may be inserted into said second part 342.

[0277] The second part 342 may have an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the piston 335 so that it can reciprocate when the piston 335 is inserted. For example, the second part 342 may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0278] The second part 342 can be located below the transfer pipe 340 with respect to the direction of gravity. Ice flowing into the first part 341 can move downward due to gravity and flow into the internal space of the second part 342. The piston 335 can reciprocate within the internal space of the second part 342.

[0279] The transfer pipe 340 may be supported by the first bracket 320. The transfer pipe 340 may include a fastening portion 343 provided on the first part 341. The fastening portion 343 may be connected to the transfer pipe fastening portion 321d of the first bracket 320 by a predetermined fastening member. The upper part of the transfer pipe 340 can be stably supported by the first bracket 320 by fastening the fastening portion 343 and the transfer pipe fastening portion 321d.

[0280] The fastening portion 343 may be provided in multiple quantities, and the multiple fastening portions 343 may be provided on the upper and lower parts of the transfer pipe 340. Figure 13 shows multiple fastening portions 343a, 343b, and 343c.

[0281] The transfer pipe 340 includes a projection 344, and the first bracket 320 may include a projection groove 321e that accommodates the projection 344. The projection 344 may be located lower than the fastening portion 343, for example, on the second part 342. After inserting the projection 344 into the projection groove 321e and performing a preliminary assembly, the fastening portion 343 can be fastened to the transfer pipe fastening portion 321d.

[0282] The compression part 300 may include a movable lever 350 to guide the movement of ice within the transfer pipe 340. For example, the lever 350 may be rotatably mounted. The lever 350 may be referred to as a "transfer guide device".

[0283] The lever 350 may include a rotating bar 351 that forms the center of rotation of the lever 350. The rotating bar 351 may be rotatably inserted into a bar support portion 345 of the transfer pipe 340. The bar support portion 345 may have the shape of a rib protruding from the first part 341 and having a recessed groove into which the rotating bar 351 is inserted.

[0284] The lever 350 may include a plate 352 extending from the rotating bar 351. The plate 352 may be located in the center of the rotating bar 351. The plate 352 can rotate around the rotating bar 351 so that it can move inside the transfer pipe 340.

[0285] The transfer pipe 340 can form an opening 341b through which the plate 352 passes. The plate 352 can move in or out of the transfer pipe 340 through the opening 341b.

[0286] The transfer pipe 340 may include a stopper 347 provided on the outside of the opening 341b. The stopper 347 may have a shape that is bent along at least a portion of the plate 352. The stopper 347 can limit the distance the plate 352 moves when it moves outside the transfer pipe 340. The plate 352 can move outside the opening 341b to a position where it is interfered with by the stopper 347.

[0287] The plate 352 may include a rounded portion 352a that extends with a set curvature. The direction in which the rounded portion 352a is bent may correspond to a downward direction inside the transfer pipe 340.

[0288] The rounded portion 352a pressurizes the ice inside the transfer pipe 340 downwards. Therefore, the ice in the first part 341 can be easily moved to the second part 342 by the lever 350.

[0289] A hole 354 may be formed in the rounded portion 352a. The hole 354 is to prevent the rounded portion 352a from blocking the movement of ice into the transfer pipe 340, thereby restricting its movement to the lower part of the transfer pipe 340. The ice can then move to the lower part of the rounded portion 352a through the hole 354.

[0290] The compression part 300 may include a spring 358 that provides a restoring force to the lever 350. The spring 358 may be provided at one end of the rotating bar 351. For example, the spring 358 may include a torsion spring.

[0291] The spring 358 can provide a restoring force so that when the lever 350 is moved inside the transfer pipe 340 by the interlocking with the second gear 333 and the interlocking with the second gear 333 is released, the lever 350 returns to the outside of the transfer pipe 340.

[0292] The rotating bar 351 may be provided with a spring support portion 351a, and one side of the spring 358 may be supported by the spring support portion 351a.

[0293] The spring support portion 351a may protrude in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the rotation bar 351 at positions adjacent to both ends of the rotation bar 351. The restoring force of the spring 358 is transmitted to the lever 350 via the spring support portion 351a.

[0294] The compression part 300 may include a third gear 355 that transmits power to the lever 350. The third gear 355 may be connected to the other end of the rotation bar 351. The other end can be understood as an end opposite to the one end where the spring 358 is provided, among both ends of the rotation bar 351.

