Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a storage space; doors for opening / closing the storage space; a water supply device which includes a control valve for regulating the supply of water, a water supply part that can vertically move and an operation lever extending in the downward direction from the water supply part, and which is provided within the door; and a control part for controlling the control valve in a first mode in which water is supplied to a water container in response to the pressing of the water supply part, and controlling the control valve in a second mode in which water is supplied to the water container in response to the operation lever being manually operated while the water supply part is not pressed.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a refrigerator including a water supply device configured to supply water by operating an operating lever or by mounting a water tank.

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that has a main body with a storage compartment and a cold air supply device that supplies cold air to the storage compartment to keep food fresh.

[0003] Refrigerators are sometimes equipped with dispensers that allow water to be dispensed from outside the refrigerator by operating a lever without opening the door.

[0004] The dispenser can dispense water by pressing (or applying pressure) on the operating lever. When dispensing large amounts of water, the operating lever may need to be continuously pressed until water accumulates in the container.

[0005] Aspects of various embodiments of the present disclosure are partly set forth in the following description, may be made apparent by the description, and may be understood by practice of the present invention.

[0006] Various embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a water supply device that supplies water using an operating lever in a water supply device, or, when a water tank is mounted, supplies water to a water tank until a predetermined amount of water is filled.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator comprises a storage space, a door for opening and closing the storage space, a control valve configured to control a supply of water, a water supply portion configured to be movable up and down, and an operating lever configured to extend downward from the water supply portion, the water supply device being provided within the door; the control valve may be configured to control the control valve in a first mode for supplying water to a water tank in response to the water supply portion being pressurized, or to control the control valve in a second mode different from the first mode in response to the operating lever being manually operated while the water supply portion is not pressurized.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to control the control valve so that a set amount of water is supplied in the first mode.

[0009] In one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to control the control valve so that water is supplied only while the operating lever is manually operated in the second mode.

[0010] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may further include a water tank mounting space provided below the water supply device, and a water tank configured to be removably positioned in the water tank mounting space.

[0011] According to one embodiment, when the water tank is positioned in the water tank mounting space, the water tank may be configured to pressurize the water supply unit upward.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may further include a water level sensor configured to detect the water level contained in the water tank.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to control the control valve to supply water using the water level sensor in the first mode until the water level in the water tank reaches a preset level.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the water tank may include a water tank body for storing water, and a water tank cover having an opening and closing portion coupled to an upper portion of the water tank body and configured to open and close an inlet for allowing water to flow into the water tank body.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the water tank can be positioned in the water tank mounting space with the opening / closing part open.

[0016] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator may further include a mounting groove configured to support a bottom surface of the water tank when the water tank is placed in the water tank mounting space.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may further include an anti-slip member configured to prevent the water tank from slipping on the mounting groove.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the water tank sensor may further be configured to detect a signal for upward movement of the water supply unit and transmit a signal for upward movement of the water supply unit to the control unit.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the water tank sensor may include at least one of a magnetic sensor, an infrared sensor, or a capacity sensor.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may further include an operating lever sensor configured to detect a signal indicating whether the operating lever is pressed or contacted, and to transmit a signal indicating whether the operating lever is pressed or contacted to the control unit.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the operating lever sensor may include at least one of a pressure sensor, a capacitive sensor, an infrared sensor, a fiber optic sensor, or a magnetic sensor.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator comprises: a storage space; a door for opening and closing the storage space; a water supply device provided in the door for supplying water, wherein the water supply device may include a control valve configured to control the supply of water by the water supply device, a water supply portion configured to be movable up and down, and an operating lever extending downward from the water supply portion and being manually operable; and a control unit, wherein the control unit may be configured to control the control valve in a first mode to supply water to a water container provided under the water supply portion and pressurizing the water supply portion upward in response to the operating lever being not manually operated and being pressurized upward by a water container provided under the water supply portion, and to control the control valve in a second mode different from the first mode to supply water to a water container provided under the water supply portion and not pressurizing the water supply portion upward in response to the operating lever being manually operated while the water container provided under the water supply portion is not pressurized upward.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to control the control valve so that a preset amount of water is provided at the lower side of the water supply unit in the first mode and water is supplied to a water tank that pressurizes the water supply unit upward.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to control the control valve so that water is supplied to a water tank provided below the water supply unit and does not pressurize the water supply unit upward only while the operating lever is manually operated in the second mode.

[0025] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator further includes a water tank mounting space provided at a lower side of the water supply device, and the water tank can be configured to be removably positioned in the water tank mounting space to receive water from the water supply device.

[0026] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator further includes a water tank, and when the water tank is positioned in the water tank mounting space, the water tank may be configured to pressurize the water supply part upward.

[0027] According to various embodiments, the refrigerator is provided with a water supply device that selectively performs an auto fill mode that automatically supplies a predetermined amount of water to a water tank and a general dispenser mode that supplies water by pressing an operating lever, thereby enabling more efficient use of the limited internal space of the refrigerator.

[0028] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from implementing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Other aspects, features or advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure may become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the front of a refrigerator with a portion of an outer door open according to one or more embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a refrigerator with all doors open according to one or more embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water supply path of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0035] FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of a water tank of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0036] FIGS. 7A to 7C are drawings illustrating a process of operating a water supply device using a water tank according to one or more embodiments.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a process of operating a water supply device using an operating lever according to one or more embodiments.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling water supply to a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0040] The following description refers to the attached drawings, and specific examples of implementations are illustrated within the drawings. Furthermore, other examples may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, specific details, such as detailed configurations, may be provided to aid in understanding the present disclosure. The same or similar reference numbers may be used throughout this document to designate the same or similar components. Furthermore, for clarity and conciseness, descriptions of well-known functions and components may be omitted from the drawings and related descriptions.

[0042] The various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 10 below and in this patent document, are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged system or device.

