Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body having storage chambers; doors rotatably coupled to the main body so as to rotatably open / close the storage chambers; and a water supply device provided in the door, wherein the water supply device includes: a water supply case including a water tank mounting space in which a water tank can be mounted; a water level sensor for sensing the water level of the water tank when the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space; and a carrier which is mounted in the water supply case and to which the water level sensor is coupled, wherein the carrier is mounted to be movable in the vertical direction in the water supply case such that a sensing height, which is the height at which the water level sensor senses the water level of the water tank, can be adjusted.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator having an automatic water supply device that automatically supplies water to a water tank when the water tank is installed.

[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] The refrigerator may include an automatic water filling device that automatically fills the water tank when the water tank is installed. The automatic water filling device includes a sensor that detects the water level in the water tank, allowing the water tank to be filled up to the full water level at which the sensor is positioned.

[0004] The automatic water supply device keeps the water tank full. However, depending on the user's drinking habits, the automatic water supply device may refill the tank before it's completely empty. Consequently, water stored for long periods of time may accumulate and accumulate in the tank.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a structure capable of minimizing cold air leakage when approaching a water supply device.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator comprising a structure having improved usability.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a water supply device capable of controlling the water level of water stored in a water tank.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a structure capable of cooling water through cold air in a storage compartment.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a structure that effectively blocks light in a storage compartment when accessing a water supply device, thereby improving aesthetics.

[0010] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0011] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practicing the present invention.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a main body having a storage compartment, a door rotatably coupled to the main body to open and close the storage compartment, and a water supply device provided on the door. The water supply device may include a water supply case including a water container mounting space in which a water container can be mounted, a water level sensor provided to detect a water level of the water container when the water container is mounted in the water container mounting space, and a carrier mounted on the water supply case and to which the water level sensor is coupled. The carrier may be mounted on the water supply case so as to be movable in the vertical direction, and a sensing height, which is a height at which the water level sensor senses the water level of the water container, may be adjusted.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply case may include a plurality of catches arranged vertically to support the carrier at a selected sensing height. The carrier may include a catch protrusion that is configured to be caught or released from the plurality of catches.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply case may include a guide rail that is arranged to guide the movement of the carrier and extends along the direction in which the plurality of catches extend. The carrier may include a protruding rib arranged to be supported by the guide rail.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the door may include an inner door including an inner space communicating with the storage compartment, and an outer door rotatably provided at a front of the inner door. The water supply device may be arranged to be accommodated in the inner space of the door.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply case may include a cutout formed to extend vertically at the rear of the water tank mounting space so that at least one side of the water tank is in communication with the storage chamber when the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space. The carrier may be coupled to the water supply case so as to cover a portion of the cutout from the rear.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the carrier may include a body portion configured to cover a portion of the cut portion, and a plurality of support portions protruding from each side of the body portion to support the body portion to the water supply case. The water level sensor may be coupled to the body portion.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply case may further include a guide hole extending vertically on the side of the water tank mounting space. The carrier may further include a handle portion extending forward from one of the plurality of support portions. The handle portion may be arranged to protrude forward of the water supply case through the guide hole.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply case may further include a rear cover that is mounted to cover the rear of the cut portion and partitions the water tank mounting space from the storage room.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a portion of the rear cover covering the rear of the cut portion may be provided to include a plurality of holes arranged along a direction in which the cut portion extends so as to communicate the water tank mounting space with the storage room.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the carrier may further include an auxiliary cover protruding upward from the body portion to cover an upper portion of the cut portion that is not covered by the body portion.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the device may further include a motor, a first gear coupled to the carrier, and a second gear connecting the motor and the first gear to transmit power of the motor to the first gear.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first gear may include a rack gear. The second gear may include a pinion gear.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the device may further include a dispenser comprising an operating lever and configured to supply water when the operating lever is operated.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the door may comprise a single door. The water supply device may be provided at the rear of the single door facing the storage chamber.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a main body having a storage compartment, an inner door rotatably coupled to the main body, an outer door rotatably provided in front of the inner door, a dispenser including an operating lever and supplying water by operating the operating lever, and a water supply device provided on the inner door. The water supply device may include a water supply case having a water container mounting space that is provided to mount a water container and is communicated with the storage compartment. The water supply device may include a water level sensor provided to detect a water level of a water container mounted in the water container mounting space. The water supply device may include a carrier to which the water level sensor is coupled. The carrier may be mounted to the water supply case so as to be movable in a vertical direction, and may be provided to adjust a sensing height, which is a height at which the water level sensor senses a water level of the water container.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a main body having a storage compartment, a door rotatably coupled to the main body to open and close the storage compartment, a dispenser including an operating lever and supplying water by operating the operating lever, and a water supply device provided at the rear of the door facing the storage compartment. The water supply device may include a water tank mounting space provided to mount a water tank and a water supply case including a plurality of catches arranged in a vertical direction. The water supply device may include a water level sensor provided to detect a water level of a water tank mounted in the water tank mounting space. The water supply device may include a carrier to which the water level sensor is coupled and which is mounted to the water supply case so as to be movable in a vertical direction so as to adjust a sensing height, which is a height at which the water level sensor senses a water level of the water tank. The carrier may include a catch protrusion provided to catch or release the catches on the plurality of catches.

[0028] These aspects and / or other aspects of the present disclosure will be more readily apparent and understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an outer door of a refrigerator opened according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an inner door of a refrigerator opened according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water supply path of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an outer door and an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a flow path structure of a water supply case of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a water supply unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a drawing of a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a method for controlling water supply to a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a rear cover of a water supply unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 12 is a drawing showing an enlarged view of area A in Figure 11.

[0041] Figure 13 is a drawing showing Figure 12 from a different angle.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a separated carrier of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a separated carrier of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 16 is a top view illustrating a separated carrier of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 17 is a front view of a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a carrier lowered in a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 19 is a rear perspective view of the carrier in Figure 16 with the rear cover removed to show the carrier lowered.

[0048] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view showing the carrier lowered in the water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with the rear cover removed.

[0049] Figure 21 is a front view showing the carrier of Figure 20 lowered from the front.

[0050] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating a combined structure of a water supply unit and an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 23 is a drawing illustrating a joint structure of a door basket of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 24 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a water supply device equipped with a water tank of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a water supply device equipped with a water tank of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 26 is a drawing showing a water tank separated from a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 27 is a drawing illustrating the back surface of an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a water supply case showing the flow of cold air in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing the front of an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 30 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 31 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 32 is a drawing showing an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 33 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 34 is a drawing showing a state in which a single door of a refrigerator is opened according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] 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.

[0064] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0068] 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).

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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 main 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.

[0076] "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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] The storage room may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a “refrigerator,” a “freezer,” or a “variable temperature room,” which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and the freezer 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 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 frozen, and for example, a freezer 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 or a freezer, at the user’s option or not.

