Refrigerator

Abstract

To provide a refrigerator capable of producing ice that has sufficient strength to be chewed and eaten by consumers. [Solution] The refrigerator may include a first blade 280 positioned outside the circumferential surface 242a of the tray 241 to scrape off ice formed on the circumferential surface 242a. The first blade may include at least one tip 282, 283 having a shape corresponding to the shape of recesses and protrusions on the circumferential surface. The tip may include a first tip 282 positioned to face the protrusion and capable of scraping off ice formed on the protrusion. The tip may include a second tip 283 positioned to face the recess and capable of scraping off ice formed in the recess.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present specification relates to a refrigerator.

BACKGROUND ART

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

[0003] In general, the 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 chewing and eating ice. Accordingly, there has been a demand from consumers for ice having a relatively low strength that allows it to be chewed 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 a strength that allows consumers to chew 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] 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 cooled quickly by the supplied cold air.

[0010] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a space or surface for ice making is formed on a portion of the circumferential surface of the tray (first circumferential surface) so as to improve the ice-making performance in the tray, while a space or surface for ice making is not formed on another portion of the circumferential surface (second circumferential surface).

[0011] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which the surface state of the ice ultimately supplied forms a quasi-liquid layer, thereby increasing the user's chewing satisfaction. In particular, the embodiment aims to provide a refrigerator in which at least one of recesses and protrusions is provided on the circumferential surface of the tray in order to form smaller pieces of ice detached from the tray and to facilitate the recombination of ice in the compression section.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a number of recesses and a number of protrusions are alternately arranged on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0013] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that can improve ice release performance by providing a first blade capable of separating ice formed on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0014] In particular, the objective is to provide a refrigerator that can improve ice release performance by having the first blade include a first tip facing the recess and a second tip facing the protrusion, corresponding to the shape of the recess and protrusion formed on the first circumferential surface of the tray.

[0015] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a first blade for ice removal can be stably fixed to an ice-making bracket.

[0016] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that can prevent the tray from being hindered by frozen ice by providing a second blade on the side of the tray or tray cover that can separate the frozen ice.

[0017] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that facilitates ice removal by fixing one of the tray and the blade and rotating the other, while positioning the tray and the blade adjacent to each other.

[0018] In particular, the objective is to provide a refrigerator in which the first blade is extended at a set angle with respect to the tangential direction of the first circumferential surface of the tray so that the first circumferential surface of the tray is positioned adjacent to the first blade during the rotation of the tray, thereby facilitating ice removal.

[0019] 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, so that water can be smoothly supplied to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a refrigerator equipped with a second blade on the side of a tray or tray cover for removing frozen ice, wherein the second blade is positioned above the water tank and overlaps the internal space of the water tank so that the ice separated by the second blade falls into the water tank.

[0021] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which second blades are provided on both side walls of a tray to effectively separate ice formed between the tray and the first and second portions of an ice making bracket.

[0022] In particular, the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that is provided with the second blades to prevent the phenomenon that the driving of the tray is restricted by the restraint of ice.

[0023] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a first blade disposed outside the peripheral surface of a tray and a second blade disposed on the side wall of the tray or a tray cover are arranged opposite to each other with the center of the tray as a reference, to guide the flow of cold air and facilitate the rotation of the tray.

[0024] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that is provided with a first blade formed with a groove, so that ice separated by the first blade can be smoothly transferred toward a compression portion through the groove without being blocked by the blade.

[0025] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator configured such that the second blade has a bent shape, so that ice formed on the side surface of the tray at both side portions of the second blade can be scraped off satisfactorily. [MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS]

[0026] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray having a peripheral surface (or peripheral wall) that receives a supply of water. However, a liquid other than water may be supplied to the peripheral surface.

[0027] The peripheral surface may include a space or a surface for storing water.

[0028] The peripheral surface of the tray may include at least one of a recess and a protrusion so that the contact area with water or the contact area with cold air can be increased.

[0029] The recesses and protrusions include a number of recesses and protrusions, and the number of recesses and protrusions may be arranged alternately in the thickness direction of the tray. For example, the thickness direction of the tray may be axial.

[0030] The recess may have a shape that is depressed to a set depth, defining the depth of the space where ice is generated.

[0031] The recess may include a first portion having a first cross-sectional area (or first width) with respect to the direction of collapse, and a second portion formed at a deeper position than the first portion and having a second cross-sectional area (or second width).

[0032] The second cross-sectional area (or second width) of the second portion may be formed to be smaller than the first cross-sectional area (or first width) of the first portion.

[0033] The recess may have a trapezoidal shape, recessing between the two protrusions.

[0034] The refrigerator may include a first blade positioned outside the circumferential surface to scrape off ice formed on the circumferential surface.

[0035] The first blade may include at least one tip having a shape corresponding to the shape of the recess or protrusion.

[0036] The chip may include a first chip positioned to face the protrusion and capable of scraping off ice formed on the protrusion.

[0037] The chip may include a second chip positioned to face the recess and capable of scraping off ice formed in the recess.

[0038] At least a portion of the second chip may be inserted into the recess.

[0039] The tray includes a number of side walls connected to both ends of the circumferential surface, and the number of side walls may be spaced apart in the direction of the central axis of the tray.

[0040] The refrigerator may include a second blade positioned adjacent to at least one of the numerous side walls, which can remove unintended ice formations on the side wall.

[0041] The tray may be provided in a movable manner. For example, the tray may be provided in a rotatable manner.

[0042] As the tray moves, the circumferential surface of the tray where ice is generated can move closer to the first blade.

[0043] One side of the tray includes a water tank for supplying water to the circumferential surface of the tray, and the tray may include a first portion (for example, a lower portion) that contacts the water tank with respect to the center of the tray and a second portion (for example, an upper portion) that does not contact the water tank.

[0044] The first blade may be positioned adjacent to the first portion of the tray and arranged to scrape off the ice formed on the circumferential surface.

[0045] The first blade is positioned at a set angle with respect to the tangential direction of the circumferential surface of the tray, so that ice generated on the circumferential surface during the rotation of the tray is easily removed by the first blade. For example, the set angle may be 90 degrees or an acute angle less than 90 degrees.

[0046] The second blade is positioned at a set angle with respect to the side of the tray so that ice generated on the side of the tray as the tray rotates is easily removed by the second blade. For example, the set angle may be an acute angle of 90 degrees or less.

[0047] Since the first and second blades are positioned opposite each other and spaced apart with respect to the center of the tray, the flow of cold air passing around the tray is not obstructed by the first and second blades. In addition, although the first and second blades can act as resistance to the rotation of the tray, the opposite arrangement of the first and second blades has the effect of evenly distributing the resistance to the rotation of the tray to both sides of the tray.

[0048] The second blade is positioned in an area adjacent to the cold air duct with respect to the center of the tray, thereby preventing cold air flowing in from the cold air duct from flowing into the water tank. The second blade may also be positioned in the space between the cold air duct and the water tank.

[0049] Since the second blade is positioned above the water tank and overlaps with the internal space of the water tank, the ice separated by the second blade can easily fall into the water tank.

[0050] The first blade includes a number of chips capable of scraping ice from its circumferential surface and grooves formed between the number of chips, so that the ice separated by the first blade is smoothly transported toward the compression section through the grooves without being blocked by the blade.

