Refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a storage compartment fan for supplying cold to a storage compartment; and an ice-making fan capable of adjusting the amount of cold supplied to a cell. The refrigerator includes an ice maker disposed in the storage compartment or a door, and the ice maker may include a case, accommodating a tray, and an ice-making fan disposed in the case.

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 an ice maker with this type of structure has at least one flat surface, such as a crescent or cubic shape. Meanwhile, spherical ice can be more convenient to use and provide a unique user experience. Furthermore, by minimizing the contact area between ice cubes during storage, clumping of ice cubes can be minimized. Furthermore, recent efforts have been made to produce transparent ice.

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator including an ice maker capable of improving ice making speed while maintaining the required transparency of ice.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker capable of supplying a constant amount of cold to the ice maker based on the cooling environment of the refrigerator.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker having a fan capable of supplying cold to a cell.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, wherein a heating means is provided to maintain the temperature of cold oil formed in the ice maker.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, which can improve the ice making speed by supplying cold to a part (e.g., an upper part) of the ice maker and applying an insulating structure to the other part (e.g., a lower part) to increase the temperature difference between a part (e.g., an upper part) of a cell and the other part (e.g., a lower part).

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker capable of performing additional water supply through water level detection after supplying a set amount of water to realize a desired ice shape.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker capable of controlling the output of a heater based on the concentration of minerals contained in the raw water being supplied.

[0012] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a storage compartment fan for supplying cold to a storage compartment and an ice-making fan capable of controlling the amount of cold supplied to the cell.

[0013] The refrigerator may include an ice maker installed in the storage compartment or door, and the ice maker may include a case that accommodates a tray and an ice-making fan installed in the case.

[0014] The above ice-making fan may be placed on the side of the tray.

[0015] The above ice-making fan can be placed in the inlet of the case.

[0016] The above inlet may be formed on a side of the case.

[0017] The case of the ice maker may include a discharge portion for discharging cold supplied to the cells of the tray to the outside of the ice maker.

[0018] The above discharge portion may be formed on one side (e.g., the bottom side) of the case.

[0019] The ice maker may include a sensor capable of detecting the level of fluid supplied to the cell, and a controller capable of determining whether to perform additional supply of water based on the value detected by the sensor.

[0020] The above sensor may include a temperature sensor.

[0021] The above sensor can be placed on a tray.

[0022] At least a portion of the sensor may be configured to be exposed to a cell of the tray.

[0023] It may include a sensor insulation material for insulating the sensor and its surroundings.

[0024] The above sensor insulation material is placed inside the sensor case and can surround the sensor.

[0025] A heater for generating transparent ice may be provided on one side of the cell, and a cold supply path for supplying cold to the cell may be formed on the other side of the cell.

[0026] One side of the cell in which the above heater is installed can form the lower part of the cell.

[0027] The other side of the cell where the above cold supply path is formed can form the upper part of the cell.

[0028] It may include a tray forming the above cell and a tray supporter supporting the tray.

[0029] Tray insulation may be provided on the outside of the above tray supporter.

[0030] The tray comprises a first tray forming at least a portion of the cell and a second tray forming another portion, wherein the tray insulation can surround at least a portion of the second tray.

[0031] It may include a sensor that detects the mineral content of the fluid supplied to the ice maker.

[0032] The above controller can control the output of the heater based on information detected by the sensor.

[0033] The above sensor may include a TDS sensor.

[0034] If the content of minerals detected by the above sensor exceeds a set content, the controller can increase the output of the heater to improve transparency.

[0035] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cell provided in an ice-making chamber, which is a space in which a substance changes phase from a liquid to a solid state, a tray forming at least a portion of the cell, a housing supporting the tray in the ice-making chamber, and an ice-making fan disposed in the housing.

[0036] The housing includes an ice maker hole for drawing the cold into the interior of the housing, and the ice maker fan can be installed in the ice maker hole.

[0037] The housing may include a cold path through which cold introduced through the ice maker fan flows; and an ice maker heater installed on the cold path.

[0038] In order to determine whether the ice maker heater is operated, an ice maker temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cold oil may be included.

[0039] The housing includes a cold path that guides cold introduced through the ice maker fan to one side of the cell and a transparent ice heater installed on the other side of the cell, and the one side and the other side of the cell can form opposite sides.

[0040] It is placed adjacent to the transparent ice heater and may include a tray insulation material for insulating the transparent ice heater and the outside.

[0041] It may include a storage room fan installed in the above storage room.

[0042] A sensor device installed in the housing or the tray may be included to detect the water level of the cell.