[0081] In addition to being called “refrigerator,” “freezer,” and “variable temperature room,” a storage room can 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 with corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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), or single-door refrigerator.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0089] A “cold air supply device” may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0090] 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 by generating heat and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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 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 to control the operation of the cooling system. 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 system based on the temperature information.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0104] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0105] Hereinafter, refrigerators according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0106] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an open outer door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an open inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a drawing schematically illustrating a water supply path of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (10), a storage compartment (21, 22, 23) formed inside the main body (10), a door (31, 32, 33, 34) for opening and closing the storage compartment (21, 22, 23), and a cold air supply device (not shown) for supplying cold air to the storage compartment (21, 22, 23).

[0108] The main body (10) may include an inner case (11) forming a storage room (21, 22, 23), an outer case (12) formed by being joined to the outside of the inner case (11) to form an exterior, and an insulating material (not shown) provided between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12) to insulate the storage room (21, 22, 23).

[0109] The storage rooms (21, 22, 23) can be divided into a plurality of sections by horizontal bulkheads (15) and vertical bulkheads (16). The storage rooms (21, 22, 23) can be divided into an upper storage room (21) and a lower storage room (22, 23) by the horizontal bulkhead (15), and the lower storage rooms (22, 23) can be divided into a lower left storage room (22) and a lower right storage room (23) by the vertical bulkhead (16).

[0110] The upper storage compartment (21) can be used as a refrigerator, and the lower storage compartments (22, 23) can be used as a freezer. However, the division and use of the storage compartments (21, 22, 23) as described above are only an example and are not limited thereto.

[0111] In addition, unlike the present embodiment, the refrigerator may be of the SBS (Side By Side) type in which the storage compartment is divided into left and right sides by vertical partitions, the FDR (French Door Refrigerator) type in which the storage compartment is divided into an upper refrigerator compartment and a lower refrigerator compartment by horizontal partitions, or a single-door type having one storage compartment and one door.

[0112] Inside the storage room (21, 22, 23), a shelf (26) for placing food and a storage container (27) for storing food can be provided.

[0113] The cold air supply device can generate cold air by using a cooling cycle of compressing, condensing, expanding, and evaporating a refrigerant, and supply the generated cold air to a storage room (21, 22, 23).

[0114] The upper storage compartment (21) can be opened and closed by a pair of doors (31, 32). The doors (31, 32) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (10). A filler (43) can be provided on one of the doors (31, 32) to prevent cold air from leaking out of the storage compartment (21) between the doors (31, 32) when the doors (31, 32) are closed.

[0115] The lower left storage compartment (22) can be opened and closed by a door (33), and the door (33) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (10). The lower right storage compartment (23) can be opened and closed by a door (34), and the door (34) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (10).

[0116] The doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may include a door basket (39, 40) having a door storage space for storing food. A gasket may be provided on the back surface of the doors (31, 32, 33, 34) to seal the storage compartment (21, 22, 23) and to adhere to the front surface of the main body (10).

[0117] At least one of the doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may be configured as a double door having an inner door (35) and an outer door (36). For example, the upper left door (31) may include an inner door (35) and an outer door (36).

[0118] The inner door (35) can be rotatably connected to the main body (10) via a hinge. The inner door (35) can have a door inner space (56). The door inner space (56) can be formed in the central portion excluding the edge portion of the inner door (35). The door inner space (56) can be formed to extend between the front and back surfaces of the inner door (35). Therefore, when the inner door (35) is closed, the door inner space (56) can be connected to the storage compartment (21).

[0119] A door basket (39, 40) can be mounted in the opening (56).

[0120] A dispenser (61) may be provided in the opening (56). The dispenser (61) may include an operating lever (64) that can supply water by operating the dispenser (61). A user may press the operating lever (64) using a container (not shown) such as a cup. The operating lever (64) may be movably installed in a lever installation portion (110) formed in a water supply case (100). The water supply case (100) may be included in a water supply device (71) to be described later. The water supply case (100) may form the outer shape of the water supply device (71).

[0121] The dispenser (61) may further include a switch (65, Fig. 8) that is turned on by the operating lever (64) when the operating lever (64) is pressed. The dispenser (61) may include a dispenser nozzle (66, Fig. 7) through which water is discharged. The dispenser nozzle (66) may be installed in the water supply case (100).

[0122] The dispenser (61) may include a water intake space (62) in which a container may be placed to receive water discharged from the dispenser nozzle (66). The water intake space (62) may be formed to be recessed in the front of the water supply case (100). However, unlike the present embodiment, if the dispenser nozzle (66) is formed to protrude toward the front of the water supply case (100), the water intake space (62) may not be provided.

[0123] A water tank mounting space (73, Fig. 6) in which a water tank (72) can be mounted may be provided in the door interior space (56), and a water supply device (71) including a water level sensor (75a) that detects the water level of the water tank (72) when the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73) may be provided. In other words, a water tank mounting space (73) in which a water tank (72) is mounted may be formed in the water supply case (100).

[0124] The water level sensor (75a) may be provided to sense the water level of the water contained in the water tank (72). In addition, the water supply device (71) may include a carrier (75, FIG. 8) mounted on the water supply case (100) so as to be movable up and down so as to adjust the height at which the water level sensor (75a) senses the water level of the water tank (72). As will be described later, the height at which the water level sensor (75a) senses the water level of the water contained in the water tank (72) may be defined as a sensing height. A detailed description of the carrier (75) will be described later.

[0125] The water supply device (71) may include an outlet for supplying water to a water tank (72) mounted in a water tank mounting space (73). That is, the water supply device (71) may be provided in the door (31).

[0126] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the outlet may be implemented as a second outlet port (83, FIG. 17) of the control valve (80). However, unlike the present embodiment, the outlet may be implemented as a separate component rather than the second outlet port (83) of the control valve (80). In this case, the outlet may be connected to the second outlet port (83) through a separate path.

[0127] This water supply device (71) can automatically supply water to the water tank (72) so that a predetermined amount of water is filled in the water tank (72) when the water tank (72) is installed in the water tank installation space (73). That is, the water supply device (71) can perform an auto-fill function. The predetermined amount may be approximately the full water amount of the water tank (72).

[0128] The water tank mounting space (73) may be formed to be recessed in the front of the water supply case (100). The water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) may be connected to each other. For example, the water supply device (71) may be arranged to be accommodated in the door interior space (56). That is, the water supply case (100) may be mounted in the door interior space (56).

[0129] The water level sensor (75a) can be installed in the water supply case (100). The discharge port can be installed in the water supply case (100).

[0130] In this way, the operating lever (64), switch (65), and dispenser nozzle (66) of the dispenser (61) may be installed or supported in the water supply case (100), and the water level sensor (75a) and discharge port of the water supply device (71) may be installed or supported in the water supply case (100). In addition, the water tank mounting space (73) of the water supply device (71) may be formed by the water supply case (100).

[0131] Accordingly, the dispenser (61) and the water supply device (71) can be provided as a single assembly. In the present disclosure, such an assembly may be referred to as a water supply unit (60).

[0132] The water supply unit (60) can be placed in the door inner space (56) of the inner door (35). Specifically, the water supply case (100) of the water supply unit (60) can be mounted on the inner side (55) of the door forming the door inner space (56).

