Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment comprises: an ice-making chamber for providing a space in which ice is made; a cooler for supplying coldness to the ice-making chamber; and an ice-making machine for forming an ice-making cell as a space in which water undergoes a phase change to ice by means of the coldness. The ice-making machine comprises: a first tray assembly having a first tray forming a part of the ice-making cell; a second tray assembly having a second tray forming another part of the ice-making cell; a heater for supplying heat to the ice-making cell; a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of water or ice in the ice-making cell; a driver for generating driving power such that the second tray assembly is moved with regard to the first tray assembly; and a controller for controlling the heater and the driver. If the heater's operation starting condition is satisfied, the controller may operate the heater and then determine whether the driver's operation starting condition is satisfied. If the driver's operation starting condition is satisfied, the controller may operate the driver.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance for storing food at a low temperature in a storage space that is covered by a door. The refrigerator is configured to keep stored food in in a refrigerated state or frozen state by cooling an inside of the storage space using cold air.

[0003] Typically, an ice maker to make ice is provided in a freezing chamber of a refrigerator. The ice maker receives water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and cools the water to make ice. The ice generated in the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin. Ice stored in the ice bin can be taken out of the ice bin by a user opening a freezing chamber door and approaching the ice bin.

[0004] A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as “first prior art document”).

[0005] A refrigerator of a first prior art document includes a storage chamber where food is stored; a first tray assembly provided in the storage chamber and forming a part of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by cold; and a second tray assembly forming another part of the ice making cell, an ice separation heater and a transparent ice heater.

[0006] In the case of the first prior art document, spherical ice can be generated using the first and second tray assemblies, but there is a disadvantage in that a user must open a door to use the ice.

[0007] In the case of the first prior art document, if at least one of the ice separation heater and a transparent ice heater operates for a set period of time or a temperature detected by a temperature sensor becomes higher than an off reference temperature, the heater may be turned off. However, in a case of control such as the first prior art document, there is a problem in that a driver operates while ice is attached to the tray, which increases torque, or ice melts excessively, causing water to fall downward during an ice separation process or changing a shape of the ice.

[0008] An ice maker and an ice bank provided in a refrigerating chamber door is disclosed in Chinese Patent Publication No. 114174740A10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as “second prior art document”).

[0009] Ice stored in the ice bank can be taken out through a dispenser assembly. The ice maker includes an elastic mold that forms a cavity and is formed of an elastic material, a heat exchanger that is connected to the elastic mold and freezes water in the cavity, an elevating mechanism that easily discharges the ice from the cavity, and a driving mechanism that drives the elevating mechanism. The driving mechanism includes a motor and a rotating cam.

[0010] In the case of the second prior art document, spherical ice cannot be generated, and in a structure where the elevating mechanism presses the elastic mold from below, there is a disadvantage that it is difficult for the ice to separate from the elastic mold and fall downward. In order to completely separate the ice from the elastic mold, a vertical movement range of the elevating mechanism must be increased, and in this case, a size of the rotating cam must be increased, which has the disadvantage of increasing an overall size of the ice maker.DISCLOSURETechnical Problem

[0011] One embodiment provides a refrigerator in which ice can be smoothly separated from an ice making cell.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which an increase in a torque of a driver in an ice separation process is limited.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which an excessive melting of ice is reduced during a heater operation process.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of generating spherical ice from a door.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of easily discharging generated ice from a dispenser of a door.Technical Solution

[0016] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include a cooler. The cooler may be supply cold or operable to supply cold to the ice making chamber.

[0017] The refrigerator may further include an ice maker. The ice maker may be disposed in the ice making chamber. An ice maker of one aspect may include a first tray assembly. The first tray assembly may define a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by cold. The ice maker may further include a second tray assembly. The second tray assembly may define another portion of the ice making cell.

[0018] The first tray assembly may include a first tray. The second tray assembly may include a second tray.

[0019] The ice maker may further include a heater to supply heat to the ice making cell. The ice maker may further include a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of water or ice in the ice making cell. The ice maker may further include a driver to generate a driving force to move the second tray assembly with respect to the first tray assembly. The ice maker may further include a controller to control the heater and the driver. The controller may operate the heater when an operation start condition of the heater is satisfied, and then determine whether an operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0020] The controller may operate the driver when the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0021] The temperature sensor may intermittently detect a temperature. The controller may determine whether an operation start condition of the driver is satisfied based on a plurality of temperature values.

[0022] The controller may determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied by comparing a representative value in a first period after an operation of the heater with a representative value in a second period after the first period.

[0023] The controller may determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied if a difference between the representative value of the first period and the representative value of the second period is zero.

[0024] A representative value of the first period may be a temperature value obtained in the first period. A representative value of the second period may be a temperature value obtained in the second period.

[0025] The representative value of the first period may be an average value of a plurality of temperature values obtained in the first period, or a maximum value, a minimum value, or a middle value among the plurality of temperature values.

[0026] A representative value of the second period may be an average value of a plurality of temperature values obtained in the second period, or a maximum value, a minimum value, or middle value among the plurality of temperature values.

[0027] A length of the first period is equal to a length of the second period.

[0028] The refrigerator may further include a memory in which a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is stored. After temperature values of a first reference number are stored in the memory, the controller may determine that an operation start condition of the driver is satisfied if consecutive temperature values of a second reference number are the same.

[0029] If a predetermined time has elapsed after an operation of the heater starts, the controller may determine whether an operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0030] After an operation of the heater starts, if a predetermined time has elapsed and a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a first reference temperature, the controller may determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0031] After an operation of the heater starts, if a predetermined time has elapsed and a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a limit temperature, the controller may determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0032] After an operation of the heater starts, if a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a first reference temperature, the controller may determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0033] After an operation of the heater starts, if a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a second reference temperature which is higher than the first reference temperature, the controller may determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0034] After an operation of the heater starts, if a reference time has elapsed from a point in time when a temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches a reference temperature, the controller may determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

[0035] The refrigerator may further include a storage space partitioned from the ice making chamber or communicated with the ice making chamber. The reference temperature may be constant regardless of a target temperature of the storage space or may vary depending on the target temperature.

[0036] The reference time and a heating amount of the heater may vary depending on the target temperature.

[0037] In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space; a door that opens and closes the storage space; a door sensor to detect an opening and closing of the door; and an ice maker provided in the cabinet or door.

[0038] The ice maker may include a first tray that forms a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space where water changes into ice by cold, and a second tray that forms another portion of the ice making cell. The ice maker may include a heater to supply heat to the ice making cell, a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of water or ice in the ice making cell, a driver to generate a driving force to move the second tray with respect to the first tray, and a controller to control the heater and the driver.

[0039] The controller may operate the heater when an operation start condition of the heater is satisfied. After an operation of the heater starts, the controller may determine whether a first condition is satisfied to determine an operation start condition of the driver when the door sensor does not detect an opening of the door. The controller may determine whether a second condition is satisfied to determine the operation start condition of the driver when the door sensor detects the opening of the door.

[0040] Whether the first condition is satisfied may be determined based on a plurality of temperature values intermittently detected by the temperature sensor.

[0041] The refrigerator may further include a memory to store a previous temperature value used to determine an operation start time of the driver in a previous ice separation process. Whether the second condition is satisfied may be determined by comparing a temperature value detected by the temperature sensor with the previous temperature value stored in the memory.Advantageous Effects

[0042] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage that ice can be smoothly separated from an ice making cell.

[0043] According to one embodiment, an increase in a torque of a driver in an ice separation process can be limited.

