Refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator, according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a tray having a tray wall including a plurality of cells; and a tray supporter that supports the tray wall. The tray includes a first extension wall extending from an upper end of the tray wall, wherein the first extension wall may be supported by the tray supporter.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present specification relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker.

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that stores food at low temperatures within an internal storage space enclosed by a door. The refrigerator uses cold air to cool the interior of the storage space, allowing the stored food to remain refrigerated or frozen. Typically, refrigerators are equipped with an ice maker to produce ice.

[0003] The ice maker above generates ice by cooling water supplied from a water source or water tank into a tray. Furthermore, the ice maker can remove the ice from the tray using a heating or twisting method. This ice maker, which automatically supplies water and removes ice, is designed to open upward to scoop up the formed ice.

[0004] Ice produced by ice makers with this type of structure has at least one flat surface, such as a crescent or cubic shape. Furthermore, recent efforts are being made to produce transparent ice.

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker capable of producing transparent ice using one tray.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker capable of producing ice having a polyhedral shape and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker capable of producing separated ice by having a plurality of cells and / or a refrigerator having an ice maker.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, wherein the tray can be moved during water supply so that water is supplied, and the tray can return to a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) after a water spreading waiting time has elapsed.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, which has a heater provided at the bottom of a tray for transparent ice making and a heater arranged at the lower outer edge of a tray wall to form a downward freezing direction.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a tray can be moved from a moving position and the tray can be deformed due to interference with a fixed pusher.

[0011] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray having a tray wall including a plurality of cells, and a tray supporter supporting the tray wall.

[0012] The tray includes a first extension wall extending from one end (e.g., the top) of the tray wall, and the first extension wall can be supported on the tray supporter.

[0013] The tray may include a peripheral wall protruding from the first extension wall and extending along the edge of the cell.

[0014] The above perimeter wall may include a second extension wall that guides the flow of water during water supply.

[0015] The second extension wall may include a portion of the peripheral wall that protrudes the most from the first extension wall.

[0016] The above perimeter wall may include a third extension wall extending obliquely from the second extension wall toward the first extension wall.

[0017] The above perimeter wall may include a fourth extension wall extending horizontally from the third extension wall and extending along the edge of each cell.

[0018] The above tray may include a separating wall that partitions a plurality of cells.

[0019] The height of the separating wall may be formed differently in the longitudinal direction of the cell based on the end (e.g., the lower end) of the tray wall.

[0020] The above longitudinal direction can be understood as the direction from the fourth extension wall toward the second extension wall.

[0021] The above-mentioned separating wall can form one side of each of the above-mentioned cells.

[0022] A heater that operates to form transparent ice may be placed on the lower outer surface of the above tray wall.

[0023] The tray may include a heater case that supports an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray and in which the heater is placed.

[0024] The tray may include a tray supporter that supports at least a portion of the tray and forms a through hole in which the tray is positioned.

[0025] It includes a partition that divides the above-mentioned through hole into a plurality of spaces, and each cell wall of the tray can be located in the plurality of spaces.

[0026] A temperature sensor may be placed in the above compartment to detect the temperature of the water or ice in the cell.

[0027] The above temperature sensor can be located in the space between each cell.

[0028] The above temperature sensor can be supported in the space between the heater case and the tray supporter.

[0029] The tray may include a tray cover supported on at least a portion of the tray.

[0030] The above tray cover is placed on the first extension wall of the tray and can extend along the border of a plurality of cells.

[0031] A refrigerator according to the present embodiment comprises one tray forming a cell, wherein the one tray may include an open end for receiving the liquid substance or cold.

[0032] The above one tray may include a tray wall forming the cell; and an extension wall protruding from the tray wall to prevent the liquid substance from overflowing outside the one tray when supplied.

[0033] At the feeding position of the above tray, the one tray can be rotated by a set angle or moved by a set distance so that the extension wall can move in one direction (for example, downward).

[0034] The above one tray may include a tray wall forming the cell; a first extension wall extending from an end of the tray wall in an outer direction of the tray wall; and a peripheral wall protruding from the first extension wall and arranged to surround the cell.

[0035] The above-mentioned peripheral wall may include a first extension wall that includes a portion of the peripheral wall that protrudes the most from the first extension wall and forms a guide surface that guides the flow of water.

[0036] The perimeter wall may include a second extension wall extending obliquely from the first extension wall; and a third extension wall connected to the second extension wall and extending along at least a portion of the perimeter of the cell.

[0037] The above one tray may include a plurality of cells and may include a separation wall separating the plurality of cells.

[0038] The above-mentioned separation wall may include a first wall part including a portion forming the highest position of the separation wall; and a second wall part provided at a position lower than the first wall part and forming a position higher than the water level when the water supply is completed.

[0039] The second wall part may form at least a portion of a water channel through which water flows from one cell to another at the water supply location.

[0040] The above one tray may include a first cell face forming a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the cell, a second cell face forming a second side (e.g., a side surface) of the cell, and a third cell face forming a third side (e.g., a front or back side) of the cell, so as to form a cell of a polyhedron.

[0041] A tray supporter for supporting the one tray is included, and the tray supporter can form a through hole through which at least a portion of the tray supporter passes so that the one tray is positioned.

[0042] The tray supporter may include a first wall forming an exterior; and a second wall provided on the inner side of the first wall and supporting a cell wall defining the cell.

[0043] The cell may include a plurality of cells, and may include a partition that divides the through hole into a plurality of mounting spaces so that the plurality of cells are positioned separately.

[0044] The tray supporter may include a protrusion protruding from the first wall, and the protrusion may include a connecting portion connected to a driving portion for movement of the one tray.

[0045] The tray may include an opening in which at least a portion of the one tray is positioned, a tray cover supporting the one tray, and the one tray may include an extension wall protruding from the opening.

[0046] A heater disposed adjacent to the above one tray; and a heater case to which the heater is coupled may be included.

[0047] The heater case includes an opening into which a cell is inserted and a heater groove formed around the opening, and the heater is arranged in the heater groove to provide heat toward one side of the tray.

[0048] The above one tray may include a first cell face forming a bottom surface of the cell, a second cell face forming a side surface of the cell, and a third cell face forming a front or rear surface of the cell, so as to form a cell of a polyhedron.

[0049] The above tray can be placed so as to be in contact with the first cell surface.

[0050] The above cell may include a plurality of cells, and may include a temperature sensor disposed in a space between the plurality of cells to detect the temperature of a liquid or solid substance present in the cell.

[0051] In another aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator may include a tray forming a cell, a tray supporter supporting the tray, and a heater case coupled to the tray supporter and having a heater for providing heat to the tray.

[0052] The above cell includes a first cell face, a second cell face, and a third cell face that are connected to each other so as to have a polyhedral shape, and the heater can be arranged on the first cell face.

[0053] A tray cover supported on the above tray is included, and the tray, the tray supporter and the tray cover can be fastened by a fastening member.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, transparent ice can be easily manufactured using one tray.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, ice having a polygonal shape can be easily manufactured.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, separated ice can be easily manufactured by having a plurality of cells.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when water is supplied, the tray is moved so that water is supplied and after the water spreading waiting time has elapsed, the tray can be easily returned to the first direction (for example, the horizontal direction).

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heater may be placed on the outer side of a portion (e.g., the lower portion) of a tray wall so that the direction in which ice is frozen may be formed in one direction (e.g., downward).

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the tray can be moved from the moving position and the moving can be easily achieved by deformation of the tray due to interference with the fixed pusher.

[0060] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 2 is a top perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 3 is a front view of the ice maker of Figure 2.

[0063] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a part of the configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of a bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 7 is a front perspective view of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 9 is a plan view of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 8.

[0070] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cell wall of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing a temperature sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention arranged on a tray.

[0074] Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention supported on a tray supporter.

[0075] Fig. 16 is a side view showing a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention supported on a tray supporter.

[0076] FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view showing a tray supported on a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of Fig. 16.

[0078] Fig. 19 is a top perspective view showing the configuration of a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 20 is a bottom perspective view showing the configuration of a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the configuration of a tray, a tray supporter, and a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a part of the configuration of a tray, a tray supporter, and a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of Figure 21.