[0133] As described above, when the inner door (35) is closed, the inner space (56) of the door is connected to the storage room (21), so that the water supply unit (60) can be cooled by the cold air of the storage room (21). In addition, the water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) can be formed on the front of the water supply case (100). Therefore, the water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) can be accessed even when the inner door (35) is closed.

[0134] The outer door (36) may be provided to open and close the door interior space (56) of the inner door (35). A gasket (38) may be provided on the back surface of the outer door (36) to seal the door interior space (56). The gasket (38) may be fitted to the front surface of the inner door (35) around the door interior space (56).

[0135] When the outer door (36) is opened, the inner door (35) can be accessed through the inner door interior space (56). The outer door (36) can be rotatably connected to the front of the inner door (35) via a hinge (44, FIG. 5). The outer door (36) can rotate in the same direction as the inner door (35). The outer door (36) can have a size corresponding to the size of the inner door (35). The outer door (36) can cover the entire area of ​​the inner door (35).

[0136] The outer door (36) may be provided with a latch (37) for fixing with the inner door (35), and the inner door (35) may be provided with a catch (59) to engage with the latch (37).

[0137] When the outer door (36) is opened while the latch (37) and the catch (59) are engaged, the outer door (36) and the inner door (35) open together, and when the outer door (36) is opened while the latch (37) and the catch (59) are not engaged, only the outer door (36) may open and the inner door (35) may not open.

[0138] A decorative panel (not shown) can be detachably attached to the front of the outer door (36).

[0139] A top cover (24) may be attached to the upper surface of the main body (10). The top cover (24) may be provided to cover hinges and various electrical components arranged on the upper surface of the main body (10). A control panel (25) may be provided on the front of the top cover (24) to display various status and operation information of the refrigerator (1) or input various commands for the operation of the refrigerator (1).

[0140] As illustrated in 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 (21).

[0141] 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).

[0142] The refrigerator (1) may include a water supply path (97) forming a path connecting an external water source (90) and a control valve (80) to supply water to a dispenser (61) and a water supply device (71), and an ice maker path (96) connecting an external water source (90) and an ice maker (28) to supply water to the ice maker (28).

[0143] The ice maker flow path (96) and the water supply flow path (97) are formed to branch off at one point, and a flow switching 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 (28). Water from the external water source (90) can be supplied to the control valve (80) or the ice maker (28) by the water pressure of the external water source (90) and the control of the flow switching valve (92).

[0144] 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).

[0145] 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).

[0146] The ice maker flow path (96) may be arranged to pass through a water filter (81). Accordingly, water from an external water source (90) may be purified through the water filter (81) and supplied to the ice maker (28). Since the water supplied to the ice maker (28) is cooled in the ice maker (28) 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).

[0147] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an outer door and an inner door of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an exploded diagram illustrating an inner door of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a flow path structure of a water supply case of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is an exploded diagram illustrating a water supply unit of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling water supply of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 10, the inner door (35) may include a front plate (51), a rear plate (53), an upper cap (41), and a lower cap (42). A foam space is formed between the front plate (51), the rear plate (53), the upper cap (41), and the lower cap (42), and an insulating material (not shown) may be placed in the foam space. A urethane foam insulating material may be used as the insulating material. In addition, a vacuum insulating material may be used together with the foam insulating material as the insulating material.

[0149] The front plate (51) can form the front and both sides of the inner door (35). The front plate (51) can include a front plate opening (51a) excluding the frame portion of the front plate (51).

[0150] A catch (59) may be formed on the front panel (51) to engage with the latch (37) of the outer door (36).

[0151] The rear panel (53) may include a door inner space (56) formed in the center excluding the edge portion of the rear panel (53). The rear panel (53) may include a door inner side surface (55) forming the door inner space (56). The door inner side surface (55) may be formed on the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the door inner space (56) to form the door inner space (56). However, unlike the present embodiment, the door inner side surface (55) may be formed by the front panel (51), or the front panel (51) and the rear panel (53) may together form the door inner side surface (55).

[0152] A first door bead (57) may be formed on the inner side of the door (55) to protrude from the inner side of the door (55) toward the inner space of the door (56) so that a door basket (39) may be mounted thereon. The door basket (39) may be mounted on the inner side of the door (55) through the first door bead (57).

[0153] A second door bead (58) protruding toward the inner space of the door (56) may be formed on the inner side of the door (55) so that a water supply case (100) may be mounted thereon. The water supply case (100) may be mounted on the inner side of the door (55) through the second door bead (58). A fastening hole (55b) may be formed on the inner side of the door (55) so that a water supply unit (60) may be coupled thereto through a fastening member (S1, FIG. 22).

[0154] A passage (55a) through which a wire and hose connected to a water supply unit (60) pass may be formed on the inner side of the door (55). A water supply path (97) that passes through the hinge axis on the upper side of the inner door (35) and is inserted into the inner door (35) may be guided to the water supply case (100) through a path guide (97a, Fig. 6) and the passage (55a).

[0155] Referring to FIG. 8, the water supply case (100) may include a main case (101), a rear cover (115) coupled to the rear of the main case (101), a case cover (120) coupled to the upper part of the main case (101), and a tray (125) coupled to the lower part of the main case (101).

[0156] A water intake space (62) and a water tank mounting space (73) may be formed on the front of the main case (101). The water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) may be formed in the left and right directions relative to each other. The water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) may be formed to be connected to each other.

[0157] A container support (107) that supports a container that receives water discharged into the water intake space (62) and a water tank support (108) that supports a water tank (72) that receives water discharged through a water supply device (71) can be formed at the bottom of the main case (101).

[0158] The main case (101) includes a lever installation part (110) on which an operating lever (64) of a dispenser (61) is mounted, and a switch (65) that is turned on or off depending on the position of the operating lever (64) may be provided in the lever installation part (110).

[0159] Reinforcing members (111) may be attached to both sides of the main case (101) to prevent shrinkage deformation of the main case (101) due to cooling. The reinforcing members (111) may be formed of a steel plate material. The reinforcing members (111) may be arranged vertically and elongated on both sides of the main case (101).

[0160] A valve mounting space (102, Fig. 8) may be formed on the upper surface of the main case (101). A control valve (80) may be mounted in the valve mounting space (102), and the control valve (80) may not be exposed to the outside by a case cover (120) coupled to the upper portion of the main case (101). That is, the valve mounting space (102) may be formed between the main case (101) and the case cover (120). The case cover (120) may be coupled to the upper portion of the main case (101) by means of a fastening member such as a screw. For this purpose, a coupling hole (123) into which the fastening member is coupled may be formed in the case cover (120).

[0161] The control valve (80) can guide water supplied from an external water source (90) through a water supply path (97) to a water intake space (62) or a water tank (72). The control valve (80) may have a shape such as a three-way valve. Specifically, the control valve (80) may include an inlet port (81) connected to the water supply path (97) and supplied with water from an external water source (90), a first outlet port (82) supplying water toward the water intake space (62), and a second outlet port (83) supplying water toward the water tank (72). The first outlet port (82) and the second outlet port (83) may be configured to be selectively opened and closed.