[0043] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0044] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0045] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0047] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0048] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0049] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0050] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0051] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0052] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0053] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0054] The “body” may include an inner case, an outer case placed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0055] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0056] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0057] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0058] A "storage room" may include a space (e.g., volume) defined (e.g., smaller) by an interior. The storage room may further include an interior that defines a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of items.

[0059] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator includes two or more storage compartments, each compartment may have a different purpose and be maintained at different temperatures. To achieve this, each storage compartment may be separated from the others by a partition wall containing insulation.

[0060] The storage room may be provided to be maintained at an appropriate temperature range depending on the intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished according to the intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and the freezer room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling items to freeze them or keep them in a frozen state, and for example, a freezer room may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, at the user's option or not.

[0061] In addition to names such as "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room," a storage room may also be called by various other names such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice room." The terms "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room" used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms having corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0062] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment. The door may be configured to open and close one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be configured to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed on the front of the main body in a pivotal or sliding manner.

[0063] The “door” may be configured to seal the storage compartment when the door is closed. The door may include insulation, similar to the body, to insulate the storage compartment when the door is closed.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the back of the door and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided on the interior of these.

[0065] The door inner panel may be provided with a gasket that seals the storage compartment by contacting the front of the body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0066] In one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0067] Depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment, refrigerators can be classified into French door type, side-by-side type, bottom mounted freezer (BMF), top mounted freezer (TMF), multi-door type, or single-door refrigerator.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0069] A “refrigeration supply device” may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof capable of generating and providing refrigeration to cool a storage room.

[0070] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment through heat generation and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged (e.g., provided).

[0072] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be connected to the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0073] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on (or within) the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without having to open the door.

[0074] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray configured to store water, an ice-separating device configured to separate ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket configured to store ice produced in the ice-making tray.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0076] The “control unit” may include a memory that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc. according to the program and / or data memorized in the memory.

[0077] Memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. Memory can store temporary data generated during the generation of control signals for controlling components within the refrigerator. Memory may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0078] The processor controls the overall operation of the refrigerator. The processor can control the components of the refrigerator by executing programs stored in memory. The processor may include a separate neural processing unit (NPU) that performs the operations of an artificial intelligence model. The processor may also include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. The processor may generate control signals for controlling the operation of the cooling unit. For example, the processor may receive temperature information about the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cooling unit based on the temperature information.

[0079] Additionally, the processor may process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface based on programs and / or data stored / stored in the memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor may receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor may transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface for displaying an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0080] The processor and memory may be provided as a single unit or separately. The processor may include one or more processors. For example, the processor may include a main processor and at least one subprocessor. The memory may include one or more memories.

[0081] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components within the refrigerator, and may include multiple processors and multiple memories that individually control the components within the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cooling device based on the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately include a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface based on user input.

[0082] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, via a nearby access point (AP). The AP can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator or user device can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0083] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0084] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0085] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with a portion of an outer door open according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the refrigerator with all doors open according to one or more embodiments.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator (1) may include a main body (10), a storage compartment (20), a door (30), or a cold air generating unit (not shown).

[0087] The storage room (20) may be formed into multiple spaces by being partitioned, for example, within the main body (10). A door (30) may be arranged, for example, at the front (e.g., the front) of the main body (10) to open and close the storage room (20). A cold air generating unit may be arranged, for example, within the main body (10) to supply cold air to the storage room (20).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the main body (10) may include an inner housing (11) or an outer housing (12). The inner housing (11) may be provided, for example, to form the outer appearance of the storage compartment (20). The inner housing (11) may be integrally injection-molded, for example, with a plastic material. The outer housing (12) may be provided, for example, to form at least a portion of the outer appearance of the refrigerator (1). The outer housing (12) may be made of, for example, a metal material having excellent durability and aesthetics. An accommodation space may be formed between the outer housing (12) and the inner housing (11). A body insulation material (not shown) for insulating the storage compartment (20) may be provided in a portion of the accommodation space.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the cold air generating unit can generate cold air using a refrigeration cycle of compressing, condensing, expanding, and evaporating a refrigerant.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the storage compartment (20) may be divided into multiple compartments by partition walls (14). That is, the storage compartment (20) may be formed by the inner housing (11) of the main body (10) and the partition walls (14). A plurality of shelves (24) or storage containers (25) may be provided inside the storage compartment (20). The plurality of shelves (24) and storage containers (25) may be provided to be separable, for example.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the storage compartment (20) may be divided into a plurality of storage compartments (21, 22, 23) by a partition wall (14). For example, the storage compartment (20) may include one first storage compartment (21) located at the top (e.g., upper storage compartment) as illustrated, two second storage compartments (22) located at the bottom (e.g., lower storage compartment) and a third storage compartment (23) (e.g., lower storage compartment).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the bulkhead (14) may include a first bulkhead (14a) and a second bulkhead (14b). The bulkhead (14) may have, for example, a T-shaped cross-section. The first bulkhead (14a) may be provided horizontally, for example, to partition the first storage chamber (21) and the second and third storage chambers (22, 23). The second bulkhead (14b) may be provided vertically, for example, to partition the second storage chamber (22) and the third storage chamber (23). The second bulkhead (14b) may be formed to protrude downward from the first bulkhead (14a), for example. The illustrated second bulkhead (14b) is formed by protruding from the center of the first bulkhead (14a), but is not limited thereto, and the sizes of the second storage chamber (22) and the third storage chamber (23) may vary depending on the position of the second bulkhead (14b).

[0093] Among the illustrated storage rooms (20), the first storage room (21) can be used as a refrigerator, and the second and third storage rooms (22, 23) can be used as freezers, but this is not limited thereto, and the location and number of each of the refrigerator and freezers can vary depending on the needs of the user.

[0094] Additionally, the number, size, or shape of the storage compartment (20) may vary depending on the shape or location of the bulkhead (14). The freezer compartment can be maintained at approximately -20 degrees Celsius, and the refrigerator compartment can be maintained at approximately 3 degrees Celsius. The storage compartment (20) may be insulated, for example, by the bulkhead (14).