[0043] The above sensor device may include a temperature sensor.

[0044] The above sensor device may include a sensing member inserted into the tray and exposed inside the cell.

[0045] The above sensor device may include a sensor case, a sensor accommodated inside the sensor case, and a sensor insulation material surrounding the sensor.

[0046] The above sensor may include a sensing member having a bar shape for insertion into the tray and a sensor bracket coupled to the sensing member and supported by the sensor insulation material.

[0047] A controller is included that controls the amount of water supplied to the tray based on the value detected by the sensor device, and the controller can determine the additional amount of water by comparing the value detected by the sensor device with a set value.

[0048] It may include a water supply detection unit that detects the amount of minerals contained in the liquid material supplied to the tray, and a transparent ice heater that controls the amount of heat output based on the value detected by the water supply detection unit.

[0049] The above water supply detection unit may include a TDS sensor.

[0050] It may include a controller that controls the operation of the transparent ice heater based on the value detected by the water supply detection unit.

[0051] The controller may adjust the output of the heater to a reference heating amount when the amount of minerals detected by the water supply detection unit is in a range greater than the second setting value and less than the first setting value, and may adjust the output of the heater to a range greater than the reference heating amount when the amount of minerals detected is in a range less than the second setting value or greater than the first setting value.

[0052] In another aspect, the refrigerator may include a cell provided in an ice-making room, which is a space in which a substance changes phase from a liquid to a solid state, a tray forming at least a portion of the cell, a water supply unit that supplies water to a portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the tray, an ice-making fan that supplies cold to a portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the tray, and a transparent ice heater provided on the other portion (e.g., a lower portion) of the tray.

[0053] An ice maker temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cold path from the ice maker fan toward the tray; and an ice maker heater that provides heat to the cold path based on the value detected by the ice maker temperature sensor.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice making speed can be improved while maintaining the required transparency of the ice.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a constant amount of cold can be supplied to the ice maker based on the cooling environment of the refrigerator.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice maker is provided with a fan to easily control the amount of cold supplied to the cell.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heating means is provided in an ice maker so that the temperature of cold oil formed in the ice maker can be maintained or easily controlled.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice making speed can be improved by supplying cold to a part (e.g., the upper part) of the ice maker and applying an insulating structure to the other part (e.g., the lower part) to increase the temperature difference between a part (e.g., the upper part) and the other part (e.g., the lower part) of the cell.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, additional water supply can be easily performed through water level detection after supplying a set amount of water to implement a required ice shape.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the output of the heater can be easily controlled based on the concentration of minerals contained in the raw water being supplied.

[0061] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 2 is a top perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 3 is a side view of the ice maker of Figure 2.

[0064] Figure 4 is a top view of the ice maker of Figure 2.

[0065] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the ice maker of Figure 2.

[0066] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 2.

[0068] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of Figure 2.

[0069] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first tray and a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 4.

[0071] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a part of the configuration of a first tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Fig. 12 is a bottom view showing a part of the configuration of the first tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 13 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 14 is a flow chart showing a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the cold flow shape in an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the ice removal position of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the maximum ice removal position of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a water supply position of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 19 is an experimental graph showing the change in transparency according to the amount of minerals in the supplied fluid when the output of the heater is changed.

[0080] Figure 20 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 21 is a flow chart showing a method for controlling a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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."

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In the present invention, a cell may be defined as a space located within the storage chamber where water changes into ice. The circumference 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.

[0099] 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 the cell. There may be a plurality of trays. The plurality of trays may be in contact with each other.

[0100] In the present invention, a tray case may be positioned between the tray and the storage compartment. That is, the tray case may be arranged so as to surround at least a portion of the tray. There may be a plurality of tray cases. The plurality of tray cases may be in contact with each other. The tray case may be in contact with the tray to support at least a portion of the tray. The tray case may be configured to be connected to a component other than the tray (e.g., a heater, a sensor, a power transmission member, etc.). The tray case may be directly coupled to the component or coupled to the component via an intermediary therebetween.

[0101] In the present invention, the refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly configured to be movable and 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 move 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.

[0102] In the present invention, the refrigerator may include at least one tray assembly in which the heater is disposed. The heater may be disposed near the tray assembly so as to heat a cell formed by the tray assembly in which the heater is disposed. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter, "transparent ice heater") that is controlled to be turned on at least in a portion of the period during which the cooler supplies cold so that bubbles dissolved in water inside the cell move from a portion where ice is generated toward liquid water, thereby generating transparent ice. The heater may include a heater (hereinafter, "separating ice heater") that is controlled to be turned on at least in a portion of the period after ice-making is completed so that ice can be easily separated from the tray assembly.

