Ice storage bin for a refrigerator appliance

Abstract

An ice storage bin may include a connection body disposed at a door of a refrigerator appliance. The connection body may include a top pin and a bottom pin. The top pin may extend from the connection body. The bottom pin may extend from the connection body. The top pin may be moveably engaged with a top guide track of the door. The bottom pin may be moveably engaged with a bottom guide track of the door. The ice storage bin may include a main body that may extend from the connection body. The main body may define an ice opening for receipt of ice produced by the icemaker. The ice storage bin may be moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to a refrigerator appliance, and more particularly to an ice storage bin for a refrigerator appliance.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Refrigerator appliances generally include a cabinet that defines one or more chilled chambers for receipt of food articles for storage. Typically, one or more doors are rotatably hinged to the cabinet to permit selective access to food items stored in the chilled chamber. Further, refrigerator appliances commonly include ice making assemblies mounted within an icebox on one of the doors or in a freezer compartment. The ice is stored in a storage bin and is accessible from within the freezer chamber or may be discharged through a dispenser recess defined on a front of the refrigerator door.

[0003] Many ice storage bins include a mechanism that allows the user to access a storage compartment of the ice storage bin. Ice storage bins can be hinged or pivotably attached to a door of the refrigerator appliance, for instance, to selectively permit access to the storage compartment of the ice storage bin. However, in such cases, accessing the storage compartment can be cumbersome for a user. For example, these ice storage bins often require a large amount of force to open. Thus, a user has to utilize a significant amount of effort to open the ice storage bin. As another example, these ice storage bins can inadvertently open, such as when the door of the refrigerator appliance is slammed or forcibly closed, preventing the user from opening the door again. As yet another example, the user can be required to hold the ice storage bin in the open position. Thus, a user can be required to utilize two hands to retrieve the ice (e.g., one to hold the ice storage bin in the open position and one to retrieve ice from the ice storage bin).

[0004] Accordingly, an ice storage bin for a refrigerator appliance that obviates one or more of the above mentioned drawbacks would be beneficial.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0006] In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator appliance is provided. The refrigerator appliance may include a cabinet. The cabinet may define a chilled chamber. The refrigerator appliance may include a door being rotatably mounted to the cabinet to selectively permit access to the chilled chamber. The door may include a top guide track and a bottom guide track. The refrigerator appliance may include an icemaker mounted to the door. The refrigerator appliance may include an ice storage bin being positioned directly below the icemaker. The ice storage bin may be moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door. The ice storage bin may include a top pin extending from the ice storage bin. The top pin may be movably engaged with the top guide track within a top recess of the top guide track. The ice storage bin may include a bottom pin extending from the ice storage bin. The bottom pin may be moveably engaged with the bottom guide track within a bottom recess of the bottom guide track.

[0007] In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a ice storage bin for storing ice produced by an icemaker mounted to a door of a refrigerator appliance is provided. The door may include a top guide track and a bottom guide track. The ice storage bin may include a connection body disposed at the door. The connection body may include a top pin and a bottom pin. The top pin may extend from the connection body. The bottom pin may extend from the connection body. The top pin may be moveably engaged with the top guide track within a top recess of the top guide track. The bottom pin may be moveably engaged with the bottom guide track within a bottom recess of the bottom guide track. The ice storage bin may include a main body that may extend from the connection body. The main body may define an ice opening for receipt of ice produced by the icemaker. The ice storage bin may be moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door.

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0010] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter.

[0011] FIG. 2 provides a front view of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1, with the doors of the fresh food chamber and freezer chamber shown in an open position.

[0012] FIG. 3 provides a perspective cross-sectional view chilled chamber and a door of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter.

[0013] FIG. 4 provides a side-view of an ice storage bin that may be used with the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 5 provides a side-view of an ice storage bin that may be used with the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1.

[0015] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0017] As used herein, the terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). In addition, here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other. The singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0018] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “generally,”“about,”“approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components or systems. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin (i.e., including values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value). In this regard, for example, when used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction (e.g., “generally vertical” includes forming an angle of up to ten degrees in any direction, such as, clockwise or counterclockwise, with the vertical direction V).

[0019] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” In addition, reference to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “an embodiment” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0020] Except as explicitly indicated otherwise, recitation of a singular processing element (e.g., “a controller,”“a processor,”“a microprocessor,” etc.) is understood to include more than one processing element. In other words, “a processing element” is generally understood as “one or more processing element.” Furthermore, barring a specific statement to the contrary, any steps or functions recited as being performed by “the processing element” or “said processing element” are generally understood to be capable of being performed by “any one of the one or more processing elements.” Thus, a first step or function performed by “the processing element” may be performed by “any one of the one or more processing elements,” and a second step or function performed by “the processing element” may be performed by “any one of the one or more processing elements and not necessarily by the same one of the one or more processing elements by which the first step or function is performed.” Moreover, it is understood that recitation of “the processing element” or “said processing element” performing a plurality of steps or functions does not require that at least one discrete processing element be capable of performing each one of the plurality of steps or functions.

[0021] As explained herein, aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to an ice storage bin, for instance, of a refrigerator appliance. The ice storage bin may include pins extended from a storage body of the ice storage bin. The pins may engage with corresponding guide tracks on a door (e.g., a freezer door) of the refrigerator appliance. Notably, the guide tracks mitigate an amount of force needed to open the ice storage bin (e.g., when compared to existing ice storage bins). Additionally or alternatively, the guide tracks are configured to advantageously permit “parking” or restraining of the ice storage bin in the open position. Thus, advantageously increasing the user experience of the ice storage bin. In addition, the guides advantageously eliminate the need for an auxiliary latching mechanism that many existing ice storage bins utilize for locking the ice storage bin in the closed position. Thus, manufacturing difficulties or costs for the ice storage bin may advantageously be reduced or mitigated.

[0022] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a cabinet or housing 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along a vertical direction V, between a first side 108 and a second side 110 along a lateral direction L, and between a front side 112 and a rear side 114 along a transverse direction T. Each of the vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually perpendicular to one another.

[0023] Housing 102 defines chilled chambers for receipt of food items for storage. In particular, housing 102 defines fresh food chamber 122 positioned at or adjacent second side 110 of housing 102 and a freezer chamber 124 arranged at or adjacent first side 108 of housing 102. As such, refrigerator appliance 100 is generally referred to as a side-by-side refrigerator. It is recognized, however, that the benefits of the present disclosure apply to other types and styles of refrigerator appliances such as, e.g., a top mount refrigerator appliance, a bottom mount refrigerator appliance, or a single door refrigerator appliance. Consequently, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting in any aspect to any particular refrigerator chamber configuration.