[0095] According to some embodiments, the storage compartment (20) may be partitioned left and right by a single vertical bulkhead. In such an embodiment, the vertical bulkhead may be formed so that one end is in contact with the upper part of the inner housing (11) and the other end is in contact with the lower part of the inner housing (11). Depending on the position of the vertical bulkhead, the size of the storage compartment (20) partitioned left and right may vary. For example, the vertical bulkhead may be provided in the center so that the storage compartment (20) partitioned left and right may be provided in a mirror symmetry manner. According to some embodiments, the vertical bulkhead may be provided in multiple numbers. When the vertical bulkhead is provided in multiple numbers, three or more storage compartments (20) may be provided in the left and right direction (e.g., horizontal direction).

[0096] According to some embodiments, the storage compartment (20) may be partitioned only vertically by a single horizontal bulkhead. That is, the storage compartment (20) may be partitioned into two, an upper storage compartment and a lower storage compartment. Here, the horizontal bulkhead may be formed such that one end is in contact with the left side of the inner housing (11) and the other end is in contact with the right side of the inner housing (11). The size of the storage compartment (20) partitioned vertically may vary depending on the position of the horizontal bulkhead. According to some embodiments, there may be a plurality of horizontal bulkheads. When there are a plurality of horizontal bulkheads, three or more storage compartments (20) may be provided in the vertical direction (e.g., vertical direction).

[0097] In addition to the above-described embodiments, a plurality of storage rooms (20) of various shapes can be configured depending on the shape and number of bulkheads (14).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the door (30) may include a first door (31) (e.g., an upper door) or a second door (32) (e.g., a lower door) as illustrated. The door (30) may be provided to open and close, for example, the opening (10a) of the main body (10). The first door (31) may be provided as a pair (e.g., a double-door type) for opening and closing, for example, the first storage compartment (21). The second door (32) may be provided as a pair (e.g., a double-door type) for opening and closing, for example, the second storage compartment (22) or the third storage compartment (23). In addition, the number and shape of the doors (30) may vary depending on the number and shape of the storage compartments (20), and the door (30) may be configured in a sliding manner as well as a manner of rotating around a hinge (16).

[0099] According to one embodiment, a rotation bar (316) may be provided on one of the pair of first doors (31). The rotation bar (316) may be, for example, positioned on an opposite side of a side forming a rotation axis in one of the pair of first doors (31). The rotation bar (316) may be provided such that the rotation axis is fixed to a side of one of the pair of first doors (31) and the rotation bar is rotatable around the rotation axis. The rotation bar (316) may be provided such that it is positioned at the center of the front surface of the main body (10) when one of the pair of first doors (31) is closed, for example. The rotation bar (316) may seal a gap between the pair of first doors (31) when the pair of first doors (31) are closed. The main body (10) may be provided with a rotation bar guide (15) that guides the movement of the rotation bar (316) when one of the pair of first doors (31) is closed.

[0100] According to one embodiment, a door (30) (e.g., a first door (31) or a second door (32)) may include a door panel (30a) or a door body (30b). The door panel (30a) and the door body (30b) may be detachably coupled.

[0101] The door body (30b) may be fixed to the main body (10) by, for example, a hinge (16) on one side. Accordingly, the door body (30b) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the main body (10). The door panel (30a) may, for example, form a part of the front exterior of the refrigerator (1). The door panel (30a) may provide an important element of aesthetics, especially when the refrigerator (1) is placed indoors (e.g., in a kitchen). Accordingly, the user may decorate the front exterior of the refrigerator (1) as desired by replacing the door panel (30a) with a door panel (30a) having a different color or design. In some embodiments, the door panel (30a) and the door body (30b) may be formed integrally.

[0102] Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, only one first door (31) and one second door (32) will be described, and the descriptions of the remaining first doors (31) and the remaining second doors (32) will be omitted. However, the first door (31) and the second door (32) whose descriptions are omitted may have approximately the same configuration as the first door (31) and the second door (32) described below, except that they are arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner. In addition, the second door (32) may also have the same configuration as the first door (31), and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the first door (31) may include a first door handle (not shown), a first door shelf (313), a first shelf support (314), or a first gasket (315). The first door (31) may be, for example, rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close at least a portion of the first storage compartment (21). The first door (31) may be opened and closed by using the first door handle. The first door handle may be recessed into the bottom surface of the first door (31) or protruded from the front surface of the first door (31), but is not limited thereto.

[0104] The first door shelf (313) may be provided, for example, to store food. First shelf supports (314) may be provided on both left and right sides of the first door shelf (313) to support the first door shelf (313). The first shelf supports (314) may be formed to extend vertically from the first door (31), for example. That is, the first shelf supports (314) may be provided to protrude rearward from the back surface of the first door (31) and extend in the vertical direction. The first shelf supports (314) may be provided, for example, as a separate component so as to be detachable from the first door (31), or may be formed integrally. The first shelf supports (314) may be formed to protrude rearward from the back of the door body (30b), for example.

[0105] The first gasket (315) may be provided, for example, to surround the rear edge of the first door (31). Specifically, the first gasket (315) may be provided to surround the edge of the door body (30b). The first gasket (315) may be provided to seal the gap between the first door (31) and the main body (10) when the first door (31) is closed.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second door (32) may include a second door handle (321) or a second gasket (322). The second door (32) may be, for example, rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the second storage compartment (22) or the third storage compartment (23). A user may open and close the second door (32) using the second door handle (321). The second door handle (321) may be recessed into the upper surface of the second door (32) or protruded from the front surface of the second door (32), but is not limited thereto.

[0107] The second gasket (322) may be provided, for example, to surround the rear edge of the second door (32). The second gasket (322) may be provided to seal the gap with the main body (10) when the second door (32) is closed.