[0051] The second blade includes multiple parts that extend from both ends of the blade body toward the tray, allowing it to effectively scrape off ice that has formed on the sides of the tray.

[0052] The tray may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity to facilitate cooling. For example, the tray may be made of a metal material. Examples of such metal materials include steel or aluminum.

[0053] In one aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a tray assembly comprising a cabinet forming a storage compartment, a door for opening and closing the cabinet, a first wall provided on the cabinet or door for receiving a water supply and generating ice, and a second wall connected to the first wall and extending in a direction different from the first wall.

[0054] The refrigerator may include a first blade positioned adjacent to the first wall to scrape off ice formed on the first wall, and a second blade positioned adjacent to the second wall to scrape off ice formed on the second wall.

[0055] The first wall may include a circumferential wall that extends circumferentially with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

[0056] The second wall may include side walls that extend radially from both ends of the peripheral wall.

[0057] The tray assembly may be provided so as to move relative to the first blade with respect to the first wall.

[0058] The tray assembly may be provided so as to move relative to the second blade with respect to the second wall.

[0059] The first blade and the second blade may be positioned opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

[0060] The distance from the center of the tray assembly to the first blade may be greater than the distance from the center of the tray assembly to the second blade.

[0061] The refrigerator may further include a cold air duct provided on one side of the tray and supplying cold air toward the tray, and a water tank provided on the other side of the tray and supplying water to the tray.

[0062] The second blade may be positioned in the space between the cold air duct and the water storage tank so as to restrict the cold air flowing in from the cold air duct from flowing directly into the water storage tank.

[0063] The second walls may be provided in multiple quantities on both sides of the tray assembly, and the second blades may be provided in multiple quantities corresponding to the multiple second walls.

[0064] The plurality of second blades may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

[0065] The tray assembly includes a water reservoir provided on one side to supply water to the first wall, and at least one of the second wall and the second blade may be arranged to overlap the internal space of the water reservoir.

[0066] The first wall may include at least one of a recess and a projection that form a space or surface for water storage.

[0067] The first blade may have a shape corresponding to the recess and the protrusion.

[0068] The first blade may include a first tip positioned to face the protrusion and scrape off ice that has frozen onto the protrusion, and a second tip positioned to face the recess and scrape off ice that has frozen into the recess.

[0069] At least a portion of the second chip may be inserted into the recess.

[0070] The second chips may be provided in a plurality, and the first blade may include guide grooves formed between the plurality of second chips to guide the discharge of detached ice.

[0071] The second blade may include a blade body facing the second wall, two bent portions extending toward the second wall from both ends of the blade body, and a groove formed between the two bent portions to guide the discharge of ice.

[0072] 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 assembly provided in the cabinet or door and including a peripheral wall that receives a water supply to generate ice and side walls connected to both ends of the peripheral wall, and a blade positioned adjacent to the side wall to separate the ice formed on the side wall.

[0073] The refrigerator includes an ice-making bracket that supports the tray assembly and has walls facing the side walls of the tray assembly, and the blades may be positioned in the space between the side walls of the tray assembly and the walls of the ice-making bracket.

[0074] The tray assembly may be rotatably mounted, and the blade may be fixed at a set distance from the center of rotation of the tray assembly. [Effects of the Invention]

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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.

[0079] According to embodiments of the present invention, the tray is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material, and can be rapidly cooled by cold air.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the circumferential surface of the tray (the first circumferential surface) forms a space or surface for ice making, while another portion of the circumferential surface (the second circumferential surface) does not form a space or surface for ice making, thereby improving the ice-making performance of the tray.

[0081] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one of a recess and a protrusion is provided on the circumferential surface of the tray, thereby reducing the size of the ice that detaches from the tray and facilitating the recombination of the ice in the compression section.

[0082] According to an embodiment of the present invention, ice is easily formed by arranging a number of recesses and a number of protrusions alternately on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0083] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice-removal performance can be improved by providing a first blade that can separate the ice formed on the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0084] In particular, the de-icing performance can be improved by arranging the first blade to include a first tip facing the recess and a second tip facing the protrusion, corresponding to the shape of the recess and protrusion formed on the first circumferential surface of the tray.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first blade for ice removal can be stably fixed to the ice-making bracket.

[0086] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a second blade capable of separating frozen ice is provided on the side of the tray or tray cover, thereby preventing the tray's movement from being hindered by the frozen ice.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the present invention, ice removal is easily performed by fixing one of the tray and the blade and rotating the other, while positioning the tray and the blade adjacent to each other.

[0088] In particular, since the first blade is extended at an angle set with respect to the tangential direction of the first circumferential surface, the first circumferential surface of the tray is positioned adjacent to the first blade as the tray rotates, making ice removal easier.

[0089] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since at least a portion of the tray is positioned to be in contact with the water tank, water is supplied smoothly to the circumferential surface of the tray.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a second blade for removing frozen ice is provided on the side of a tray or tray cover, and the second blade is positioned above the water tank so as to overlap with the internal space of the water tank, allowing the ice separated by the second blade to easily fall into the water tank.

[0091] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing the second blade on both side walls of the tray, ice that forms between the tray and the first and second ice-making brackets can be effectively separated. In particular, the provision of the second blade prevents the tray from being restricted in its movement due to ice constraints, thereby enabling smooth tray movement.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first blade positioned on the outer surface of the tray and a second blade positioned on the side wall of the tray or tray cover are positioned opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray, thereby guiding the flow of cold air and facilitating the rotation of the tray.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first blade having grooves formed on it is provided, so that the ice separated by the first blade is smoothly transferred towards the compression section through the grooves without being blocked by the blade.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second blade is configured to have a bent shape, allowing the ice formed on the sides of the tray to be effectively scraped off by both sides of the second blade. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0095] [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 perspective view showing the arrangement of the tray and blade according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a side view showing the arrangement of the tray and blade according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a plan view showing the relative arrangement of the tray and the first blade according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 19-19 in Figure 18. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the first blade according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21]Figure 21 is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the first blade according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 22-22 in Figure 20. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a front perspective view showing the arrangement of the first bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a rear perspective view showing the arrangement of the first bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a front perspective view showing the arrangement of the gear bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a rear perspective view showing the arrangement of the gear bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a side view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the ice-making part and the compression part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a drawing showing a first blade arranged on the outer side of the circumferential surface of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a schematic diagram showing how the blades act on the tray when the tray according to an embodiment of the present invention rotates. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 31-31 in Figure 29. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 32-32 in Figure 29. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 33-33 in Figure 17. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first blade according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the second blade and tray according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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."

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] The aforementioned number of walls can constitute at least a portion of the door liner 70.

[0130] 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.

[0131] The lower wall 80a can form a dispensing section 84 for dispensing ice stored in the ice bin 500 to the dispenser 40.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] The detailed configuration of the ice maker 100 will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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).

[0148] 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."

[0149] The first motor 210 may be connected to the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] 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.

[0157] The plate connecting portion 229 may be provided in multiple locations on the ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] The discharge pipe 370 may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as silicone, in order to provide the resistance.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] From another perspective, the tray 241 may have a disc shape or a plate shape including both side walls and a circumferential surface.