[0024] A refrigerator door 128 is rotatably hinged to an edge of housing 102 for selectively accessing fresh food chamber 122. In addition, a freezer door 130 is rotatably hinged to an edge of housing 102 for selectively accessing freezer chamber 124. Refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 are shown in the closed configuration in FIG. 1. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other chamber and door configurations are possible and within the scope of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2 provides a front view of refrigerator appliance 100 shown with refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 in the open position. As shown in FIG. 2, various storage components are mounted within fresh food chamber 122 to facilitate storage of food items therein as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In particular, the storage components may include bins 134 and shelves 136. Each of these storage components are configured for receipt of food items (e.g., beverages and / or solid food items) and may assist with organizing such food items. As illustrated, bins 134 may be mounted on refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 or may slide into a receiving space in fresh food chamber 122 or freezer chamber 124. It should be appreciated that the illustrated storage components are used only for the purpose of explanation and that other storage components may be used and may have different sizes, shapes, and configurations.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, inside refrigerator appliance 100, freezer door 130 may define an icebox 150 housing one or more icemakers and ice storage bins (e.g., first ice storage bin 204 and second ice storage bin 206) that are configured to form ice. In this regard, for example, icebox 150 may define an ice making chamber 154 for housing ice making assemblies, storage mechanisms, and dispensing mechanisms. According to the illustrated embodiment, icebox 150 may include a main icemaker. In addition, as described in more detail below, icebox 150 may include an icemaker for forming “craft ice” that is commonly large, clear cubes or spheres of ice for alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. For example, a user may access this craft ice by opening freezer door 130 and accessing second ice storage bin 206 directly.

[0027] The refrigerator appliance 100 may include a processing device or controller 164 for controlling operation of the refrigerator appliance 100 and components thereof. As used herein, “processing device” or “controller” may refer to one or more microprocessors or semiconductor devices and is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The processing device can be programmed to operate refrigerator appliance 100. The processing device may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements (e.g., non-transitory storage media). In some such embodiments, the memory elements include electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). Generally, the memory elements can store information accessible processing device, including instructions that can be executed by processing device. Optionally, the instructions can be software or any set of instructions and / or data that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations.

[0028] According to the illustrated embodiments, the refrigerator appliance 100 may include a first icemaker 200 and a second icemaker 202. The first icemaker 200 may be the main ice maker (e.g., ice producer) of the refrigerator appliance 100. For instance, the first icemaker 200 may produce the majority of ice for the refrigerator appliance 100. The second icemaker 202 may be a secondary ice maker (e.g., ice producer) of the refrigerator appliance 100. For instance, the second icemaker 202 may be configured for producing craft ice (e.g., higher quality ice cubes, such as large, clear, and slow-melting ice cubes). As illustrated, the second icemaker 202 may be positioned below the first icemaker 200, for instance, along the vertical direction V. In this regard, the first icemaker 200 may be an upper icemaker and the second icemaker 202 may be a lower icemaker.

[0029] The refrigerator appliance 100 may include one or more ice storage bins configured for storing ice produced by the first icemaker 200 or the second icemaker 202. In particular, in some embodiments, the refrigerator appliance 100 includes a first ice storage bin 204 (e.g., an upper ice storage bin), a second ice storage bin 206 (e.g., a lower ice storage bin), and an ice storage drawer 208. The first ice storage bin 204 may be associated with the first icemaker 200. In particular, the first ice storage bin 204 may be positioned directly below the first icemaker 200 to store ice produced by the first icemaker 200. The second ice storage bin 206 may be associated with the second icemaker 202. In particular, the second ice storage bin 206 may be positioned directly below the second icemaker 202 to store ice produced by the second icemaker 202. The ice storage drawer 208 may also be associated with the second icemaker 202. In particular, the ice storage drawer 208 may be configured for receipt of excess ice formed by the second icemaker 202, for instance, when it is desirable to store larger volumes of ice. As shown, the ice storage drawer 208 is not attached to freezer door 130 and thus remains within freezer chamber 124 when freezer door 130 is in the open position. According to the illustrated embodiment, ice storage drawer 208 is fixed within freezer chamber 124. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, ice storage drawer 208 may be slidably mounted within freezer chamber 124.

[0030] The refrigerator appliance 100 may include features for supplying or directing ice from the second ice storage bin 206 into the ice storage drawer 208. For example, ice may be transmitted into ice storage drawer 208 when freezer door 130 is in the closed position and a consumer has requested the production of a larger volume of ice. In some embodiments, the second ice storage bin 206 includes a damper that is pivotally mounted over an aperture defined in a bottom wall of the second ice storage bin 206. The damper may generally be movable between a shut position where ice is retained within second ice storage bin 206 and a free position where ice may fall (e.g., under the force of gravity) through the aperture defined by the second ice storage bin 206 and into ice storage drawer 208. For example, second icemaker 202 may be programmed to produce ice when the damper is in the shut position. After an ice harvest procedure, the damper may be selectively activated to open (e.g., via controller 164) and permit formed ice to fall into ice storage drawer 208.

[0031] As illustrated, the refrigerator appliance 100 may further include a receiving ramp 210 that is positioned proximate a front 212 of ice storage drawer 208. In general, the damper may be seated over receiving ramp 210 when the damper is in the free position. According to the illustrated embodiment, receiving ramp 210 extends from front 212 of ice storage drawer 208. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, receiving ramp 210 may extend from any other suitable structure.

[0032] Referring now to FIGS. 3 through 5, embodiments illustrating the first ice storage bin 204 are provided. As will be appreciated in more detail below, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably attached to the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100. It is recognized, however, that the benefits of the present disclosure may apply to other types and styles of ice storage bins. For example, in additional or alternative embodiments, the benefits of the present disclosure may also apply to the second ice storage bin 206. Consequently, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting to any particular position of the ice storage bin.

[0033] The freezer door 130 may include a main door body 213 and an inner frame 214. The inner frame may be extended inward from the main door body 213. The main door body 213 may include or be provided as a consumer-facing body of the freezer door 130. For instance, the main door body 213 may face and be visible by the user of the refrigerator appliance 100 when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position. The main door body 213 may include an outer shell that may include or be constructed from a metal material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or the like. The main door body 213 may be hingably coupled to the cabinet 102 of the refrigerator appliance 100. For example, the refrigerator appliance 100 may include a pair of hinges 215 that hingably couple the main door body 213 to the cabinet 102. For instance, the refrigerator appliance 100 may include a hinge 215 at the top of the cabinet and a hinge 215 at the bottom of the cabinet 102 to hingably couple the main door body 213 to the cabinet 102.

[0034] The first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably attached to the inner frame 214. In particular, the inner frame 214 may include a first frame body 216 and a second frame body 218. The first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may include or be provided as members that span approximately the height of the main door body 213. For instance, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may be configured to fit within the freezer chamber 124 of the refrigerator appliance. The first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may be constructed from a polymer materials, (e.g., a plastic material, such as Polypropylene, Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene, or the like). The first frame body 216 and second frame body 218 could be integral elements of the inner frame 214 or elements of a separate bracket or brackets attached to inner frame 214.

[0035] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 are spaced apart along the lateral direction L (e.g., when the door is in the closed position). Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 are extended inward (e.g., into the freezer chamber 124) from the freezer door 130 along the transverse direction T (e.g., when the door is in the closed position). In addition, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may define openings therebetween that ice storage bins, such as the first ice storage bin 204 or the second ice storage bin 206, may be received within.