[0162] Referring to Fig. 7, the water supply path (97) guided to the water supply case (100) through the passage (55a) can be connected to one end of the first fitting member (84). The other end of the first fitting member (84) and the inlet port (81) of the control valve (80) can be connected by a connecting path (98). However, unlike the present embodiment, the first fitting member (84) may be omitted, and the water supply path (97) may be directly connected to the inlet port (81) of the control valve (80).

[0163] The first outlet port (82) of the control valve (80) can be connected to one end of a second fitting member (85) arranged on the upper surface of the main case (101) via a second connecting passage (99). A dispenser nozzle (66, Fig. 7) can be coupled to the other end of the second fitting member (85). The dispenser nozzle (66) can be detachably coupled to the other end of the second fitting member (85).

[0164] The second outlet port (83, Fig. 17) may be formed to protrude downward from the control valve (80). The second outlet port (83) may be positioned in a valve passage hole (103) formed on the upper surface of the main case (101). Water discharged from the second outlet port (83) may fall in the direction of gravity and flow directly into the inlet (147) of the water tank (72) without a separate connecting member (Fig. 24). Therefore, as described above, the second outlet port (83) may be referred to as an outlet of the water supply device (71).

[0165] The refrigerator (1) may include a water tank sensor (74) that detects whether a water tank (72) is mounted in a water tank mounting space (73). The control valve (80) may be configured to block the water supply to the water tank (72) when the water tank sensor (74) detects that the water tank (72) is not mounted in the water tank mounting space (73). That is, the control valve (80) may be configured to allow the water supply to the water tank (72) only when the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73).

[0166] The control valve (80) may be configured to block the water supply to the water tank (72) when the water level sensor (75a) detects that a predetermined amount of water is stored in the water tank (72). On the other hand, the control valve (80) may be configured to supply water to the water tank (72) when the water level sensor (75a) detects that the predetermined amount of water is not stored in the water tank (72). That is, the control valve (80) may be configured to open and close the second outlet port (83) according to the water level inside the water tank (72) detected by the water level sensor (75a).

[0167] The control valve (80) may be configured to block the water supply to the water tank (72) when the overflow sensor (76) detects that a predetermined amount of water has collected in the tray (125).

[0168] The control valve (80) can open the first outlet port (82) to supply water toward the intake space (62) when a predetermined signal is input to the operating lever (64).

[0169] A tray (125) may be provided at the bottom of the main case (101). The tray (125) can store water flowing out of a water tank (72) mounted in a water tank mounting space (73). That is, the tray (125) can collect water overflowing from the water tank (72) when water is excessively supplied to the water tank (72) and overflows from the water tank (72).

[0170] When water overflows from the water tank (72), the water overflowing from the water tank (72) can be guided to the tray (125) through the overflow hole (108a) of the main case (101).

[0171] An overflow sensor (76) that detects water collected in the tray (125) may be provided in the tray (125). When the overflow sensor (76) detects that a predetermined amount of water has collected in the tray (125), it may transmit a signal to the control unit (20) that controls the control valve (80) to block the water supply to the water tank (72).

[0172] A drain port (126) for discharging water collected in the tray (125) to the outside may be formed in the tray (125). A plug (127) for opening and closing the drain port (126) may be mounted in the drain port (126). The plug (127) is provided to normally close the drain port (126), and when the plug (127) is separated from the drain port (126), water collected in the tray (125) may be discharged to the outside.

[0173] A water tank sensor (74) may be provided on the upper portion of the main case (101) to detect whether a water tank (72) is mounted. The water tank sensor (74) may be configured as a hall sensor. The water tank sensor (74) may detect a magnet (148, Fig. 24) provided in the water tank (72). The water tank sensor (74) may be covered by a case cover (120) and may not be exposed to the outside.

[0174] The water tank sensor (74) detects whether the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73) of the water supply case (100), and when the water tank (72) is not mounted, it can transmit a signal to the control unit (20) for controlling the control valve (80) to block the water supply to the water tank (72). Accordingly, the supply of water to the water tank (72) can be prevented when the water tank (72) is not properly mounted.

[0175] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a rear cover of a water supply unit of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, separated. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of area A in FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a view illustrating FIG. 11 from a different angle. FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a carrier of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, separated. FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a carrier of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, separated. FIG. 16 is a top view illustrating a carrier of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, separated.

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 16, the refrigerator (1) may include a rear cover (115) coupled to the rear of the main case (101). The rear cover (115) may form the rear exterior of the water supply unit (60).

[0177] The main case (101) may include a cut-out (116) formed by cutting out a portion of the rear of the water tank mounting space (73).

[0178] The cutout (116) can be formed to extend in the vertical direction so as to connect the water tank mounting space (73) with the rear of the main case (101). When the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73), the cutout (116) can be formed so that one side of the water tank (72) facing the rear is exposed to the rear of the main case (101).

[0179] The rear cover (115) may include a first rear cover portion (1151) that covers the rear of the dispenser (61). The first rear cover portion (1151) may include a shape roughly like a plate, but is not limited thereto.

[0180] The rear cover (115) can partition the storage compartment (21) and the water tank mounting space (73) from each other. More specifically, the rear cover (115) can include a second rear cover portion (1152) that extends from the first rear cover portion (1151) and covers the cut portion (116). The second rear cover portion (1152) can include a shape that protrudes toward the rear.

[0181] The internal space formed by the protrusion of the second rear cover portion (1152) can be defined as a carrier receiving groove (1153). The carrier (75), which will be described later, can be received in the carrier receiving groove (1153) and move up and down. The carrier receiving groove (1153) can be connected to the water tank mounting space (73).

[0182] The second rear cover part (1152) may include a plurality of holes (1152a, 1152b) formed corresponding to the direction in which the cut-out part (116) extends. One side of the second rear cover part (1152) facing rearward may include a plurality of first holes (1152a). The other side of the second rear cover part (1152) facing sideward may include a plurality of second holes (1152a). The plurality of first holes (1152a) and the plurality of second holes (1152b) may be arranged in a parallel direction.

[0183] The carrier receiving groove (1153) can be communicated with the storage chamber (21) by means of a plurality of holes (1152a, 1152b). In conclusion, the water tank mounting space (73) can be communicated with the storage chamber (21) through the cutout (116), the carrier receiving groove (1153), and the plurality of holes (1152a, 1152b). Accordingly, cold air from the storage chamber (21) can flow into the water tank mounting space (73), thereby effectively cooling the water in the mounted water tank (72).

[0184] A carrier (75) may be placed between the main case (101) and the rear cover (115). A water level sensor (75a) may be mounted on the carrier (75).

[0185] The carrier (75) and the water level sensor (75a) can be coupled to the rear of the main case (101). However, the positions of the carrier (75) and the water level sensor (75a) are not limited thereto, and can be placed in any position as long as it can move up and down and detect the water level of the water tank (72).

[0186] The carrier (75) can be installed so as to be able to move up and down in the main case (101) of the water supply case (100).

[0187] The carrier (75) can be coupled to the main case (101) of the water supply case (100) to cover a portion of the cutout (116) from the rear.