[0044] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage that a phenomenon of ice melting excessively during a heater operation process is reduced.

[0045] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that spherical ice can be generated in a refrigerator door.

[0046] According to one embodiment, generated spherical ice can be easily discharged from a dispenser of a door.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0047] FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated.

[0048] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first r refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door, and FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A.

[0051] FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner of the present embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner of the present embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion of the present embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct of the present embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to the present embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of the present embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from one side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 15B is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from another side according to the present embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 16 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 17 is a flow chart explaining a method for controlling a refrigerator according to the present embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 18 is a flow chart explaining a method for determining whether an operation start condition of a driver is satisfied according to the present embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker when a second tray assembly is to a full ice detection position in an ice separation process.

[0068] FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray, and FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray.

[0069] FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a state where a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position, and FIG. 23B is a drawing showing a state where a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position.MODE FOR INVENTION

[0070] In this specification, at least one of component A and component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B. Additionally, at least one of component A or component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B.

[0071] FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated.

[0072] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door, and FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a cabinet 2. The cabinet 2 may have a storage space. The refrigerator 1 may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space. The door may be movably connected to the cabinet 2.

[0074] The storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 18. The storage chamber may alternatively or additionally include a freezing chamber 19. As an example, FIG. 1B illustrates that the storage space includes a refrigerating chamber 18 and a freezing chamber 19.

[0075] The door may include a refrigerating chamber door 5 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 18. The refrigerating chamber 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating chamber doors 5. The door may further include a freezing chamber door 30 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 19. The freezing chamber 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing chamber doors 30.

[0076] Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the refrigerating chamber 18 is opened and closed by a first refrigerating chamber door 10 and a second refrigerating chamber door 20.

[0077] At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for discharging water and / or ice. Of course, depending on a type of a refrigerator, it is also possible for the freezing chamber door 30 to be provided with the dispenser 11.

[0078] At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include at least one ice maker 200.

[0079] If a refrigerator includes a plurality of ice makers, types of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. Sizes (or volumes) of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. A transparency of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. In ice makers, structures for generating ice and methods for separating generated ice may be the same or different.

[0080] Hereinafter, an example in which an ice maker 200 is provided in the first refrigerating chamber door 10 will be described. Of course, if necessary, an ice maker may also be provided in the second refrigerating chamber door 20 or the freezing chamber door 30. At this time, the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be provided in the same door. Alternatively, an additional ice maker may be provided in the refrigerating chamber 18 or the freezing chamber 19.

[0081] In FIG. 1B, the refrigerator 1 is exemplarily illustrated as a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but it should be noted that an idea of the present invention can be equally applied to a side-by-side type refrigerator or a top-mount type refrigerator. In a case of a side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerator, a freezing chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser, or a refrigerating chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser.

[0082] The dispenser 11 may be positioned at a front side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. A portion of the dispenser 11 may be recessed rearward to provide a space in which a container may be positioned.

[0083] The dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the ice maker 200. At least a portion of the ice maker 200 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11.

[0084] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include an outer case 101. The outer case 101 may form a front exterior of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a door liner 102. The door liner 102 may be directly or indirectly connected to the outer case 101. The door liner 102 may open and close the refrigerating chamber 18.

[0085] In a state in which the outer case 101 and the door liner 102 are connected, an insulating space may be formed between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102. An insulator may be provided in the insulating space. The insulator may be formed by hardening a foaming agent injected from an outside. Alternatively, a vacuum insulator may be provided in the insulating space. It is also possible for the insulator and the vacuum insulator to be provided together in the insulating space.

[0086] The refrigerator 1 may include an ice making chamber 122 that provides a space where ice is generated. The ice making chamber 122 may be partitioned from the storage space or communicated with the storage space.

[0087] The ice making chamber 122 may be provided, for example, in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The ice maker 200 may be disposed in the ice making chamber 122. For example, the door liner 102 may form the ice making chamber 122. The ice making chamber 122 may be formed as one surface of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101.

[0088] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice bin 600 in which ice generated in the ice maker 200 is stored. Ice stored in the ice bin 600 may be discharged to the dispenser 11. The ice bin 600 may be received in the ice making chamber 122 together with the ice maker 200. The ice bin 600 may be disposed below the ice maker 200.

[0089] Cold generated in a cooler 1020 (see FIG. 16) may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122. That is, a cooler 1020 may be configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122. Alternatively, the cooler 1020 may be a component configured to operate to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122.

[0090] The cooler 1020 may be configured to cool the ice making chamber 122, including at least one of a refrigerant cycle or a thermoelectric element. For example, cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122.

[0091] The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply passage 2a that guides cold air of the freezing chamber 19 or cold air of a space where an evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 is disposed to the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge passage 2b that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 to the freezing chamber 19 or a space where the evaporator is disposed. The supply passage 2a and the discharge passage 2b may be provided in the cabinet 2.

[0092] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a cold air inlet 123a. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air inlet 123a may be communicated with the supply passage 2a. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air outlet 123b. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air outlet 123b may be communicated with the discharge passage 2b. The cold air inlet 123a may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the supply passage 2a is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed. The cold air outlet 123b may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the discharge passage 2b is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed.

[0093] The ice maker 200 may form ice having a spherical shape. The “spherical shape” mentioned in this specification means not only a geometrically spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape.

[0094] The one side of the door liner 102 may include a first side portion 102a and a second side portion 102b having different widths in the front-back direction. A width of the second side portion 102b may be formed to be greater than a width of the first side portion 102a. At least one of the cold air inlet 123a or the cold air outlet 123b may be formed in the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102. The second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber 18 than the first side portion 102a.

[0095] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice making chamber door 130 that opens and closes the ice making chamber 122. The ice making chamber door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulator provided therein. The ice making chamber door 130 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge.

[0096] Meanwhile, a basket 136 (a first basket) capable of storing food, may be connected to the ice making chamber door 130. Of course, a basket 137 (a second basket) may also be provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10. For example, the second basket 137 may be positioned below the first basket 136.

[0097] A component space 123 for receiving a component may be formed in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. At least one of a valve 750 for controlling the flow of water, a filter (not shown) for purifying water, or a water tank 700 for storing water may be received in the component space 123. The component space 123 may be formed by the door liner 102. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cover member 132 that covers the component space 123. A holder 125 to which the filter is coupled may be provided in the component space 123.

[0098] The cover member 132 may include an opening 133. The filter may be coupled to the holder 125 through the opening 133. The second basket 137 may cover the opening 133. When the second basket 137 is separated, the opening 133 may be exposed. The holder 125 may be exposed to the opening 133.

[0099] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a space 11b. A container such as a cup may be positioned in the space 11b. Water or ice may be discharged into the space 11b. At least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 may overlap the component space 123 in a vertical direction.

[0101] The ice maker 200 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction. The ice bin 600 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction. As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may include a second pusher 530. The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice bin 600 in a vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction.

[0102] The ice bin 600 may include an ice discharging portion 630 that operates to discharge stored ice. The ice discharging portion 630 may include, for example, a rotating member that rotates.

[0103] An ice chute 800 may be arranged at a lower side of the ice making chamber 122. The ice chute 800 may be opened and closed by a cap duct 820. An ice guide 840 may be positioned at a lower side of the ice chute 800. The ice chute 800 may provide a path for ice to move. The ice chute 800 may guide ice discharged from the ice bin 600 to the ice guide 840. The ice guide 840 may guide ice to the space 11b. The ice chute 800 may overlap at least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the ice chute 800 may overlap the ice maker 200 in a vertical direction.