[0036] The inner frame 214, and more particularly, the first frame body 216 or the second frame body 218, may include guide tracks configured for guiding motion of the first ice storage bin (e.g., as will be described in more detail below). As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the inner frame 214 includes top guide tracks 220 (e.g., a first top guide track that may be disposed at the first frame body 216 and a second top guide track that may be disposed at the second frame body 218) and bottom guide tracks 221 (e.g., a first bottom guide track that may be disposed at the first frame body 216 and a second bottom guide track that may be disposed at the second frame body 218).

[0037] The top guide tracks 220 may each include walls that protrude inward from the inner frame 214 that together define the shape of the top guide tracks 220. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the top guide tracks 220 each include a first arcuate wall 222, a top wall 224, a second arcuate wall 226, and a bottom wall 228 that together define the shape of the corresponding top guide track 220. For instance, the top wall 224 and the bottom wall 226 may be extended between the first arcuate wall 222 and the second arcuate wall 226 to generally form a slot shape of the top guide tracks 220. In addition, the second arcuate wall 226 may be positioned above the first arcuate wall 222, for instance, along the vertical direction V. The walls of the top guide tracks 220 may extend or protrude inward (e.g., along the lateral direction L, such as when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position) from the inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130. In this regard, a top recess 230 may be defined between the walls of each top guide track 220. As will be appreciated in more detail below, pins of the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably received within the top recess 230 of each top guide track 220, for instance, to facilitate movement of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0038] In some embodiments, each bottom wall 228 of the top guide tracks 220 includes a top notch 232. The top notch 232 may be provided as a ditch or an indent within each bottom wall 228 of the top guide tracks 220. As will be appreciated in more detail below, the top notch 232 of each top guide track 220 can hold or “park” the first ice storage bin 204 in the open position. In this regard, the top notch 232 advantageously improves a user experience of the first ice storage bin 204 (e.g., when compared to the user experience of an existing ice storage bin) as the user does not have to actively hold the first ice storage bin 204 in the open position when retrieving ice from the first ice storage bin 204.

[0039] The bottom guide tracks 221 may each include walls that protrude inward from the inner frame 214 and together define the shape of the corresponding bottom guide track 221. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the bottom guide tracks 221 each include a front wall 234, a bottom arcuate wall 236, and a rear wall 238. For instance, the front wall 234 and the rear wall 238 may be extended (e.g., approximately along the vertical direction V) from opposing ends of the bottom arcuate wall 236 define the shape of the bottom guide tracks 22. The walls of the bottom guide tracks 221 may extend or protrude inward (e.g., along the lateral direction L, such as when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position) from the inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130. In this regard, a bottom recess 240 may be defined between the walls of each bottom guide track 221. As will be appreciated in more detail below, pins of the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably received within the bottom recess 240 of each bottom guide track 221, for instance, to facilitate movement of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0040] Each rear wall 238 of the bottom guide tracks 221 may include a rear notch 242. The rear notch 242 may be an indent within each rear wall 238 of the wall 228 of the top guide tracks 220. As will be appreciated in more detail below, the rear notch 242 of each bottom guide track 221 may advantageously prevent the first ice storage bin 204 from moving to the open position, such as when the freezer door 130 is closed with a large amount of force (e.g., when the freezer door 130 is slammed closed by a user).

[0041] Each top guide track 220 and each bottom guide track 221 may define a bin release opening 233 configured for permitting the release or the removal of the first ice storage bin 204 from its attachment to the freezer door 130. For instance, each top guide track 220 may define the bin release opening 233 through the top wall 224 (e.g., along the vertical direction V) and each bottom guide track 221 may define the bin release opening 233 (e.g., along the vertical direction V) between the front wall 234 and the rear wall 238 (e.g., relative to the transverse direction T). As will be appreciated in more detail below, the bin release openings 233 of the top guide track 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 permits the release or removal of the first ice storage bin 204 from the freezer door 130. In this regard, the first ice storage bin 204 may advantageously be easily removed by a user from its attachment to the inner frame 214. (e.g., when compared to existing ice storage bins that include mechanical removal means such as latches, locks, or the like).

[0042] As mentioned above, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably attached to the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100. In particular, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveable between a closed position (e.g., FIGS. 3 and 4), a parked position (e.g., FIG. 5), and a released position. In the closed position, access to a storage compartment 244 defined by the first ice storage bin 204 may be inhibited. For instance, the first icemaker 200 may be positioned directly above the first ice storage bin 204 in the closed position. The first icemaker 200 may block access (e.g., for a user) to the storage compartment 244 of the first ice storage bin 204. In the parked position access to the storage compartment 244 defined by the first ice storage bin 204 may be permitted. For instance, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moved relative to the door 130 such that the storage compartment 244 is accessible (e.g., to a user of the refrigerator appliance 100) in the parked position. In this regard, the user of the refrigerator appliance 100 may be capable of retrieving ice stored within the storage compartment 244 when the first ice storage bin 204 is still connected to the door 130. In the released position, the first ice storage bin 204 may be removed from its attachment to the freezer door 130. For instance, the first ice storage bin 204 may be detached or separate from (e.g., out of contact with) the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100 in the released position.

[0043] The first ice storage bin 204 may extend between a front side 246 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the freezer door 130) and a rear side 248 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the freezer chamber 124, such as when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position). The front side 246 and the rear side 248 may be spaced apart, for instance, along the transverse direction T of the refrigerator appliance 100 when the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100 is in the closed position. In addition, the first ice storage bin 204 may extend between a first side 250 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the first frame body 216 of the inner frame 214) and a second side 252 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the second frame body 218 of the inner frame 214). The first side 250 and the second side 252 being spaced apart, for instance, along the lateral direction L of the refrigerator appliance 100 when the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100 is in the closed position.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, the first ice storage bin 204 may include a connection body 254, a main body 256, or a handle 258. The connection body 254 may be a portion of the first ice storage bin 204 that connects (e.g., directly or indirectly) to the inner frame 214 of the refrigerator appliance 100. For instance, as will be described in more detail below, the connection body 254 may include means or mechanisms for connecting or engaging with the inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130. In particular, the connection body 254 may extend between a top edge 260 and a bottom edge 262, for instance along the vertical direction V.