[0108] Although not shown, the second door (32) may further include all or part of the same configuration as the first door shelf (313) and first shelf support (314) of the first door (31).

[0109] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water supply path of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0110] The refrigerator (1) illustrated in Fig. 4 may be substantially identical or similar to the refrigerator (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3. Fig. 4 is a schematic drawing for explaining a water supply structure of the refrigerator (1) provided to supply water through a water supply device, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 4, the refrigerator (1) may include a water filter (91) and a water tank (93). The water filter (91) may purify water supplied from an external water source (90). The water tank (93) may store water purified through the water filter (91). The water tank (93) may be cooled by cold air from the storage compartment (22).

[0112] An ice maker (28) that creates ice may be provided in the storage compartment (22) of the refrigerator (1). The ice maker (28) can create ice using the cold air in the storage compartment (22).

[0113] The refrigerator (1) may include a water supply passage (97) forming a passage connecting an external water source (90) and a control valve (80) to supply water to an automatic water supply device (100), and an ice maker passage (96) connecting an external water source (90) and an ice maker (23) to supply water to the ice maker (23). The water supply device (100) may be provided within one of a plurality of doors (30) (e.g., a second door (32)).

[0114] The ice maker flow path (96) and the water supply flow conduit (97) are formed to branch off at a point (e.g., a branch point), and a flow diversion valve (92) may be provided at the branch point so that water supplied from an external water source (90) is selectively supplied to the control valve (80) or the ice maker (23). Water from the external water source (90) can be supplied to the control valve (80) or the ice maker (23) by the water pressure of the external water source (90) and the control of the flow diversion valve (92).

[0115] The water supply path (97) may be arranged to pass through a water filter (91). Accordingly, water from an external water source (90) may be purified through the water filter (91) and supplied to the control valve (80). The water supply path (97) may be arranged to pass through a water tank (93). Accordingly, water from an external water source (90) may be cooled in the water tank (93) and then supplied to the control valve (80).

[0116] A water valve (94) may be provided in the water supply path (97). The water valve (94) can control the amount of water supplied from the water tank (93) to the control valve (80). A flow sensor (95) may be provided in the water supply path (97) to measure the amount of water supplied to the control valve (80).

[0117] The ice maker flow path (96) may be arranged to pass through a water filter (91). Accordingly, water from an external water source (90) may be purified through the water filter (91) and supplied to the ice maker (23). Since the water supplied to the ice maker (23) is cooled in the ice maker (23) even if it is not cooled in the water tank (93), the ice maker flow path (96) may not pass through the water tank (93).

[0118] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0119] Fig. 5 illustrates a portion of the refrigerator (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 4. The same reference numerals are used for components that are substantially the same as those described in Figs. 1 to 4.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 5, the refrigerator (1) may include a water supply device (100). In one example, the water supply device (100) may include a water supply section (110) and an operating lever (120). The water supply section (110) and the operating lever (120) may be formed integrally, but are not limited thereto. The water supply device (100) may be referred to as, for example, a dispenser.

[0121] The water supply device (100) can be modularized and configured to be mounted and detached from the refrigerator (1). By modularizing the water supply device (100), it can be mounted and detached from refrigerators (1) of various shapes or specifications without structural changes.

[0122] According to an example, the water supply unit (110) may include a control valve (80), an outlet (111), or a moving case (112). The control valve (80) may be accommodated, at least in part, in an internal space formed by the moving case (112), for example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the control valve (80) may be provided as a separate component from the water supply unit (110) and included in the refrigerator (1).

[0123] According to an example, the outlet (111) may be formed on the lower surface (112a) of the moving case (112). The outlet (111) may be an opening through which water supplied from a flow path opened through a control valve (80) flows out. The outlet (111) may be fluidly connected to, for example, a water supply flow path (e.g., a water supply flow path (97) of FIG. 4).

[0124] According to an example, the moving case (112) may be configured to be movable up and down. The moving case (112) may be configured to be movable, for example, by pressurization. The moving case (112) may be positioned so that at least a portion thereof protrudes (or extends) downward from the water supply unit (110) when not pressurized. The moving case (112) may be moved upward when pressurized upward. For example, the moving case (112) may be moved upward when a water tank (130), which will be described later, is positioned in the water tank mounting space (S).

[0125] According to an example, the operating lever (120) may be coupled to the water supply unit (110). The operating lever (120) may be connected (e.g., coupled) to the water supply unit (110) so as to be substantially perpendicular thereto, but is not limited thereto. The operating lever (120) may be positioned to protrude downward from the water supply unit (110). The operating lever (120) may be configured to move or rotate relative to the water supply unit (110) by external pressure. When the operating lever (120) is pressed or manually operated, a switch located on the back of the operating lever (120) may be turned on, thereby transmitting a signal to the control unit (e.g., the control unit (910) of FIG. 9) that the operating lever (120) has been pressed. When the operating lever (120) is pressed, water may be supplied through the water supply unit (110). The operating lever (120) may be pressurized by the cup, and the control unit (910) may receive a pressurized signal and command water to be supplied to the cup. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the operating lever (120) may be configured to have fixed movement and have a switch provided on one side of the operating lever (120) so as to detect whether or not pressurization is performed using the switch.

[0126] FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of a water tank of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0127] The water tank (130) illustrated in FIGS. 6a and 6b may be included in the refrigerator (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, or may be configured to be used together with the water supply device (100) of the refrigerator (1).

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 6a and 6b, the water tank (130) may include at least one of a water tank body (131) for storing water, a water tank cover (132) coupled to the upper portion of the water tank body (131), or an infuser (133) capable of containing or accommodating a tea bag or the like.