[0104] The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice chute 800 in the vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the cap duct 820 in a vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.

[0105] As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510. The second pusher 530 may be positioned closer to the outer case 101 than the first pusher 510. A horizontal distance between the second pusher 530 and a front surface of the outer case 101 may be less than a horizontal distance between a path formed by the ice chute 800 and a front surface of the outer case 101.

[0106] The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice discharging portion 630 in a vertical direction. The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice chute 800 in a vertical direction. The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.

[0107] The ice maker 200 may overlap the water tank 700 in a vertical direction.

[0108] FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner of the present embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner of the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct of the present embodiment.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the door liner 102 may include an ice making chamber wall 140 forming the ice making chamber 122. The door liner 102 may further include a peripheral wall 102c. The peripheral wall 102c may be spaced apart from the ice making chamber wall 140 at an outer side of the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0110] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air duct 900. The cold air duct 900 may guide cold air introduced through the cold air inlet 123a to the ice making chamber 122. The cold air duct 900 may guide cold air of the ice making chamber 122 to the cold air outlet 123b.

[0111] The cold air duct 900 may include a first duct 910 forming a first passage. The first passage may communicate the cold air inlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122. The cold air duct 900 may further include a second duct 920. The second duct 920 may form the first passage together with the first duct 910.

[0112] A portion of the second duct 920 may be in contact with the ice making chamber wall 140. Although not shown, a first through hole may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140. The first through hole is a supply through hole through which cold air is supplied to the ice making chamber 122. A portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the first through hole. One surface of the second duct 920 may form the first passage.

[0113] The cold air duct 900 may further include a third duct 930. The third duct 930 may form a second passage. The second passage may communicate the cold air outlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122. The third duct 930 may form the second passage together with the second duct 920. For example, another surface of the second duct 920 may form the second passage. Although not shown, a second through hole may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140. The second through hole is a discharge through hole through which cold air is discharged from the ice making chamber 122. The second through hole may be located below the first through hole. Another portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the cold air outlet 123b. A portion of the third duct 930 may be aligned with the second through hole 140b.

[0114] If the ice maker 200 is provided in the freezing chamber door 30, the cold air duct 900 may be omitted.

[0115] The ice making chamber wall 140 may include a front wall 141. The front wall 141 may be a wall facing the outer case 101. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a first side wall 143. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a second side wall 144 positioned opposite the first side wall 143. The cold air duct 900 may be positioned between the second side wall 144 and the peripheral wall 102c. The first through hole 140a and the second through hole 140b may be formed in the second side wall 144. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include an upper wall 142. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a lower wall 148.

[0116] The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a supporting portion 150 on which the ice maker 200 is installed. The supporting portion 150 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. As another example, a portion or all of the supporting portion 150 may be integrally formed with the ice making chamber wall 140. Alternatively, the supporting portion 150 may be omitted and the ice maker 200 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. In either case, the ice maker 200 may be described as being supported on the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0117] The supporting portion 150 may include a first member 152. The first member 152 may extend in a vertical direction. The ice maker 200 may be installed on the first member 152. The first member 152 may include a mounting portion 155. The mounting portion 155 may be disposed at an upper portion of the first member 152. For example, the first member 152 may be provided with a slot 154 through which a portion of the ice maker 200 passes. A motor assembly for driving an ice discharging portion 630 of the ice bin 600 may be mounted on the first member 152.

[0118] The supporting portion 150 may further include a second member 153. The second member 153 may extend in a horizontal direction from the first member 152. The ice bin 600 may be seated on the second member 153. An ice through hole 153a through which ice passes may be formed in the second member 153.

[0119] The ice maker 200 may further include a bracket 220 supported by the supporting portion 150 or supported by the ice making chamber wall 140. When the ice maker 200 is directly supported by the ice making chamber wall 140, the ice maker 200 may be supported by the front wall 141.

[0120] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of the present embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to the present embodiment.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 11, the ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly 201. The first tray assembly 201 may form a portion of an ice making cell 203. The ice maker 200 may further include a second tray assembly 202. The second tray assembly 202 may form another portion of the ice making cell 203. The ice making cell 203 is a space where water is phase-changed by cold.

[0122] A driver 480 may be mounted on one side of the bracket 220. The driver 480 may provide driving force to the second tray assembly 202. The first tray assembly 201 may be installed on the bracket 220. The second tray assembly 202 may move relative to the first tray assembly 201. For example, the second tray assembly 202 may move linearly, curvedly, or rotationally.

[0123] The driver 480 may include a motor housing 481. The driver 480 may further include a motor received in the motor housing 481 and a power transfer portion. A coupling portion 482 may be formed at an upper side of the motor housing 481. The coupling portion 482 may be coupled to the bracket 220 by a coupling member. The driver 480 may be positioned adjacent to the first side wall 143. That is, the driver 480 may be positioned opposite a first through hole (inlet through hole) through which cold air is introduced.

[0124] The ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550 for detecting a full ice of the ice bin 600. One end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the driver 480. Another end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the bracket 220.

[0125] The ice making chamber wall 140 may be provided with a recess formed at a position corresponding to the driver 480. The recess may include a first recess 145a formed in the first side wall 143. The recess may further include a second recess 145b formed in the front wall 141.

[0126] The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a third recess 145c in which a portion of the supporting portion 150 is positioned. The third recess 145c may be formed in the front wall 141. The third recess 145c may be connected to the second recess 145b.

[0127] The ice maker 200 may further include a cold guide. The cold guide may provide a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203. The cold guide may be provided outside the ice making cell 203. Hereinafter, an example in which the cold is cold air will be described. The cold guide may include, for example, a cold air guide 270. Accordingly, all configurations described in the cold air guide may be understood as configurations of the cold guide. In the present specification, a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203 may be formed by the cold air guide, the first tray, and the first tray cover. Accordingly, at least a portion of each of the cold guide, the first tray and the first tray cover may serve as the cold guide.

[0128] The cold air guide 270 may be adjacent to or in contact with the second side wall 144. The cold air guide 270 may be a separate component from the first tray case described below or may be a portion of the first tray case.

[0129] The driver 480 may be located at an opposite side of the second side wall 144 or the cold air guide 270 with respect to the ice maker 200. The ice making chamber wall 140 may have slots 146, 147 formed therein through which a water pipe through which water flows and one or more connectors (or wire) for connection with the ice maker 200 pass. The slots 146, 147 may be formed in the front wall 141.

[0130] A portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the first tray assembly 201. Another portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the second tray assembly 202. In a state in which an ice making is completed, a portion of ice may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. In a state in which an ice making is completed, another portion of ice may be in contact with the second tray assembly 202.

[0131] The first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray 320. The first tray 320 may form a portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.

[0132] At least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material to facilitate a transfer of cold air. The first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray case. The first tray case may include a portion that is in contact with the first tray or that is supported by the first tray.

[0133] The first tray case may further include a first tray cover 300. The first tray cover 300 may be coupled to the first tray 320. The first tray cover 300 may be disposed at one side of the first tray 320.

[0134] The first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220. For example, the first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220 in a state in which the first tray cover 300 is coupled to one side of the first tray 320. Alternatively, when the bracket 220 is omitted, the first tray 320 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0135] The ice maker 200 may further include a heater 330 to provide heat to the ice making cell 203. For example, the first tray assembly 201 may include the heater 330.