[0045] The main body 256 may be a portion of the first ice storage bin 204 extended directly from the connection body 254. In some embodiments, the main body 256 is positioned, at least in part, outside of the opening defined by the inner frame 214 (e.g., the opening defined between the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 217). The main body 256 may extend between a top edge 264 and a bottom edge 266, for instance, along the vertical direction V. The top edge 264 of the main body 256 may define an ice opening 268 for accessing the ice storage compartment 244. The ice opening 268 may be positioned directly below the first icemaker 200 for receipt of ice produced by the first icemaker 200. The handle 258 may extend outward from the main body 256. In particular, the handle 258 may extend outward from the top edge 264 of the main body 256 to provide a gripping location for a user of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0046] The first ice storage bin 204 may include top pins 270 that may be extended outward from the connection body 254. In particular, the top pins 270 may be positioned proximate to the top edge 260 (e.g., closer to the top edge 260 than the bottom edge 262, such as relative to the vertical direction V) of the connection body 254 and proximate the front side 246 (e.g., closer to the front side 246 that the rear side 248, such as relative to the transverse direction T) of the first ice storage bin 204. In some embodiments, the top pins 270 include a first top pin that extends outward from the first side 250 of the first ice storage bin 204 and a second top pin extending outward from the second side 252 of the first ice storage bin 204. The first ice storage bin 204 may also include bottom pins 272 that may be extended outward from the connection body 254. In particular, the bottom pins 272 may be positioned proximate to the bottom edge 262 (e.g., closer to the bottom edge 262 than the top edge 260) of the connection body and proximate the front side 246 (e.g., closer to the front side 246 that the rear side 248) of the first ice storage bin 204. In some embodiments, the bottom pins 272 include a first bottom pin extending outward from the first side 250 of the first ice storage bin 204 and a second top pin extending outward from the second side 252 of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0047] In additional or alternative exemplary embodiments, the locations of the pins (e.g., the top pins 270 and the bottom pins 272) and the guide tracks (e.g., the top guide tracks 220 and the bottoms guide tracks 221) may be interchanged. For instance, the pins (e.g., the top pins 270 and the bottom pins 272) may be extended from inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130 and the guide tracks (e.g., the top guide tracks 220 and the bottoms guide tracks 221) may be extended from the first ice storage bin 204.

[0048] The top pins 270 may be moveably engaged with the top guide tracks 220, for instance, within the top recess 230 of each top guide track 220. The bottom pin 272 may be moveably engaged with the bottom guide tracks 221, for instance, with the bottom recess 240 of each bottom guide track 221. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272 include, or are provided as, roller bodies 273 that may moveably engage with the top guide track 220 and the bottom guide track 221, respectively. The roller bodies 273 may be any suitable body that may roll or slide along the walls of the top guide tracks 220 or the bottom guide tracks 221. For example, the roller bodies 273 may be bushings, bearings, or the like. Notably, the roller bodies 273 reduce friction between the pins (e.g., the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272) and the guide tracks (e.g., the top guide track 220 and the bottom guide track 221) as the first ice storage bin 204 is moved between position (e.g., the closed position, the parked position, and the released position).

[0049] In additional or alternative embodiments, the pins (e.g., the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272) may be configured in any suitable manner such that friction between the pins and the guide tracks is reduced or mitigated. For example, in additional or alternative embodiments, the pins (e.g., the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272) can include, or be provided as, tabs that slidably engage with the guide tracks. In such embodiments, the tabs may extend directly from the first ice storage bin 204. For instance, the tabs can be formed integrally with the first ice storage bin 204. In addition, in such embodiments, the tabs can be greased (e.g., with a food grade lubricant, such as food grade silicone, petrol-gel lubricant, or the like) to reduce or mitigate friction.

[0050] Notably, the top guide tracks 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 of the first ice storage bin 204 are configured such that the first ice storage bin 204 may move (e.g., from the closed position to the parked position) when a user applies a force to (e.g., pulls) the handle 258, but does not open when the freezer door 130 is slammed closed. In particular, the rear notch 242 of each bottom guide track 221 may be shaped such that the bottom pins 272 engage with the rear notch 242 when the freezer door 130 is forcibly closed. The rear notch 242 may extend toward the front wall 234 of each bottom guide tracks 221 such that the bottom pins 272 may engage with the rear notch to prevent or restrain unintentional movement of the first ice storage bin 204 (e.g., caused by the slamming of the freezer door 130)

[0051] In addition, the shape of the top guide tracks 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 may be configured such that a top corner of the first ice storage bin 204, such as the front top corner of the main body 256, may move generally along the transverse direction T and movement along the vertical direction V may be prevented or mitigated. Thus, interference between the first icemaker 200 and the first ice storage bin 204 may advantageously be prevented, such as when the first ice storage bin 204 is moving between the closed position and the parked position.

[0052] In addition, the shape of the top guide tracks 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 may be configured such that a bottom corner of the first ice storage bin 204, such as the bottom front corner connection body 254, may may move generally along the vertical direction V and movement along the transverse direction T may be prevented or mitigated. Thus, interference between the freezer door 130 and the first ice storage bin 204 may advantageously be prevented, such as when the first ice storage bin 204 is moving between the closed position and the parked position.

[0053] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0017]As used herein, the terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended ...

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to a refrigerator appliance, and more particularly to an ice storage bin for a refrigerator appliance.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Refrigerator appliances generally include a cabinet that defines one or more chilled chambers for receipt of food articles for storage. Typically, one or more doors are rotatably hinged to the cabinet to permit selective access to food items stored in the chilled chamber. Further, refrigerator appliances commonly include ice making assemblies mounted within an icebox on one of the doors or in a freezer compartment. The ice is stored in a storage bin and is accessible from within the freezer chamber or may be discharged through a dispenser recess defined on a front of the refrigerator door.

[0003] Many ice storage bins include a mechanism that allows the user to access a storage compartment of the ice storage bin. Ice storage bins can be hinged or pivotably attached to a door of the refrigerator appliance, for instance, to selectively permit access to the storage compartment of the ice storage bin. However, in such cases, accessing the storage compartment can be cumbersome for a user. For example, these ice storage bins often require a large amount of force to open. Thus, a user has to utilize a significant amount of effort to open the ice storage bin. As another example, these ice storage bins can inadvertently open, such as when the door of the refrigerator appliance is slammed or forcibly closed, preventing the user from opening the door again. As yet another example, the user can be required to hold the ice storage bin in the open position. Thus, a user can be required to utilize two hands to retrieve the ice (e.g., one to hold the ice storage bin in the open position and one to retrieve ice from the ice storage bin).

[0004] Accordingly, an ice storage bin for a refrigerator appliance that obviates one or more of the above mentioned drawbacks would be beneficial.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0006] In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator appliance is provided. The refrigerator appliance may include a cabinet. The cabinet may define a chilled chamber. The refrigerator appliance may include a door being rotatably mounted to the cabinet to selectively permit access to the chilled chamber. The door may include a top guide track and a bottom guide track. The refrigerator appliance may include an icemaker mounted to the door. The refrigerator appliance may include an ice storage bin being positioned directly below the icemaker. The ice storage bin may be moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door. The ice storage bin may include a top pin extending from the ice storage bin. The top pin may be movably engaged with the top guide track within a top recess of the top guide track. The ice storage bin may include a bottom pin extending from the ice storage bin. The bottom pin may be moveably engaged with the bottom guide track within a bottom recess of the bottom guide track.