[0295] The third gear 355 can interlock with a second gear 333 provided on the rack gear 330. The second gear 333 may be located on a side of the first gear 332. The first gear 332 and the second gear 333 may be arranged in the axial direction on the upper surface of the rack body 331.

[0296] The first gear 332 may be configured to have gear teeth of a predetermined length in the direction from the first end of the rack body 331 toward the second end, that is, the direction toward the cylinder 360. The second gear 333 may be configured to have gear teeth of a predetermined length in the direction from the second end of the rack body 331 toward the first end. The number of gear teeth of the second gear 333 may be formed to be less than the number of gear teeth of the first gear 332.

[0297] The compression part 300 may include a cylinder 360 disposed on the outlet side of the transfer pipe 340. Ice collected at the lower portion of the transfer pipe 340 can be moved into the interior of the cylinder 360 by the piston 335.

[0298] It can be understood that the cylinder 360 also constitutes a part of the transfer pipe in a broad sense in that it guides the transfer of ice. Therefore, the transfer pipe 340 can be referred to as a "first transfer pipe", and the cylinder 360 can be referred to as a "second transfer pipe".

[0299] The compression part 300 may include a discharge pipe 370 provided on the outlet side of the cylinder 360, which provides a force to compress or recombine the ice transported within the cylinder 360. For example, the discharge pipe 370 may be configured such that its cross-sectional area decreases in the direction from which the ice is discharged.

[0300] The discharge pipe 370 may be made of an elastically deformable material that provides resistance in the direction opposite to the direction of ice transport. For example, the discharge pipe 370 may be made of silicon.

[0301] The ice powder in the cylinder 360 may be compressed or recombined by pressurizing one side of the ice with a piston 335 and providing resistance to the other side with a discharge pipe 370. The compressed ice powder is formed into ice of a predetermined shape (third state ice, molded ice) and can be discharged through the discharge section of the discharge pipe 370.

[0302] The molded ice discharged from the discharge section is intercepted by a cutter wall 380 located a set distance away from the discharge pipe 370, and in this process the molded ice is cut. The distance between the discharge pipe 370 and the cutter wall 380 can be determined according to the size of the ice desired by the consumer. The cut molded ice can flow into the ice bin 500 through the discharge port 328 of the first bracket 320.

[0303] The compression part 300 may include compression brackets 320, 327 for supporting the numerous components described above.

[0304] The compression brackets 320, 327 may include a first bracket 320 that forms a first through-hole 321a through which the motor shaft 312 of the second motor 310 can pass. The first bracket 320 may include a first wall 321 that extends toward the ice-making compartment plate 85. For example, the first wall 321 may form upper and lower walls that extend in the vertical direction. The first through-hole 321a may be formed in the first wall 321.

[0305] The first bracket 320 may include a second wall 322 that forms an outlet 328. The second wall 322 may be connected to the lower end of the first bracket 320 and extend away from the ice-making compartment plate 85. For example, the second wall 322 may form a lateral wall that extends laterally.

[0306] The compression brackets 320 and 327 may include a second bracket 327 coupled to the first bracket 320. A space may be formed between the first bracket 320 and the second bracket 327 in which the rack gear 330 and piston 335 are located.

[0307] The first wall 321 may include a number of fastening points.

[0308] The aforementioned number of fastening portions may include a first fastening portion 321b that is coupled to the first fastening portion 328a of the second bracket 327. The first fastening portion 321b may include a boss that protrudes from the first wall 321 and to which a fastening member is coupled. The first fastening portion 328a of the second bracket 327 may include a hole into which the fastening member is inserted.

[0309] The aforementioned number of fastening portions may include a second fastening portion 321c that is coupled to a second fastening portion 328b of the second bracket 327. The second fastening portion 321c may be formed on a fastening wall 324 provided at a position spaced apart from the first wall 321 in the direction toward the second bracket 327. For example, the second fastening portions 328b and 321c may include holes. A predetermined fastening member may be fastened to the second fastening portions 328b and 321c.

[0310] The upper surface of the fastening wall 324 may include a guide surface that guides the sliding of the coupling bracket 336. Since the coupling bracket 336 is supported by the guide surface, stable reciprocating motion of the rack gear 330 and piston 335 is achieved. Of course, the coupling bracket 336 may be positioned at a slight distance from the upper surface of the fastening wall 324.

[0311] The fastening wall 324 may include a rail groove 324a that guides the movement of the rail 334 of the rack gear 330. The rail groove 324a may be formed on one of the many faces that define the fastening wall 324, facing the rack gear 330. At least a portion of the rail 334 is inserted into the rail groove 324a, and the rail 334 can move along the rail groove 324a.