[0129] The water tank body (131) can store a predetermined amount of water. The maximum amount of water that can be stored in the water tank body (131) may be referred to as the full water level. The water tank body (131) may have an open top. The water tank body (131) may be formed of a transparent material so that the water stored therein can be confirmed, but is not limited thereto. The water tank body (131) may have a roughly cylindrical shape so that a user can easily grasp it and install and remove it from a water tank mounting space (e.g., the water tank mounting space (S) of FIG. 5). However, the shape is not limited thereto, and the water tank body (131) may have, for example, a polygonal pillar shape. Although not shown, the water tank body (131) may further include a handle portion protruding from the outer surface to provide a better grip.

[0130] A water tank cover (132) may be provided to cover the open upper portion of the water tank body (131). The water tank cover (132) may include an inlet (1321) to allow water to flow into the interior of the water tank body (131). When the water tank (130) is mounted in a water tank mounting space (e.g., a water tank mounting space (S) of FIG. 5), the inlet (1321) may be positioned to correspond to an outlet (e.g., an outlet (111) of FIG. 5) of a water supply unit (e.g., a water supply unit (110) of FIG. 5).

[0131] A sealing member (not shown) may be provided between the water tank body (131) and the water tank cover (132) to prevent leakage of water stored in the water tank body (131). The sealing member may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber.

[0132] According to one example, the water tank cover (132) may include an opening / closing portion (1322). The opening / closing portion (1322) may be configured to open / close an inlet for allowing water to flow into the water tank body (131) based on a position. For example, the opening / closing portion (1322) may be configured to move between a first position and a second position. When the opening / closing portion (1322) is positioned at the first position, the inlet for allowing water to flow into the water tank body (131) may be opened. When the opening / closing portion (1322) is positioned at the second position, the inlet for allowing water to flow into the water tank body (131) may be closed. The second position may be, for example, located lower than the first position. The opening / closing portion (1322) may be configured to be movable in an up / down direction (or a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the water tank body (131). The opening (1322) may have a circular upper surface (1322a), but is not limited thereto.

[0133] Fig. 6a illustrates a state in which the inlet of the water tank (130) is open. Fig. 6a illustrates a state when the opening / closing part (1322) is positioned at the first position. Hereinafter, the state when the opening / closing part (1322) is positioned at the first position is referred to as the "open state."

[0134] Fig. 6b illustrates a state in which the inlet of the water tank (130) is closed. Fig. 6b illustrates a state when the opening / closing part (1322) is positioned at the second position. Hereinafter, the state when the opening / closing part (1322) is positioned at the second position is referred to as a "closed state."

[0135] FIGS. 7A to 7C are drawings illustrating a process of operating a water supply device using a water tank according to one or more embodiments.

[0136] The drawings illustrated in FIGS. 7a to 7c may be substantially identical to or similar to a portion of the refrigerator (1) described in FIGS. 1 to 5 and the water tank (130) described in FIGS. 6a and 6b. Hereinafter, the same reference numbers are used for components that are substantially identical to or similar to the components described in FIGS. 1 to 6b.

[0137] According to one example, the infuser (133) may be accommodated within the water tank body (131). The infuser (133) may include a cylindrical portion (1331) and wing portions (1332) (or rim portions) extending horizontally outward from the upper end of the cylindrical portion (1331). The wing portions (1332) may be arranged on the upper side of the water tank body (131). The cylindrical portion (1331) may include a plurality of holes (1331a). The plurality of holes (1331a) may be provided to allow water to pass through the infuser (133). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the infuser (133) may be omitted from the water tank (130).

[0138] Referring to FIG. 7a, a user can move the water tank (130) to position the water tank (130) at the lower side of the water supply device (100). The water tank (130) may, for example, be moved approximately horizontally to be positioned at the lower side of the water supply device (100) or may be mounted on the water supply device (100). When the water tank (130) enters the water tank mounting space (S), the water tank (130) may be in an open state. For example, before the water tank (130) enters the water tank mounting space (S), the opening / closing part (1322) of the water tank (130) may be in a state in which the inlet (1321) is open.

[0139] The refrigerator (1) may include a water tank mounting space (S) for positioning a water tank (130) at the lower side of the water supply device (100). A mounting groove (140) having a shape corresponding to, for example, the shape of the bottom surface (131a) of the water tank (130) (or the water tank body (131)) may be formed on the lower surface of the water tank mounting space (S). By mounting the water tank (130) in the mounting groove (140), the water tank (130) can be prevented from leaving the water tank mounting space (S) while it is positioned within the water tank mounting space (S).

[0140] According to an example, the refrigerator (1) may further include an anti-slip member (141) to prevent slipping of the water tank (130) on the mounting groove (140). The anti-slip member (141) may be made of, for example, a rubber material, but is not limited thereto.

[0141] Fig. 7b illustrates an initial state in which a water tank (130) enters a water tank mounting space (S). When the water tank (130) enters the water tank mounting space (S), the upper portion of the water tank (130) can pressurize the movable case (112) of the water supply unit (110). For example, when the water tank (130) enters the water tank mounting space (S), the movable case (112) can be pressurized by the water tank cover (132) or the opening / closing part (1322) of the water tank (130). The opening / closing part (1322) is configured to open the inlet (1321) by moving upward, and the opening / closing part (1322) moved upward can pressurize the movable case (112). As a result, the movable case (112) can be moved upward.

[0142] Fig. 7c illustrates a state in which a water tank (130) is accommodated or installed within a water tank mounting space (S). The water tank (130) may be positioned on a mounting groove (140). In a state in which the water tank (130) is installed within the water tank mounting space (S), the moving case (112) may still be moved upward by the water tank (130). When the moving case (112) is moved upward, a control unit (910) to be described later may be configured to detect the movement of the moving case (112). For example, the control unit (910) may detect that the water tank (130) is installed when the moving case (112) is moved.

[0143] According to one example, the refrigerator (1) may include a water tank sensor (e.g., water tank sensor (930) of FIG. 9) for detecting movement of the water supply unit (110) or the moving case (112). The water tank sensor (930) may include at least one of various types of sensors for detecting upward movement of the moving case (112), for example, a contact or non-contact sensor, a magnetic sensor, an infrared sensor (IR sensor), or a capacitive sensor.