[0188] The water level sensor (75a) may be provided as a capacitance sensor capable of detecting the water level inside the water tank (72) by detecting the electrostatic capacitance that changes according to the liquid level inside the water tank (72). Since this water level sensor (75a) can detect the water level inside the water tank (72) without directly contacting the liquid inside the water tank (72), it can be provided with a relatively simple configuration and can obtain relatively accurate detection results.

[0189] The water level sensor (75a) must be in contact with the water tank (72) to detect the water level inside the water tank (72). To this end, the water level sensor (75a) may include a sensor bracket (75d) fixed to the main case (101), a sensor portion (75b) that detects the water level of the water tank (72), and an elastic member (75c, Fig. 24) that presses the sensor portion (75b) toward the water tank (72).

[0190] The main case (101) of the water supply case (100) may include a plurality of catches (124) arranged in the vertical direction to support the carrier (75) so that the height of the carrier (75) can be selectively adjusted. The plurality of catches (124) may be arranged in the vertical direction on the left and right sides based on the cut portion (116).

[0191] More specifically, the carrier (75) may include a body portion (751) provided to cover a portion of the cut portion (116), and support portions (754, 758) protruding forward from each side of the body portion (751) to support the body portion (751) to the main case (101) of the water supply case (100).

[0192] The supports (754, 758) can be arranged to extend to cover the plurality of catches (124) from the outside.

[0193] Since the support parts (754, 758) protrude forward from both sides of the body part (751), a space surrounded by the support parts (754, 758) and the body part (751) can be formed, and the space can be defined as a receiving groove (762). A part of the main case (101) forming the water tank mounting space (73) can be placed to be received in the receiving groove (762).

[0194] The carrier (75) may include a plurality of catches (756a, 756b) that are arranged to catch or release the catches on a plurality of catches (124). The catches (756a, 756b) may be formed on the supports (754, 758), respectively.

[0195] The supporting members (754, 758) may each be formed with protruding grooves (755a, 755b). The hooking members (756a, 756b) may be arranged so that one end is attached to the supporting members (754, 758) and inserted into the protruding grooves (755a, 755b).

[0196] The stumbling blocks (756a, 756b) can be formed to protrude in the direction toward the water tank mounting space (73).

[0197] Since only one end of the catch (756a, 756b) is attached to the support parts (754, 758), it can elastically move with respect to the support parts (754, 758) and can be caught or released from the catch on a plurality of catch protrusions (124).

[0198] The water level sensor (75a) may be arranged to be coupled to the body portion (751). More specifically, the water level sensor (75a) may be coupled to a bracket (752) coupled to the body portion (751).

[0199] The bracket (752) can be configured to place the water level sensor (75a) on the body (751) so that the water level sensor (75a) can move forward and backward. The bracket (752) can be coupled to the body (751) via a coupling portion (753). For example, the coupling portion (753) can be a screw coupling using a screw or the like.

[0200] The main case (101) of the water supply case (100) may include a guide rail (128, 129) extending along the direction in which a plurality of catches (124) extend to guide the movement of the carrier (75).

[0201] The guide rails (128, 129) may be formed to protrude away from the water tank mounting space (73) on the sides of the plurality of catches (124). The direction in which the plurality of catches (124) protrude may correspond to the direction in which the guide rails (128, 129) protrude. The guide rails (128, 129) may serve to support the carrier (75) to the main case (101).

[0202] The carrier (75) may include protruding ribs (764, 765) supported on guide rails (128, 129). The protruding ribs (764, 765) may be formed to protrude from the support member (754, 758) in a direction toward the water tank mounting space (73).

[0203] The protruding ribs (764, 765) may be arranged to cover the guide rails (128, 129) from the front, respectively. In other words, the protruding ribs (764, 765) may be supported on the front surface of the guide rails (128, 129), respectively.

[0204] The carrier (75) may include a handle portion (759) extending forward from one of the support portions (758) among the support portions (754, 758). A bent portion (763) may be formed on a protruding end of the handle portion (759). An adjustment button (761) may be attached to one surface formed by the bent portion (763). The operation process of the handle portion (759) and the adjustment button (761) will be described later.

[0205] The carrier (75) may include an auxiliary cover (757) formed to protrude upward from the body portion (751). The auxiliary cover (757) may include a folded shape that extends rearward from the upper portion of the body portion (751) and then extends upward. The auxiliary cover (757) may be formed to extend along the upper edge of the body portion (751).

[0206] The auxiliary cover (757) can further cover the upper part (116a, Fig. 18) of the cut portion (116) that is not covered by the body part (751) when the body part (751) covers a part of the cut portion (116). The feature of the auxiliary cover (757) further covering the upper part (116a) of the cut portion (116) will be described later.

[0207] Fig. 17 is a front view of a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 18 is a drawing illustrating a carrier lowered in a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 19 is a rear perspective view illustrating the carrier lowered in Fig. 18 with the rear cover removed.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 17 to 19, the main case (101) of the water supply case (100) may include a guide hole (77, see FIG. 17) formed to extend vertically on the side of the water tank mounting space (73) and the front of the main case (101).

[0209] The handle portion (759) can be positioned to protrude toward the front of the main case (101) by passing through the guide hole (77) formed on the front of the main case (101) of the water supply case (100). Accordingly, the control button (761) mounted on the end of the handle portion (759) can protrude toward the front of the main case (101).

[0210] The user can access the control button (761) by opening only the outer door (36). The user can press the control button (761) up and down along the guide hole (77).

[0211] For example, when a user presses downward on the control button (761) positioned at the full water level, the handle portion (759) to which the control button (761) is connected can press downward on the support portion (754, 758) and the body portion (751). At this time, the catch protrusions (756a, 756b) that were held in a catch state by the plurality of catch protrusions (124) can be pressed and moved by the protrusions of the plurality of catch protrusions (124) in a direction away from the water tank mounting space (73).

[0212] When the catches (756a, 756b) move away from the water tank mounting space (73), the catches (756a, 756b) can be released from the plurality of catches (124).

[0213] When the catches (756a, 756b) are released from the plurality of catches (124), the protruding ribs (764, 765) can be guided downward by the guide rails (128, 129). Through this, the carrier (75) can move downward.

[0214] When the carrier (75) is moved downward, the water level sensor (75a) mounted on the body (751) can also move downward. As the water level sensor (75a) moves downward, the sensing height for detecting the water level of the water tank (72) can also be adjusted downward. This allows the water level of the water tank (72) placed in the water tank mounting space (73) to be controlled.

[0215] Meanwhile, even when the water level sensor (75a) is at the full water level position, a gap (C) may occur on the upper cut-out (116a) side between the body part (751) and the main case (101) that is in contact with the body part (751).

[0216] A light source (not shown) for illuminating the storage room (21) may be placed in the storage room (21), but if light shines outside through the above-mentioned gap (C), the aesthetics may deteriorate.

[0217] The auxiliary cover (757) can cover the gap (C) between the body part (751) and the main case (101) in contact with the body part (751) at the rear of the upper cut-out part (116a) when the water level sensor (75a) is at the full water level position. Accordingly, the phenomenon of light from the storage room (21) shining outside can be prevented, thereby maintaining the aesthetic appeal.