[0312] The second bracket 327 may include a bracket wall 328 that covers at least a portion of the rack gear 330 and the piston 335. The bracket wall 328 may include a second through hole 329 through which the central part 315a of the pinion gear 315 is rotatably supported. For example, the central part 315a may be inserted into the second through hole 329.

[0313] Next, with reference to Figures 15a and 15b, the process by which the powdered ice produced in the ice-making section 200 and supplied to the compression section 300 is compressed will be explained.

[0314] The position of the piston 335 shown in Figure 15a is defined as the first position. In the first position, the second motor 310 is stopped, and the first motor 210 of the ice-making part 200 is driven to supply powdered ice I1 to the transfer pipe 340. The state shown in Figure 15a is maintained for a first set time.

[0315] After the first set time has elapsed, when the second motor 310 is driven in the forward direction, the interlocking of the pinion gear 315 and the first gear 332 causes the piston 335 to move toward the cylinder 360 (piston forward), and in this process as well, as in 15b, the powdered ice that has accumulated in the lower part of the transfer pipe 340, i.e., the second part 342, is moved into the inside of the cylinder 360.

[0316] In Figure 15b, the piston 335 is shown to move to the inlet side of the cylinder 360; however, at least a portion of the piston 335 may be inserted into the cylinder 360 in a different manner. The position of the piston 335 in Figure 15b is defined as the second position.

[0317] When the second motor 310 is driven in the reverse direction in the state shown in Figure 15b, the piston 335 can move away from the cylinder 360 (reverse piston movement). The rack gear 330 moves together with the piston 335, and at the end of the movement of the rack gear 330, the second gear 333 can be linked with the third gear 355. Therefore, the third gear 355 rotates clockwise with respect to Figure 15c, and as a result, the lever 350 rotates clockwise with respect to the rotating bar 351.

[0318] When the lever 350 rotates, the plate 352 and the round portion 352a move to the storage space 341a of the transfer pipe 340, thereby transferring the powdered ice present in the transfer pipe 340. As an example, the ice present in the upper part of the transfer pipe 340, i.e., the first part 341 side, can be pressed downwards and moved to the lower part of the transfer pipe 340, i.e., the second part 342 side. The position of the piston 335 in Figure 15c is defined as the third position.

[0319] When the second motor 310 is driven in the forward direction in the state shown in Figure 15c, the piston 335 can move in a direction that brings it closer to the cylinder 360. When the rack gear 330 moves to allow the piston 335 to move, the linkage between the second gear 333 and the third gear 355 is released, and the restoring force of the spring 358 causes the lever 350 to move to the upright position shown in Figure 15a. The piston 335 can then return to the first position.

[0320] Through the process shown in Figures 15a to 15d, the powdered ice is compressed or recombined within the internal space of the cylinder 360 to produce molded ice I2 (see Figure 15b). The molded ice I2 can be discharged through the discharge pipe 370 when sufficient pressure is applied by the piston 335 to pass through the discharge pipe 370.

[0321] The ice discharged from the discharge pipe 370 is cut to a predetermined size while being interfered with by the cutter wall 380, and the cut ice is put into the ice bin 500.

[0322] Figure 16 is a plan view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 17 is a left side view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 18 is a right side view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 19 is a front view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0323] First, referring to Figure 16, the ice-making part 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cold air duct 400 that supplies cold air to the internal spaces of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. The internal spaces of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 can form a cold air passage.

[0324] The cold air duct 400 may be connected to the first duct 90 and placed in the space between the first duct 90 and the first bracket 220.

[0325] The cold air duct 400 may include an inlet 420 for introducing cold air. The inlet 420 may be connected to the end of the first duct 90.

[0326] The cold air duct 400 may include a discharge section 430 that discharges cold air into the cold air passage. The discharge section 430 is connected to a first opening 224b of the first bracket 220, and the cold air discharged from the discharge section 430 can flow into the interior of the first bracket 220 through the first opening 224b.

[0327] The inlet portion 420 may be formed at one end of the cold air duct 400, and the outlet portion 430 may be formed at the other end of the cold air duct 400. The one end and the other end can form opposite ends.

[0328] The cold air duct 400 may include a duct body 440 that extends from the inlet 420 toward the outlet 430 and guides the flow of cold air. The inlet 420 and the outlet 430 may be formed at both ends of the duct body 440.