[0136] The heater 330 may operate at least in an ice separation process to provide heat to the first tray 320 after an ice making is completed. The heater 330 may function as an ice separation heater. The heater 330 may be in contact with the first tray 320.

[0137] The first tray assembly 201 may further include a heater case 340 (or a heater cover) that covers the heater 330.

[0138] The heater case 340 may include a portion in contact with the heater 330 or supported by the heater 330. The heater case 340 may cover the heater 330. The heater case 340 may be a separate component from the first tray cover 300 or may be integrally formed with the first tray cover 300.

[0139] The heater case 340 may press the heater 330 toward the first tray 320. The heater case 340 may be positioned between the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300. For example, the heater case 340 may be positioned at an upper side of a portion of the first tray 320 and at a lower side of a portion of the first tray cover 300.

[0140] The second tray assembly 202 may include a second tray 360. The second tray 360 may form another portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.

[0141] At least a portion of the second tray 360 may be formed of a deformable material so that ice may be easily separated.

[0142] The second tray assembly 202 may further include a second tray case. The second tray case may include a portion be in contact with the second tray 360 or that supports the second tray 360.

[0143] The second tray case may include a second tray cover 350. A portion of the second tray cover 350 may be positioned closer to the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360. The second tray case may further include a second tray supporter 380. A portion of the second tray supporter 380 may be positioned farther way from the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360.

[0144] The ice maker 200 may further include a water supply 240 for supplying water to the ice making cell. The water supply 240 may supply water to some of a plurality of ice making cells. The water supply 240 may be installed on the bracket 220. The water supply 240 may be provided with a slot 242 through which a water pipe passes. The water supply 240 may include a through hole 241 through which water is discharged.

[0145] The cold air guide 270 may be installed on, for example, the bracket 220, the first tray 320, or the first tray cover 300. The cold air guide 270 may guide cold air to the ice making cell 203. The cold air guide 270 may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. The cold guide 270 may be in contact with one or more of the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300.

[0146] A portion of the cold air guide 270 may be positioned at an opposite side of the driver 480 with respect to the first tray assembly 201. Cold air guided by the cold air guide 270 may flow in a direction close to the driver 480. The driver 480 may be prevented from acting as a flow resistance of cold air by an arrangement of the driver 480.

[0147] The ice maker 200 may further include a tray temperature sensor 710 for detecting a temperature of water or ice in an ice making cell. For example, the tray temperature sensor 710 may detect a temperature of the first tray 320. The tray temperature sensor 710 may be seated on the first tray 320. The tray temperature sensor 710 may be covered by an insulator 720. The insulator 720 may prevent cold air from directly contacting the tray temperature sensor 710.

[0148] The ice maker 200 may further include a transfer portion 420, 421 for transmitting a power of the driver 480. For example, a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the second tray assembly 202 by a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421. A first transfer portion 420 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be connected to the driver 480. The first transfer portion 420 may be coupled to one side of the second tray supporter 380. A second transfer portion 421 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be coupled to another side of the second tray supporter 380.

[0149] The ice maker 200 may further include a shaft 410 coupled to each of the plurality of transfer portions 420 and 421. The first transfer portion 420 may be movably supported by one side of the first tray 320. The second transfer portion 421 may be movably supported by another side of the first tray 320.

[0150] A material of the transfer portions 420, 421 is different from a material of the first tray 320. The transfer portions 420, 421 may be, for example, a plastic injection molded product. To prevent direct friction between two components having different materials, an intermediate member 416 may be coupled to one of the transfer portions 420, 421 and the first tray 320. For example, the intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the first tray 320. The transfer portions 420, 421 may pass through the intermediate member 416 and be in contact with the intermediate member 416.

[0151] The ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510 to press ice or a first tray assembly 201 in an ice separation process. The first pusher 510 may push ice so that ice is separated from the first tray 320. The first pusher 510 may pass through the first tray cover 300 to push ice, for example. The first pusher 510 may push ice by passing through the first tray 320.

[0152] The first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480. For example, the first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480 transmitted to the second tray assembly 202.

[0153] The ice maker 200 may further include a pusher link 440. For example, a plurality of pusher links 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510. One side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510, and another side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202. For example, the other side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray supporter 380.

[0154] The ice maker 200 may further include an elastic member 460. One end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the transfer portion 420, 421, and another end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202. When the elastic member 460 is tensioned, a position of the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be moved to an initial position by a restoring force. The elastic member 460 may increase an adhesion force between the first tray assembly 201 and the second tray assembly 202 at an ice making position. The other end of the elastic member 460 may be coupled to the second tray supporter 380.

[0155] The ice maker 200 may further include a second pusher 530 to press ice or the second tray assembly 202 in an ice separation process. The second pusher 530 may be installed on the bracket 220, for example. If the bracket 220 is omitted, the second pusher 530 may be installed on the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.

[0156] The ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550. The full ice detection lever 550 may include a lever body 552 extending in one direction. The full ice detection lever 550 may further include a first extension 553 extending from one end of the lever body 552. The full ice detection lever 550 may further include a second extension 554 extending from another end of the lever body 552. The first extension 553 may be connected to the driver 480. The second extension 554 may be connected to the bracket 220.

[0157] The driver 480 may include an extension rib 484 for insertion into or passing through the bracket 220. For example, a plurality of extension ribs 484 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal or vertical direction. For example, the extension ribs 484 may protrude from the motor housing 481.

[0158] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 12, the first tray 320 may define a first cell 321, which is a portion of the ice making cell 203. The first tray 320 may include a first cell wall 322 to form the first cell 321. The first cell 321 may be formed in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere, for example.

[0160] The first tray 320 may include a first contact surface 322a in contact with the second tray 360. The first contact surface 322a may be one surface of the first cell wall 322.

[0161] The first tray 320 may form, for example, a plurality of first cells 321. A plurality of first cells 321 may be arranged in a plurality of rows so as to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of ices. The plurality of first cells 321 may include a first cell portion 321a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 321b arranged in a second row.

[0162] The first cell portion 321a may form a portion of a first ice making cell of a first row, and the second cell portion 321b may form a portion of a second ice making cell of a second row. The first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing. The Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door.

[0163] The first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 321a. The second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 321b.

[0164] The first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row. The second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.

[0165] A number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a may be the same as or different from a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b. As an example, FIG. 12 illustrates that a number of a plurality of first cell portions 321a is less than a number of a plurality of second cell portions 321b.

[0166] One first cell portion 321a may be arranged to correspond to an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. Alternatively, one first cell portion 321a may be arranged to face an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. One ice making cell of the first row (a first cell portion) may overlap two ice making cells of a second row (a second cell portion) adjacent to the one ice making cell in a Y-axis direction.

[0167] The first tray 320 may further include through holes 323a, 323b that provide a path for water or cold air. The through holes 323a, 323b may be provided in the same number as a number of the plurality of first cells 321.

[0168] The first tray 320 may further include an auxiliary storage chamber 323d. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may allow water or cold air to pass through. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be disposed at an upper side of the through holes 323a, 323b. The first tray 320 may further include an extension wall 323c. The extension wall 323c may extend upward from a periphery of the through holes 323a, 323b to form the auxiliary storage chamber 323d. The extension wall 323c may extend from the first cell wall 322.

[0169] The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a space where ice is generated. Alternatively, the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a portion of an ice making cell 203. When an ice making is completed, an upper end of ice may be located in the through hole 323a, 323b or adjacent to the through hole 323a, 323b. Accordingly, generated ice may have a spherical shape or a shape that is almost spherical.