[0083] Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a heater case and a heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Fig. 25 is a plan view showing the configuration of a heater case and a heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26 of Fig. 24.

[0086] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 27-27 of Figure 24.

[0087] Fig. 28 is a drawing showing a heater arranged at the lower end of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Fig. 29 is a bottom perspective view showing a part of the configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] FIG. 30 is a bottom perspective view showing a part of the configuration of an ice maker with the heater case removed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 31-31 of Figure 29.

[0091] Figures 32a to 32e are drawings showing the operation of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0093] In describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "connected" to the other component, but that another component may also be "connected," "coupled," "supported," or "connected" between each component.

[0094] Meanwhile, in describing the components of an embodiment of the present invention, the description "at least one of components A and B" can be understood to include three embodiments: (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B.

[0095] Additionally, in describing components of an embodiment of the invention, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A or B" can be understood to include three embodiments meaning (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. In other words, the meaning of the description "at least one of components A or B" can be the same as the meaning of the description "at least one of components A and B."

[0096] The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a storage compartment in which items (e.g., food, medicine, etc.) are stored. The refrigerator may include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. The refrigerator may store the items in a refrigerated or frozen state. The refrigerator may include an ice-making compartment in which at least a portion of an ice maker, which will be described later, is disposed. The ice-making compartment may be provided in the storage compartment and / or the door.

[0097] An ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cell, which is a space in which the product (e.g., water) changes phase into ice. The ice maker may include a tray assembly. The tray assembly may include a tray, a tray case, or the tray and the tray case. The tray may include a wall forming at least a portion of the cell. The tray case may include a wall connected to the tray, coupled to the tray, supported by the tray, or surrounding at least a portion of the tray. The tray case may include at least one of a tray cover and a tray supporter. The tray assembly may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly. The first tray assembly may include a first tray, a first tray case, or the first tray and the first tray case. The first tray may include a wall forming a first portion of the cell. The first tray case may include a wall connected to the first tray, coupled to the first tray, supported by the first tray, or surrounding at least a portion of the first tray. The first tray case may include at least one of a first tray cover and a first tray supporter. The second tray assembly may include a second tray, a second tray case, or the second tray and a second tray case. The second tray may include a wall forming a second portion of the cell. The second tray case may include a wall connected to the second tray, coupled to the second tray, supported by the second tray, or surrounding at least a portion of the second tray. The second tray case may include at least one of a second tray cover and a second tray supporter. The ice maker may include a bracket.The bracket may cover at least a portion of the tray assembly or may accommodate at least a portion of the tray assembly.

[0098] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a pusher. The pusher may be provided to press the ice and / or the tray assembly so as to separate the ice from the tray assembly. The pusher may include a first edge formed with a surface that presses the ice and / or the tray assembly. The pusher may include a bar extending from the first edge. The pusher may include a second edge positioned at an end of the bar.

[0099] A pressurizing portion that pressurizes the pusher may be formed on the tray assembly, and the pusher may be configured to apply pressure to one surface of the tray assembly. The pusher may be defined as a non-penetrating pusher.

[0100] A first edge of the pusher may be movable along a surface of a tray defining at least a portion of the cell at a first point outside the cell. The pusher may be defined as a movable pusher. The pusher may be connected to a drive unit, a rotational axis of the drive unit, or a drive connected to a movable tray assembly.

[0101] The above pusher can further pressurize the pressurized portion after contacting the pressurized portion at a first point outside the cell. The pusher can be coupled to a fixed end. The pusher can be defined as a fixed pusher.

[0102] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a heater. The heater (e.g., a wire heater, a cord heater, a radiant heater, etc.) may supply heat to the cell and / or the storage compartment. The heater may directly supply heat by contacting the tray assembly and / or the cell. The heater may indirectly supply heat (e.g., hot or warm air) without being connected to the tray assembly and / or the cell.

[0103] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a cooler (e.g., an evaporator, a refrigerant pipe, a refrigerant valve, a fan, a damper, a thermoelectric module, etc.). The cooler may directly supply cold by contacting the tray assembly and / or the cell. The cooler may indirectly supply heat (e.g., cold or cold air) without being connected to the tray assembly and / or the cell.

[0104] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be provided to detect the temperature of an item (e.g., water) or ice in the cell.

[0105] The ice maker and / or the refrigerator may include a driving device. The driving device may be connected to the tray assembly and / or the pusher.

[0106] The refrigerator of the present invention may include a tray assembly forming a portion of a cell, which is a space where water changes into ice, a cooler for supplying cold to the cell, a water supply unit for supplying water to the cell, and a controller. The refrigerator may further include a driving unit capable of moving the tray assembly. The refrigerator may further include a storage compartment in which food is stored in addition to the cell. The refrigerator may further include a cooler for supplying cold to the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature within the storage compartment. The controller may control at least one of the water supply unit and the cooler. The controller may control at least one of the heater and the driving unit.

[0107] The controller may control the cooler to supply cold to the cell after moving the tray assembly to the ice-making position. The controller may control the tray assembly to move forward to the ice-removing position to remove ice from the cell after ice production in the cell is completed. The controller may control the tray assembly to move in the reverse direction to the water supply position after ice production is completed and then start supplying water. The controller may control the tray assembly to move to the ice-making position after the water supply is completed.

[0108] In the present invention, a cell may be defined as a space located within the storage chamber where water changes into ice. The perimeter of the cell refers to the outer surface of the cell, regardless of the shape of the cell. In another aspect, the outer periphery of the cell may refer to the inner surface of a wall forming the cell. The center of the cell refers to the center of gravity or center of volume of the cell. The center may pass through the line of symmetry of the cell.

[0109] In the present invention, a tray may be defined as a wall that divides the cell and the interior of the storage chamber. The tray may be defined as a wall that forms at least a portion of the cell. The tray may be configured to completely surround the cell or only partially surround it.

[0110] In the present invention, the refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly configured to be movable by being connected to a driving unit. The driving unit is configured to move the tray assembly in at least one axial direction among the X, Y, and Z axes or to rotate the tray assembly around at least one axis among the X, Y, and Z axes. The present invention may include a refrigerator having the remaining configuration except for the driving unit and the power transmission member connecting the driving unit and the tray assembly as described in the detailed description. In the present invention, the tray assembly can be moved in a first direction.

[0111] In the present invention, the refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly in which the heater is arranged. The heater may be arranged near the tray assembly so as to heat a cell formed by the tray assembly in which the heater is arranged. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter referred to as a "transparent ice heater") that is controlled to be turned on during at least a portion of a section while the cooler supplies cold so that bubbles dissolved in water within the cell move toward liquid water in a section where ice is formed, thereby forming transparent ice.

[0112] In the present invention, the cell can be cooled by the cooler that cools the storage room. For example, the storage room where the cell is located is a freezer that can be controlled to a temperature lower than 0 degrees, and the cell can be cooled by the cooler that cools the freezer.

[0113] In the present invention, the cell may be cooled by a cooler other than the cooler that cools the storage compartment. For example, the storage compartment where the cell is located may be a refrigerator that can be controlled to a temperature higher than 0 degrees, and the cell may be cooled by a cooler other than the cooler that cools the refrigerator compartment. That is, if the refrigerator has a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment, the cell may be located inside the refrigerator compartment, and the cell may be cooled by the cooler that cools the freezer compartment. The cell may be located in a door that opens and closes the storage compartment.

[0114] In the present invention, the degree of deformation resistance indicates the degree to which an object resists deformation due to an external force applied to the object, and is defined as a value determined by the shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, etc.

[0115] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of the object, a large degree of internal deformation of the object may mean that the object has high rigidity. The thermal conductivity may be a unique material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of the object is the same, the degree of internal deformation may vary depending on the shape of the object, etc. The degree of internal deformation may be affected by an internal deformation reinforcement portion extended in the direction in which the external force is applied. The greater the rigidity of the internal deformation reinforcement portion, the greater the degree of internal deformation. The greater the height of the extended internal deformation reinforcement portion, the greater the degree of internal deformation.

[0116] In the present invention, the degree of restoration refers to the degree to which an object deformed by an external force is restored to its shape before the external force was applied after the external force is removed, and is defined as a value determined by the shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, etc.