[0329] The duct body 440 may be configured such that its width or flow cross-sectional area changes with respect to the direction of cold air flow. For example, the duct body 440 may be formed so that the downstream width w2 of the cold air flow is smaller than the upstream width w1.

[0330] In other words, the flow cross-sectional area on the downstream side of the duct body 440 may be formed to be smaller than the flow cross-sectional area on the upstream side. With this configuration, the flow velocity of the cold air flowing in through the inlet 420 increases and is supplied to the internal space of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0331] The width or flow cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet portion 420 may be formed to be larger than the width or flow cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge portion 430.

[0332] The sides of the duct body 440 are arranged along a virtual first extension line such that the width or flow cross-sectional area of ​​the duct body 440 changes. It may be formed to be inclined by a first angle θ1 with respect to JPEG2026169204000002.jpg7169. The first extension line JPEG2026169204000003.jpg7169 can be understood as a horizontal extension of the first bracket 220 from one side to the other.

[0333] Referring to Figure 19, the duct body 440 is a virtual second extension line that facilitates the supply of cold air to the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241, particularly the upper circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241. It may be extended so as to be tilted upward by a second angle θ2 relative to JPEG2026169204000004.jpg7169 and connected to the first opening 224b.

[0334] The aforementioned second extension JPEG2026169204000005.jpg7169 can be understood as a horizontal extension line of the first bracket 220 extending from one side to the other. As an example, the second extension line JPEG2026169204000006.jpg7169 may be a horizontal extension line passing through the inlet 420. In Figure 19, the second extension line Although JPEG2026169204000007.jpg7169 is illustrated as passing through the lower end of the inlet 420, it may be defined to pass through the central or upper end, not just the lower end.

[0335] The duct body 440 may be extended so as to be inclined with respect to the first duct 90.

[0336] A cold air passage is defined between the upper part of the tray 241 and the second wall 222 of the first bracket 220, formed along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b. The inclined shape of the duct body 440 allows cold air to be easily supplied to the cold air passage, while preventing it from flowing into the water tank 250 located below the tray 241. Therefore, freezing of the water tank 250 due to cold air is prevented.

[0337] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, both ends of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 can form openings through which cold air passes. A first opening 224b connected to the discharge section 430 of the cold air duct 400 may be formed at one end of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. A second opening 227 may be formed at the other end of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0338] The first opening 224b can be understood as an opening for cold air inflow, and the second opening 227 as an opening for cold air discharge. The second opening 227 can function as an opening through which condensed ice released from the tray 241 is discharged.

[0339] The first opening 224b is formed on one side of the first bracket 220, and the circumferential surfaces 242a, 242b of the tray 241, in particular at least a portion of the first circumferential surface 242a, may be positioned to face the first opening 224b.

[0340] In other words, the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 can be exposed to the outside of the first bracket 220 through the first opening 224b. In another view, the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b can be understood as being positioned to face the outside of the ice maker through the cold air duct 400. With such a configuration, cold air flowing in through the cold air duct 400 is easily supplied to the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b through the first opening 224b. In addition, ice separated from the first circumferential surface 242a by the first blade 280 can be easily discharged to the outside of the first bracket 220.

[0341] The second opening 227 may be formed on the other side of the second bracket 230. The other side of the second bracket 230 may be the opposite side from the side on which the first opening 224b is formed. That is, the one side and the other side of the second bracket 230 may be arranged to face each other. Cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b can cool the tray 241 as it passes over the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 and be discharged through the second opening 227.

[0342] The second opening 227 can also be defined as the space between the guide wall 226 provided on one side of the first bracket 220 and the first blade 280. The guide wall 226 is formed in a rounded shape corresponding to the curvature of the first circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241, and can guide the cold air flowing along the second wall 222 of the first bracket 220 toward the first circumferential surface 242a.

[0343] In other words, the second opening 227 can be understood as the space between the guide wall 226 and the fifth wall 225 to which the first blade 280 is mounted.

[0344] The first blade 280 may include a blade body 281 mounted on the fifth wall 225 and a tip 283 provided at the end of the blade body 281. The tip 283 may have a shape that reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​its tip portion so that it can scrape off ice that forms on the first circumferential surface 242a.

[0345] As an example, the first circumferential surface 242a may have a number of recesses 241a and a number of protrusions 241b arranged alternately in the axial direction. The chips 283 may be provided in a number of units spaced apart in the axial direction such that at least a portion of each chip 283 is inserted into the number of recesses 241a.