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] 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.

[0181] 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.

[0182] The configuration of the recess 241a and the protrusion 241b allows us to understand that the first circumferential surface 242a includes an uneven structure.

[0183] The recesses 241a and protrusions 241b may each be provided in large numbers. The structure may have multiple recesses 241a and multiple protrusions 241b arranged alternately.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] 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.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] 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.

[0201] 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.

[0202] 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.

[0203] 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.

[0204] The tray covers 246 and 247 may be made of a material with low thermal conductivity, such as a non-metallic material, so as to limit ice formation. Plastic material can be proposed as an example of the non-metallic material.

[0205] 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.

[0206] 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.

[0207] 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.

[0208] 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 circumferential surface of the first tray cover 246.

[0209] 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.

[0210] The first tray cover 246 may include a first communication portion 246f that communicates with the tray hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the tray hole 245 via the first communication portion 246f.

[0211] 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 (or width) of the second cover wall 247a 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.

[0212] 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 through-hole 247b having a configuration corresponding to the first through-hole 246b of the first tray cover 246.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] The second tray cover 247 may include a second communication portion 247f that communicates with the tray hole 245 of the tray 241. Cold air can pass through the first communication portion 246f and the tray hole 245 to the second communication portion 247f.

[0217] Let me explain from a different perspective.

[0218] 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.

[0219] In yet another view, the first and second tray covers 246 and 247 may not be provided, and the tray assembly 240 may be configured to include only the tray 241.

[0220] The ice-making part 200 may include a first bracket 220 that forms the first storage space 220a of the tray assembly 240.

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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.

[0227] 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.

[0228] 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.

[0229] The water storage tank 250 includes a case having a predetermined capacity, and the walls of the case may be provided with a heater 255 that provides heat to prevent the water stored in the water storage tank 250 from freezing. The heater 255 may be referred to as a "water storage tank heater".

[0230] 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.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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.

[0233] 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 when the tray 241 rotates.

[0234] 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.

[0235] 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.

[0236] 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.

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 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.

[0240] 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.

[0241] 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.

[0242] 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.

[0243] 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.

[0244] 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.

[0245] 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.

[0246] 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.

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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.

[0249] The space between the guide wall 226 and the first blade 280 forms a second opening 227 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.

[0250] 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.

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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.

[0253] 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.

[0254] 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.

[0255] 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.

[0256] The first central part 235a and the second central part 236a may each include brackets that form holes.

[0257] 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".

[0258] 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.

[0259] 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.

[0260] 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.

[0261] 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.

[0262] 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.

[0263] 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.

[0264] 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).

[0265] 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.

[0266] 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.

[0267] 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.

[0268] During the rotation process of the tray assembly 240, when the first peripheral surface 242a is at the position where the first blade 280 is located, the first blade 280 can come into contact with the ice formed on the first peripheral surface 242a. During the contact process, the ice will be separated from the first peripheral surface 242a and released from the ice making surface.

[0269] The ice released from the ice making surface can flow into the compression part 300, particularly the transfer pipe 340. The released ice has the form of powdery ice, and such an ice state can be referred to as the "second state".

[0270] The ice releasing process may be performed during the interval in which the tray 241 makes one full rotation (360-degree rotation) so that the ice formed on the two first peripheral surfaces 242a is separated by the first blade 280.

[0271] Meanwhile, in this process, the first peripheral surface 242a that has completed ice releasing will additionally rotate and pass through the water supply position as shown in Fig. 11b. Water can be supplied to the first peripheral surface 242a while passing through the water supply position.

[0272] Specifically, at the position of Fig. 11a, the tray assembly 240 rotates counterclockwise while ice releasing is performed on the first peripheral surface 242a, and moves to the position of Fig. 11b. At this time, the first peripheral surface 242a comes into contact with the water in the water storage tank 250. The water in contact with the first peripheral surface 242a will remain on the first peripheral surface 242a due to surface tension.

[0273] Such a water supply operation may be performed until water is supplied to the two first peripheral surfaces 242a. That is, when the tray assembly 240 makes one full rotation at the position of Fig. 11a, both the ice releasing and the water supply operation are performed together.

[0274] 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.

[0275] 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.

[0276] The compression part 300 may include a second motor 310 for providing driving force. The second motor 310 may include a motor shaft 312.

[0277] 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.

[0278] 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.

[0279] 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.

[0280] The compression part 300 may include a piston 335 that moves together with the rack gear 330. The piston 335 may include a portion that extends in a direction corresponding to the extension direction of the rack gear 330 and may be configured to reciprocate. The piston 335 may also move towards the inlet side of the cylinder 360, and at least a portion of the piston 335 may move so as to be inserted into the cylinder 360.

[0281] As an example, the piston 335 may have a substantially cylindrical shape corresponding to the internal shape of the second part 342 of the transfer pipe 340.

[0282] The compression part 300 is provided on one side of the piston 335 and may include a coupling bracket 336 that connects the piston 335 and the rack gear 330. The coupling bracket 336 may be coupled to the rack body 331. The coupling bracket 336 includes a rack fastening portion 336a, and the rack body 331 may include a bracket fastening portion 331a. A predetermined fastening member can connect the rack fastening portion 336a and the bracket fastening portion 331a.

[0283] The compression part 330 may include a transfer pipe 340 that forms a containment space 341a for the second state of ice (powdered ice). The transfer pipe 340 may be located on the inlet side of the cylinder 360.

[0284] The transfer pipe 340 may include a first part 341 having the containment space 341a. The first part 341 may have an opening to allow ice in the second state to flow in.

[0285] The transfer pipe 340 may include a second part 342 having an internal space that communicates with the housing space 341a. A piston 335 may be inserted into the second part 342.

[0286] 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.

[0287] 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.

[0288] 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.

[0289] The fastening portion 343 may be provided in multiple quantities, and these 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.

[0290] 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.

[0291] The compression part 300 may include a lever 350 movably provided to guide the movement of ice in the transfer pipe 340. As an example, the lever 350 may be rotatably provided. The lever 350 may be referred to as a "transfer guide device".

[0292] The lever 350 may include a rotation bar 351 forming the rotation center of the lever 350. The rotation bar 351 may be rotatably inserted into the bar support portion 345 of the transfer pipe 340. The bar support portion 345 may have a shape of a rib that protrudes from the first part 341 and has a recessed groove into which the rotation bar 351 is inserted.

[0293] The lever 350 may include a plate 352 extending from the rotation bar 351. The plate 352 may be provided at the central portion of the rotation bar 351. The plate 352 can rotate around the rotation bar 351 so as to be movable into the interior of the transfer pipe 340.

[0294] The transfer pipe 340 may define an opening 341b through which the plate 352 passes. The plate 352 can move into or out of the interior of the transfer pipe 340 through the opening 341b.

[0295] The transfer pipe 340 may include a stopper 347 provided on the outer side of the opening 341b. The stopper 347 may have a shape bent along at least a part of the periphery of the plate 352. The stopper 347 can limit the movement distance of the plate 352 when the plate 352 moves to the outside of the transfer pipe 340. The plate 352 can move to the outside of the opening 341b up to a position where it interferes with the stopper 347.