[0117] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of an object, a high degree of resilience of the object may indicate a high modulus of elasticity. The modulus of elasticity may be a unique material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of an object is the same, the degree of resilience may vary depending on the shape of the object, etc.

[0118] Hereinafter, a specific embodiment of the refrigerator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0119] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (14) including a storage compartment and a door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0121] The storage compartment may include a refrigerator (18) and a freezer (32). The refrigerator (14) is positioned on the upper side, and the freezer (32) is positioned on the lower side, so that each storage compartment can be individually opened and closed by its own door. As another example, the freezer may be positioned on the upper side, and the refrigerator may be positioned on the lower side. Alternatively, the freezer may be positioned on one of the left and right sides, and the refrigerator may be positioned on the other side.

[0122] The above freezer (32) can be divided into first and second spaces (e.g., lower space and upper space), and the first space can be equipped with a drawer (40) that can be pulled out and inserted from the first space.

[0123] The above door may include a plurality of doors (10, 20, 30) that open and close the refrigerator compartment (18) and the freezer compartment (32). The plurality of doors (10, 20, 30) may include some or all of the doors (10, 20) that open and close the storage compartment and the doors (30) that open and close the storage compartment in a sliding manner. Even if the freezer compartment (32) can be opened and closed by a single door (30), it may be provided so as to be separated into two spaces.

[0124] In this embodiment, the freezer (32) may be referred to as a first storage room, and the refrigerator (18) may be referred to as a second storage room. The freezer (32) may be equipped with an ice maker (200) capable of producing ice. The ice maker (200) may be located, for example, in a portion of the freezer (32) (e.g., an upper space).

[0125] An ice bin (600) may be placed on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the ice maker (200) into which ice produced by the ice maker (200) is dropped and stored. A user may take the ice bin (600) out of the freezer (32) and use the ice stored in the ice bin (600). The ice bin (600) may be coupled to one side (e.g., the upper side) of a wall that divides a first space (e.g., the upper space) and a second space (e.g., the lower space) of the freezer (32).

[0126] Although not shown, the cabinet (14) is provided with a duct (not shown) for supplying cold to the ice maker (200). The duct guides the cold that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator toward the ice maker (200). For example, the duct may be arranged at one side (e.g., the rear) of the cabinet (14) and discharge the cold toward the other side (e.g., the front) of the cabinet (14). The ice maker (200) may be positioned at one side (e.g., the front) of the duct. Although not limited, the discharge port of the duct may be provided at one or more of the first side wall (e.g., the rear wall) and the second side wall (e.g., the upper wall) of the freezer (32).

[0127] Although it has been described above that the ice maker (200) is provided in the freezer (32), the space in which the ice maker (200) can be located is not limited to the freezer (32), and the ice maker (200) can be located in various spaces as long as cold can be supplied. Hereinafter, it will be described that the ice maker (200) is located in the storage room.

[0128] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a front view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a part of a configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 6, an ice maker (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a bracket (220) that supports a tray assembly. Each component of the ice maker (200) may be provided inside or outside the bracket (220), so that the ice maker (200) may form a single assembly.

[0130] The above bracket (220) can be coupled to at least one side of the storage room.

[0131] The above bracket (220) may include a first wall (221) having a through hole (220a) formed therein. At least a portion of the first wall (221) may extend in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) and be coupled to one surface of the storage room.

[0132] In the above hole (220a), a tray (400) and a tray case (450, 480) can be positioned.

[0133] A fastening hole (228) through which a fastening member penetrates may be formed at the corner side of the first wall (221). The bracket (220) may be connected to a storage room through a fastening member connected to the fastening hole (228).

[0134] The first wall (221) may include a guide protrusion (228a) for guiding an electric wire connected to an ice maker. A plurality of the guide protrusions (228a) may be provided, and may be provided in various shapes depending on the extension direction of the electric wire.

[0135] The above bracket (220) may include two second walls (222) extending in one direction (e.g., downward) from both sides of the first wall (221). The space between the two second walls (222) may form a space in which a tray assembly is placed.

[0136] A driving unit (510) may be placed on the inside of one of the two second walls (222) (222b). The driving unit (510) may include a driving motor.

[0137] A cold hole (226a) through which cold that has passed through the ice maker is discharged may be formed in one of the above walls (222b).

[0138] A switch hole (226b) may be formed in one of the above walls (222b) in which a switch for inputting a command for turning the ice maker on / off is placed.

[0139] The other one (222a) of the two second walls (222) can function as a barrier plate that prevents ice from falling into the ice bin (600) or ice stored in the ice bin (600) from falling.

[0140] The bracket (220) may include a third wall (223) protruding from the first wall (221). The third wall (223) may protrude from the first wall (221) in a direction toward the storage compartment. The third wall (223) may include a first part (223a) extending in a direction corresponding to one direction (e.g., front-back direction) of the storage compartment, and a second part (223b) extending from one end (e.g., front end) of the first part (223a) in the other direction (e.g., left-right direction). The third wall (223) may include a hook (223c) coupled to one surface (e.g., upper surface) of the storage compartment. For example, the hook (223c) may be provided on the second part (223b).

[0141] The second part (223b) may be provided with a water supply unit (248). The water supply unit (248) may guide water supplied from the upper side to one side (e.g., the lower side) of the water supply unit (248). A water supply pipe (not shown) for supplying water may be arranged on the other side (e.g., the upper side) of the water supply unit (248).

[0142] Since the above water supply unit (248) is positioned lower than the above water supply pipe, water is guided in one direction (e.g., downward) without splashing up to the above water supply unit (248), and even if water is moved in one direction (e.g., downward) due to the lowered height, the amount of splashing can be reduced.

[0143] The above water supply part (248) may include a first water supply part (248a) connected to the second part (223b) of the third wall (223) and a second water supply part (248b) having an inclined surface extending in one direction (for example, downward) from the first water supply part (248a).

[0144] The above water supply unit (248) may include a third water supply part (248c) that extends to both sides of the second water supply part (248b) to prevent the supplied water from splashing out.

[0145] The two third-grade parts (248c) above may extend in one direction (e.g., rearward) from the first-grade part (248a), and may be formed to be inclined so that the distance between the two third-grade parts (248c) may become smaller toward one direction (e.g., rearward).

[0146] The above bracket (220) may be formed with a suction hole (224a) through which cold air from the storage chamber flows toward the tray assembly. The suction hole (224a) may be formed on the side wall of the bracket (220).

[0147] For example, the suction hole (224a) may be formed in the space between the second wall (222) and the third wall (223).

[0148] From another perspective, the suction hole (224a) may be formed by penetrating at least a portion of the second wall (222).

[0149] Cold can be sucked into the tray assembly side through the suction hole (224a) from the side of the bracket (220) and act as cold for ice making.

[0150] The above bracket (220) may include a blocking plate (227a) that prevents cold air sucked through the suction hole (224a) from being discharged from the bracket (220) without being directed toward the tray assembly.

[0151] For example, the blocking plate (227a) may extend in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first wall (221). The blocking plate (227a) may be spaced laterally from the suction hole (224a), and a plurality of cells (411a) may be arranged between the suction hole (224a) and the blocking plate (227a).

[0152] The above multiple cells (411a) can be arranged in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0153] An end (e.g., an upper end) of the above cell (411a) can be opened. That is, the cell (411a) has an open end, and water can be supplied through the open end.

[0154] The above blocking plate (227a) is positioned further from the suction hole (226a) than the cell (411a) furthest from the suction hole (226a), thereby preventing the phenomenon of cold air bypassing multiple cells (411a) and being discharged from the bracket (220).

[0155] The bracket (220) may include a fourth wall (225) to which a pusher (540) is coupled. The fourth wall (225) may extend in one direction (e.g., downward) from one end (e.g., rear end) of the first wall (221) and may form a wall of one side (e.g., rear) of the bracket (220).

[0156] The fourth wall (225) may include a guide protrusion (225a) that guides a wire connected to the ice maker. The guide protrusion (225a) may be provided in multiple pieces.

[0157] The above ice maker (200) may include a tray assembly.

[0158] The above tray assembly may include a tray (400), a tray case (450, 480), or the tray (400) and a tray case (450, 480).

[0159] The above bracket (220) can define at least a portion of a space that accommodates the tray assembly.