[0346] The end of the blade body 281 may include a flat surface to scrape off the ice that forms on the protrusion 241b.

[0347] The ice formed on the first circumferential surface 242a is detached by the first blade 280, and the detached ice powder is discharged through the second opening 227, which can then flow into the compression part 300.

[0348] The first bracket 220 may include a first accommodation space 220a in which the tray assembly 240 is housed. The axial width of the first accommodation space 220a may be larger than the axial width of the tray assembly 240.

[0349] A cold air channel may be formed between the outer wall of the tray assembly 240 and the walls of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230, through which cold air flows.

[0350] As an example, the first tray cover 246 and the gear bracket 231 of the tray assembly 240 may be separated by a first distance S1, and a first side channel may be formed in the space separated by the first distance.

[0351] The second tray cover 247 of the tray assembly 240 and the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220 are separated by a second distance S2, and a second side channel may be formed in the space separated by the second distance. In this way, the cold air supplied through the first and second side channels can cool the side walls of the tray assembly 240, so that the tray 241 is cooled quickly and the ice-making performance is improved.

[0352] The tray 241 may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity to facilitate cooling. For example, the tray 241 may be made of a metal material. Examples of such metal materials include steel or aluminum.

[0353] Figure 20 is a left-side perspective view showing the configuration of a cold air duct according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 21 is a bottom perspective view showing the configuration of a cold air duct according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0354] Referring to Figures 20 and 21, the cold air duct 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be located between the side wall 81 of the ice-making chamber 25 and the tray assembly 240. In another view, the cold air duct 400 may be located between the side wall 81 of the ice-making chamber 25 and the ice-making brackets 220, 230, in particular the first bracket 220.

[0355] The cold air duct 440 may include a duct bracket 410 connected to the side wall 81 of the ice-making chamber 25, and a duct body 440 extending from the duct bracket 410 and forming a cold air passage inside.

[0356] The duct bracket 410 may include fastening holes 415 that are fastened to the side wall 81. A predetermined fastening member may be connected to the side wall 81 via the fastening holes 415. The duct bracket 410 may be positioned to surround the inlet 420 of the cold air duct 400.

[0357] The first duct 90 (see Figure 5) may be embedded in the side wall 81, and the duct discharge section 91 formed at the end of the first duct 90 may be connected to the side wall 81. The cold air flowing through the first duct 90 can be discharged through the duct discharge section 91 and flow into the duct body 440 through the inlet section 420.

[0358] The duct body 440 may include a number of walls 441 to 444. For example, the number of walls may include a first wall 441 forming one side wall of the duct body 440, a second wall 442 forming the bottom wall, a third wall 443 forming the other side wall, and a fourth wall 444 forming the top wall. Flow channels for cold air to pass through may be formed inside the first to fourth walls 441 to 444.

[0359] An inlet 420 may be formed at one end of the duct body 440, and an outlet 430 may be formed at the other end. The duct body 440 may extend so as to be inclined from the inlet 420 toward the outlet 430.

[0360] Since the first duct 90 extends upward from the bottom of the first refrigerator door 20 to guide the flow of cold air, the cold air duct 400 may extend from the upper end of the first duct 90 so as to be inclined upward laterally to smoothly guide the cold air to the ice maker 100. For this purpose, the second wall 442 and the fourth wall 444 may extend so as to be inclined upward from the inlet 420 toward the outlet 430.

[0361] Figure 22 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the ice-making part according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 23 is a diagram showing the tray assembly and water tank removed from Figure 22; Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view cut along 24-24 in Figure 8; Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view cut along 25-25 in Figure 8; and Figure 26 is a diagram showing how cold air is supplied to the ice-making compartment and how the cold air from the ice-making compartment is returned to the outside of the refrigerator door in a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0362] Referring to Figures 22 to 26, the cold air duct 400 may be connected to the first bracket 220. For example, the discharge section 430 of the cold air duct 400 may be arranged to connect to the opening 224b of the first bracket 220.

[0363] The outer circumferential surface of the tray assembly 240 may be positioned to face the opening 224b. The cold air duct 400 may be coupled to the first bracket 220 so that the cold air flowing in through the opening 224b is supplied to the outer circumferential surface of the tray assembly 240.

[0364] The distance from the opening 224b to the outer surface of the tray assembly 240 may be smaller than the distance from the opening 224b to the water tank 250. Therefore, the cold air flowing in through the opening 224b is directed toward the outer surface of the tray assembly 240 and is restricted from flowing directly into the water tank 250.