[0218] Fig. 20 is a rear perspective view of a carrier in a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with the rear cover removed, showing the carrier lowered. Fig. 21 is a front view showing the carrier of Fig. 20 lowered from the front. Descriptions of any content overlapping with the above will be omitted below.

[0219] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the refrigerator (2) may include a motor (M), a first gear (G1) arranged on the left and right sides of a cutout (116) formed in the main case (171) and coupled to a carrier (75), and a second gear (G2) connecting the motor (M) and the first gear (G1) to transmit power of the motor (M) to the first gear (G1).

[0220] A motor (M) can be attached to the main case (171). When the motor (M) is driven, the power of the motor (M) can rotate the second gear (G2) via the motor shaft (m). The second gear (G2) can be connected to the first gear (G1) to transmit the power of the motor (M) to the first gear (G1).

[0221] The first gear (G1) moves by the rotation of the second gear (G2), and the carrier (75) coupled with the first gear (G1) can also move together with the first gear (G1). Through this, the carrier (75) can move up and down, and the water level of the water tank (72) can be controlled by adjusting the sensing height, which is the height at which the water level sensor (75a) attached to the carrier (75) senses the water level of the water tank (72).

[0222] For example, the first gear (G1) may be a rack gear having a linear shape. For example, the second gear (G2) may be a pinion gear that transmits power to the rack gear.

[0223] The arrangement of the above-mentioned motor (M), first gear (G1) and second gear (G2) and the power transmission process are merely examples, and it is obvious that various cases in which the carrier (75) can be moved in the up and down directions can be included.

[0224] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating a joint structure of a water supply unit and an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 is a drawing illustrating a joint structure of a door basket of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 is a side sectional view illustrating a water supply device equipped with a water tank of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 is a side sectional view illustrating a water supply device equipped with a water tank of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 26 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a water tank is separated from a water supply device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0225] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 26, as described above, the main case (101) can be placed in the door inner space (56) of the inner door (35). Specifically, the main case (101) can be coupled to the inner side (55) of the door forming the door inner space (56).

[0226] For this purpose, bead grooves (106) may be formed on both sides of the main case (101). The main case (101) may be placed in the door inner space (56) of the inner door (35) in such a manner that the second door bead (58) of the inner door (35) is inserted into the bead groove (106).

[0227] The main case (101) can be firmly coupled to the inner door (35) by a fastening member (S1) such as a screw so that the main case (101) can be coupled to the inner door (35). To this end, a fastening hole (105) into which the fastening member (S1) is coupled can be provided in the main case (101), and a fastening hole (55b) into which the fastening member (S1) is coupled can be formed in the inner surface (55) of the inner door (35). The main case (101) includes a fastening bracket (104) protruding upward, and a fastening hole (105) can be formed in the fastening bracket (104).

[0228] With this configuration, the main case (101) can be coupled to the inner door (35) by inserting the second door bead (58) of the inner door (35) into the bead groove (106) of the main case (101) and then fastening the fastening member (S1) to the joining hole (105) of the main case (101) and the fastening hole (55b) of the inner door (35). Conversely, the main case (101) can be separated from the inner door (35) by separating the fastening member (S1) and separating the second door bead (58) from the bead groove (106).

[0229] The door basket (39, 40) may include a door basket (39) mounted on the first door bead (57) of the inner door (35) and a door basket (40) mounted on the case bead (109) of the water supply case (100).

[0230] Bead grooves (39a) are formed on both sides of the door basket (39), and the first door bead (57) is inserted into the bead grooves (39a), so that the door basket (39) can be mounted on the inner door (35).

[0231] Bead grooves (40a) are formed on both sides of the door basket (40), and the case beads (109) of the water supply case (100) are inserted into the bead grooves (40a), thereby allowing the door basket (40) to be mounted on the water supply case (100).

[0232] Referring to FIG. 24, a water tank (72) may include a water tank body (141) for storing water, a water tank middle cover (142) coupled to the upper portion of the water tank body (141), a water tank upper cover (146) coupled to the upper portion of the water tank middle cover (142), an infuser (160) capable of holding a tea bag or the like, and an infuser ring (150) for easily attaching and detaching the infuser (160) to the water tank middle cover (142).

[0233] The water tank body (141) can store a predetermined amount of water. The water tank body (141) may be formed of a transparent material so that the water stored therein can be confirmed. The water tank body (141) may include a water tank handle (141a) formed so that a user can easily grasp it and install and remove it from the water tank installation space (73).

[0234] The water tank middle cover (142) may be force-fitted to the water tank body (141). The water tank middle cover (142) may include a cover opening (143) into which the infuser (160) is inserted. A ring support portion (144) may be formed around the cover opening (143) to which the ring portion (151) of the infuser ring (150) is secured. The water tank middle cover (142) may have an open upper surface to facilitate mounting of the infuser (160).

[0235] The water tank upper cover (146) may be formed to cover the open upper surface of the water tank middle cover (142). The water tank upper cover (146) may include an inlet (147) to allow water to flow into the interior of the water tank body (141). When the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73), the inlet (147) may be positioned to correspond to the valve penetration hole (103) formed on the upper surface of the main case (101) and the second outlet port (83) of the control valve (80).

[0236] A magnet (148) may be placed on the upper cover (146) of the water tank. The magnet (148) may be placed at a position corresponding to the water tank sensor (74) when the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73).

[0237] The infuser (160) may include a strainer (161) formed to hold a tea bag, etc. The strainer (161) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. A hole (162) may be formed in the strainer (161) to allow water to pass through the strainer (161). A rim (163) may be formed on the upper end of the strainer (161) to protrude radially outward.

[0238] The infuser ring (150) may include a ring portion (151) having a ring opening (152) into which the infuser (160) is inserted, and a ring handle (153) protruding from the ring portion (151). When the infuser (160) is inserted into the ring opening (152) of the infuser ring (150) from above and downward, the lower surface of the edge (163) of the infuser (160) may be seated on the upper surface of the ring portion (151).

[0239] The infuser (160) can be mounted on the water tank (72) by holding the ring handle (153) of the infuser ring (150) while the infuser (160) is secured to the infuser ring (150) and securing the lower surface of the ring portion (151) of the infuser ring (150) to the ring support portion (144) of the middle cover (142) of the water tank. When separating the infuser (160) from the water tank (72), the infuser can be easily separated by holding the ring handle (153) of the infuser ring (150).

[0240] The sensor unit (75b) may be positioned to come into contact with the water tank (72) when the water tank (72) is mounted in the water tank mounting space (73). The sensor unit (75b) may be provided to be movable in the forward and backward directions with respect to the sensor bracket (75d).

[0241] The water level sensor (75a) can transmit a signal to the control unit (20) for controlling the control valve (80) to block the water supply to the water tank (72) when a predetermined amount of water is stored inside the water tank (72). On the other hand, the water level sensor (75a) can transmit a signal to the control unit (20) for controlling the control valve (80) to supply water to the water tank (72) when less than a predetermined amount of water is stored inside the water tank (72).