[0144] For example, when the water tank (130) is accommodated or placed in the water tank mounting space (S) in a closed state, the moving case (112) may not move upward, or may move below a critical level to the extent that the water tank sensor (930) cannot detect the movement of the moving case (112). Therefore, even if the water tank (130) is accommodated or placed in the water tank mounting space (S) in a closed state, water is not supplied to the water tank (130). In the present disclosure, water is supplied while the water tank (130) is closed, thereby preventing water from leaking into the internal space of the refrigerator (1) rather than the water tank (130).

[0145] For example, when a water tank (130) is accommodated in a water tank mounting space (S), the water tank (130) may be fixed to contact the operating lever (120) or pressurize the operating lever (120). The control unit (910) may move the moving case (112) upward, pressurize the operating lever (120) to move it, or supply water to the water tank (130) when it is determined that the water tank (130) is in contact with the operating lever (120).

[0146] In the state of FIG. 7c, the refrigerator (1) (or the control unit (910)) can supply water to the water tank (130) in the first mode. The refrigerator (1) (or the control unit (910)) can control the control valve (80) in the first mode in response to the water supply unit (110) being pressurized. At this time, a predetermined amount of water can be supplied to the water tank (130). Here, the first mode may refer to a mode (e.g., an auto fill mode) that controls the control valve (80) to automatically supply a preset amount of water without user intervention. Whether a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the water tank (130) can be detected and determined using a water level sensor (e.g., the water level sensor (940) of FIG. 9). The water level sensor (940) may be mounted, for example, on the water supply unit (110) or the operating lever (120), but is not limited thereto.

[0147] The first mode is not limited to the automatic water supply operation described above, and may be configured to perform other operations in response to the water supply unit (110) being pressurized. For example, the first mode may be a mode for supplying ice or carbonated water, unlike the illustrated mode. That is, the refrigerator (1) may be equipped with a dispenser configured to supply ice or carbonated water, in which case the first mode may be set to the ice or carbonated water supply mode. When the first mode is a mode for supplying ice or carbonated water, the water tank (130) is not used, and the user may operate the first mode by directly pressing the water supply unit (110) upward using a cup.

[0148] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a process of operating a water supply device using an operating lever according to one or more embodiments.

[0149] The drawing illustrated in Fig. 8 may be substantially identical to or similar to a portion of the refrigerator (1) described in Figs. 1 to 5. Hereinafter, the same reference numbers are used for components that are substantially identical to or similar to the components described in Figs. 1 to 5.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 8, a process is illustrated in which a user directly uses the water supply device (100) of the refrigerator (1) using a cup (800) rather than a water container (e.g., the water container (130) of FIG. 7a). When the user uses the cup (800), water can be supplied by pressing the operating lever (120). In this case, the moving case (112) may not be pressurized upward.

[0151] When only the operating lever (120) is pressed, the refrigerator (1) (or the control unit (910)) can perform the second mode. The second mode may be a different mode from the first mode described in FIGS. 7A to 7C. Here, the second mode may refer to a mode in which the refrigerator (1) (or the control unit (910)) controls the control valve (80) to supply water only while the operating lever (120) is pressed or in contact. The second mode may refer to, for example, a general dispenser mode. When the control valve (80) is opened, water can be supplied through the outlet (111).

[0152] In this way, the present disclosure can be configured to perform an autofill mode that fills a water tank (130) with a predetermined amount of water according to the user's needs using a single water supply device (100) or a general dispenser mode that supplies water to a cup held by the user. Since two different water supply methods are provided even when only one water supply device (100) is placed, the limited space inside the refrigerator (1) can be efficiently utilized. For example, when two or more water supply devices (100) are provided in the refrigerator (1), the user can autonomously use the autofill mode using the water tank (130) for some of the multiple water supply devices (100) according to his / her convenience, and use the general dispenser mode using a cup for other parts.

[0153] The refrigerator (1) can perform the first mode by the operation described in FIGS. 7a to 7c as described above, or the second mode by the operation described in FIG. 8.

[0154] FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0155] The control block diagram illustrated in FIG. 9 is exemplary, and the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated configuration. For example, the refrigerator (1) may further include various types of sensors other than the illustrated sensors. The refrigerator (1) illustrated in FIG. 9 may be substantially identical or similar to the refrigerator (1) illustrated in FIG. 1. The same reference numerals are applied to configurations substantially identical or similar to those described above.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 9, the refrigerator (1) may include at least one of a communication unit (920), a water tank sensor (930), a water level sensor (940), an operating lever sensor (950), a control unit (910), or a control valve (80). The control unit (910) may control the control valve based on a signal received from the water tank sensor (930), the water level sensor (940), or the operating lever sensor (950).

[0157] According to one example, the refrigerator (1) may include a communication unit (e.g., a communication circuit) (920) that supports signal transmission and reception with the outside. In one example, the communication unit (920) may receive and / or transmit wired / wireless signals between an external wired / wireless communication system, an external server, and / or other devices according to a predetermined wired / wireless communication protocol. In one example, the communication unit (920) may include one or more modules that connect the refrigerator (1) to one or more networks. In one example, the communication unit (920) may include at least one of a mobile communication module, a wired / wireless Internet module, a short-range communication module, and / or a location information module.

[0158] In one example, the mobile communication module may transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of an external base station, an external terminal, and an external server through a mobile communication network according to any of various communication protocols for mobile communication. The wireless signals may include various types of data signals. In one example, the wireless signals may include voice call signals, video call call signals, and text / multimedia message signals, but this document is not limited thereto.

[0159] In one example, the wired / wireless Internet module may support, but is not limited to, wireless LAN (WLAN), wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, digital living network alliance (DLNA), wireless broadband (WiBro), world interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), high speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high speed uplink packet access (HSUPA), long term evolution (LTE), or long term evolution-advanced (LTE-A). In one example, the wired / wireless Internet module of the communication unit (920) may transmit and receive data according to at least one wired / wireless Internet technology among the Internet technologies not listed above.