[0007] In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a ice storage bin for storing ice produced by an icemaker mounted to a door of a refrigerator appliance is provided. The door may include a top guide track and a bottom guide track. The ice storage bin may include a connection body disposed at the door. The connection body may include a top pin and a bottom pin. The top pin may extend from the connection body. The bottom pin may extend from the connection body. The top pin may be moveably engaged with the top guide track within a top recess of the top guide track. The bottom pin may be moveably engaged with the bottom guide track within a bottom recess of the bottom guide track. The ice storage bin may include a main body that may extend from the connection body. The main body may define an ice opening for receipt of ice produced by the icemaker. The ice storage bin may be moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door.

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0010] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter.

[0011] FIG. 2 provides a front view of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1, with the doors of the fresh food chamber and freezer chamber shown in an open position.

[0012] FIG. 3 provides a perspective cross-sectional view chilled chamber and a door of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter.

[0013] FIG. 4 provides a side-view of an ice storage bin that may be used with the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 5 provides a side-view of an ice storage bin that may be used with the exemplary refrigerator appliance of FIG. 1.

[0015] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0017] As used herein, the terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). In addition, here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other. The singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0018] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “generally,”“about,”“approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components or systems. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin (i.e., including values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value). In this regard, for example, when used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction (e.g., “generally vertical” includes forming an angle of up to ten degrees in any direction, such as, clockwise or counterclockwise, with the vertical direction V).

[0019] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” In addition, reference to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “an embodiment” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0020] Except as explicitly indicated otherwise, recitation of a singular processing element (e.g., “a controller,”“a processor,”“a microprocessor,” etc.) is understood to include more than one processing element. In other words, “a processing element” is generally understood as “one or more processing element.” Furthermore, barring a specific statement to the contrary, any steps or functions recited as being performed by “the processing element” or “said processing element” are generally understood to be capable of being performed by “any one of the one or more processing elements.” Thus, a first step or function performed by “the processing element” may be performed by “any one of the one or more processing elements,” and a second step or function performed by “the processing element” may be performed by “any one of the one or more processing elements and not necessarily by the same one of the one or more processing elements by which the first step or function is performed.” Moreover, it is understood that recitation of “the processing element” or “said processing element” performing a plurality of steps or functions does not require that at least one discrete processing element be capable of performing each one of the plurality of steps or functions.

[0021] As explained herein, aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to an ice storage bin, for instance, of a refrigerator appliance. The ice storage bin may include pins extended from a storage body of the ice storage bin. The pins may engage with corresponding guide tracks on a door (e.g., a freezer door) of the refrigerator appliance. Notably, the guide tracks mitigate an amount of force needed to open the ice storage bin (e.g., when compared to existing ice storage bins). Additionally or alternatively, the guide tracks are configured to advantageously permit “parking” or restraining of the ice storage bin in the open position. Thus, advantageously increasing the user experience of the ice storage bin. In addition, the guides advantageously eliminate the need for an auxiliary latching mechanism that many existing ice storage bins utilize for locking the ice storage bin in the closed position. Thus, manufacturing difficulties or costs for the ice storage bin may advantageously be reduced or mitigated.

[0022] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a cabinet or housing 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along a vertical direction V, between a first side 108 and a second side 110 along a lateral direction L, and between a front side 112 and a rear side 114 along a transverse direction T. Each of the vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually perpendicular to one another.

[0023] Housing 102 defines chilled chambers for receipt of food items for storage. In particular, housing 102 defines fresh food chamber 122 positioned at or adjacent second side 110 of housing 102 and a freezer chamber 124 arranged at or adjacent first side 108 of housing 102. As such, refrigerator appliance 100 is generally referred to as a side-by-side refrigerator. It is recognized, however, that the benefits of the present disclosure apply to other types and styles of refrigerator appliances such as, e.g., a top mount refrigerator appliance, a bottom mount refrigerator appliance, or a single door refrigerator appliance. Consequently, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting in any aspect to any particular refrigerator chamber configuration.

[0024] A refrigerator door 128 is rotatably hinged to an edge of housing 102 for selectively accessing fresh food chamber 122. In addition, a freezer door 130 is rotatably hinged to an edge of housing 102 for selectively accessing freezer chamber 124. Refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 are shown in the closed configuration in FIG. 1. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other chamber and door configurations are possible and within the scope of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2 provides a front view of refrigerator appliance 100 shown with refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 in the open position. As shown in FIG. 2, various storage components are mounted within fresh food chamber 122 to facilitate storage of food items therein as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In particular, the storage components may include bins 134 and shelves 136. Each of these storage components are configured for receipt of food items (e.g., beverages and / or solid food items) and may assist with organizing such food items. As illustrated, bins 134 may be mounted on refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 or may slide into a receiving space in fresh food chamber 122 or freezer chamber 124. It should be appreciated that the illustrated storage components are used only for the purpose of explanation and that other storage components may be used and may have different sizes, shapes, and configurations.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, inside refrigerator appliance 100, freezer door 130 may define an icebox 150 housing one or more icemakers and ice storage bins (e.g., first ice storage bin 204 and second ice storage bin 206) that are configured to form ice. In this regard, for example, icebox 150 may define an ice making chamber 154 for housing ice making assemblies, storage mechanisms, and dispensing mechanisms. According to the illustrated embodiment, icebox 150 may include a main icemaker. In addition, as described in more detail below, icebox 150 may include an icemaker for forming “craft ice” that is commonly large, clear cubes or spheres of ice for alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. For example, a user may access this craft ice by opening freezer door 130 and accessing second ice storage bin 206 directly.

[0027] The refrigerator appliance 100 may include a processing device or controller 164 for controlling operation of the refrigerator appliance 100 and components thereof. As used herein, “processing device” or “controller” may refer to one or more microprocessors or semiconductor devices and is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The processing device can be programmed to operate refrigerator appliance 100. The processing device may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements (e.g., non-transitory storage media). In some such embodiments, the memory elements include electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). Generally, the memory elements can store information accessible processing device, including instructions that can be executed by processing device. Optionally, the instructions can be software or any set of instructions and / or data that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations.

[0028] According to the illustrated embodiments, the refrigerator appliance 100 may include a first icemaker 200 and a second icemaker 202. The first icemaker 200 may be the main ice maker (e.g., ice producer) of the refrigerator appliance 100. For instance, the first icemaker 200 may produce the majority of ice for the refrigerator appliance 100. The second icemaker 202 may be a secondary ice maker (e.g., ice producer) of the refrigerator appliance 100. For instance, the second icemaker 202 may be configured for producing craft ice (e.g., higher quality ice cubes, such as large, clear, and slow-melting ice cubes). As illustrated, the second icemaker 202 may be positioned below the first icemaker 200, for instance, along the vertical direction V. In this regard, the first icemaker 200 may be an upper icemaker and the second icemaker 202 may be a lower icemaker.