[0160] The above ice maker (200) may include a cell (411a), which is a space where water changes into ice due to cold. A plurality of cells (411a) may be formed.

[0161] The above tray (400) can form the above cell (411a).

[0162] The above tray (400) can be arranged movably. The above tray (400) can move linearly or rotate.

[0163] When water is supplied to the cell (411a) and the water is cooled by cold, ice having a shape identical to or similar to that of the cell (411a) can be created. For example, the cell (411a) can have the shape of a polyhedron or cube with an open top.

[0164] The above tray (400) may be called an “open-loop shape tray.”

[0165] The above tray case may include, for example, a tray cover (480) and a tray supporter (450). The tray cover (480) and the tray supporter (450) may be formed integrally, or may be manufactured as separate components and then combined.

[0166] In this embodiment, the tray cover (480) and the tray supporter (450) may be manufactured as separate components and then combined. For example, the second tray (400), the second tray supporter (450), and the second tray cover (480) may be combined by a fastening member.

[0167] At least a portion of the tray cover (480) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the tray (400).

[0168] The above ice maker (200) may include a pusher (540). The pusher (540) may be coupled to the bracket (220), for example. The pusher (540) may be referred to as a “fixed pusher.”

[0169] The pusher (540) can push out ice located in the cell (360). For example, the pusher (540) can penetrate the tray supporter (450) and come into contact with the tray (400) forming the cell (411a), and pressurize the tray (400) in contact.

[0170] The above pusher (540) may include a coupling plate (542) coupled to the bracket (220) and at least one pushing bar (544) provided on the coupling plate (542). A plurality of pushing bars (544) may be connected to the coupling plate (542) while being spaced apart in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction).

[0171] The above pushing bars (544) may be provided in the same number as the number of cells (411a), but are not limited thereto.

[0172] The above ice maker (200) may include a heater (490).

[0173] The above heater (490) is placed in the heater case (460) and can apply heat to the tray (400).

[0174] The heater (490) may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray (400) to supply heat to a portion (e.g., a lower end) of the tray (400).

[0175] The above heater (490) may be operated to help create transparent ice during the ice making process. The heater (490) may be referred to as a “transparent ice heater.”

[0176] The above heater (490) may be, for example, a wire type heater.

[0177] The heater case (460) is placed on an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray supporter (450), and the heater (490) placed on one side (e.g., an upper side) of the heater case (460) can be placed on one side (e.g., a lower end) of the tray (400).

[0178] The above ice maker (200) may include a driving unit (510) that provides driving force. The tray (400) may move by receiving the driving force of the driving unit (510).

[0179] The above driving unit (510) may include a motor and a plurality of gears.

[0180] A full ice detection lever (470) may be connected to the driving unit (510). The full ice detection lever (470) is moved by power provided from the driving unit (510), and can detect ice stored in the ice bin (600) during the movement process.

[0181] On the side of the above driving unit (510), a lever connection unit (515) to which the full ice detection lever (470) is connected may be provided.

[0182] The above driving unit (510) may include a cam that moves or rotates by receiving power from the motor. The ice maker (200) may include a sensor that detects the movement or rotation of the cam.

[0183] For example, the cam may be equipped with a magnet, and the sensor may be a Hall sensor for detecting the magnetism of the magnet during the movement of the cam. Depending on whether the sensor detects the magnet, the sensor may output different outputs, a first signal and a second signal. One of the first signal and the second signal may be a high signal, and the other may be a low signal.

[0184] The refrigerator controller can determine the position of the tray (400) (or the second tray assembly) based on the type and pattern of the signal output from the sensor. That is, since the tray (400) and the cam are moved by the motor, the position of the tray (400) can be indirectly determined based on the detection signal of the magnet provided on the cam.

[0185] For example, the water supply position, ice-making position, and ice-moving position can be distinguished and determined based on the signal output from the sensor.

[0186] The tray supporter (450) may include a protrusion (459) connected to the driving unit (510). The protrusion (459) may be provided to protrude from one surface (e.g., a side) of the tray supporter (450) toward the driving unit (510).

[0187] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a plan view of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 8, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cell wall of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0188] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, a tray (400) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray wall (410) forming the cell (411a).

[0189] The above tray wall (410) may include a cell wall (411) defining the outer surface of each cell (411a). The cell walls (411) may be provided in multiple numbers corresponding to multiple cells (411a).

[0190] In order to form separated ice, the cell walls (411) may be formed to be separated or spaced apart from each other in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0191] Based on Figure 7, the X-axis direction can be understood as the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction as the front-back direction, and the Z-axis direction as the up-down direction.

[0192] The above tray (400) may include a separating wall (413) for separating or dividing the plurality of cells (411a). The separating wall (413) may be provided between two adjacent cells (411a).

[0193] The above multiple cell walls (411) can be separated by the above separation wall (413).

[0194] The above-mentioned separation wall (413) can form one side of each cell (411a).

[0195] The above-mentioned separation wall (413) may be provided in multiple pieces spaced apart in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0196] The height of the separating wall (413) may be formed differently in the longitudinal direction of the cell based on the end (e.g., the lower end) of the tray wall (410) or cell wall (411). The longitudinal direction may be understood as one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0197] The above separation wall (413) may include a first wall part (413a) including the highest part of the above separation wall (413).

[0198] The above first wall part (413a) can form a first height (H1) from an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray wall (410).

[0199] The above first wall (413a) can be connected to the fourth extension wall (433).

[0200] The above-mentioned separation wall (413) may include a second wall part (413b) formed at a lower height than the first wall part (413a). The second wall part (413b) may extend from the first wall part (413a) in a direction toward the second extension wall (431).

[0201] The above second wall part (413b) can form a passage through which water flows when water spreads from one cell (411a) to another surrounding cell (411a) during water supply.

[0202] The height of the second wall part (413b) can form a second height (H2) that is smaller than the first height (H1). Since the second wall part (413b) has a relatively small height, the flow (spreading) of water between cells (411a) can be smoothly achieved.

[0203] The above-mentioned separation wall (413) may include a third wall part (413c) connecting the first wall part (413a) and the second wall part (413b).

[0204] The third wall part (413c) may extend obliquely from the first wall part (413a) toward the second wall part (413b).

[0205] The above-mentioned separation wall (413) may include a fourth wall part (413d) extending from the second wall part (413b) and connected to the tray wall (410).

[0206] The thickness of the fourth wall part (413d) in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) may be greater than the thickness of the first wall part (413a) or the second wall part (413b) in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction). The strength of the separation wall (413) may be reinforced by the configuration of the fourth wall part (413d).

[0207] Since the third wall part (413d) includes a portion where the thickness increases, a desired polyhedral shape can be easily formed.

[0208] The tray (400) may include a first extension wall (420) extending in a first direction (for example, horizontally) from the upper end of the tray wall (410). The first extension wall (420) may extend in the first direction (for example, horizontally) around one end (for example, upper) of the tray wall (410).

[0209] The first extension wall (420) may include a wall body (421). The wall body (421) is provided on the edge of the plurality of cells (411a) and may protrude in a first direction (for example, a horizontal direction) from the edge of the plurality of cells (411a).

[0210] The above tray (400) may include a joining hole (423, 424) for joining with the tray supporter (450) or tray cover (480).

[0211] The above-mentioned coupling holes (423, 424) may include a first coupling hole (423) that is coupled with the tray supporter (450). A protrusion (457) of the tray supporter (450) may be inserted into the first coupling hole (423).

[0212] The above first coupling hole (423) can be aligned with the cover hole (483) of the tray cover (480) in one direction (e.g., up and down).

[0213] The above first coupling hole (423) can be formed in multiple numbers.

[0214] The above-mentioned joining holes (423, 424) may include a second joining hole (424) that is joined to the tray cover (480). A protrusion (484) of the tray cover (480) may be inserted into the second joining hole (424).

[0215] The tray (400) may include a peripheral wall (430) surrounding the plurality of cells (411a). The peripheral wall (430) may protrude in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first extension wall (420).

[0216] The peripheral wall (430) may extend along the perimeter of an end (e.g., an upper end) of the tray wall (410). For example, the peripheral wall (430) may be formed integrally with the tray wall (410) and may extend upward from the end (e.g., an upper end) of the tray wall (410).