[0170] The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store water supplied in excess to the ice making cell 203. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store ice that expands in a process of supplied water being phase-changed.

[0171] The first tray 320 may further include an extension. The extension may include a portion extending from the first cell wall 322. The extension may be in contact with a portion of the cold air guide 270 or support the cold air guide 270.

[0172] The extension may include a portion spaced apart from the cold air guide 270. Cold air may flow in a space between the extension and the cold air guide 270.

[0173] The first tray 320 may further include a supporter 325 that supports a component for a movement of the second tray assembly 202. For example, a plurality of supporters 325 may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction. The supporter 325 may extend in one direction from the extension.

[0174] The supporter 325 may include a hole 325a. For example, the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be movably coupled to the supporter 325. For example, the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be rotatably coupled to the supporter 325. The intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the hole 325a of the supporter 325, and a slot 325b into which a portion of the intermediate member 416 is inserted may be provided in the supporter 325 to prevent the intermediate member 416 from rotating with respect to the supporter 325. The slot 325b may extend outwardly from the hole 325a.

[0175] The intermediate member 416 may be formed of a different material than the first tray 320. An entirety of the first tray 320 may be formed of the same material, or at least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material.

[0176] The first tray 320 may further include a sensor mounting portion 326 on which the tray temperature sensor 710 is mounted. The sensor mounting portion 326 may be formed in a recessed shape toward the second tray 360. The tray temperature sensor 710 may be received in the sensor mounting portion 326.

[0177] The first tray 320 may further include a receiving portion 326a for receiving an insulator 720 seated on the temperature sensor 710.

[0178] The first tray 320 may further include a heater seating portion 329 on which the heater 330 is seated. The heater seating portion 329 may be formed, for example, by a portion of the first tray 320 being recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360.

[0179] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 13, the first tray cover 300 may include a first portion 301. At least a portion of the first portion 301 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, at least a portion of the first portion 301 may be positioned at an upper side of the first tray 320. Cold air may flow between the first portion 301 and the first tray 320.

[0181] The first tray cover 300 may further include a second portion 302 extending from one side of the first portion 301. The second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction crossing the first portion 301. For example, the second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction away from the first tray 320.

[0182] The second portion 302 may cover the first pusher 510 at an ice making position. The second portion 302 may minimize an exposure of the first pusher 510. The second portion 302 may be positioned between the first pusher 510 and the ice making chamber door 130.

[0183] The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide 303. The guide 303 may extend from the first portion 301 and provide a movement path of the first pusher 510. The guide 303 may extend in a direction crossing the first portion 301 from the first portion 301. The guide 303 may include a guide slot 303a.

[0184] The first tray cover 300 may further include a water supply hole 301a. The water supply hole 301a may be aligned with a through hole 241 of the water supply 240.

[0185] The first tray cover 300 may further include a communication hole 301b aligned with the auxiliary storage chamber 323d (or a through hole 323a, 323b) of the first tray 320. For example, a plurality of communication holes 301b may be formed in the first portion 301.

[0186] The first tray cover 300 may further include a case contact portion 307. The case contact portion 307 may protrude from the first portion 301. The case contact portion 307 may be in contact with the heater case 340. The case contact portion 307 may press the heater case 340. For example, a plurality of case contact portions 307 may be arranged to be spaced apart in a front-back direction and a left-right direction.

[0187] The first tray cover 300 may further include a pressing protrusion 308. The pressing protrusion 380 may press the insulator 720. For example, a plurality of pressing protrusions 308 may protrude from the first portion 301.

[0188] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to the present embodiment.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 14, the second tray 360 may define a second cell 361, which is another portion of the ice making cell. The second tray 360 may include a second cell wall 362 forming the second cell 361. The second tray 360 may form, for example, a plurality of second cells 361. In order to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of generated ices, a plurality of second cells 361 may be arranged in a plurality of rows.

[0190] The plurality of second cells 361 may include a first cell portion 361a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 361b arranged in a second row. The first cell portion 361a may form another portion of a first ice making cell of a first row, and the second cell portion 361b may form another portion of a second ice making cell of a second row.

[0191] The first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing. The Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door. The first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 361a. The second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 361b.

[0192] The first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row. The second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row. One first ice making cell of the first row may overlap two ice making cells of the second row adjacent to the one ice making cell in a Y-axis direction. Since a second cell 361 in the second tray 360 may be arranged to correspond to a first cell 321 of the first tray 320, a description of specific arrangement of the second cell 361 will be omitted.

[0193] The second tray 360 may be seated on the second tray supporter 380. When the second tray 360 is seated on the second tray supporter 380, a portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray supporter 380.

[0194] In a state in which the second tray 360 is seated on the second tray supporter 380, the second tray cover 350 may be seated on the second tray 360. A portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray cover 350.

[0195] The second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the second tray cover 350 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S4. The coupling member S4 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.

[0196] The second tray assembly 202 may further include a fixing portion 390 (or connection member). Although not limited, when the second tray assembly 202 is divided into three regions in an X-axis direction (left and right direction), the fixing portion 390 may be positioned in a region located in a center portion.

[0197] In an ice separation process, a pressing force of the second pusher 530 may be applied to the second tray 360 having a plurality of second cells. The fixing portion 390 may reduce a phenomenon in which the second tray 360 having the second cells arranged in a plurality of rows is not restored to its original shape after an ice separation process is completed.

[0198] The fixing portion 390 may be seated on the second tray 360. In a state in which the fixing portion 390 is seated on the second tray 360, a portion of the fixing portion 390 may pass through the second tray 360.

[0199] The fixing portion 390 passing through the second tray 360 may be in contact with the second tray supporter 380 or may pass through the second tray supporter 380.

[0200] The second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the fixing portion 390 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S5. The coupling member S5 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.

[0201] In a state in which the second tray cover 350 is seated on the second tray 360, one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray 360 may be positioned farther from the second tray supporter 380 than one end (for example, an upper end) of the second tray cover 350. For example, an upper end of the second tray 360 may be positioned higher than an upper end of the second tray cover 350.

[0202] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from one side according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 15B is a perspective view of a second tray as viewed from another side according to the present embodiment.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 15, the second tray 360 may define a second cell 361, which is another portion of the ice making cell. the second tray 360 may include a second cell wall 362 forming the second cell 361. The second cell 361 may be formed, for example, in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere. A first cell portion 361a may be positioned to correspond to an area between two adjacent second cell portions 361b or to face an area between two adjacent second cell portions 361b.

[0204] The second tray 360 may further include a peripheral wall 365. The peripheral wall 365 may extend from the second cell wall 362 toward the first tray 320. The peripheral wall 365 may surround the first cell wall 322.

[0205] The peripheral wall 365 may include a curved wall 365a. The curved wall 365a may be positioned adjacent to the first cell portion 361a. The peripheral wall 365 may further include a straight wall 365b. The straight wall 365b may be, for example, parallel to a Z-axis. The straight wall 365b may be positioned adjacent to the second cell portion 361b.

[0206] The peripheral wall 365 may further include a connection wall 365c connecting the straight wall 365b and the curved wall 365a. The connection wall 365c may be rounded in a Z-axis direction. A curvature of the curved wall 365b may be different from a curvature of the connection wall 365c. A curvature of the curved wall 365b may be greater than a curvature of the connecting wall 365c. The cover body 351 may surround an outer surface of the peripheral wall 365.