[0296] 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.

[0297] 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.

[0298] 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.

[0299] 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. As an example, the spring 358 may include a torsion spring.

[0300] 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.

[0301] 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.

[0302] The spring support portion 351a can protrude in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the rotating bar 351 at positions adjacent to both ends of the rotating bar 351. The restoring force of the spring 358 is transmitted to the lever 350 via the spring support portion 351a.

[0303] 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 rotating bar 351. The other end can be understood as the end of the rotating bar 351 opposite to the end to which the spring 358 is provided.

[0304] The third gear 355 can be linked to a second gear 333 provided on the rack gear 330. The second gear 333 may be located to the side of the first gear 332. The first gear 332 and the second gear 333 may be arranged axially on the upper surface of the rack body 331.

[0305] The first gear 332 may be configured to have gear teeth for a predetermined length in the direction from the first end to the second end of the rack body 331, that is, in the direction toward the cylinder 360. The second gear 333 may be configured to have gear teeth for a predetermined length in the direction from the second end to the first end of the rack body 331. The number of gear teeth of the second gear 333 may be less than the number of gear teeth of the first gear 332.

[0306] The compression part 300 may include a cylinder 360 located on the outlet side of the transfer pipe 340. Ice that has accumulated at the bottom of the transfer pipe 340 can be moved into the cylinder 360 by the piston 335.

[0307] The cylinder 360 can also be understood as constituting a part of the transfer pipe in a broad sense, as it guides the transfer of ice. Therefore, the transfer pipe 340 can be referred to as the "first transfer pipe," and the cylinder 360 can be referred to as the "second transfer pipe."

[0308] 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.

[0309] 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.

[0310] 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.

[0311] 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.

[0312] The compression part 300 may include compression brackets 320, 327 for supporting the numerous components described above.

[0313] 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.

[0314] 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.

[0315] 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.

[0316] The first wall 321 may include a number of fastening points.

[0317] 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.

[0318] 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.

[0319] 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.

[0320] 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.

[0321] 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.

[0322] 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.

[0323] 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.

[0324] 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.

[0325] 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.

[0326] 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.

[0327] 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.

[0328] 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.

[0329] 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.

[0330] 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.

[0331] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the tray and blade according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the tray and blade according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 18 is a plan view showing the relative arrangement of the tray and the first blade according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 19-19 in Figure 18.

[0332] Referring to Figures 16 and 17, the tray assembly 240 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray 241 that forms a water storage space.

[0333] The tray assembly 240 may include a first tray cover 246 that covers one of the side walls of the tray 241.

[0334] The tray assembly 240 may include a second tray cover 247 that covers the other side wall of the tray 241.

[0335] The tray assembly 240 may include blades 280, 285 around it for separating the ice that has frozen in the tray assembly 240 from the tray assembly 240.

[0336] A plurality of the blades 280, 285 may be provided, and the plurality of blades 280, 285 may be arranged so as to face different walls of the tray assembly 240.

[0337] The blades 280, 285 may include a first blade 280 that is positioned to face the peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240.

[0338] The first blade 280 may be connected to the first bracket 220. For example, the first blade 280 may be mounted on the fifth wall 225 of the first bracket 220 (see Figure 23).

[0339] The first blade 280 includes a blade body 281 that forms a fastening hole 280a into which a fastening member is connected, and the fastening member may be fastened to the fifth wall 225 through the fastening hole 280a.

[0340] Another example of the installation position of the first blade 280 is proposed. The first blade 280 may be installed on other components located around the tray assembly 240, provided that it can face the peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240.

[0341] As a first example, the first blade 280 may be installed at other locations on the first bracket 220, for example, on the first wall 221 or the second wall 222.

[0342] As a second example, the first blade 280 may be installed on the water storage tank 250, for example, on the outer wall of the water storage tank 250.

[0343] As a third example, the first blade 280 may be installed in the transfer pipe 340 into which the separated ice flows, for example, on the outer or inner wall of the transfer pipe 340.

[0344] The blades 280, 285 may include a second blade 285 positioned to face the side walls 246a, 247a of the tray assembly 240. The side walls 246a, 247a of the tray assembly 240 may include the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246 and the second cover wall 247a of the second tray cover 247.

[0345] The second blade 285 may be connected to ice-making brackets 220 and 230.

[0346] The second blade 285 includes a blade body 286 that forms a fastening hole 287 into which a fastening member is connected, and the fastening member may be fastened to the ice-making brackets 220, 230 via the fastening hole 287.

[0347] The second blade 285 may include a tip 288 that extends from the blade body 286 toward the side wall of the tray assembly 240. The tip 288 may be positioned to face the side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0348] The tip 288 may include an inclined surface that is thinner than the blade body 286 to facilitate scraping off ice that has frozen onto the side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0349] Multiple second blades 285 may be provided so as to be arranged on both sides of the tray assembly 240.

[0350] The plurality of second blades 285 may include one-sided blades 285a connected to the first bracket 220 of the ice-making brackets 220, 230. For example, the one-sided blades 285a may be connected to the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220.

[0351] The plurality of second blades 285 may include other blades 285b connected to the second bracket 230 of the ice-making brackets 220, 230. For example, the other blades 285b may be connected to the bracket wall 231a of the gear bracket 231 of the second bracket 230.

[0352] The second blade 285 may be positioned to be inclined with respect to the side wall of the tray assembly 240. For example, the blade body 286 of the second blade 285 may extend from the portion coupled to the ice-making brackets 220, 230 toward the side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0353] Referring to Figure 17, the first angle θ1 formed by the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246 and the other side blade 285b can form an acute angle of 90 degrees or less. The second angle θ2 formed by the second cover wall 247a of the second tray cover 247 and the one side blade 285a can form an acute angle of 90 degrees or less.

[0354] As shown in Figure 16, when the tray assembly 240 rotates clockwise around the central bracket 243, the side walls of the tray assembly 240 rotate toward the second blade 285, and the ice separated from the side walls can fall into the reservoir 250 beneath the second blade 28.

[0355] For this purpose, when the tray assembly 240 is divided vertically, i.e., into two parts, the side closer to the water tank 250 and the side further away from the central bracket 243, the second blade 285 may be positioned on the side wall closer to the water tank 250.

[0356] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 16, when the tray assembly 240 rotates clockwise, the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240 rotates toward the first blade 280, and the ice separated from the first peripheral wall 242a can fall into the transfer pipe 340 below the second blade 28.

[0357] The first extension line extends the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246. JPEG2026169208000002.jpg77 and the second extension line extending the first cover wall 246a of the first tray cover 246. When defining JPEG2026169208000003.jpg77, the first and second extensions JPEG2026169208000004.jpg717 can pass through the internal space of the water storage tank 250.

[0358] The second blades 285a and 285b, positioned adjacent to the first and second cover walls 246a and 247a, may be positioned above the water tank 250 so as to overlap with the internal space of the water tank 250. With this configuration, the ice separated from the first and second cover walls 246a and 247a by the second blades 285 can be easily fed into the water tank 250.

[0359] In order to produce and supply ice with a strength that is easy for the user to chew, the surface of the ultimately supplied ice needs to form a quasi-liquid layer. This quasi-liquid layer can be understood as a state in which the surface is not hard frozen, but rather slightly thawed or slightly wet.