[0242] FIG. 27 is a drawing illustrating the back surface of an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a water supply case showing the flow of cold air in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 29 is a drawing illustrating the front surface of an inner door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0243] Referring to FIGS. 27 to 29, the water supply case (100) may include a cold air hole formed in the water supply case (100) so that cold air from the storage room (21) is smoothly supplied to the water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) formed in the front of the water supply case (100).

[0244] The cooling hole may include a first cooling hole (121) formed in the case cover (120) and a second cooling hole (112) formed in the main case (101).

[0245] Cold air introduced into the internal space (122) between the case cover (120) and the main case (101) through the first cold air hole (121) can be guided to the water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) through the second cold air hole (112).

[0246] The cold air hole may include a third cold air hole (117) formed between the case cover (120) and the rear case (115). Cold air introduced into the internal space (122) between the case cover (120) and the main case (101) through the third cold air hole (117) may be guided to the water intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) through the second cold air hole (112).

[0247] Since cold air from the storage room (21) is smoothly supplied to the intake space (62) and the water tank mounting space (73) through these cold air holes, cooling of the water tank (72) mounted in the water tank mounting space (73) can be efficiently achieved.

[0248] The water supply case (100) may be provided with lamps (131, 132). The first lamp (131) may be provided on the upper side of the water intake space (62) to illuminate the operating lever (64). The second lamp (132) may be provided on the side of the water tank mounting space (73) to illuminate the water tank (72). The first lamp (131) and the second lamp (132) may be provided to be turned on and off in conjunction with the opening and closing of the external door (36).

[0249] FIG. 30 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 31 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 32 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 33 is a drawing illustrating an open state of an outer door of a refrigerator (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0250] In the following, the same configuration as the above-described embodiment is given the same drawing reference numerals and the description may be omitted.

[0251] As illustrated in FIG. 30, it is also possible to omit the dispenser in the refrigerator of the aforementioned embodiment. In this case, the control valve may be configured as a two-way valve rather than a three-way valve, and the water path guiding water from the water supply path to the dispenser may be omitted.

[0252] As illustrated in FIG. 31, the positions of the dispenser and the automatic water supply device of the refrigerator of the aforementioned embodiment can be configured to be interchanged.

[0253] As illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33, the dispenser and automatic water dispenser of the refrigerator of the aforementioned embodiment may be positioned vertically rather than horizontally. The automatic water dispenser may be positioned above the dispenser, or conversely, the dispenser may be positioned above the automatic water dispenser. In this case, the door guard positioned above the automatic water dispenser and the dispenser of the refrigerator of the aforementioned embodiment may be omitted.

[0254] In the embodiments of FIGS. 30 to 33, the internal structure of the water supply case (100a, 100b, 100c, 100d) can be appropriately omitted or changed depending on whether the dispenser is omitted and the location of the dispenser and the automatic water supply device.

[0255] FIG. 34 is a drawing showing a state in which a single door of a refrigerator (600) is opened according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0256] In the following, the same configuration as the aforementioned embodiment is assigned the same drawing reference numerals and a description thereof may be omitted. Furthermore, since the water supply device is positioned in a single door, the internal structure may be appropriately omitted or modified.

[0257] Referring to Fig. 34, the door of the refrigerator (600) can also be applied to a single door (31). In this case, the water supply device (71) can be placed at the rear of the single door (31) facing the storage compartment (21). The user can access the water supply device (71) by opening the single door (31).

[0258] In the city, a dispenser (61) is placed, but in various examples, the dispenser (61) may be omitted.

[0259] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main body (10) having a storage compartment (21), a door (31, 32) rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the storage compartment (21), and a water supply device (71) provided on the door (31). The water supply device (71) includes a water supply case (100) including a water tank mounting space (73) provided to mount a water tank (72). The water supply device (71) includes a water level sensor (75a) provided to detect a water level of a water tank (72) mounted in the water tank mounting space (73). The water supply device (71) includes a carrier (75) to which the water level sensor (75a) is coupled. The carrier (75) is mounted so as to be movable in the up-and-down direction on the water supply case (100) and is provided to adjust the sensing height, which is the height at which the water level sensor (75a) senses the water level of the water tank (72).

[0260] The above water supply case (100) may include a plurality of catches (124) arranged in the vertical direction to support the carrier (75) so that the height of the carrier (75) can be selectively adjusted. The carrier (75) may include a catch protrusion (756a, 756b) that is arranged to catch or release the catch on the plurality of catches (124).

[0261] The above water supply case (100) may include a guide rail (128, 129) extending along the direction in which the plurality of catches (124) extend to guide the movement of the carrier (75). The carrier (75) may include a protruding rib supported by the guide rail (128).

[0262] The above door (31) may include an inner door (35) including a door inner space (56) communicating with the storage room (21) and an outer door (36) rotatably provided in front of the inner door (35). The water supply device (71) may be arranged to be accommodated in the door inner space (56).

[0263] The above water supply case (100) may include a cutout (116) formed to extend vertically at the rear of the water tank mounting space (73) so that at least one side of the water tank (72) is in communication with the storage chamber (21). The carrier (75) may be coupled to the water supply case (100) so as to cover a portion of the cutout (116) from the rear.

[0264] The carrier (75) may include a body portion (751) provided to cover a portion of the cut portion (116). The carrier (75) may include support portions (754, 758) that protrude from each side of the body portion (751) to support the body portion (751) to the water supply case (100). The water level sensor (75a) may be provided to be coupled to the body portion (751).

[0265] The water supply case (100) may further include a guide hole (77) extending vertically on the side of the water tank mounting space (73). The carrier (75) may further include a handle portion (759) extending forward from one of the support portions (758) among the support portions (754, 758). The handle portion (759) may be arranged to protrude forward of the water supply case (100) by passing through the guide hole (77).

[0266] The above refrigerator (1) may further include a rear cover (115) mounted on the water supply case (100) to cover the rear of the cut-out (116) and to partition the water tank mounting space (73) and the storage room (21).

[0267] The rear cover (115) may be provided such that a portion of the rear cover (115) covering the cut-out (116) includes a plurality of holes (1152a, 1152b) arranged along the direction in which the cut-out (116) extends, thereby connecting the water tank mounting space (73) with the storage room (21).

[0268] The carrier (75) may further include an auxiliary cover (757) that is formed to protrude upward from the body (751) so as to cover an upper portion (116a) of the cut portion (116) that is not covered by the body (751) when the body (751) covers a portion of the cut portion (116).

[0269] The refrigerator (1) may further include a motor (M), a first gear (G1) that is arranged to extend in the vertical direction and is coupled to the carrier (75), and a second gear (G2) that connects the motor (M) and the first gear (G1) so as to transmit the power of the motor (M) to the first gear (G1).

[0270] The first gear (G1) may include a rack gear. The second gear (G2) may include a pinion gear.

[0271] The above refrigerator (1) includes an operating lever (64) and may further include a dispenser (61) that supplies water by operating the operating lever (64).