[0207] The second tray 360 may further include an extension 367. The extension 324 may extend from the second cell wall 362 or the peripheral wall 365. Alternatively, the extension 367 may extend from a boundary portion between the second cell wall 362 and the peripheral wall 365. The extension 367 may extend in a direction crossing the peripheral wall 365.

[0208] The second tray cover 350 may be seated on one surface of the extension 367. Another surface of the extension 367 may be seated on the second tray supporter 380.

[0209] The first protrusion 368a may be formed on one surface of the extension 367. The second protrusion 368 may be formed on another surface of the extension 367.

[0210] The first protrusion 368a may be bent one or more times in a horizontal direction. For example, the first protrusion 368a may include a first part and a second part inclined from the first part. The first protrusion 368a may be formed in a shape such as a “V”, for example.

[0211] The second protrusion 368 may be bent one or more times in a horizontal direction. For example, the second protrusion 368 may include a first part and a second part inclined from the first part. The second protrusion 368 may be formed in a shape such as a “V”, for example.

[0212] A third protrusion 369 may be provided on another surface of the extension 367 to be coupled to the second tray supporter 380. The third protrusion 369 may overlap the curved wall 365a in a Z-axis direction, for example.

[0213] The second protrusion 368 may be positioned closer to the straight wall 365b than the curved wall 365a. The first protrusion 368a may be positioned closer to the second cell portion 361b. The second protrusion 368 may be positioned closer to the second cell portion 361b. The third protrusion 369 may be positioned closer to the first cell portion 361a.

[0214] The second tray 360 may further include a fixing groove 364 in which the fixing portion 390 is received. A portion of the fixing groove 364 may be disposed between two adjacent first cell portions 361a. Another portion of the fixing groove 364 may be disposed between two adjacent second cell portions 361b.

[0215] The fixed portion 390 can enable the second cell wall 362 and the second tray supporter 380 to be coupled within a space formed by the peripheral wall 365.

[0216] FIG. 16 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment.

[0217] Referring to FIG. 16, a refrigerator of the present embodiment may include a cooler 1020.

[0218] The cooler 1020 may include, for example, a compressor for compressing a refrigerant. A temperature of cold air supplied to the ice making chamber 122 may vary depending on an output (or a frequency) of the compressor. Alternatively, the cooler 1020 may include a fan for blowing air to an evaporator. An amount of cold air supplied to the ice making chamber 122 may vary depending on an output (or a rotation speed) of the fan. Alternatively, the cooler 1020 may include a refrigerant valve that controls an amount of refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant cycle. An amount of refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant cycle may be varied by controlling an opening of the refrigerant valve, and accordingly, a temperature of cold air supplied to the ice making chamber 122 may be varied.

[0219] In this embodiment, the cooler 1020 may include one or more of the compressor, the fan, and the refrigerant valve.

[0220] A refrigerator in the present embodiment may further include a controller 100.

[0221] The controller 100 may be installed or separated from a component for control. The controller 100 may be disposed inside or outside the component for control.

[0222] The controller 1000 may control the heater 330. Alternatively or additionally, the controller 1000 may control the driver 480.

[0223] Alternatively or additionally, the controller 1000 may control the cooler 1020.

[0224] The refrigerator may include a tray temperature sensor 710 mounted on the first tray 320. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber temperature sensor 1005 to detect a temperature of the ice making chamber 122.

[0225] The controller 1000 may determine whether an ice making is completed based on a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710.

[0226] The controller 1000 may determine a start time of an operation of the driver 480 in an ice separation process based on a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710.

[0227] The refrigerator may further include a door sensor 1002. The door sensor 1002 may detect an opening and closing of the doors 5 and 30.

[0228] The refrigerator may further include a memory 1004. The tray temperature sensor 710 may intermittently detect a temperature. The tray temperature sensor 710 may detect a temperature at set time intervals. The memory 1004 may store the temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710.

[0229] The memory 1004 may store a temperature value used to determine a start time of the operation of the driver 480 in a previous ice separation process.

[0230] Hereinafter, an operation of the ice maker 200 will be described.

[0231] FIG. 17 is a flow chart explaining a method for controlling a refrigerator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flow chart explaining a method for determining whether an operation start condition of a driver is satisfied according to the present embodiment.

[0232] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker when a second tray assembly is to a full ice detection position in an ice separation process.

[0233] FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray, and FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray.

[0234] FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a state where a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position, and FIG. 23B is a drawing showing a state where a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position.

[0235] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 12, the controller 100 may control the driver 480 so that the second tray assembly 202 moves to a water supply position, an ice making position, a full ice detection position, and an ice separation position.

[0236] A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 19 is a water supply position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 20 is an ice making position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 21 is a full ice detection position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 23 is an ice separation position.

[0237] The second tray assembly 202 may move in a first direction from the water supply position to the ice making position. The first direction is clockwise direction in the drawing. The second tray assembly 202 may move in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, from the ice making position to the water supply position. The second direction is counterclockwise direction in the drawing.

[0238] The second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the water supply position to the full ice detection position. The second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the full ice detection position to the ice separation position. The second tray assembly 202 may move in the first direction from the ice separation position to the water supply position.

[0239] Referring to FIG. 17, a water supply process may be performed at an water supply position of the second tray assembly 202 (S1). Water may be supplied to the ice making cell 203 through the water supply 240.

[0240] At the water supply position of the second tray assembly 202, at least a portion of the second tray 360 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, the first cell 321 and the second cell 361 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0241] The first row may be positioned closer to a rotation center C1 of the second tray assembly 202 than the second row. A distance between the second cell portion 321b of the first tray 320 and the second cell portion 361b of the second tray 360 in the second row may be greater than a distance between the first cell portion 321a of the first tray 320 and the first cell portion 361a of the second tray 360 in the first row.

[0242] The first pusher 510 may include a first column 513. The first pusher 510 may further include a second column 514. A first column 513 of the first pusher 510 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the first row. The first column 513 may push ice from an ice making cell 203 of the first row. A second column 514 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the second row. The second column 514 may push ice from an ice making cell 203 of the second row.

[0243] Each of the first column 513 and the second column 514 may include a first edge 513b, 514b to press ice, and a second edge 513c, 514c positioned opposite the first edge 513b, 514b. The first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second edge 513c, 514c.

[0244] At the water supply position and / or ice making position, a second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 may overlap the pusher body 511 in a horizontal direction.

[0245] When a water supply is completed, the second tray assembly 202 may move to an ice making position. When the second tray assembly 202 moves to the ice making position, the first tray 320 and the second tray 360 may be in contact with each other. In this state, a complete ice making cell 203 may be formed by the first cell 321 and the second cell 322. A portion of the water received in the second tray 360 may be distributed to the first cell 321 of the first tray 320.

[0246] At the ice making position, a portion of the full ice detection lever 550 may be positioned below the second pusher 530. For example, the lever body 552 may be positioned below the second pusher 530. At least a portion of the first extension 553 connected to the driver 480 may be extended in a direction close to the second pusher 530.

[0247] At the ice making position, an ice making process may be performed (S2). Cold air may flow through the cold air guide 270. Cold air flowing through the cold air guide 270 may flow between the first tray cover 300 and the first tray 320. In the present embodiment, cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during the water supply process. Alternatively, cold air can be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 only during an ice making process. Cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during an ice separation process. Air flowing through the cold air guide 270 may flow in a direction from a first row to a second row.

[0248] While an ice making process is performed, the controller 1000 may determine whether an ice making is completed (S3). The controller 1000 may determine whether the ice making is complete based on at least one of a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 or a time for which cold air was supplied.