[0360] To facilitate the formation of the quasi-liquid layer, methods can be used such as forming small ice particles before recombination (compression) via the compression part 300, compressing the ice particles to form predetermined voids (air layers) between the particles, or providing predetermined heat (heating) during the compression process.

[0361] This embodiment is characterized by the easy formation of a quasi-liquid layer by forming small ice particles on the circumferential surface of the tray 241.

[0362] The first circumferential surface 242a may include a recess 241a having a set depth and a projection 241b connected to the end of the recess 241a.

[0363] The recess 241a may have a length in the circumferential direction along the first circumferential surface 242a. During the rotation of the tray 241 when de-icing, the ice in the recess 241a formed in the circumferential direction is easily separated by the first blade 280.

[0364] The recess 241a may have a length in the circumferential direction along the first circumferential surface 242a. During the rotation of the tray 241 when de-icing, the ice on the circumferentially formed protrusion 241b is easily separated by the first blade 280.

[0365] The recesses 241a and protrusions 241b may each be provided in large numbers. The protrusions 241b can be located between the large number of recesses 241a. The recesses 241a can be located between the large number of protrusions 241b.

[0366] The numerous recesses 241a and numerous protrusions 241b may be arranged alternately with respect to each other in the axial direction.

[0367] The recess 241a can form a water storage space. Of course, a water storage space may also be formed in the protrusion 241b. However, since the recess 241a forms a storage space of a set depth, the thickness of the ice formed in the recess 241a may be greater than the thickness of the ice formed in the protrusion 241b.

[0368] Water is stored in the numerous recesses 241a, and as the stored water freezes, the effect is obtained in which small ice particles are separated in advance by the protrusions 241b. At this time, the ice that freezes on the protrusions 241b has a relatively small thickness and should act to connect the ice generated in the numerous recesses 241a with a weak force. Then, the ice that freezes on the protrusions 241b will be easily separated or broken by the first blade 280.

[0369] The recess 241a and projection 241b of the tray 241 may be arranged in a direction facing the first blade 280.

[0370] The blade body 281 of the first blade 280 may have the shape of a thin plate and be configured to have a length that extends upward from the lower end of the first bracket 220.

[0371] The first blade 280 may extend from the blade body 281 and include tips 282, 283 for scraping ice generated on the tray 241.

[0372] The tips 282 and 283 may include a first tip 282 that extends inclined from the blade body 281. The first tip 282 is positioned to face the projection 241b of the tray 241 and can be positioned adjacent to the projection 241b when the tray 241 rotates so as to be able to scrape off ice formed on the projection 241b.

[0373] However, in order to prevent the tray 241 from being damaged by the first chip 282, the first chip 282 is not positioned to be in direct contact with the protrusion 241b.

[0374] The tips 282 and 283 may include a second tip 283 that extends inclined from the blade body 281. The second tip 283 is positioned to face the recess 241a of the tray 241 and can be positioned adjacent to the recess 241a when the tray 241 rotates so as to be able to scrape off ice formed in the recess 241a.

[0375] However, the second chip 283 is not positioned to be in direct contact with the recess 241a so as not to cause damage to the tray 241 by the second chip 283.

[0376] At least a portion of the second chip 283 may be positioned to be inserted into the recess 241a. Therefore, the end of the second chip 283 may be positioned closer to the tray 241 than the end of the first chip 282.

[0377] The shape of the recess 241a may be a polygonal shape, for example a trapezoidal shape, in which the width (or cross-sectional area) narrows in the depth direction of the recess 241a. With such a shape, it is easy to form the recess 241a by a mold when manufacturing the tray 241, and the ice release performance is improved because the contact area with ice is small at the deepest end of the recess 241a.

[0378] A plurality of the second chips 283 may be provided. The plurality of second chips 283 may be spaced apart in the axial direction, and at least a portion of the first chip 282 may be placed in the space between the plurality of second chips 283.

[0379] When the tray 241 and the first blade 280 are positioned in their closest adjacent positions to each other and ice is being removed, the first and second tips 282 and 283 and the recess 241a and protrusion 241b can move relative to each other while facing each other.

[0380] On the other hand, the formation of the recess 241a and the protrusion 241b increases the contact area between the first circumferential surface 242a and water, thereby stably maintaining the water supply state on the first circumferential surface 242a.

[0381] Figure 20 is a forward perspective view showing the configuration of the first blade according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 21 is a rear perspective view showing the configuration of the first blade according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along line 22-22 in Figure 20.

[0382] Referring to Figures 20 to 22, the first blade 280 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a blade body 281 that forms a fastening hole 280a. The blade body 281 may include a first surface 281a that defines the outer surface of the first blade 280 and a second surface 281b that defines the inner surface of the first blade 280.

[0383] The first blade 280 may include a first tip 282 having an inclined surface that extends from the blade body 281 so as to be inclined toward the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241. The end 282a of the first tip 282 may face the projection 241b.

[0384] The first blade 280 may include a second tip 283 connected to the blade body 281 and positioned to face the recess 241a. The second tip 283 may include a tip body 283a protruding from the inclined surface of the first tip 282.

[0385] The tip body 283a may include a first end portion 283b connected to the blade body 281. The tip body 283a may include an inclined surface that extends from the first end portion 283b so as to be inclined toward the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241.

[0386] The inclined surface of the first chip 282 can be referred to as the "first inclined surface," and the inclined surface of the second chip 283 can be referred to as the "second inclined surface."

[0387] The chip body 283a may include a second end 283c that forms the end opposite the first end 283b. The second end 283c may face the recess 241a.

[0388] The second end 283c may protrude beyond the end 282a of the first tip 282 and extend toward the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241. The second end 283c may be inserted into the recess 241a.

[0389] The first width w1 of the first end 283b of the second tip 283 may be formed to be larger than the second width w2 of the second end 283c. The width or cross-sectional area of ​​the second tip 283 may be smaller in the direction from the first end 283b toward the second end 283c. As an example, the portion of the second tip 283 that protrudes beyond the end of the first tip 282 may have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section.

[0390] Referring to Figure 22, the chip body 283a of the second chip 283 can protrude outward by a third width w3 from the outer surface of the first chip 282. That is, the thickness of the second chip 283 may be greater than the thickness of the first chip 282.

[0391] Since the thickness of the ice generated in the recess 241a is greater than the thickness of the ice generated in the protrusion 241b, detachment of the ice is easily performed via the relatively thicker second tip 283. This also reinforces the strength of the second tip 283.

[0392] Figure 23 is a front perspective view showing the arrangement of the first bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 24 is a rear perspective view showing the arrangement of the first bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0393] Referring to Figures 23 and 24, the first bracket 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include mounting positions or spaces for blades 280 and 285.

[0394] The first bracket 220 may include a first wall 221 that supports the tray assembly 240. The first wall 221 may include an insertion hole 221a into which at least a portion of the central bracket 243 or bar 249 of the tray assembly 240 is inserted.

[0395] The first bracket 220 includes a second wall 222 connected to the upper end of the first wall 221, the second wall 222 may provide a guide wall 226 that guides the flow of cold air inside the first bracket 220. The guide wall 226 may extend downward from the second wall 222 in a rounded or sloping manner.