[0029] The refrigerator appliance 100 may include one or more ice storage bins configured for storing ice produced by the first icemaker 200 or the second icemaker 202. In particular, in some embodiments, the refrigerator appliance 100 includes a first ice storage bin 204 (e.g., an upper ice storage bin), a second ice storage bin 206 (e.g., a lower ice storage bin), and an ice storage drawer 208. The first ice storage bin 204 may be associated with the first icemaker 200. In particular, the first ice storage bin 204 may be positioned directly below the first icemaker 200 to store ice produced by the first icemaker 200. The second ice storage bin 206 may be associated with the second icemaker 202. In particular, the second ice storage bin 206 may be positioned directly below the second icemaker 202 to store ice produced by the second icemaker 202. The ice storage drawer 208 may also be associated with the second icemaker 202. In particular, the ice storage drawer 208 may be configured for receipt of excess ice formed by the second icemaker 202, for instance, when it is desirable to store larger volumes of ice. As shown, the ice storage drawer 208 is not attached to freezer door 130 and thus remains within freezer chamber 124 when freezer door 130 is in the open position. According to the illustrated embodiment, ice storage drawer 208 is fixed within freezer chamber 124. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, ice storage drawer 208 may be slidably mounted within freezer chamber 124.

[0030] The refrigerator appliance 100 may include features for supplying or directing ice from the second ice storage bin 206 into the ice storage drawer 208. For example, ice may be transmitted into ice storage drawer 208 when freezer door 130 is in the closed position and a consumer has requested the production of a larger volume of ice. In some embodiments, the second ice storage bin 206 includes a damper that is pivotally mounted over an aperture defined in a bottom wall of the second ice storage bin 206. The damper may generally be movable between a shut position where ice is retained within second ice storage bin 206 and a free position where ice may fall (e.g., under the force of gravity) through the aperture defined by the second ice storage bin 206 and into ice storage drawer 208. For example, second icemaker 202 may be programmed to produce ice when the damper is in the shut position. After an ice harvest procedure, the damper may be selectively activated to open (e.g., via controller 164) and permit formed ice to fall into ice storage drawer 208.

[0031] As illustrated, the refrigerator appliance 100 may further include a receiving ramp 210 that is positioned proximate a front 212 of ice storage drawer 208. In general, the damper may be seated over receiving ramp 210 when the damper is in the free position. According to the illustrated embodiment, receiving ramp 210 extends from front 212 of ice storage drawer 208. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, receiving ramp 210 may extend from any other suitable structure.

[0032] Referring now to FIGS. 3 through 5, embodiments illustrating the first ice storage bin 204 are provided. As will be appreciated in more detail below, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably attached to the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100. It is recognized, however, that the benefits of the present disclosure may apply to other types and styles of ice storage bins. For example, in additional or alternative embodiments, the benefits of the present disclosure may also apply to the second ice storage bin 206. Consequently, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting to any particular position of the ice storage bin.

[0033] The freezer door 130 may include a main door body 213 and an inner frame 214. The inner frame may be extended inward from the main door body 213. The main door body 213 may include or be provided as a consumer-facing body of the freezer door 130. For instance, the main door body 213 may face and be visible by the user of the refrigerator appliance 100 when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position. The main door body 213 may include an outer shell that may include or be constructed from a metal material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or the like. The main door body 213 may be hingably coupled to the cabinet 102 of the refrigerator appliance 100. For example, the refrigerator appliance 100 may include a pair of hinges 215 that hingably couple the main door body 213 to the cabinet 102. For instance, the refrigerator appliance 100 may include a hinge 215 at the top of the cabinet and a hinge 215 at the bottom of the cabinet 102 to hingably couple the main door body 213 to the cabinet 102.

[0034] The first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably attached to the inner frame 214. In particular, the inner frame 214 may include a first frame body 216 and a second frame body 218. The first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may include or be provided as members that span approximately the height of the main door body 213. For instance, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may be configured to fit within the freezer chamber 124 of the refrigerator appliance. The first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may be constructed from a polymer materials, (e.g., a plastic material, such as Polypropylene, Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene, or the like). The first frame body 216 and second frame body 218 could be integral elements of the inner frame 214 or elements of a separate bracket or brackets attached to inner frame 214.

[0035] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 are spaced apart along the lateral direction L (e.g., when the door is in the closed position). Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 are extended inward (e.g., into the freezer chamber 124) from the freezer door 130 along the transverse direction T (e.g., when the door is in the closed position). In addition, the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 218 may define openings therebetween that ice storage bins, such as the first ice storage bin 204 or the second ice storage bin 206, may be received within.

[0036] The inner frame 214, and more particularly, the first frame body 216 or the second frame body 218, may include guide tracks configured for guiding motion of the first ice storage bin (e.g., as will be described in more detail below). As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the inner frame 214 includes top guide tracks 220 (e.g., a first top guide track that may be disposed at the first frame body 216 and a second top guide track that may be disposed at the second frame body 218) and bottom guide tracks 221 (e.g., a first bottom guide track that may be disposed at the first frame body 216 and a second bottom guide track that may be disposed at the second frame body 218).

[0037] The top guide tracks 220 may each include walls that protrude inward from the inner frame 214 that together define the shape of the top guide tracks 220. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the top guide tracks 220 each include a first arcuate wall 222, a top wall 224, a second arcuate wall 226, and a bottom wall 228 that together define the shape of the corresponding top guide track 220. For instance, the top wall 224 and the bottom wall 226 may be extended between the first arcuate wall 222 and the second arcuate wall 226 to generally form a slot shape of the top guide tracks 220. In addition, the second arcuate wall 226 may be positioned above the first arcuate wall 222, for instance, along the vertical direction V. The walls of the top guide tracks 220 may extend or protrude inward (e.g., along the lateral direction L, such as when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position) from the inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130. In this regard, a top recess 230 may be defined between the walls of each top guide track 220. As will be appreciated in more detail below, pins of the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably received within the top recess 230 of each top guide track 220, for instance, to facilitate movement of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0038] In some embodiments, each bottom wall 228 of the top guide tracks 220 includes a top notch 232. The top notch 232 may be provided as a ditch or an indent within each bottom wall 228 of the top guide tracks 220. As will be appreciated in more detail below, the top notch 232 of each top guide track 220 can hold or “park” the first ice storage bin 204 in the open position. In this regard, the top notch 232 advantageously improves a user experience of the first ice storage bin 204 (e.g., when compared to the user experience of an existing ice storage bin) as the user does not have to actively hold the first ice storage bin 204 in the open position when retrieving ice from the first ice storage bin 204.

[0039] The bottom guide tracks 221 may each include walls that protrude inward from the inner frame 214 and together define the shape of the corresponding bottom guide track 221. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the bottom guide tracks 221 each include a front wall 234, a bottom arcuate wall 236, and a rear wall 238. For instance, the front wall 234 and the rear wall 238 may be extended (e.g., approximately along the vertical direction V) from opposing ends of the bottom arcuate wall 236 define the shape of the bottom guide tracks 22. The walls of the bottom guide tracks 221 may extend or protrude inward (e.g., along the lateral direction L, such as when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position) from the inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130. In this regard, a bottom recess 240 may be defined between the walls of each bottom guide track 221. As will be appreciated in more detail below, pins of the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably received within the bottom recess 240 of each bottom guide track 221, for instance, to facilitate movement of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0040] Each rear wall 238 of the bottom guide tracks 221 may include a rear notch 242. The rear notch 242 may be an indent within each rear wall 238 of the wall 228 of the top guide tracks 220. As will be appreciated in more detail below, the rear notch 242 of each bottom guide track 221 may advantageously prevent the first ice storage bin 204 from moving to the open position, such as when the freezer door 130 is closed with a large amount of force (e.g., when the freezer door 130 is slammed closed by a user).