[0272] The above door (31) includes a single door (31), and the water supply device (71) can be provided at the rear of the single door (31) facing the storage room (21).

[0273] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main body (10) having a storage compartment, an inner door (35) rotatably coupled to the main body (10), an outer door (36) rotatably provided in front of the inner door (35), a dispenser (61) including an operating lever (64) and supplying water by operating the operating lever (64), and a water supply device (71) provided in the inner door (35). The water supply device (71) includes a water supply case (100) provided with a water container (72) mounted thereon and including a water container mounting space (73) communicating with the storage compartment (21). The water supply device (71) includes a water level sensor (75a) provided to detect a water level of a water container (72) mounted in the water container mounting space (73). The water supply device (71) includes a carrier (75) to which the water level sensor (75a) is coupled. The carrier (75) is mounted on the water supply case (100) so as to be movable in the vertical direction, and is provided to adjust the sensing height, which is the height at which the water level sensor (75a) senses the water level of the water tank (72). The water supply case (100) may include a plurality of catches (124) arranged in the vertical direction to support the carrier (75) so as to selectively adjust the height of the carrier (75). The carrier (75) may include catches (756a, 756b) provided to catch or release the catches on the plurality of catches (124).

[0274] The water supply case (100) may include a cut portion (116) formed to extend vertically at the rear of the water tank mounting space (73) so that at least one side of the water tank (72) is in communication with the storage chamber (21). The water supply case (100) may include a guide hole (77) extending vertically at a side of the water tank mounting space (73). The carrier (75) may include a body portion (751) provided to cover a portion of the cut portion (116) and to which the water level sensor (75a) is coupled. The carrier (75) may include support portions (754, 758) that protrude from each of both sides of the body portion (751) to support the body portion (751) to the water supply case (100). The carrier (75) may include a handle portion (759) that extends forward from one of the support portions (758) among the support portions (754, 758) and is arranged to pass through the guide hole (77) and protrude forward of the water supply case (100).

[0275] The refrigerator (1) may further include a rear cover (115) mounted on the water supply case (100) to cover the rear of the cut-out (116) and to partition the water tank mounting space (73) and the storage compartment (21). The rear cover (115) may be provided such that a portion of the rear cover (115) covering the cut-out (116) includes a plurality of holes (1152a, 1152b) arranged along the direction in which the cut-out (116) extends, thereby allowing the water tank mounting space (73) to be communicated with the storage compartment (21).

[0276] The carrier (75) may further include an auxiliary cover (757) that is formed to protrude upward from the body (751) so as to cover an upper portion of the cut portion (116) that is not covered by the body (751) when the body (751) covers a portion of the cut portion (116).

[0277] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main body (10) having a storage compartment (21), a door (31) rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the storage compartment (21), a dispenser (61) including an operating lever (64) and supplying water by operating the operating lever (64), and a water supply device (71) provided at the rear of the door (31) facing the storage compartment (21). The water supply device (71) includes a water container mounting space (73) provided to mount a water container (72) and a water supply case (100) including a plurality of catches (124) arranged in an up-down direction. The water supply device (71) includes a water level sensor (75a) provided to detect a water level of a water container mounted in the water container mounting space (73). The above water supply device (71) includes a carrier (75) to which the water level sensor (75a) is coupled and which is mounted so as to be movable up and down on the water supply case (100) so as to adjust the sensing height, which is the height at which the water level sensor (75a) senses the water level of the water tank (72). The carrier (75) includes a hooking projection (756a, 756b) which is provided to be hooked or unhooked by the plurality of hooking projections (124).

[0278] According to the invention, energy loss can be reduced by providing a refrigerator including a structure that allows access to a water supply device without opening an inner door.

[0279] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the water level sensor can be configured to move up and down, thereby improving usability by controlling the water level of the water tank.

[0280] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, in the case of a water supply device applied to a double door, the aesthetics of the refrigerator can be further improved by including an auxiliary cover that blocks the light of the storage compartment from shining upwards on the cut portion.

[0281] According to the invention, a portion of the rear cover covering the cut portion includes a plurality of holes, so that cold air from the storage chamber can effectively flow into the water tank to cool the water.

[0282] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0283] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A body having a storage room; a door rotatably connected to the main body to open and close the storage compartment; and A water supply device provided in the above door; Including, the water supply device, A water supply case including a water tank mounting space capable of mounting a water tank; A water level sensor configured to detect the water level of the water tank when the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space; and A carrier mounted on the above water supply case and having the water level sensor coupled thereto; A refrigerator in which the carrier is mounted so as to be able to move up and down in the water supply case so that the sensing height, which is the height at which the water level sensor senses the water level of the water tank, can be adjusted.

2. In paragraph 1, The above water supply case includes a plurality of catches arranged in a vertical direction to support the carrier at a selected sensing height, A refrigerator in which the carrier includes a catch provided to be able to be caught or released from the plurality of catches.

3. In paragraph 2, The above water supply case is provided to guide the movement of the carrier and includes a guide rail extending along the direction in which the plurality of catches extend, A refrigerator wherein the carrier includes a protruding rib arranged to be supported on the guide rail.

4. In paragraph 1, The above door, An inner door including an inner space of the door communicating with the above storage room, and Including an outer door that is rotatable in front of the inner door, A refrigerator in which the water supply device is arranged to be accommodated in the interior space of the door.

5. In paragraph 4, The above water supply case includes a cut portion formed to extend vertically at the rear of the water tank mounting space so that at least one side of the water tank is connected to the storage room when the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space. A refrigerator in which the carrier is coupled to the water supply case so as to cover a portion of the cut-out from the rear.

6. In paragraph 5, The above carrier, A body part provided to cover a portion of the above-mentioned incision, and It includes a plurality of support members that protrude from each side of the body part and support the body part to the water supply case, A refrigerator in which the water level sensor can be attached to the body.

7. In paragraph 6, The above water supply case further includes a guide hole extending upward and downward on the side of the water tank mounting space, The carrier further includes a handle portion extending forward from one of the plurality of supports, A refrigerator in which the above handle portion is positioned to pass through the guide hole and protrude toward the front of the water supply case.

8. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator further comprising a rear cover mounted on the water supply case to cover the rear of the cut portion and partition the water tank mounting space from the storage room.

9. In paragraph 8, A refrigerator in which a portion of the rear cover covering the rear of the cut portion includes a plurality of holes arranged along the direction in which the cut portion extends to connect the water tank mounting space with the storage room.

10. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator wherein the carrier further includes an auxiliary cover protruding upward from the body portion to cover an upper portion of the cut portion that is not covered by the body portion.

11. In paragraph 1, motor; a first gear coupled with the carrier; and A refrigerator further comprising a second gear connecting the motor and the first gear to transmit power of the motor to the first gear.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first gear includes a rack gear, A refrigerator wherein the second gear includes a pinion gear.

13. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator further comprising: a dispenser comprising an operating lever and configured to supply water when the operating lever is operated; 14. In paragraph 1, The above door comprises a single door, A refrigerator in which the water supply device is provided at the rear of the single door facing the storage room.

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