[0396] The first bracket 220 may include a number of walls that define the mounting space for the water tank 250. The first blade 280 may be mounted on the number of walls.

[0397] The plurality of walls may include a third wall 253 that defines the lower end of the first bracket 220, and fourth and fifth walls 224 and 225 that extend from both sides of the third wall 253 toward the tray assembly 240.

[0398] The first blade 280 may be positioned lower than the insertion hole 221a so that it can scrape off ice that has frozen to the bottom of the tray assembly 240.

[0399] More specifically, the first blade 280 may be installed on the fifth wall 225. The water storage tank 250 may be provided on the inner side of the fifth wall 225, and the first blade 280 may be provided on the outer side of the fifth wall 225.

[0400] The fourth wall 224 may include a first opening 224b for introducing cold air from the cold air duct 400. The first opening 224b may include a portion that is positioned higher than the insertion hole 221a so that the cold air flowing in from the first opening 224b is supplied to the peripheral walls 242a, 242b of the tray assembly 240.

[0401] The first bracket 220 may be fitted with a second blade 285, for example, a one-sided blade 285a. For example, the one-sided blade 285a may be provided on the first wall 221. The first wall 221 may include an inner surface facing one side wall of the tray assembly 240. The one-sided blade 285a may be provided on the inner surface of the first wall 221.

[0402] The first bracket 220 is provided on the back surface, i.e., the outer surface, of the surface to which the second blade 285 is provided, and may include a boss 221d for fixing the second blade 285 to the first wall 221.

[0403] The boss 221d may protrude from the outer surface of the first wall 221 and may include a fastening hole into which a fastening member is coupled. The fastening member may pass through the fastening hole of the boss 221d and be coupled to a fastening hole 287 of a second blade 285 provided on the inner surface of the first wall 221.

[0404] The first bracket 220 may include plate connecting portions 229, 229a supported by the ice-making compartment plate 85. The plate connecting portions 229, 229a may include a first plate connecting portion 229 that is connected to a connecting hole 88 formed in the support wall 85a of the ice-making compartment plate 85. For example, the first plate connecting portion 229 may include a rib protruding from the first bracket 220.

[0405] The plate connecting portions 229 and 229a may include a second plate connecting portion 229a that is connected to the support wall 85a of the ice-making compartment plate 85. For example, the second plate connecting portion 229a may include a boss protruding from the first bracket 220. A predetermined fastening member may be fastened to the support wall 85a by passing through the boss.

[0406] Figure 25 is a front perspective view showing the arrangement of the gear bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 26 is a rear perspective view showing the arrangement of the gear bracket and the first and second blades according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0407] Referring to Figures 25 and 26, the second bracket 230 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a gear bracket 231 and a gear cover 232 (see Figure 9). Gear assemblies 235 and 236 may be housed in the internal space defined by the gear bracket 231 and the gear cover 232.

[0408] The gear bracket 231 may include a bracket wall 231a facing the side wall of the tray assembly 240. The bracket wall 231a can support the gear assemblies 235 and 236.

[0409] The bracket wall 231a may include a first through-hole 1231 into which the central part 236a of the driven gear 236 or at least a portion of the bar 249 is inserted. The first through-hole 1231 may be formed in a wall that protrudes from the bracket wall 231a toward the tray assembly 240.

[0410] The bracket wall 231a may include a second through-hole 1232 into which at least a portion of the central part 235a of the drive gear 235 is inserted. The first through-hole 1231 and the second through-hole 1232 may be separated by a distance corresponding to the sum of the radii of the drive gear 235 and the driven gear 236.

[0411] A second blade 285, for example, the other blade 285b, may be mounted on the gear bracket 231. For example, the other blade 285b may be provided on the bracket wall 231a. The bracket wall 231a may include an outer surface facing the other side wall of the tray assembly 240. The other blade 285b may be provided on the outer surface of the bracket wall 231a.

[0412] The gear bracket 231 may include a boss 231e provided on the back surface, i.e., the inner surface, of the surface to which the second blade 285 is provided, for fixing the second blade 285 to the bracket wall 231a.

[0413] The boss 231e may protrude from the inner surface of the bracket wall 231a and include a fastening hole into which a fastening member is coupled. The fastening member may pass through the fastening hole of the boss 231e and be coupled to a fastening hole 287 of a second blade 285 provided on the outer surface of the bracket wall 231a.

[0414] Thus, the first bracket 220 and the second bracket 230 form a space for housing the tray assembly 240, and one wall of the first bracket 220 and one wall of the second bracket 230 may be positioned to face both side walls of the tray assembly 240.

[0415] By providing second blades 285a and 285b on one wall of the first bracket 220 and one wall of the second bracket 230, respectively, when unintended ice formation occurs on both side walls of the tray assembly 240, the ice is easily separated by the second blades 285a and 285b, and the separated ice is effectively disposed of by being deposited into the lower water tank 250.

[0416] Figure 27 is a side view showing the configuration of the ice-making part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 28 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the ice-making part and the compression part of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0417] Referring to Figure 27, both ends of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 according to the embodiment of the present invention 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.

[0418] 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.

[0419] 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.

[0420] The second opening 227 may be formed on the other side of the first bracket 220. The other side of the first bracket 220 may be the opposite side from the side on which the first opening 224b is formed. That is, one side and the other side of the first bracket 220 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.

[0421] 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.

[0422] 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.

[0423] 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.

[0424] 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.

[0425] 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.

[0426] 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.

[0427] 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.

[0428] The tray 241 may be made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as steel or aluminum, to facilitate cooling.

[0429] The ice-making part 200 may include a second blade 285 for separating ice that has formed on the side walls of the tray assembly 240. Multiple second blades 285 may be provided to scrape off the ice generated on both side walls of the tray assembly 240.

[0430] One of the aforementioned number of second blades 285 may be mounted on the first wall 221 of the first bracket 220, and another may be mounted on the wall of the gear bracket 231.

[0431] The side walls of the tray assembly 240 and the second blade 285 can overlap vertically with respect to the internal space of the water tank 250 so that when the tray assembly 240 rotates, ice separated from the side walls of the tray assembly 240 by the second blade 285 can flow into the water tank 250.

[0432] Referring to Figure 28, the first blade 280 and the second blade 285 may be positioned opposite each other with respect to the center C of the tray assembly 240 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0433] As an example, the radial extension line passing through the center C of the tray assembly 240 When defining JPEG2026169208000005.jpg77, the first and second blades 280 and 285 are the extension lines They may be placed opposite each other, with JPEG2026169208000006.jpg77 as the reference point.

[0434] The first blade 280 is the extension line It may be positioned opposite the first opening 224b with reference to JPEG2026169208000007.jpg77. Thus, the cold air flowing in through the first opening 224b can cool the peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241, and the cooled tray 241 can be easily de-iced by the first blade 280 by rotating it counterclockwise with reference to Figure 28.

[0435] The second blade 285 is the extension line The first opening 224b may be provided on the side where the first opening 224b is formed, with reference to JPEG2026169208000008.jpg77. As an example, the second blade 285 may be positioned in the space between the first opening 224b and the water tank 250.