[0041] Each top guide track 220 and each bottom guide track 221 may define a bin release opening 233 configured for permitting the release or the removal of the first ice storage bin 204 from its attachment to the freezer door 130. For instance, each top guide track 220 may define the bin release opening 233 through the top wall 224 (e.g., along the vertical direction V) and each bottom guide track 221 may define the bin release opening 233 (e.g., along the vertical direction V) between the front wall 234 and the rear wall 238 (e.g., relative to the transverse direction T). As will be appreciated in more detail below, the bin release openings 233 of the top guide track 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 permits the release or removal of the first ice storage bin 204 from the freezer door 130. In this regard, the first ice storage bin 204 may advantageously be easily removed by a user from its attachment to the inner frame 214. (e.g., when compared to existing ice storage bins that include mechanical removal means such as latches, locks, or the like).

[0042] As mentioned above, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveably attached to the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100. In particular, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moveable between a closed position (e.g., FIGS. 3 and 4), a parked position (e.g., FIG. 5), and a released position. In the closed position, access to a storage compartment 244 defined by the first ice storage bin 204 may be inhibited. For instance, the first icemaker 200 may be positioned directly above the first ice storage bin 204 in the closed position. The first icemaker 200 may block access (e.g., for a user) to the storage compartment 244 of the first ice storage bin 204. In the parked position access to the storage compartment 244 defined by the first ice storage bin 204 may be permitted. For instance, the first ice storage bin 204 may be moved relative to the door 130 such that the storage compartment 244 is accessible (e.g., to a user of the refrigerator appliance 100) in the parked position. In this regard, the user of the refrigerator appliance 100 may be capable of retrieving ice stored within the storage compartment 244 when the first ice storage bin 204 is still connected to the door 130. In the released position, the first ice storage bin 204 may be removed from its attachment to the freezer door 130. For instance, the first ice storage bin 204 may be detached or separate from (e.g., out of contact with) the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100 in the released position.

[0043] The first ice storage bin 204 may extend between a front side 246 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the freezer door 130) and a rear side 248 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the freezer chamber 124, such as when the freezer door 130 is in the closed position). The front side 246 and the rear side 248 may be spaced apart, for instance, along the transverse direction T of the refrigerator appliance 100 when the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100 is in the closed position. In addition, the first ice storage bin 204 may extend between a first side 250 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the first frame body 216 of the inner frame 214) and a second side 252 (e.g., a side of the first ice storage bin 204 that faces the second frame body 218 of the inner frame 214). The first side 250 and the second side 252 being spaced apart, for instance, along the lateral direction L of the refrigerator appliance 100 when the freezer door 130 of the refrigerator appliance 100 is in the closed position.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, the first ice storage bin 204 may include a connection body 254, a main body 256, or a handle 258. The connection body 254 may be a portion of the first ice storage bin 204 that connects (e.g., directly or indirectly) to the inner frame 214 of the refrigerator appliance 100. For instance, as will be described in more detail below, the connection body 254 may include means or mechanisms for connecting or engaging with the inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130. In particular, the connection body 254 may extend between a top edge 260 and a bottom edge 262, for instance along the vertical direction V.

[0045] The main body 256 may be a portion of the first ice storage bin 204 extended directly from the connection body 254. In some embodiments, the main body 256 is positioned, at least in part, outside of the opening defined by the inner frame 214 (e.g., the opening defined between the first frame body 216 and the second frame body 217). The main body 256 may extend between a top edge 264 and a bottom edge 266, for instance, along the vertical direction V. The top edge 264 of the main body 256 may define an ice opening 268 for accessing the ice storage compartment 244. The ice opening 268 may be positioned directly below the first icemaker 200 for receipt of ice produced by the first icemaker 200. The handle 258 may extend outward from the main body 256. In particular, the handle 258 may extend outward from the top edge 264 of the main body 256 to provide a gripping location for a user of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0046] The first ice storage bin 204 may include top pins 270 that may be extended outward from the connection body 254. In particular, the top pins 270 may be positioned proximate to the top edge 260 (e.g., closer to the top edge 260 than the bottom edge 262, such as relative to the vertical direction V) of the connection body 254 and proximate the front side 246 (e.g., closer to the front side 246 that the rear side 248, such as relative to the transverse direction T) of the first ice storage bin 204. In some embodiments, the top pins 270 include a first top pin that extends outward from the first side 250 of the first ice storage bin 204 and a second top pin extending outward from the second side 252 of the first ice storage bin 204. The first ice storage bin 204 may also include bottom pins 272 that may be extended outward from the connection body 254. In particular, the bottom pins 272 may be positioned proximate to the bottom edge 262 (e.g., closer to the bottom edge 262 than the top edge 260) of the connection body and proximate the front side 246 (e.g., closer to the front side 246 that the rear side 248) of the first ice storage bin 204. In some embodiments, the bottom pins 272 include a first bottom pin extending outward from the first side 250 of the first ice storage bin 204 and a second top pin extending outward from the second side 252 of the first ice storage bin 204.

[0047] In additional or alternative exemplary embodiments, the locations of the pins (e.g., the top pins 270 and the bottom pins 272) and the guide tracks (e.g., the top guide tracks 220 and the bottoms guide tracks 221) may be interchanged. For instance, the pins (e.g., the top pins 270 and the bottom pins 272) may be extended from inner frame 214 of the freezer door 130 and the guide tracks (e.g., the top guide tracks 220 and the bottoms guide tracks 221) may be extended from the first ice storage bin 204.

[0048] The top pins 270 may be moveably engaged with the top guide tracks 220, for instance, within the top recess 230 of each top guide track 220. The bottom pin 272 may be moveably engaged with the bottom guide tracks 221, for instance, with the bottom recess 240 of each bottom guide track 221. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272 include, or are provided as, roller bodies 273 that may moveably engage with the top guide track 220 and the bottom guide track 221, respectively. The roller bodies 273 may be any suitable body that may roll or slide along the walls of the top guide tracks 220 or the bottom guide tracks 221. For example, the roller bodies 273 may be bushings, bearings, or the like. Notably, the roller bodies 273 reduce friction between the pins (e.g., the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272) and the guide tracks (e.g., the top guide track 220 and the bottom guide track 221) as the first ice storage bin 204 is moved between position (e.g., the closed position, the parked position, and the released position).