[0217] The inner space of the above-mentioned peripheral wall (430) can form a fluid flow space when water is supplied from the water supply unit (248).

[0218] The above-mentioned peripheral wall (430) may include a second extension wall (431) that protrudes in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first extension wall (420). The second extension wall (431) may include a portion of the peripheral wall (430) that protrudes the most from the first extension wall (420).

[0219] At the water supply position, the tray (400) is moved in the forward direction by a predetermined angle, and when water is supplied at this position, it can be extended to a relatively high position from the first extension wall (420) to prevent water from overflowing to the outside of the tray (400).

[0220] The second extension wall (431) may be positioned adjacent to one end that moves in one direction (e.g., downward) when the tray (400) is moved from the water supply position.

[0221] Due to the height of the second extension wall (431), even if one end of the tray (400) moves in one direction (e.g., downward), the end (e.g., the upper end) of the second extension wall (431) can be at a position higher than the height of the water surface.

[0222] The second extension wall (431) can guide the movement of water when water spreads from one cell (411a) to another adjacent cell (411a). That is, the inner surface of the second extension wall (431) can form a water guide surface.

[0223] The above second extension wall (431) can form at least a portion of the flow path (channel) of the fluid supplied to the cell (411a).

[0224] The above second extension wall (431) can be provided on the cell wall (411) side to which the third wall part (413c) of the above separation wall (413) is connected.

[0225] The above-mentioned peripheral wall (430) may include a third extension wall (432) that extends in one direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) by bending or folding on both sides of the second extension wall (431).

[0226] The third extension wall (432) may protrude in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first extension wall (420).

[0227] The above third extension wall (432) can be extended in a slanted manner in the direction in which the height of the wall decreases.

[0228] The third extension wall (432) can form at least a portion of the flow path (channel) of the fluid supplied to the cell (411a).

[0229] The above second extension wall (431) and the above third extension wall (432) may have a shape of a folded or curved wall (ㄷ shape).

[0230] The above peripheral wall (430) may include a fourth extension wall (433) that is connected to the third extension wall (432) and forms at least a portion of the perimeter of the cell (411a).

[0231] A portion of the fourth extension wall (433) and the second extension wall (431) may be positioned opposite each other with the cell (411a) as the center.

[0232] The fourth extension wall (433) may protrude in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first extension wall (420).

[0233] The height at which the second extension wall (431) protrudes in one direction (e.g., upwards) from the first extension wall (420) may be greater than the height at which the third extension wall (432) protrudes in one direction (e.g., upwards) from the first extension wall (420).

[0234] The height at which the third extension wall (432) protrudes in one direction (e.g., upwards) from the first extension wall (420) may be greater than the height at which the fourth extension wall (433) protrudes in one direction (e.g., upwards) from the first extension wall (420).

[0235] The fourth extension wall (433) may include a first part (433a) defining at least a portion of the border of one cell (411a) among a plurality of cells (411a) and a second part (433b) defining at least a portion of the border of another cell (411a).

[0236] The third extension wall (433) connects the first part (433a) and the second part (433b), and may include a third part (433c) having a sunken shape in the direction toward the cell (411a).

[0237] The third part (433c) can be connected to the first wall part (413a) of the separation wall (413).

[0238] A temperature sensor (428) for detecting the temperature of water or ice in the cell (411a) may be placed in the space between the plurality of cell walls (411).

[0239] The temperature sensor (428) may be placed in contact with the outer surface of the cell wall (411) or adjacent to the outer surface of the cell wall (411). For example, the temperature sensor (428) may be placed in contact with the outer surface of one cell wall (411) among the plurality of cell walls (411) and the outer surface of another cell wall (411).

[0240] A sensor installation groove (411c, see Fig. 28) in which the temperature sensor (428) is placed may be formed in at least one of the cell walls (411) and the other cell walls (411). A catch (414) may be defined by the sensor installation groove (411c).

[0241] The temperature sensor (428) is configured to have a length in one direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the tray (400) and can be positioned to pass through the center line in one direction (e.g., front-back direction) of the cell (411a).

[0242] The above cell (411a) can be defined by a cell wall (411).

[0243] The inner surface of the above cell wall (411) can form a cell surface (412) of the cell (411a).

[0244] The above cell surface (412) may include a first cell surface (412a) defining the bottom surface of the cell (411a).

[0245] The above cell surface (412) may include a second cell surface (412b) extending upward from one end of the first cell surface (412a), i.e., toward the open end (e.g., the upper end) of the cell (411a).

[0246] The second cell surface (412b) may form a part (e.g., the front part) of the cell wall (411).

[0247] The second cell surface (412b) may extend in an inclined direction (e.g., upward) from one end of the first cell surface (412a) so that the width of the cell (411a) in the first direction (e.g., front and rear) may increase upward.

[0248] The above cell surface (412) may include a third cell surface (412c) extending from the other end of the first cell surface (412a) toward the open end (e.g., the upper end) of the cell (411a).

[0249] The third cell surface (412c) may form a part (e.g., a rear portion) of the cell wall (411).

[0250] The third cell surface (412c) may extend in an inclined direction (e.g., upward) from the other end of the first cell surface (412a) so that the width of the cell (411a) in the first direction (e.g., front and rear) may increase in one direction (e.g., upward).

[0251] The third cell surface (412c) may include a surface facing the second cell surface (412b).

[0252] The above cell surface (412) may include a fourth cell surface (412d) forming one side (e.g., a side surface) of the cell (411a). The fourth cell surface (412d) may extend in one direction (e.g., upward) from both sides of the first cell surface (412a).

[0253] The fourth cell surface (412d) may extend in an inclined direction (e.g., upward) from both sides of the first cell surface (412a) so that the width of the second direction (e.g., left and right) of the cell (411a) may increase upward.

[0254] The above fourth cell surface (412d) can form one surface of the above separation wall (413).

[0255] The above tray (400) may be formed of a non-metallic material. For example, the tray (400) may be formed of a flexible or malleable material that can be deformed when pressed by the pusher (540). Although not limited, the tray (400) may be formed of a silicone material, for example.

[0256] Accordingly, in the process of pressurizing the tray (400) by the pusher (540), the tray (400) is deformed and the pressing force of the pusher (540) can be transmitted to the ice. The ice and the tray (400) can be separated by the pressing force of the pusher (540).

[0257] When the above tray (400) is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or malleable material, the bonding or adhesive force between the ice and the tray (400) may be reduced, so that the ice may be easily separated from the tray (400).

[0258] When the above tray (400) is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or malleable material, after the shape of the tray (400) is deformed by the pusher (540), when the pressing force of the pusher (540) is removed, the tray (400) can be easily restored to its original shape.

[0259] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a temperature sensor arranged on a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a tray supported on a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a side view showing a tray supported on a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view showing a tray supported on a tray supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 16.

[0260] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 18, an ice maker (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray supporter (450) that supports the tray (400).

[0261] At least a portion of the tray supporter (450) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the tray (400).

[0262] The above tray supporter (450) can support the tray (400) on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the tray (400). For example, at least a portion of the tray wall (410) forming the cell (411a) of the tray (400) can be supported by the tray supporter (450).

[0263] The above tray supporter (450) may include a first wall (451) forming an outer surface. The first wall (451) may include at least one of a front wall (451a), a rear wall (451b), a first side wall (451c), a second side wall (451d), an upper wall (451e), and a lower wall (451f) of the tray supporter (450). The front wall, the rear wall, the first side wall, the second side wall, the upper wall, and the lower wall may be sequentially referred to as “first to sixth side walls.”

[0264] By the configuration of the first wall (451), the tray supporter (450) can have the shape of a hexahedron with the first end (e.g., the top) and the second end (e.g., the bottom) open.

[0265] A through hole (450a) in which the tray (400) is positioned may be formed on the inside of the tray supporter (450). When the tray (400) is positioned in the through hole (450a), a part (e.g., the upper part) and the other part (e.g., the lower part) of the tray (400) may be exposed to the outside of the tray supporter (450).

[0266] The above tray supporter (450) may include a partition (452) that separates a plurality of cell walls (411) of the tray (400).

[0267] The above-mentioned partition (452) may extend from one end (e.g., the front end) of the through hole (450a) toward the other end (e.g., the rear end). One end of the partition (452) may be connected to one side of the inner surface of the tray supporter (450) defining the through hole (450a), and the other end of the partition (452) may be connected to the other side of the inner surface of the tray supporter (450).