[0365] The extension line of the cold air duct 400 corresponds to the direction in which it extends from the side wall 81 of the ice-making compartment 25 to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. When defining JPEG2026169204000008.jpg7169, the extension line JPEG2026169204000009.jpg7169 shows the extensions of the peripheral surfaces 242a and 242b of tray 241. It may be formed in a direction that is in contact with or corresponding to JPEG2026169204000010.jpg7169. Therefore, the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400 will be supplied in a direction that faces the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241.

[0366] Radial extension line passing through the center of the tray 241 When defining JPEG2026169204000011.jpg7169, the extension line JPEG2026169204000012.jpg7169 may be extended to bisect the tray 241. For example, the extension line JPEG2026169204000013.jpg7169 can be understood as a radial extension of the tray assembly 240 through bar 249.

[0367] The aforementioned extension line Using JPEG2026169204000014.jpg7169 as a reference, the first opening 224b and the second opening 227 of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 may be positioned opposite each other. Therefore, cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b can pass through the circumferential surface of the tray 241 and then be discharged through the second opening 227.

[0368] The aforementioned extension line With reference to JPEG2026169204000015.jpg7169, the cold air duct 400 and the guide wall 226 may be positioned opposite each other. The guide wall 226 may include a portion that extends circumferentially to guide the flow of cold air outward, separated from the outer circumference of the tray 241 by a set distance.

[0369] With this configuration, the cold air flowing to the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 can easily maintain its flow along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b by the guide wall 226. The cold air can then flow through the guide wall 226 to the lower part of the tray 241 where the first blade 280 is located.

[0370] The aforementioned extension line Based on JPEG2026169204000016.jpg7169, the cold air duct 400 and the first blade 280 may be positioned opposite each other. Based on the flow of cold air, the first blade 280 may be positioned downstream of the guide wall 226.

[0371] The cold air duct 400 may be positioned to supply cold air along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b of the tray 241 in a manner corresponding to the rotational direction of the tray 241. As cold air is supplied along the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b, a portion of the circumferential surface located upstream of the cold air may remain in a liquid state, while ice will gradually form on other portions of the circumferential surface located downstream of the cold air.

[0372] After the tray 241 is cooled for a set time at the ice-making position shown in Figure 24, the tray 241 rotates, for example, in a counterclockwise direction. During this process, the ice on the first surface 242a, which has been sufficiently formed by the cold air, is released by the first blade 280.

[0373] As the tray 241 continues to rotate, the ice on the opposite first surface 242a is further cooled before being detached by the first blade 280. This configuration and operation improve ice-making performance.

[0374] The aforementioned extension line The first blade 280 and the second blade 285 may be positioned facing each other, with reference to JPEG2026169204000017.jpg7169. The first wall 221 of the first bracket 220 may be provided with a blade bracket 221c on which the second blade 285 is mounted. The blade bracket 221c may protrude from the first wall 221 from one side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0375] The second blade 285 may be additionally provided between the other side wall of the tray assembly 240 and the outer wall of the gear bracket 231.

[0376] By arranging the first and second blades 280 and 285 opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray 241, the rotational resistance of the tray 241 caused by the first and second blades 280 and 285 is distributed, improving the rotational performance of the tray 241. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the cold air passage formed on the outer circumference of the tray 241 from being obstructed by the first and second blades 280 and 285.

[0377] The cold air duct 400 and the water tank 250 may be positioned on opposite sides of the center of the tray 241. For example, the cold air duct 400 may be located above the center of the tray 241, and the water tank 250 may be located below the center of the tray 241. Therefore, the cold air supplied through the cold air duct 400 is supplied to the circumferential surfaces 242a and 242b located above the center of the tray 241, and is limited to being supplied to the water tank 250. Thus, freezing of the water tank 250 is prevented.

[0378] Cold air passages may be formed between the side walls of the tray assembly 240 and the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. A first side wall passage 238a may be formed between the gear bracket 231 and one side wall of the tray assembly 240, and a second side wall passage 238b may be formed between the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220 and the other side wall of the tray assembly 240. The first and second side wall passages 238a and 238b improve the cooling performance of the tray 241.

[0379] The following describes another embodiment of the present invention.

[0380] Figure 27 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice-making part according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0381] Referring to Figure 27, the tray assembly 240a according to an embodiment of the present invention may include circumferential surfaces 1242a and 1242b. The circumferential surfaces 1242a and 1242b may include a first circumferential surface 1242a that receives water to form ice, and a second circumferential surface 1242b that extends from the first circumferential surface 1242a and has a center distance shorter than the center distance of the first circumferential surface 1242a.