[0436] Therefore, the second blade 285 can function as a barrier to prevent cold air flowing in from the first opening 224b from directly flowing into the water storage tank 250. As a result, it is possible to prevent the water in the water storage tank 250 from freezing.

[0437] The first and second blades 280 and 285 are the extension lines By arranging them opposite each other with JPEG2026169208000009.jpg77 as the reference, the internal space of the ice-making brackets 220 and 230 can be easily utilized, and the flow of cold air can be made smooth.

[0438] The first and second blades 280 and 285 are the extension lines If the blades are positioned unevenly to one side relative to JPEG2026169208000010.jpg77, a problem may arise in which the flow of cold air becomes unsmooth in the area where the first and second blades 280 and 285 are positioned. This embodiment can solve this problem.

[0439] On the other hand, the first and second blades 280 and 285 scrape off ice that has formed on the tray assembly 240, and therefore may act as a resistance force against the rotation of the tray assembly 240.

[0440] If the first and second blades 280 and 285 are the extension line If the tray assembly 240 is positioned unevenly to one side based on JPEG2026169208000011.jpg77, the resistance force may be concentrated in a specific area, potentially restricting the rotation of the tray assembly 240. In this embodiment, this problem can be solved by distributing such resistance force to both sides of the tray assembly 240.

[0441] The first blade 280 can detach ice from the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray assembly 240, and the second blade 285 can detach ice from the side walls of the tray assembly 240. The first distance D1 from the center C of the tray assembly 240 to the first blade 280 may be formed to be greater than the second distance D2 from the center C of the tray assembly 240 to the second blade 285.

[0442] Figure 29 is a drawing showing a first blade positioned on the outer circumferential surface of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 30 is a schematic diagram showing how the blade acts on the tray when the tray according to an embodiment of the present invention rotates; Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along 31-31 in Figure 29; Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along 32-32 in Figure 29; and Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along 33-33 in Figure 17.

[0443] First, referring to Figures 29 and 30, the first blade 280 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be supported by the first bracket 220 and extended to face the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241.

[0444] The first tip 282 of the first blade 280 is positioned to face the protrusion 241b formed on the first peripheral wall 242a, and can scrape off ice that has formed on the protrusion 241b as the tray 241 rotates.

[0445] The second tip 283 of the first blade 280 is positioned to face the recess 241a formed in the first peripheral wall 242a, and can scrape off the ice that has formed in the recess 241a as the tray 241 rotates.

[0446] With reference to Figure 30, the tray 241 can be rotated counterclockwise. The first peripheral wall 242a may include one peripheral wall 242a1 and the other peripheral wall 242a2 provided on both sides with reference to the center of the tray 241.

[0447] As the tray 241 rotates, the surrounding wall 242a1 moves closer to the first blade 280, and the ice generated on the surrounding wall 242a1 is separated by interference with the first blade 280. The separated ice, i.e., powdered ice I1, can flow into the transfer pipe 340 of the compression part 300.

[0448] After the ice on the first surrounding wall 242a1 is released and the tray 241 rotates further, the second surrounding wall 242b can move closer to the first blade 280. Since the turning radius of the second surrounding wall 242b is smaller than that of the first surrounding wall 242a1, the second surrounding wall 242b passes the first blade 280 at a relatively large distance from it.

[0449] As the tray 241 rotates further after the second peripheral wall 242b has passed the first blade 280, the other peripheral wall 242a2 moves closer to the first blade 280, and the ice generated on the other peripheral wall 242a2 interferes with the first blade 280 and is separated. The separated ice, i.e., powdered ice I1, can flow into the transfer pipe 340 of the compression part 300.

[0450] Referring to Figures 31 and 32, the first blade 280 may be positioned at an inclination with respect to the first peripheral wall 242a. Specifically, the first blade 280 may be positioned tangentially to a point on the first peripheral wall 242a that it faces. When defining JPEG2026169208000012.jpg77, the first blade 280 is the tangent Set angle θ for JPEG2026169208000013.jpg77 tThey may be positioned so that they are only slightly tilted.

[0451] As an example, the setting angle θ t This can form an acute angle greater than 0 and less than 90 degrees. With this configuration, the powdered ice I1 separated by the first blade 280 can easily fall toward the compression part 300.

[0452] When the first blade 280 is in a position to scrape the ice from the first peripheral wall 242a, the second tip 283 of the first blade 280 may be positioned to face the recess 241a.

[0453] The second tip 283 may include a first end portion 283b connected to the blade body 281 of the first blade 280. For example, the second tip 283 may be integrally formed with the blade body 281, in which case the first end portion 283b can form a part of the blade body 281.

[0454] The second tip 283 may include a second end portion 283c having at least a portion that is inserted into the recess 241a. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second end portion 283c is formed to decrease in the depth direction of the recess 241a, so that the second end portion 283c may have a pointed tip.

[0455] The second end portion 283c may be spaced at a first set distance E1 from the bottom surface of the recess 241a. Also, the outer surface of the second tip 283 may be spaced slightly away from the inner surface of the recess 241a. Therefore, even if the second tip 283 scrapes off ice located in the recess 241a, it will not come into contact with the tray 241, thus preventing damage to the tray 241 or the first blade 280.

[0456] When the first blade 280 is in a position to scrape the ice off the first peripheral wall 242a, the first tip 282 of the first blade 280 may be positioned to face the protrusion 241b.

[0457] The end portion 282a of the first tip 282 may be separated from the protrusion 241b by a second set distance E2. Therefore, even if the first tip 282 scrapes off ice located on the protrusion 241b, it will not come into contact with the tray 241, thus preventing damage to the tray 241 or the first blade 280.

[0458] Referring to Figure 33, the second blade 285 for scraping ice generated on both side walls of the tray assembly 240 includes one side blade 285a and the other side blade 285b, and the one side blade 285a and the other side blade 285b may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the tray assembly 240.

[0459] To prevent the one-sided blade 285a and the one-sided wall of the tray assembly 240 from coming into contact with each other, the one-sided blade 285a may be spaced a set distance away from the one-sided wall of the tray assembly 240. Thus, when ice formed on the one-sided wall of the tray assembly 240 is detached, damage to the one-sided blade 285a or the one-sided wall is prevented.

[0460] To prevent the other blade 285b and the other side wall of the tray assembly 240 from coming into contact with each other, the other blade 285b may be spaced a set distance away from the other side wall of the tray assembly 240. Therefore, when ice formed on the other side wall of the tray assembly 240 is detached, damage to the other blade 285b or the other side wall is prevented.

[0461] Another embodiment may be proposed.

[0462] In the embodiments described above, the tray assembly 240 includes first and second tray covers 246 and 247, and the second blade 285 is positioned to face both side walls of the tray assembly 240, i.e., the first and second tray covers 246 and 247, to scrape off ice that has formed on the first and second tray covers 246 and 247.

[0463] However, the first and second tray covers 246 and 247 are not provided. Even if the first and second tray covers 246 and 247 are not provided, ice can still be generated on the first peripheral wall 242a of the tray 241, and the generated ice can be detached by the first blade 280.

[0464] In this case, since the tray assembly 240 includes only the tray 241, the side walls of the tray assembly 240 can mean the side walls of the tray 241.