[0268] For example, the above-mentioned partition (452) may have a bar shape.

[0269] The above partition (452) may include a plurality of partitions (452) to separate a plurality of cell walls (411).

[0270] The bottom surface of the above-mentioned compartment (452) can form a mounting surface (452a) to which a temperature sensor (428) is coupled. The temperature sensor (428) can be placed on the mounting surface (452a) and can be placed to face the heater case (460).

[0271] The temperature sensor (428) may be interposed between the first side of one cell wall (411) and the second side of another adjacent cell wall (411). The temperature sensor (428) may be in contact with the first side and the second side.

[0272] The first extension wall (420) of the tray (400) can be supported on the upper wall (451e). As the first extension wall (420) is secured to the upper wall (451e), the tray (400) can be stably supported on the tray supporter (450).

[0273] The upper wall (451e) may be provided with a protrusion (457) that is coupled to the tray (400). The protrusion (457) may be inserted into the first coupling hole (423) of the tray (400).

[0274] The above protrusion (457) can protrude from the upper wall (451e).

[0275] The above protrusions (457) may be arranged in multiple numbers along the perimeter of the upper wall (451e). For example, five of the above protrusions (457) may be provided on a portion (e.g., the front portion) of the upper wall (451e), that is, on the front side of the cell (411a), and five of the above protrusions (457) may be provided on the other portion (e.g., the rear portion) of the upper wall (451), that is, on the rear side of the cell (411a). However, the number of protrusions (457) is not limited thereto.

[0276] The above tray supporter (450) may include a protrusion (459) provided on the first side wall (451c). The protrusion (459) may protrude in one direction (e.g., laterally) from the first side wall (451c).

[0277] The above protrusion (459) may include a coupling portion (459a) connected to the driving portion (510). The coupling portion (459a) may have a shape of a recessed groove from the outer surface of the protrusion (459) so that the shaft of the driving portion (510) is inserted.

[0278] The above protrusion (459) may include a recessed portion (459b). The recessed portion (459b) is positioned on one side (e.g., a side) of the connecting portion (459a) and may have the shape of a recessed groove from the outer surface of the protrusion (459).

[0279] The above-mentioned recessed portion (459b) forms a groove for reducing the weight, thereby preventing the phenomenon of stress being concentrated at a specific point of the protrusion (459) due to the power transmitted from the driving unit (510). The weight of the tray supporter (450) can be reduced by the above-mentioned recessed portion (459b).

[0280] The above tray supporter (450) may include a wire guide (455) provided on the second side wall (451d). The wire guide (455) may protrude in one direction (e.g., laterally) from the second side wall (451d).

[0281] The above wire guide (455) includes a guide hole (455a), and the wire can be guided into the interior of the through hole (450a) through the guide hole (455a). The wire may include, for example, a wire connected to a temperature sensor (428) or a heater (490).

[0282] The above tray supporter (450) may include a second wall (453) provided on the inner side of the first wall (451). The second wall (453) may be understood as a support wall that supports the tray (400).

[0283] The above second wall (453) can support the cell wall (411) of the tray (400).

[0284] The above second wall (453) can contact the outer surface of the cell wall (411).

[0285] The second wall (453) may have a shape that is bent along the circumference of the cell wall (411) so as to stably support the outer surface of the cell wall (411).

[0286] The second wall (453) may extend in a slanted direction (e.g., upward) based on a shape in which the cell (411a) increases in size or width in one direction (e.g., upward).

[0287] The above second wall (453) can be arranged to support the fourth cell surface (412d).

[0288] The second wall (453) and the partition (452) can form a mounting space (450b) in which one cell wall (411) is positioned. The mounting space (450b) can form a part of the through hole (450a).

[0289] The above mounting space (450b) can be formed in multiple numbers corresponding to multiple cells (411a).

[0290] The above tray supporter (450) may include a third wall (454a, 454b) provided on the inner side of the first wall (451). The third wall (454a, 454b) may be understood as a reinforcing wall that reinforces the strength of the tray supporter (450).

[0291] The third wall (454a, 454b) may be provided in an area where the connecting portion (459a) of the protrusion (459) is located. In detail, the third wall (454a, 454b) may be provided on the inner surface of a portion of the first wall (451) where the connecting portion (459a) is located.

[0292] The third wall (454a, 454b) may include a first part (454a) extending in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the tray supporter (450). The first part (454a) may be connected to the first side wall (451c) and may extend toward and be connected to the second side wall (451d).

[0293] The point where the first part (454a) is connected to the first side wall (451c) may form a part of the inner surface of the first side wall (451d) where the connecting portion (459a) is located.

[0294] The third wall (454a, 454b) may include a second part (454b) extending in the other direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) of the tray supporter (450).

[0295] The second part (454b) is connected to the first part (454a) and can extend in one direction (e.g., rearward) to be connected to the rear wall (451b). The second parts (454b) are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple second parts (454b) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the other direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0296] By the third wall (454a, 454b) described above, the strength of the tray supporter (450) can be reinforced when the tray supporter (450) is subject to distortion during the movement of the tray supporter (450).

[0297] The above tray supporter (450) may include a boss (458) coupled to a heater case (460). The boss (458) may protrude in one direction (e.g., downward) from one surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the upper wall (451e).

[0298] The above boss (458) is aligned with the boss (463) of the heater case (460), and a predetermined fastening member can fasten the boss (458) of the tray supporter (450) and the boss (463) of the heater case (460).

[0299] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, when the tray (400) is placed with the tray supporter (450), the first extension wall (420) and the peripheral wall (430) of the tray (400) can protrude above the upper wall (451e) of the tray supporter (450).

[0300] The first extension wall (420) is supported on the upper wall (451e), and the peripheral wall (430) may further protrude (e.g., upward) from one side of the first extension wall (420).

[0301] Among the above-mentioned peripheral walls (430), the fourth extension wall (433) can protrude from the first extension wall (420) by a first protrusion height (H3).

[0302] Among the above perimeter walls (430), the third extension wall (432) can protrude from the first extension wall (420) by a second protrusion height (H4).

[0303] Among the above-mentioned peripheral walls (430), the second extension wall (431) can protrude from the first extension wall (420) by a third protrusion height (H5).

[0304] The third protrusion height (H5) may be greater than the second protrusion height (H4), and the second protrusion height (H4) may be greater than the first protrusion height (H3).

[0305] The third extension wall (432) can extend from the fourth extension wall (433) toward the second extension wall (431) at a set angle (θ1).

[0306] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view showing the configuration of a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view showing the configuration of a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the configuration of a tray, a tray supporter, and a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a part of the configuration of a tray, a tray supporter, and a tray cover according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 21.

[0307] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 23, an ice maker (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tray cover (480).

[0308] At least a portion of the above tray cover (480) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the tray (400).

[0309] The above tray cover (480) may include a cover wall (481) forming an opening (482).

[0310] The above opening (482) can be formed so that at least a portion of the second tray cover (480) passes through it so that at least a portion of the second tray (400) passes through it.

[0311] The above opening (482) may be configured to have an area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of cells (411a) of the tray (400) so that the plurality of cells (411a) can pass through it.

[0312] The cover wall (481) may be placed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the first extension wall (420) of the tray (400). The cover wall (481) may extend along the perimeter of the first extension wall (420). The cover wall (481) may have a “ㅁ” shape to form an opening (482) on the inside thereof.

[0313] A hole (483) that is coupled to the tray (400) may be formed in the cover wall (481). The hole (483) may be aligned with the first coupling hole (423) of the tray (400).

[0314] A predetermined fastening member is fastened to the above hole (483) and can be fastened to the protrusion (457) of the tray supporter (450) by passing through the first coupling hole (423). An insertion groove (457a) into which the fastening member is inserted can be formed in the protrusion (457).

[0315] The above holes (483) can be formed in multiple numbers along the perimeter of the cover wall (481).

[0316] The cover wall (481) may be provided with a protrusion (484). The protrusion (484) may protrude from one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the cover wall (481) toward the tray (400). The protrusion (484) may be inserted into the second coupling hole (424) of the tray (400).