[0249] When an ice making is completed, an ice separation process can be performed. An ice separation process may include a heating process in which the heater 330 operates (S4). That is, when an operation start condition of the heater 330 is satisfied, the heater 330 may operate. The ice separation process may further include a moving process in which the second tray assembly 202 moves. During the moving process, the driver 480 operates.

[0250] When the heater 330 is turned on, heat of the heater 330 may be transferred to the ice making cell 203. The ice can be separated from the first tray 320 by heat of the heater 330. Even while the heater 330 is operating, a temperature can be detected by the tray temperature sensor 710.

[0251] The controller 1000 may determine whether an operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied during an operation of the heater 330 (S5).

[0252] The controller 1000 may determine whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied based on a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710, for example.

[0253] For example, a temperature detected periodically or intermittently by the tray temperature sensor 710 may be stored in the memory 1004. For example, one or more temperature values may be stored in the memory 1004 during a first period after the heater 330 starts operating. One or more temperature values may also be stored in the memory1004 during a second period following the first period. One or more temperature values may also be stored in the memory 1004 during each of a plurality of periods following the second period. A length of time for each of the plurality of periods may be the same.

[0254] The controller 1000 may compare representative values of two periods to determine whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied (first determination method). For example, if a difference between the two representative values is zero, it can be determined that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied. A difference between the two representative values may be zero in a period where ice is phase-changed into water in the ice making cell 203. In the present embodiment, a moving process may start in a period in which ice is phase-changed into water in the ice making cell 203. At this time, a length of time for each of the plurality of periods may be set to be less than a length of a period in which ice is phase-changed. During the moving process, the driver 480 may start operating.

[0255] In a case in which one temperature value is stored in each of the periods, a representative value may be a temperature value stored in each period.

[0256] In a case in which a plurality of temperature values are stored in each of the periods, only a temperature value that falls within a set temperature range among the plurality of temperature values may be used.

[0257] In a case in which a plurality of temperature values are stored in each of the periods, a representative value may be an average value of the temperature values in each period, a maximum or minimum value among the plurality of temperature values in each period, or a middle value.

[0258] In a case in which a plurality of temperature values are stored in each of the periods, a length of each period may be set to a length in which three or more temperature values may be stored.

[0259] A reference heating amount of the heater 330 may be determined in advance according to a target temperature of the storage space (freezing chamber or refrigerating chamber). For example, a reference heating amount of the heater 330 when a target temperature is high is lower than a reference heating amount of the heater 330 when a target temperature is low. A length of the plurality of periods may be varied according to the target temperature.

[0260] As a modified example, a temperature periodically detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 may be stored in the memory 1004. After a first reference number of temperature values is stored, the controller 1000 may determine that a start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied if a consecutive temperature values of second reference number are the same (second determination method). At this time, the first reference number may be greater than the second reference number. When determining whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied by the first determination method or the second determination method, if a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 is equal to or higher than a limit temperature, it may be determined that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied. That is, even if the operation start condition of the driver 480 is not satisfied as a result of a determination by the first determination method or the second judgment method, if a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 is equal to or higher than the limit temperature, it can be determined that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied.

[0261] As another modified example, the heater 330 may start operating and, after a predetermined time has elapsed, it may be determined whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied. Whether the operation start condition is satisfied may be determined using the first determination method or the second determination method described above.

[0262] At this time, if the predetermined time has elapsed and a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 is higher than a first reference temperature, it is possible to determine whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied. At this time, the first reference temperature is a temperature below zero, and may be, for example, −1° C. or a temperature close thereto.

[0263] Alternatively, if the predetermined time has elapsed and a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 is higher than a second reference temperature (or limit temperature), it may be determined that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied.

[0264] The limit temperature may be an upper limit of the set temperature range. The limit temperature may be higher than the first reference temperature. The limit temperature may be, for example, a temperature above zero, and may be, for example, 1° C. or a temperature close thereto.

[0265] As further another modified example, when the heater 330 starts operating and a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor becomes higher than the first reference temperature, it may be determined whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied. At this time, whether the operation start condition is satisfied may be determined using the first determination method or the second determination method. While determining whether the operation start condition is satisfied using the first determination method or the second determination method, if a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 is higher than the second reference temperature, it may be determined that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied.

[0266] As further another modified example, it is also possible to determine whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied by comparing a preset determination reference temperature and a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 during an operation of the heater 330. After the driver 480 starts operating, an operation time of the driver 480 may be stored in the memory 1004. The operation time may be the same or different for each ice making cycle.

[0267] The controller 1000 may vary the determination reference temperature by comparing a difference value between an operating time of n+1 and an operating time of n. For example, if the difference value is +, the operating time of the n+1 has increased compared to the n, and the determination reference temperature may be increased. In this case, an operating time of the heater 330 may be increased. If the difference value is −, the determination reference temperature may be lowered.

[0268] As further another modified example, after the heater 330 operates, if a reference time has elapsed from a point in time when a temperature detected by the tray temperature sensor 710 reaches a reference temperature, the operation start condition of the driver 480 may be determined to be satisfied.

[0269] A reference heating amount of the heater 330 may be determined in advance according to a target temperature of the storage space (freezing chamber or refrigerating chamber). For example, a reference heating amount of the heater 330 when a target temperature is high is lower than a reference heating amount of the heater 330 when a target temperature is low.

[0270] The reference temperature may be constant regardless of the target temperature or may vary depending on the target temperature. The reference time may vary depending on the target temperature. The reference time may be determined by considering, for example, a period during which the phase change of ice into water is maintained.

[0271] If it is determined that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied, the driver 480 may start operating (S6). When a moving process starts, the heater 330 may be turned off, or a moving process may be performed while the heater 330 is operating, and the heater 330 may be turned off during the moving process.

[0272] Meanwhile, in this specification, a step (S5) for determining whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied may include a step (S51) for determining whether an opening of the door is detected by the door sensor 1002 while the heater 330 is operating.

[0273] If it is determined that the door is not opened, the controller 1000 may determine whether a first condition is satisfied (S52). A determination of whether the first condition is satisfied is the same as the various determination examples (such as first and second determination methods) described above.

[0274] On the other hand, if it is determined that the door is opened, the controller 1000 may determine whether a second condition is satisfied (S52). For example, whether the second condition is satisfied may be determined based on a temperature value (previous temperature value) used to determine a start time of an operation of the driver in a previous moving process and a current temperature value.

[0275] During a determination of whether the first condition is satisfied, it may be detected that the door is opened while the first condition is not satisfied. In this case, after detecting that the door is opened, only a satisfaction of the second condition may be determined. When a current temperature value reaches a previous temperature value stored in the memory 1004, the controller 1000 may determine that the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied.

[0276] In this embodiment, a method for determining whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied may vary depending on whether the door is opened or closed.

[0277] As another example, it is also possible to determine only whether the first condition is satisfied regardless of whether the door is opened or closed.

[0278] In a moving process, the second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction (direction of arrow A) from the ice making position toward the ice separation position.

[0279] In the moving process, while the second tray assembly 202 moves in the second direction, a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the full ice detection lever 550 to move. The full ice detection lever 550 may be maintained in a stopped state before the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by a predetermined angle in the second direction from the ice making position. The full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated when the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by the predetermined angle or more. At this time, the full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated in a first direction (direction of arrow B) opposite to a rotational direction of the second tray assembly 202.