[0160] The short-range communication module is for short-range communication, and can support short-range communication using at least one of Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), UWB (Ultra-Wide Band), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus) technologies, for example. The short-range communication module can support wireless communication between a refrigerator (1) and a wireless communication system, between the refrigerator (1) and another device, or between the refrigerator (1) and a network in which another device is located, for example, through a short-range wireless communication network.

[0161] The location information module is, for example, a module for obtaining the location of a refrigerator (1), and may be a GPS (Global Positioning System) module or a Wi-Fi module. If the refrigerator (1) utilizes a GPS module, information regarding the location of the refrigerator (1) can be received using signals transmitted from GPS satellites. If the refrigerator (1) utilizes a Wi-Fi module, information regarding the location of the refrigerator (1) can be received based on information from a wireless AP (Wireless Access Point) that transmits and receives wireless signals with the Wi-Fi module.

[0162] In one example, the communication unit (920) may receive a setting data signal input by a user from the user's mobile terminal in the form of a wireless signal according to a predetermined wireless communication protocol. In one example, the communication unit (920) may receive information and / or commands for controlling the operation of the refrigerator (1) from an external server in the form of signals according to a predetermined wired / wireless communication protocol. The communication unit (920) may transmit various received signals to the control unit (910) described below. In one example, the communication unit (920) may transmit various data generated or acquired on the refrigerator (1) in the form of wired / wireless signals according to a predetermined wired / wireless communication protocol, for example, to the user's mobile terminal or an external server.

[0163] In one example, the water tank sensor (930) may include a sensor that detects whether a water tank (130) is mounted. The water tank sensor (930) may be configured to transmit a signal regarding upward movement of the water supply unit (110) to the control unit (910). The water tank sensor (930) may include, but is not limited to, a contact or non-contact sensor, a magnetic sensor, an infrared sensor (IR sensor), or a capacitive sensor.

[0164] In one example, the water level sensor (940) may include a sensor that detects the water level contained within the installed water tank (130). The water level sensor (940) may be, but is not limited to, an ultrasonic sensor. For example, the water level sensor (940) may include, but is not limited to, a radar sensor, a microwave sensor, an infrared sensor, or a lidar sensor.

[0165] According to one example, the operating lever sensor (950) may include a sensor that detects whether the operating lever (120) is pressed or contacted. The operating lever sensor (950) may transmit a signal indicating whether the operating lever (120) is pressed or contacted to the control unit (910). The operating lever sensor (950) may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a pressure sensor, a capacitive sensor, an infrared sensor, an optical fiber sensor, or a magnetic sensor.

[0166] According to one example, a refrigerator (1) may include a control unit (910) that controls the overall operation of the refrigerator (1). The control unit (910) may include a memory (912) that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling each component of the refrigerator (1), and a processor (911) that generates a control signal for controlling each component of the refrigerator (1) according to the program and / or data stored in the memory (912) and information obtained from each of the other components.

[0167] For example, the memory (912) may store various data that can be used to control the operation of each component of the refrigerator (1). The memory (912) may store, for example, a plurality of application programs used in the refrigerator (1), data for controlling the operation of the refrigerator (1), and commands. At least some of the application programs stored in the memory (912) may be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. At least some of the application programs stored in the memory (912) may have been stored in the memory (912) from the time of shipment for the basic functions of the refrigerator (1).

[0168] In one example, the processor (911) of the control unit (910) may receive power on / off of the refrigerator (1), operation setting information of the refrigerator (1) (e.g., operation start / stop, operation mode selection, operation internal temperature, etc.), or other various control information. For example, the processor (911) may obtain information on whether a water tank (130) is mounted from a water tank sensor (930). For example, the processor (911) may obtain information on whether an operation lever (120) is pressed or contacted from an operation lever sensor (950). For example, the processor (911) may obtain information on the water level of water contained in a water tank (130) from a water level sensor (940).

[0169] In one example, the processor (911) of the control unit (910) may generate an operation control command for each component of the refrigerator (1) based on various pieces of information received from an external source (e.g., a communication unit (920), a water tank sensor (930), a water level sensor (940), or an operation lever sensor (950)). The processor (911) may control the operation of the cold air supply device to control the operation intensity or suction intensity of the refrigerator (1).

[0170] In one example, the processor (911) can continuously obtain information from an external source (e.g., a communication unit (920), a water tank sensor (930), a water level sensor (940), or an operating lever sensor (950)) while the refrigerator (1) is operating, and can continuously update and control the operation of each component (e.g., a water supply device (100) or a control valve (80)) based on the obtained information.

[0171] In one example, the processor (911) can use the water tank sensor (930) to determine whether the water tank (130) is placed in the water tank mounting space (S).

[0172] In one example, the processor (911) can use the actuation lever sensor (950) to determine whether the actuation lever (120) is pressed or touched.

[0173] In one example, the processor (911) can measure the height of water contained in a water tank (130) using a water level sensor (940).

[0174] In one example, the processor (911) can control the opening and closing of the control valve (80) to regulate the supply of water.

[0175] In this drawing, the control unit (910) is disclosed as a single comprehensive configuration that controls all components included in the refrigerator (1), but this document is not limited thereto. In one example, the refrigerator (1) may be configured to include multiple control unit configurations that individually control some of the components of the refrigerator (1). The refrigerator (1) may have a separate control unit having a processor and a memory for controlling the operation of a user interface according to user input. The processor (911) of the control unit (910) may include multiple processors, and the memory (912) may include multiple memory devices.

[0176] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling water supply to a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments.