[0317] The above protrusions (484) can be formed in multiple numbers along the perimeter of the cover wall (481).

[0318] The above tray cover (480) may include a protrusion (485) protruding from the inner surface of the cover wall (481).

[0319] The above protrusion (485) may be placed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the separating wall (413) of the tray (400). For example, the above protrusion (485) may be placed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the fourth wall part (413d) and may be positioned in an area separating a plurality of cells (411a).

[0320] The above protrusions (485) may be provided in multiple numbers along the inner circumference of the cover wall (481).

[0321] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, the first extension wall (420) of the tray (400) can be positionally fixed by being interposed between the tray supporter (450) and the tray cover (480).

[0322] The peripheral wall (430) of the above tray (400) is located inside the opening (482) of the above tray cover (480) and can protrude to a higher position than the above tray cover (480).

[0323] The first extension wall (420) of the above tray (400) can be stably supported between the tray supporter (450) and the tray cover (480) through a fastening structure using a protrusion and groove structure and a fastening member.

[0324] Referring to FIG. 23, the protrusion (457) of the tray supporter (450) can protrude from the upper wall (451e) toward the tray (400).

[0325] One side (e.g., the bottom side) of the upper wall (451e) may include a protrusion (457b) into which a fastening member is inserted. An insertion groove (457a) may be formed on the inside of the protrusion (457b). That is, the insertion groove (457a) may be formed on the inside of the protrusion (457) and the protrusion (457b).

[0326] The above fastening member can be inserted into the protrusion (457) and the projection (457b) by penetrating the hole (483) of the tray cover (480).

[0327] FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a heater case and a heater according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 25 is a plan view showing the configuration of a heater case and a heater according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along 26-26 of FIG. 24, FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along 27-27 of FIG. 24, FIG. 28 is a drawing showing a heater arranged at a lower portion of a tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 29 is a bottom perspective view showing a part of the configuration of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 30 is a bottom perspective view showing a part of the configuration of an ice maker with a heater case removed according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along 31-31 of FIG. 29.

[0328] Referring to FIGS. 24 to 28, an ice maker (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a heater case (460). A heater (490) may be placed in the heater case (460). The heater case (460) may be coupled with the tray supporter (450).

[0329] The heater case (460) may include a case body (461) in which a heater (490) for transferring heat is placed on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the tray (400). The case body (461) may include a heater groove (461a) that accommodates at least a portion of the heater (490).

[0330] The case body (461) may form an opening (462). A portion of one end (e.g., the bottom) of the tray (400) may be inserted into the opening (462). The openings (462) are provided in a number corresponding to the number of cells (411a), and the plurality of openings (462) may be arranged in one direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). For example, the opening (462) may be formed in a circular shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this shape.

[0331] At least a portion of the heater groove (461a) may be formed along the outer perimeter of the opening (462).

[0332] The above heater case (460) may include a boss (463) protruding from the case body (461). A plurality of bosses (463) may be provided along the perimeter of the case body (461).

[0333] The above boss (463) is aligned with the boss (458) of the tray supporter (450), and a predetermined fastening member can be fastened to the boss (463, 458).

[0334] The heater case (460) may include a support protrusion (465) that supports the temperature sensor (428). The support protrusion (465) may protrude from the case body (461) and may include a support surface that is in contact with the support protrusion (465) or is adjacent to the support protrusion (465). The temperature sensor (428) may be prevented from being separated from the tray (400) by the support protrusion (465). The support protrusion (465) may be located between the plurality of openings (462).

[0335] The heater (490) may be positioned along the perimeter of the opening (462) in contact with the tray (400) or adjacent to the tray (400).

[0336] The heater (490) may include a first part (491) extending along the perimeter of the opening (462). For example, the first part (491) may extend in a bent or rounded manner corresponding to the shape of the opening (462).

[0337] The above first part (491) may be provided in multiple numbers corresponding to the multiple openings (462).

[0338] The heater (490) may include a second part (492) connecting the plurality of first parts (491). The second part (492) may include a portion connected to both ends of the first part (491). The second part (492) may include a portion that extends linearly. The second part (492) may extend from both sides of the support protrusion (465) to connect two adjacent first parts (491).

[0339] The above first part (491) and the above second part (492) can be formed as one piece.

[0340] Referring to FIG. 28, the heater (490) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to the tray (400).

[0341] The above heater (490) may be placed at an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray (400).

[0342] For example, the heater (490) may be placed at an end (e.g., a lower end) of the cell wall (411) forming the first cell surface (412a).

[0343] The first part (491) of the heater (490) may be placed at an end (e.g., a lower end) of the cell wall (411). Since a plurality of cell walls (411) are provided, a plurality of the first parts (491) may be provided and placed at an end (e.g., a lower end) of each cell wall (411).

[0344] The second part (492) of the above heater (490) is arranged to pass through a space between the first cell wall (411) and the second cell wall (412) among the plurality of cell walls, and can connect the plurality of first parts (491).

[0345] The controller of the refrigerator can control the heater (490) to supply heat to the cell (411a) during at least some of the sections in which cold is supplied to the cell (411a) so that transparent ice can be created.

[0346] By the heat of the heater (490), transparent ice can be created in the ice maker (200) by delaying the speed of ice creation so that the bubbles dissolved in the water inside the cell (411a) can move from the area where ice is created toward the liquid water. In other words, the bubbles dissolved in the water can be induced to escape to the outside of the cell (411a) or be captured at a certain location within the cell (411a).

[0347] Meanwhile, when supplying cold to the cell (411a), if the speed at which ice is formed is fast, the bubbles dissolved in the water inside the cell (411a) may freeze without moving from the area where ice is formed toward the liquid water, and thus the transparency of the formed ice may be low.

[0348] In contrast, when supplying cold to the cell (411a), if the speed at which ice is generated is slow, the problem can be solved and the transparency of the generated ice can be increased, but the problem of taking a long time to make ice can occur.

[0349] Therefore, in order to reduce the delay in ice making time and increase the transparency of the ice produced, the heater (490) may be placed on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the cell (411a) so as to locally supply heat to the cell (411a).

[0350] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, a heater case (460) is placed on the lower side of the tray (400), and a part of one end (e.g., the lower end) of the tray (400) can be exposed to the outside through the opening (462).

[0351] When the heater case (460) is separated, the end (e.g., the lower end) of the tray (400) is exposed to the outside, and the tray (400) is positioned inside the through hole (450a) of the tray supporter (450).

[0352] Referring to FIG. 31, the tray (400) can be placed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the heater case (460).

[0353] For example, the heater (490) may be placed in the heater case (460) and may be placed in contact with an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray (400).

[0354] In order to maintain contact between the tray (400) and the heater (490), a heater groove may be formed at an end (e.g., a lower end) of the tray (400) in which at least a portion of the heater (490) can be accommodated.

[0355] To distinguish it from the heater groove (461a) of the above heater case (460), the heater groove (461a) may be called a “first heater groove” and the heater groove of the tray (400) may be called a “second heater groove”.

[0356] A space in which a temperature sensor (428) is positioned may be formed between the plurality of cell walls (411). A ledge (414) supporting the temperature sensor (428) may be provided on the side surface of the cell wall (411) forming the second cell surface (412b) or the third cell surface (412c).

[0357] The temperature sensor (428) is placed between the protrusion (414) of the first cell wall (411) and the protrusion (414) of the adjacent second cell wall (411), and can be supported by the partition (452) of the tray supporter (450). The temperature sensor (428) can be prevented from being detached from the heater case (460) by the support protrusion (465) of the heater case (460).

[0358] The temperature sensor (428) may be positioned in the space between the partition (452) and the support protrusion (465). In this way, the heater (490) may be positioned adjacent to the end (e.g., the lower end) of the tray (400) to supply heat to the cell (411a), thereby facilitating the production of transparent ice.

[0359] The temperature sensor (428) is placed in a space defined by the tray (400), the tray supporter (450), and the heater case (460), and is positioned adjacent to the tray (400), so that it can easily detect the temperature of water or ice present in the cell (411a).

[0360] Figures 32a to 32e are drawings showing the operation of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0361] Referring to Fig. 32a, when the tray assembly (400, 450, 480) is in the water supply position, the tray (400) may be moved in the forward direction by a set angle (θ1) by the driving unit (510). For example, the set angle may be a value within the range of 20 to 25° so as to prevent water overflow.