[0280] In a state in which the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved to a full ice detection position. At this time, the lever body 552 may be spaced apart from the second tray assembly 202.

[0281] If a full ice is not detected in a state in which the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the full ice detection position, the second tray assembly 202 may be additionally moved in the second direction toward the ice separation position.

[0282] While the second tray assembly 202 is additionally moved in a state in which the full ice detection lever 550 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved in the second direction and returned to an initial position. Accordingly, an interference between the full ice detection lever 550 and the second tray assembly 202 may be prevented.

[0283] Meanwhile, while the second tray assembly 202 is moved from the ice making position to the ice separation position, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may be inserted into the first cell 321 by passing through the through holes 323a and 323b of the first tray 320. In a process of inserting the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 into the first cell 321, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may press ice.

[0284] The second pusher 530 may include a first column 532. The second pusher 530 may further include a second column 533. The first column 532 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the first row. The second column 533 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the second row.

[0285] While the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, the first column 532 of the second pusher 530 may first contact the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 28A. The first column 532 may be positioned closer to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1 than the second column 533.

[0286] A distance between a first row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360 is different from a distance between a second row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360. Therefore, positions of the first column 532 and the second column 533 need to be different with respect to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1. A horizontal distance between the first column 532 and the vertical line V1 may be less than a horizontal distance between the second column 533 and the vertical line V1.

[0287] The first column 532 may include a first pressing surface 532b. The first pressing surface 532b may press a portion corresponding to the first row in the second tray 360. The second column 533 may include a second pressing surface 533b. The second pressing surface 533b may press a portion corresponding to the second row in the second tray 360.

[0288] The first pressing surface 532b may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1. The second pressing surface 533b may be inclined with respect to the vertical line. An inclination angle of the first pressing surface 532b may be different from an inclination angle of the second pressing surface 533b. For example, an inclination angle of the first pressing surface 532b with respect to a vertical line may be less than an inclination angle of the second pressing surface 533b.

[0289] In a state in which the first column 532 is in contact with the second tray 360, the second column 533 may be spaced apart from the second tray 360. In this state, when the second tray assembly 202 is further moved in the second direction, the second column 533 may be in contact with the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 29B. The first column 532 may press the first row in the second tray 360, so that a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row can be deformed.

[0290] Referring to FIG. 23, when the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row is deformed by the first column 532, so that ice in the first row can be separated from the second tray 360. In addition, another portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the second row is deformed by the second column 533, so that ice in the second row can be separated from the second tray 360.

[0291] At the ice separation position, the first edges 513b, 514b of the first and second columns 513, 514 of the first pusher 510 may pass through the first cell 321 and be positioned outside of the first cell 321. For example, the first edges 513b, 514b may be positioned lower than the first tray 320 based on the drawing. According to the present embodiment, ice may be sufficiently pressed by the first edges 513b, 514b, so that ice separation performance may be improved.

[0292] Ice separated from the second tray assembly 202 may fall downward and be stored in the ice bin 600.

[0293] After the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, the second tray assembly 202 may be moved in the first direction toward the water supply position.

[0294] In this specification, a method for determining whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied may be applied regardless of a location of the ice maker. For example, the same method may be applied even when the ice maker is installed in a cabinet rather than a door.

[0295] In addition, as long as the ice maker includes a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly, the method for determining whether the operation start condition of the driver 480 is satisfied may be applied as is even if a detailed structure is changed.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising:an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated;a cooler configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber; andan ice maker to form an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by the cold,wherein the ice maker includes the first tray assembly having a first tray that forms a portion of the ice making cell,a second tray assembly having a second tray that forms another portion of the ice making cell,a heater to supply heat to the ice making cell,a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of water or ice in the ice making cell,a driver to generate a driving force to move the second tray assembly with respect to the first tray assembly, anda controller to control the heater and the driver,wherein the controller is configured to operate the heater when an operation start condition of the heater is satisfied and then determine whether an operation start condition of the driver is satisfied, andto operate the driver when the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the temperature sensor intermittently detects a temperature, andwherein the controller is configured determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied based on a plurality of temperature values.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2,wherein the controller is configured determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied by comparing a representative value in a first period after an operation of the heater with a representative value in a second period after the first period.

4. The refrigerator of claim 3,wherein the controller is configured determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied if a difference between the representative value of the first period and the representative value of the second period is zero.

5. The refrigerator of claim 3,wherein the representative value of the first period is a temperature value obtained in the first period and the representative value of the second period is a temperature value obtained in the second period.

6. The refrigerator of claim 3,wherein the representative value of the first period is an average value of a plurality of temperature values obtained in the first period, or a maximum value, or a minimum value, or a middle value among the plurality of temperature values.

7. The refrigerator of claim 3,wherein the representative value of the second period is an average value of a plurality of temperature values obtained in the second period, or a maximum value, or a minimum value, or a middle value among the plurality of temperature values.

8. The refrigerator of claim 3,wherein a length of the first period is equal to a length of the second period.

9. The refrigerator of claim 1,further comprising a memory in which a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is stored,wherein after temperature values of a first reference number are stored in the memory, the controller is configured to determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied if consecutive temperature values of second reference number are the same.

10. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein if a predetermined time has elapsed after an operation of the heater starts, the controller is configured to determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

11. The refrigerator of claim 10,wherein after the operation of the heater starts, if the predetermined time has elapsed and a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a first reference temperature, the controller is configured to determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

12. The refrigerator of claim 9,wherein after an operation of the heater starts, if a predetermined time has elapsed and a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a limit temperature, the controller is configured to determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

13. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein after an operation of the heater starts, if a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a first reference temperature, the controller is configured to determine whether the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

14. The refrigerator of claim 13,wherein if a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a second reference temperature which is higher than the first reference temperature, the controller is configured to determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

15. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein after an operation of the heater starts, if a reference time has elapsed from a point in time when a temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches a reference temperature, the controller is configured to determine that the operation start condition of the driver is satisfied.

16. The refrigerator of claim 15,further comprising a storage space partitioned from the ice making chamber or communicated with the ice making chamber,wherein the reference temperature is constant regardless of a target temperature of the storage space or varies depending on the target temperature of the storage space.

17. The refrigerator of claim 16,wherein the reference time and a heating amount of the heater vary depending on the target temperature.

18. A refrigerator comprising:a cabinet having a storage space;a door that opens and closes the storage space;a door sensor to detect an opening and closing of the door; andan ice maker provided in the cabinet or door,wherein the ice maker includes a first tray that forms a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by cold,a second tray that forms another portion of the ice making cell,a heater to supply heat to the ice making cell,a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of water or ice in the ice making cell,a driver to generate a driving force to move the second tray with respect to the first tray, anda controller to control the heater and the driver,wherein the controller is configured to operate the heater when an operation start condition of the heater is satisfied,after an operation of the heater starts, the controller is configured to determine whether a first condition is satisfied to determine an operation start condition of the driver when the door sensor does not detect an opening of the door,wherein the controller is configured to determine whether a second condition is satisfied to determine the operation start condition of the driver when the door sensor detects the opening of the door.

19. The refrigerator of claim 18,wherein whether the first condition is satisfied is determined based on a plurality of temperature values intermittently detected by the temperature sensor.

20. The refrigerator of claim 19,further comprising a memory to store a previous temperature value used to determine an operation start time of operation of the driver in a previous ice separation process,wherein whether the second condition is satisfied is determined by comparing a temperature value detected by the temperature sensor with the previous temperature value stored in the memory.

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