[0382] The first circumferential surface 1242a may be positioned so as to be in contact with the water stored in the water storage tank 250 when it is positioned to face the water storage tank 250. On the other hand, the second circumferential surface 1242b may be positioned so as not to be in contact with the water stored in the water storage tank 250 when it is positioned to face the water storage tank 250.

[0383] The first circumferential surface 1242a may be positioned adjacent to the first blade 280 such that the first blade 280 contacts the ice on the first circumferential surface 1242a when passing around the first blade 280. Alternatively, the second circumferential surface 1242b may be positioned at a distance from the first blade 280 such that the first blade 280 does not interfere with the second circumferential surface 1242b when passing around the first blade 280.

[0384] The area of ​​the first circumferential surface 1242a may be larger than the area of ​​the second circumferential surface 1242b.

[0385] This embodiment is characterized in that, compared to the previous embodiment, the first and second circumferential surfaces 1242a and 1242b are provided singly, and the first circumferential surface has a larger area than the first circumferential surface of the previous embodiment. Therefore, the amount of ice produced in this embodiment can be greater than the amount of ice produced in the previous embodiment.

[0386] The direction in which the cold air duct 400 extends can be in contact with or corresponding to the first circumferential surface 1242a, so that the cold air supplied from the cold air duct 400 is directly supplied to the first circumferential surface 1242a. For other configurations of the ice maker, refer to the description of the previous embodiment.

[0387] Figure 28 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice-making part according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0388] Referring to Figure 28, a tray assembly 240b according to yet another embodiment of the present invention may include a circumferential surface 2242.

[0389] As an example, water may be supplied to the entire surface area of ​​the circumferential surface 2242 to generate ice.

[0390] The ice-making section according to this embodiment is characterized in that the water storage tank 250 and heater 255 are removed, and water is supplied directly to the circumferential surface 2242 via the water supply pipe 120a. The amount of water supplied via the water supply pipe 120a may be small so that the water supplied from the water supply pipe 120a does not discharge to the underside of the tray assembly 240b.

[0391] The water supply pipe 120a may be positioned to supply water toward the upper end of the tray assembly 240b. For example, the discharge portion of the water supply pipe 120a may be formed slightly higher than the upper end of the tray assembly 240b.

[0392] The water supply pipe 120a may extend through the second wall 222 of the first bracket 220 into the internal space of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0393] The water supplied to the upper end of the tray assembly 240b can spread along the circumferential surface 2242 toward the lower end of the tray assembly 240b due to gravity. Since the amount of water flowing along the circumferential surface 2242 is small, the water spreads gradually along the circumferential surface 2242 and is prevented from separating from the circumferential surface 2242.

[0394] A cold air duct 400a may be connected to the sides of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 to supply cold air. The cold air duct 400a is positioned at approximately the height of the center C of the tray assembly 240b, and the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400a can cool the circumferential surface 2242 located at the center height of the tray assembly 240b.

[0395] Furthermore, the cold air can easily cool the water present on the circumferential surface 2242 as it flows toward the upper and lower ends of the tray assembly 240b.

[0396] Figure 29 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ice-making part according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0397] Referring to Figure 29, the configuration of tray assembly 240c according to yet another embodiment of the present invention is based on the description of tray assembly 240 described above.

[0398] A water tank 250 may be positioned on one side of the tray assembly 240, for example, on the lower side. The vertical direction is defined. The vertical direction can be defined relative to the ground on which the refrigerator 1 or cabinet 10 is placed. For example, the refrigerator 1 or cabinet 10 can be understood as being placed above the ground. The vertical direction can correspond to the direction of gravity. Such definitions of direction can be applied similarly throughout the specification.

[0399] Since the water storage tank 250 is located below the tray assembly 240, ice separated from the side wall 244 of the tray assembly 240 can fall into the water storage tank 250.

[0400] A cold air duct 400b for supplying cold air may be connected to the sides of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230. The cold air duct 400b is positioned approximately higher than the center C of the tray assembly 240c, and the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400b can flow adjacent to the upper end of the tray assembly 240c. As an example, cold air can be supplied to the circumferential surface formed at the upper end of the tray assembly 240c.