[0465] The second blade 285 is positioned to face both side walls of the tray 241, and the ice that has frozen onto both side walls of the tray 241 is separated by the second blade 285. The separated ice is then put into the water tank 250.

[0466] Furthermore, the configuration and mounting position of the second blade 285 can be based on the information described in previous embodiments.

[0467] The following describes another embodiment of the present invention. Since these embodiments differ only in the configuration of the first or second blade, the differences will be described primarily, and other parts will be described by referring to the description and reference numerals of the previous embodiment.

[0468] Figure 34 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first blade according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0469] Referring to Figure 34, a first blade 1280 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a blade body 1281 that forms a fastening hole 280a. The first blade 1280 may include a tip 1283 that extends from the blade body 281.

[0470] The chip 1283 comprises a plurality of chips 1283, and the number of chips 1283 may be provided in a quantity corresponding to the recesses 241a of the tray 241. The plurality of chips 1283 may be arranged in a manner corresponding to the arrangement direction of the plurality of recesses 241a.

[0471] The first blade 1280 may include guide grooves 1284 formed between the plurality of tips 1283. The guide grooves 1284 may be defined by the blade body 1281 and the plurality of tips 1283.

[0472] When the first blade 1280 scrapes the ice generated in the recess 241a, the separated ice can fall into the transfer pipe 340 via the guide groove 1284. In other words, the guide groove 1284 is configured to guide the discharge of ice, and the guide groove 1284 prevents the separated ice from blocking the first blade 1280.

[0473] Figure 35 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the second blade and tray according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0474] Referring to Figure 35, a second blade 1285 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a radially extending blade body 1286 and bent portions 1286a and 1286b that extend from both ends of the blade body 1286 toward the side walls of the tray assembly 240 to scrape ice.

[0475] The bent portions 1286a and 1286b include a first bent portion 1286a and a second bent portion 1286b, and a groove 1286c may be formed between the first bent portion 1286a and the first bent portion 1286b.

[0476] The bent surface of the blade body 1286 that defines the groove 1286c can function to crush ice that has frozen to a predetermined height on the side wall of the tray assembly 240.

[0477] The groove 1286c can provide a space from which ice detached from the side wall of the tray assembly 240 can be discharged. Alternatively, the groove 1286c can reduce the resistance of the tray assembly 240 to rotation by allowing low-height ice that has frozen onto the side wall of the tray assembly 240 to pass through.

[0478] The second blade 1285 is not for releasing ice provided to the user, but rather for facilitating the movement of the tray; therefore, there is no need to produce powdered ice.

[0479] Therefore, by positioning the first and second bent portions 1286a and 1286b adjacent to the side wall of the tray assembly 240 to release the ice, and by providing a space through which the separated or frozen ice can pass via the groove 1286c, the discharge of ice can be facilitated, and a large restraining force against the rotation of the tray 241 due to the ice can be prevented.

[0480] Another embodiment may be proposed.

[0481] In the embodiment described above, the tray assembly 240 moves, and the first and second blades 280 and 285 are positioned to be fixed in place, and the ice is released by the interference between the tray assembly 240 and the first and second blades 280 and 285.

[0482] Alternatively, the tray assembly may be fixed, and the first and second blades may move to perform the de-icing operation. That is, the de-icing operation can be performed by the tray assembly and one of the first and second blades moving relative to the other.

Claims

1. Cabinets forming a storage room, A door for opening and closing the aforementioned cabinet, A tray assembly comprising a first wall provided in the cabinet or door, which receives a water supply to generate ice, and a second wall connected to the first wall and extending in a direction different from the first wall, A first blade is positioned adjacent to the first wall to scrape off the ice generated on the first wall, A refrigerator comprising: a second blade positioned adjacent to the second wall to scrape off ice formed on the second wall.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the first wall includes a peripheral wall that extends circumferentially with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the second wall includes side walls that extend radially from both ends of the peripheral wall.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the tray assembly is provided so as to move relative to the first blade with respect to the first wall.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the tray assembly is provided so as to move relative to the second blade with respect to the second wall.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the first blade and the second blade are arranged opposite each other with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the distance from the center of the tray assembly to the first blade is greater than the distance from the center of the tray assembly to the second blade.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising: a cold air duct provided on one side of the tray assembly for supplying cold air to the tray assembly; and a water tank provided on the other side of the tray assembly for supplying water to the tray assembly.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein the second blade is positioned in the space between the cold air duct and the water storage tank so as to restrict the cold air flowing in from the cold air duct from flowing directly into the water storage tank.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the second walls are provided on both sides of the tray assembly, and a plurality of the second blades are provided corresponding to the plurality of second walls.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of second blades are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the tray assembly.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 1, comprising a water tank provided on one side of the tray assembly to supply water to the first wall, wherein at least one of the second wall and the second blade is arranged to overlap the internal space of the water tank.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the first wall includes at least one of a recess and a protrusion that forms a space or surface in which water is stored.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 13, wherein the first blade has a shape corresponding to the recess and the protrusion.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 14, wherein the first blade includes a first tip positioned to face the protrusion and scraping off ice that has frozen on the protrusion, and a second tip positioned to face the recess and scraping off ice that has frozen on the recess.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 15, wherein at least a portion of the second chip is inserted into the recess.

17. The refrigerator according to claim 15, wherein the second chips are provided in a plurality, and the first blade includes guide grooves formed between the plurality of second chips to guide the discharge of detached ice.

18. The second blade is The blade body facing the second wall, Two bent portions are bent from both ends of the blade body and extend toward the second wall, A refrigerator according to claim 1, comprising a groove formed between the two bent portions to guide the discharge of ice.

19. Cabinets forming a storage room, A door for opening and closing the aforementioned cabinet, A tray assembly provided in the cabinet or door, including a peripheral wall that receives water to generate ice and side walls connected to both ends of the peripheral wall, A refrigerator comprising: a blade positioned adjacent to the side wall to separate ice that has formed on the side wall.

20. Includes an ice-making bracket that supports the tray assembly and has walls facing the side walls of the tray assembly, The refrigerator according to claim 19, wherein the blade is positioned in the space between the side wall of the tray assembly and the wall of the ice-making bracket.

21. The refrigerator according to claim 19, wherein the tray assembly is rotatably mounted, and the blade is fixed at a set distance from the center of rotation of the tray assembly.

22. Cabinets forming a storage room, A door for opening and closing the aforementioned cabinet, A tray assembly provided in the cabinet or door, including a peripheral wall that receives water to generate ice and side walls connected to both ends of the peripheral wall, A refrigerator comprising: at least one blade positioned away from the peripheral wall or side wall to separate ice formed on the peripheral wall or side wall.

23. The refrigerator according to claim 22, wherein the at least one blade is positioned adjacent to the peripheral wall or side wall so as to contact the ice formed on the peripheral wall or side wall.

24. The refrigerator according to claim 22, wherein the at least one blade includes a first blade positioned adjacent to the peripheral wall and a second blade positioned adjacent to the side wall.

25. The refrigerator according to claim 22, wherein the tray assembly has a drum shape, the peripheral wall defines the outer peripheral surface of the tray assembly, and the side wall defines the lateral surface of the tray assembly.

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