[0049] In additional or alternative embodiments, the pins (e.g., the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272) may be configured in any suitable manner such that friction between the pins and the guide tracks is reduced or mitigated. For example, in additional or alternative embodiments, the pins (e.g., the top pin 270 and the bottom pin 272) can include, or be provided as, tabs that slidably engage with the guide tracks. In such embodiments, the tabs may extend directly from the first ice storage bin 204. For instance, the tabs can be formed integrally with the first ice storage bin 204. In addition, in such embodiments, the tabs can be greased (e.g., with a food grade lubricant, such as food grade silicone, petrol-gel lubricant, or the like) to reduce or mitigate friction.

[0050] Notably, the top guide tracks 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 of the first ice storage bin 204 are configured such that the first ice storage bin 204 may move (e.g., from the closed position to the parked position) when a user applies a force to (e.g., pulls) the handle 258, but does not open when the freezer door 130 is slammed closed. In particular, the rear notch 242 of each bottom guide track 221 may be shaped such that the bottom pins 272 engage with the rear notch 242 when the freezer door 130 is forcibly closed. The rear notch 242 may extend toward the front wall 234 of each bottom guide tracks 221 such that the bottom pins 272 may engage with the rear notch to prevent or restrain unintentional movement of the first ice storage bin 204 (e.g., caused by the slamming of the freezer door 130)

[0051] In addition, the shape of the top guide tracks 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 may be configured such that a top corner of the first ice storage bin 204, such as the front top corner of the main body 256, may move generally along the transverse direction T and movement along the vertical direction V may be prevented or mitigated. Thus, interference between the first icemaker 200 and the first ice storage bin 204 may advantageously be prevented, such as when the first ice storage bin 204 is moving between the closed position and the parked position.

[0052] In addition, the shape of the top guide tracks 220 and the bottom guide tracks 221 may be configured such that a bottom corner of the first ice storage bin 204, such as the bottom front corner connection body 254, may may move generally along the vertical direction V and movement along the transverse direction T may be prevented or mitigated. Thus, interference between the freezer door 130 and the first ice storage bin 204 may advantageously be prevented, such as when the first ice storage bin 204 is moving between the closed position and the parked position.

[0053] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0017]As used herein, the terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended ...

Claims

1. A refrigerator appliance comprising:a cabinet defining a chilled chamber;a door rotatably mounted to the cabinet to selectively permit access to the chilled chamber, the door comprising a top guide track and a bottom guide track;an icemaker mounted to the door; andan ice storage bin being positioned directly below the icemaker, the ice storage bin being moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door, the ice storage bin comprising:a top pin extending from the ice storage bin, the top pin being movably engaged with the top guide track within a top recess of the top guide track, anda bottom pin extending from the ice storage bin, the bottom pin being moveably engaged with the bottom guide track within a bottom recess of the bottom guide track.

2. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the door comprises a main door body and an inner frame,wherein the inner frame is extended inward from the main door body into the chilled chamber, andwherein the top guide track and the bottom guide track are disposed at the inner frame.

3. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the top guide track comprises a wall extending from the door,wherein the top guide track further comprises a top notch,wherein the top notch is disposed at the wall of the top guide track, andwherein the top pin is disposed within the top notch of the top guide track when the ice storage bin is in the parked position.

4. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, bottom guide track comprises a wall extending from the door,wherein the bottom guide track comprises a rear notch at the wall of the bottom guide track, andwherein the bottom pin is disposed within the rear notch when the ice storage bin is in the closed position.

5. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the top guide track and the bottom guide track each comprise a wall extending from the door,wherein the top guide track defines a bin release opening through the wall of the top guide track, andwherein the bottom guide track defines a bin release opening through the wall of the bottom guide track.

6. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the ice storage bin further comprises a connection body and a main body,wherein the connection body is disposed within an opening defined by the door of the refrigerator appliance,wherein the main body is extended from the connection body,wherein the top pin and the bottom pin are each extended outward from the connection body,wherein the main body defines an ice opening for receipt of ice produced by the icemaker, andwherein the ice opening is positioned directly below the icemaker.

7. The refrigerator appliance of claim 6, wherein the ice storage bin extends between a front side and a rear side,wherein the connection body extends between a top edge and a bottom edge,wherein the top pin is positioned proximate to the top edge of the connection body and the front side of the ice storage bin, andwherein the bottom pin is positioned proximate to the bottom edge of the connection body and the front side of the ice storage bin.

8. The refrigerator appliance of claim 6, wherein the ice storage bin further comprises a handle, andwherein the handle is extended from the main body.

9. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the top pin and the bottom pin each comprise a roller body, andwherein the roller body comprises a bearing or a bushing.

10. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the top pin and the bottom pin each comprises a tab,wherein the tabs of the top pin and the bottom pin each extend from the first ice storage bin.

11. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the icemaker is an upper icemaker,wherein the upper icemaker is positioned directly above the ice storage bin,wherein the refrigerator appliance further comprises a lower icemaker and a lower ice storage bin,wherein the lower icemaker is mounted to the door,wherein the lower icemaker is positioned below the upper icemaker, andwherein the lower ice storage bin is positioned directly below the lower icemaker.

12. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the refrigerator appliance is a side-by-side refrigerator appliance, andwherein the chilled chamber is a freezer chamber.

13. An ice storage bin for storing ice produced by an icemaker mounted to a door of a refrigerator appliance, the door comprising a top guide track and a bottom guide track, the ice storage bin comprising:a connection body disposed at the door, the connection body comprising a top pin and a bottom pin, the top pin extending from the connection body, the bottom pin extending from the connection body, the top pin being moveably engaged with the top guide track within a top recess of the top guide track, the bottom pin being moveably engaged with the bottom guide track within a bottom recess of the bottom guide track; anda main body extending from the connection body, the main body defining an ice opening for receipt of ice produced by the icemaker,wherein the ice storage bin is moveable between a closed position, a parked position, and a released position relative to the door.

14. The ice storage bin of claim 13, wherein the top guide track comprises a wall extending from the door,wherein the top guide track further comprises a top notch disposed at the wall of the top guide track, andwherein the top pin is disposed within the top notch of the top guide track when the ice storage bin is in the parked position.

15. The ice storage bin of claim 13, wherein the bottom guide track comprises a wall extending from the door,wherein the bottom guide track comprises a rear notch at the wall of the bottom guide track, andwherein the bottom pin is disposed within the rear notch when the ice storage bin is in the closed position.

16. The ice storage bin of claim 13, wherein the ice opening defined by the main body is positioned directly below the icemaker.

17. The ice storage bin of claim 13, wherein the ice storage bin extends between a front side and a rear side,wherein the connection body extends between a top edge and a bottom edge,wherein the top pin is positioned proximate to the top edge of the connection body and the front side of the ice storage bin, andwherein the bottom pin is positioned proximate to the bottom edge of the connection body and the front side of the ice storage bin.

18. The ice storage bin of claim 17, further comprising:a handle extending from the main body at the rear side of the ice storage bin.

19. The ice storage bin of claim 13, wherein the top pin and the bottom pin each comprise a roller body, andwherein the roller body comprises a bearing or a bushing.

20. The ice storage bin of claim 13, wherein the top pin and the bottom pin each comprises a tab,wherein the tabs of the top pin and the bottom pin each extend from the first ice storage bin.

Images