[0362] Since water is supplied while the above tray (400) is moved in the forward direction by the above set angle, water can be easily spread to a number of cells (411a).

[0363] When supplying water, water from the water supply unit (248) can flow into the cell (411a) through an open surface (e.g., the upper surface) of the tray (400).

[0364] At this time, water is supplied to the second extension wall (431) of the tray (400) and can spread in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) along the second extension wall (431). The spread water can be distributed to a plurality of cells (411a). For example, among the plurality of cells (411a), water can be supplied to a cell (411a) closer to the center, and water can spread to other adjacent cells (411a).

[0365] The inner surface of the second extension wall (431) may include a guide surface that guides the flow of water.

[0366] The second wall part (413b) of the above-mentioned separation wall (413) can form a part of a water channel through which water flows to the adjacent cell (411a).

[0367] When the preset amount of water supply is completed, the water can be supplied by spreading from the central cell (411a) to the cells on both sides (411a) by waiting for a preset time.

[0368] When the water supply is completed, the water level can form a position lower than the second wall part (413b) of the above-mentioned separation wall (413).

[0369] Fig. 32b shows the ice maker in the ice-making position. Referring to Fig. 32b, when the tray assembly is in the ice-making position, the tray (400) can be moved in the reverse direction from the water supply position by the driving unit (510) to maintain a horizontal state.

[0370] At the above ice-making position, cold is supplied to the cell (411a) through the open upper surface of the tray (400) by the cold supply means, and ice (I) can be created in the cell (411a).

[0371] During the ice making process, the heater (490) can be driven to create transparent ice.

[0372] Figure 32c shows the ice maker being iced, and Figure 32d shows the ice maker having reached its maximum ice-making position.

[0373] Referring to FIGS. 32c and 32d, when ice making is completed, the driving unit (510) can move in the forward direction.

[0374] When the driving unit (510) moves in the forward direction and the tray (400) is at the maximum freezing position, the end (e.g., the lower end) of the tray (400) can be deformed by contacting the pusher (540). Ice present in the tray (400) can be separated from the tray (400) by the pressure of the pusher (540).

[0375] The second tray (400) may be formed of a flexible or ductile material that can be deformed when pressed by the pusher (540).

[0376] During the above-described ice removal, the heater (490) may be operated to help the ice to separate well from the cell (411a).

[0377] Ice separated from the above tray (400) can fall and be stored in the ice bin (600). When the above ice-breaking operation is completed, the drive unit (510) can be driven so that the tray assembly can move in the reverse direction and return to the ice-making position (Fig. 32b).

[0378] When the water supply operation is initiated, the tray assembly can move forward toward the water supply position (Fig. 32a). At the water supply position, fluid is supplied through the water supply unit (240) and the fluid can be supplied to a plurality of cells (411a).

[0379] Additional embodiments for controlling the amount of water supplied are described.

[0380] To control the water supply, a sensor for detecting the water level may be placed on the bracket (220) or the cell wall (411). For example, the sensor may be a temperature sensor or a capacitance sensor.

[0381] After the water supply is completed at the water supply position of Fig. 32a, when moving to the ice making position of Fig. 32b, the water level can be detected through the sensor.

[0382] If the water level is determined to be low by the above sensor, the device moves back to the water supply position and adds the set minimum amount of water. This operation is then repeated, and when the desired water level is detected, the ice-making operation described in Fig. 32b or below can be performed.

[0383] Meanwhile, when the sensor is configured as a temperature sensor, the temperature sensor can detect the water level based on the result of detecting the temperature of the image when it comes into contact with water during water supply.

[0384] After ice removal is complete, water supply can proceed only after waiting for the temperature detected by the temperature sensor to drop below freezing. This is to prevent false detection when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor after ice removal is above freezing, as the difference between the temperature after ice removal and the temperature after water supply is minimal when the water comes into contact with the image.

[0385] The present invention relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, and has remarkable industrial applicability because transparent ice can be easily produced using a single tray.

Claims

1. A storage room where food is stored; A door for opening and closing the above storage room; An ice making room provided in the above door or the above storage room; A cooler for supplying cold to the above storage room; A cell, which is a space provided in the above ice making room where a substance changes from a liquid to a solid state; and Containing one tray forming the above cell, A refrigerator wherein said one tray includes an open end for supplying said liquid substance or cold.

2. In paragraph 1, The above one tray, a tray wall forming the above cell; and A refrigerator comprising an extension wall protruding from the tray wall and preventing the liquid material from overflowing outside of one tray when supplied.

3. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator in which, at the water supply position of the above tray, the one tray moves a distance set so that the extension wall can move.

4. In paragraph 1, The above one tray, Tray walls forming the above cells; A first extension wall extending from an end of the tray wall in an outer direction of the tray wall; and A refrigerator comprising a peripheral wall protruding from the first extension wall and arranged to surround the cell.

5. In paragraph 4, The above perimeter wall is, A refrigerator comprising a first extension wall, which includes a portion protruding the most from the first extension wall among the above-mentioned peripheral walls and forms a guide surface that guides the flow of water.

6. In paragraph 1, The above perimeter wall is, A second extension wall extending downwardly from the first extension wall; and A refrigerator comprising a third extension wall connected to the second extension wall and extending along at least a portion of the perimeter of the cell.

7. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the one tray includes a plurality of cells and a partition wall separating the plurality of cells.

8. In paragraph 7, The above separation wall is, A first wall part including a portion forming the highest position of the above-mentioned separation wall; and A refrigerator including a second wall part which is provided at a lower position than the first wall part and forms a position higher than the water level when water supply is completed.

9. In paragraph 8, The above second wall part, A refrigerator in which water forms at least a portion of a conduit through which water flows from one cell to another at the water supply location.

10. In paragraph 1, The above one tray forms a cell of a polyhedron, A refrigerator comprising a first cell surface forming a first surface of the cell, a second cell surface forming a second surface of the cell, and a third cell surface forming a third surface of the cell.

11. In paragraph 1, Including a tray supporter supporting the above one tray, A refrigerator wherein the tray support forms a through hole through which one tray is positioned.

12. In paragraph 11, The above tray supporter, A first wall forming the exterior; and A refrigerator comprising a second wall provided on the inner side of the first wall and supporting cell walls defining the cells.

13. In paragraph 11, The above cell contains a plurality of cells, A refrigerator including a compartment that divides the through hole into a plurality of mounting spaces so that the plurality of cells can be positioned separately.

14. In paragraph 11, The above tray support includes a protrusion protruding from the first wall, A refrigerator wherein the protrusion includes a connecting portion connected to a driving portion for movement of the one tray.

15. In paragraph 1, forming an opening in which at least a portion of said one tray is positioned, and including a tray cover on which said one tray is supported; A refrigerator wherein said one tray includes an extension wall protruding from said opening.

16. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator comprising a heater disposed adjacent to the one tray and a heater case to which the heater is coupled.

17. In paragraph 16, The above heater case includes an opening into which a cell is inserted and a heater groove formed around the opening, A refrigerator wherein the heater is arranged in the heater groove and provides heat toward one side of the tray.

18. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the one tray includes a first cell face, a second cell face, and a third cell face to form a cell of a polyhedron, and the tray is arranged so as to be in contact with the first cell face.

19. In paragraph 1, The above cell contains a plurality of cells, A refrigerator including a temperature sensor that is arranged in the space between the plurality of cells and detects the temperature of a liquid or solid substance present in the cells.

20. A storage room where food is stored; A door for opening and closing the above storage room; An ice making room provided in the above door or the above storage room; A cooler for supplying cold to the above storage room; A cell, which is a space provided in the above ice making room where a substance changes from a liquid to a solid state; A tray forming the above cells; A tray supporter supporting the above tray; and A heater case is coupled to the above tray supporter and includes a heater case in which a heater for providing heat to the tray is arranged, The above cell includes a first cell face, a second cell face, and a third cell face that are connected to each other so as to have a polyhedral shape, A refrigerator wherein the heater is disposed on the first cell surface.

21. In paragraph 20, Including a tray cover supported on the above tray, A refrigerator wherein the above tray, the tray support and the above tray cover are fastened by a fastening member.

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