[0177] The flowchart of Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of the refrigerator (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 9.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 10, the control unit (910) may perform an operation (1010) for determining whether the water tank (130) is mounted in the correct position. Here, the correct position may refer to a position where the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space (S). The control unit (910) may determine whether the water tank (130) is mounted in the correct position using the water tank sensor (930). For example, the control unit (910) may determine that the water tank (130) is mounted in the correct position when the movable case (112) of the water supply unit (110) has moved upward and is fixed. Alternatively, for example, the control unit (910) may determine that the water tank (130) is mounted in the correct position when the movable case (112) of the water supply unit (110) has moved upward and is fixed and the operating lever (120) is pressed or touched.

[0179] According to an example, if the control unit (910) determines that the water tank (130) is installed in the correct position, it can perform an operation (1020) of supplying a predetermined amount of water to the water tank (130). Operation 1020 may be referred to as an 'autofill mode' or a 'first mode' of filling the water tank (130) with a predetermined amount of water, but is not limited thereto. If the control unit (910) determines that the water tank (130) is installed in the correct position, it can perform a control to automatically supply a predetermined amount of water to the water tank (130). The control unit (910) can supply water by opening the control valve (80). The control unit (910) can detect the water level filled in the water tank (130) using the water level sensor (940). The control unit (910) can supply water until the water level filled in the water tank (130) reaches a predetermined height. When the control unit (910) determines that a predetermined amount of water has been filled in the water tank (130), or when it determines that water has been filled to a predetermined level in the water tank (130), the control unit (910) can close the control valve (80) to terminate the water supply.

[0180] For example, if the control unit (910) determines that the water tank (130) is not installed in the correct position, it may perform an operation (1030) of supplying water while the operating lever (120) is pressed or touched. The operation 1030 may be referred to as a 'dispenser mode' or a 'second mode' for supplying water to a cup (800) held by the user, but is not limited thereto. The control unit (910) may determine whether the operating lever (120) is pressed or touched using the operating lever sensor (950).

[0181] The terminology used herein is merely used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. For example, a singular element should be understood to include plural elements unless the context clearly indicates only a singular element. As used herein, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" can each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the listed items. The terms "include," "have," "comprise," and the like used in this disclosure are intended to specify only the presence of a feature, component, part, or combination thereof described in this disclosure, and the use of these terms does not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, parts, or combinations thereof. The expressions "first," "second," and the like used in this disclosure can modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, without limiting the components.

[0182] The expression "configured to" used in the present disclosure can be appropriately used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "capable of," "designed to," "modified to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only something "specially designed" in terms of hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression "a device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" doing something together with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "a device configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated device for performing the corresponding operations, or a general-purpose device that can perform various operations including the corresponding operations.

[0183] Meanwhile, the terms “upper side,” “lower side,” and “front-rear direction” used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0184] Although the foregoing description in this disclosure has focused on specific embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to such specific embodiments, but rather encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the various embodiments.

Claims

1. Storage space; A door (30) for opening and closing the above storage space; A water supply device (100) provided in the door, comprising a control valve (80) configured to control the supply of water, a water supply part (110) configured to be moved up and down, and an operating lever (120) configured to extend downward from the water supply part (110); and In response to the above water supply unit (110) being pressurized, the control valve is controlled to perform the first mode of supplying water to the water tank, or A refrigerator comprising a control unit configured to control the control valve to perform a second mode different from the first mode of supplying water to the water tank in response to the operation lever (120) being manually operated while the water supply unit (110) is not pressurized.

2. In paragraph 1, The above control unit (910) A refrigerator which controls the control valve (80) so that a preset amount of water is supplied in the first mode.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above control unit (910) A refrigerator in which, in the second mode, the control valve (80) is controlled so that water is supplied only while the operating lever (120) is manually operated.

4. In one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A water tank mounting space (S) provided at the bottom of the above water supply device (100); and A refrigerator further comprising a water tank (130) configured to be removably positioned in the water tank mounting space (S).

5. In paragraph 4, A refrigerator, wherein when the water tank (130) is positioned in the water tank mounting space (S), the water tank (130) is configured to pressurize the water supply unit (110) upward.

6. In paragraph 4 or 5, A refrigerator further comprising a water level sensor (940) configured to detect the water level contained in the water tank (130).

7. In paragraph 6, The above control unit (910) A refrigerator configured to control the control valve (80) to supply water until the water level in the water tank (130) reaches a preset level using the water level sensor (940) in the first mode.

8. In one of the clauses 4 to 7, The above water tank (130) is A refrigerator comprising a water tank body (131) for storing water, and a water tank cover (132) having an opening / closing part (1322) coupled to the upper portion of the water tank body (131) and configured to open / close an inlet for allowing water to flow into the water tank body (131).

9. In paragraph 8, The above water tank (130) is A refrigerator, which is positioned in the water tank mounting space (S) with the above opening / closing part (1322) open.

10. In one of the clauses 4 to 9, A refrigerator further comprising a mounting groove (140) configured to support the bottom surface of the water tank (130) when the water tank (130) is placed in the water tank mounting space (S).

11. In paragraph 10, A refrigerator further comprising an anti-slip member configured to prevent slipping of the water tank (130) on the above-mentioned fixing groove (140).

12. In one of paragraphs 1 to 11, Detecting a signal for upward movement of the above water supply unit (110), A refrigerator further comprising a water tank sensor (930) configured to transmit a signal regarding upward movement of the water supply unit to the control unit (910).

13. In paragraph 12, The above water tank sensor (930) A refrigerator comprising at least one of a magnetic sensor, an infrared sensor, or a capacitive sensor.

14. In one of paragraphs 1 to 13, Detects a signal as to whether the above operating lever (120) is pressed or contacted, A refrigerator further comprising an operating lever sensor (950) configured to transmit a signal to the control unit (910) as to whether the operating lever is pressed or contacted.

15. In paragraph 14, The above operating lever sensor (950) is A refrigerator comprising at least one of a pressure sensor, a capacity sensor, an infrared sensor, a fiber optic sensor or a magnetic sensor.

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