[0401] In other words, the water storage tank 250 may be located on one side of the tray assembly 240c, and the cold air duct 400b may be arranged to supply cold air toward the other side, which is opposite to the one side of the tray assembly 240c.

[0402] With this configuration, since the cold air duct 400b is located relatively far away from the water storage tank 250, it is possible to prevent the cold air discharged from the cold air duct 400b from being directly supplied to the water storage tank 250. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the water in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0403] Another embodiment may be proposed.

[0404] In previous embodiments, the ice maker 100 was described as being mounted on the refrigerator door 20, but it may also be mounted on the freezer door 50 or placed inside the freezer compartment 19.

Claims

1. Cabinets forming a storage room, A door for opening and closing the aforementioned cabinet, A tray is rotatably mounted on the door and has a circumferential surface that receives water to generate ice, A water storage tank is positioned on the first side of the tray to supply water to the circumferential surface, An ice-making bracket that houses the tray and forms a path for cold air to cool the tray, A refrigerator comprising: a cold air duct connected to the ice-making bracket and arranged to supply cold air toward a second side opposite to the first side of the tray.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the cold air duct extends in the tangential direction of the circumferential surface or in a direction corresponding thereto.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a wall forming an opening connected to the cold air duct, and the cold air duct extends so as to be inclined with respect to the wall of the ice-making bracket.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the door includes an ice-making compartment in which the ice-making bracket is installed, a door duct is embedded in the wall of the ice-making compartment, and the cold air duct is arranged to connect the door duct and the ice-making bracket.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein the cold air duct extends inclined with respect to the door duct and is connected to the ice-making bracket.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the cold air duct is formed such that the width or flow cross-sectional area on the downstream side is smaller than the width or flow cross-sectional area on the upstream side, with reference to the direction of cold air flow.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a first opening for introducing cold air and a second opening for discharging cold air, and the first opening and the second opening are positioned opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the ice-making bracket protrudes toward the outer circumference of the tray and includes a guide wall that guides cold air flowing along the circumferential surface of the tray.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein the guide wall is formed to have a curvature set to correspond to the circumferential surface of the tray.

10. The tray includes a water storage tank that supplies water to the surrounding surface, The cold air duct is positioned so as to face one side with respect to the center of the tray, and the water tank is positioned on the other side with respect to the center of the tray. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the one side and the other side form opposite sides to each other.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a first wall to which a water tank is attached, and a second wall that protrudes from the first wall toward the circumferential surface of the tray and restricts cold air along the circumferential surface of the tray from flowing into the water tank.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 11, further comprising a blade installed on the second wall for separating ice formed on the circumferential surface of the tray.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising a water supply pipe for supplying water to the circumferential surface of the tray.

14. Cabinets forming a storage room, A door for opening and closing the aforementioned cabinet, A tray provided in the cabinet or door, having a circumferential surface that receives water to generate ice in a first state, An ice-making bracket that houses the tray and forms a path for cold air to cool the tray, A piston is provided to reciprocate in order to recombine the ice in a second state that has been separated from the tray, A refrigerator comprising: an ice-making bracket connected to a cold air duct for supplying cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 14, wherein the tray is rotatably provided and includes a blade provided on the outside of the rotation path of the tray for separating the ice in the first state from the circumferential surface.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 15, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a first opening to which the cold air duct is connected, and a second opening formed on the opposite side of the first opening for discharging ice in a second state, separated by the blade, to the ice-making bracket.

17. The refrigerator according to claim 16, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a guide wall formed in the second opening that guides the flow of cold air toward the circumferential surface of the tray.

18. The refrigerator according to claim 14, comprising a transfer tube for containing ice in the second state, wherein the piston is positioned inside the transfer tube to recombine the ice in the second state.

19. Cabinets forming a storage room, A door for opening and closing the aforementioned cabinet, A tray provided in the cabinet or door, having a circumferential surface that receives water to generate ice in a first state, An ice-making bracket that houses the tray and forms a first opening for introducing cold air and a second opening for discharging cold air, A refrigerator comprising: a cold air duct connected to a first opening of the ice-making bracket for supplying cold air to the circumferential surface of the tray.

20. The refrigerator according to claim 19, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a first wall that rotatably supports the tray and a guide wall that protrudes from the first wall and guides the flow of cold air along the circumferential surface, and one side of the second opening is defined by the guide wall.

21. The tray includes a water storage tank provided on one side of the tray, The refrigerator according to claim 20, wherein the ice-making bracket includes a second wall connected to the first wall to support the water tank and defining the other side of the second opening.

Images