[0103] In the present invention, the cell may be cooled by the cooler that cools the storage compartment. For example, the storage compartment where the cell is located may be a freezer that can be controlled to a temperature lower than 0 degrees, and the cell may be cooled by the cooler that cools the freezer.

[0104] 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.

[0105] In the present invention, the degree of deformation resistance refers to 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. As an example, the external force may include the pressure applied to the tray assembly during the process in which water inside the cell solidifies and expands. As another example, the external force may include the pressure applied to the ice or a part of the tray assembly by a pusher for separating the ice and the tray assembly. As another example, when a plurality of trays are combined, the pressure applied by the combination may be included.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] Meanwhile, from the perspective of the material of the object, a high degree of resilience of the object may mean a high elastic modulus of the object. The elastic modulus may be a unique material characteristic of the object. Even when the material of the object is the same, the degree of resilience may vary depending on the shape of the object, etc. The degree of resilience may be affected by an elastic reinforcing portion extending in the direction in which the external force is applied. The greater the elastic modulus of the elastic reinforcing portion, the greater the degree of resilience may be.

[0109] Hereinafter, a specific embodiment of the refrigerator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0110] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] In the above freezer (32), a storage compartment fan (35) that blows cold into the freezer (32) may be installed. For example, the storage compartment fan (35) may be installed on one wall (e.g., the rear wall) of the freezer (32). Cold generated in an evaporator (not shown) may be supplied to the freezer (32) through the storage compartment fan (35).

[0117] The above 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).

[0118] 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 the upper side of a wall dividing a first space (e.g., an upper space) and a second space (e.g., a lower space) of the freezer (32).

[0119] 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).

[0120] 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.

[0121] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view illustrating an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a side view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is a top view of the ice maker of FIG. 2, and FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the ice maker of FIG. 2.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, an ice maker (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a housing (220) that supports a tray assembly. Each component of the ice maker (200) may be provided inside or outside the housing (220), so that the ice maker (200) may form a single assembly.

[0123] The above housing (220) can be coupled to at least one side of the storage room.

[0124] The housing (220) may include a first wall (221). At least a portion of the first wall (221) may extend in a first direction (e.g., horizontally) and be coupled to one surface of the storage chamber.

[0125] The above first wall (221) may form a part of a wall (e.g., an upper wall) of the housing (220).

[0126] The first wall (221) may be configured in steps. A driving unit (510) may be arranged on one side (e.g., the lower side) of a portion protruding in one direction (e.g., the upper side) of the first wall (221).

[0127] The first wall (221) may include a hook (221a) coupled to the storage room. The hook (221a) may protrude in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first wall (221).

[0128] The first wall (221) may include a boss joint (221b). The boss joint (221b) may protrude in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first wall (221) and may be configured such that a boss (329b, see FIG. 9) of the first tray (300) may be inserted therein.

[0129] The first wall (221) may include a protrusion coupling hole (221c). The protrusion coupling hole (221c) is formed by penetrating at least a portion of the first wall (221), and the coupling protrusion (329a, see FIG. 9) may be inserted therein.

[0130] The housing (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.

[0131] The above second wall (222) can form a side wall of the housing (220).

[0132] A driving unit (510) may be placed on the inner side of one of the two second walls (222).

[0133] An ice maker fan (900) may be placed on the other of the two second walls (222). A hole (222b, see FIG. 6) into which the ice maker fan (900) is coupled may be formed on the second wall (222).

[0134] The second wall (222) may be provided with a fan support member (222a) that supports the ice maker fan (900). The fan support member (222a) may protrude outward from the second wall (222) and may be arranged to surround the edge of the hole (222b).

[0135] The above hole (222b) may form an intake hole through which cold air from the storage chamber flows into the tray assembly. Depending on the output of the ice maker fan (900), the amount of cold air flowing into the interior of the ice maker (200) may be controlled.

[0136] When the above ice maker fan (900) is driven, cold that flows into the interior of the ice maker through the hole (222b) flows into the cell to perform ice making, and can be discharged to the outside of the ice maker through the discharge hole (223a).

[0137] For example, the discharge hole (223a) may be formed on one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the housing (220).

[0138] The housing (220) may include a third wall (223) extending in one direction (e.g., downward) from a portion (e.g., a front portion) of the first wall (221). The third wall (223) may form one wall (e.g., a front wall) of the housing (220).

[0139] The housing (220) may include a fourth wall (224) extending in one direction (e.g., downward) from the other side (e.g., rear side) of the first wall (221). The fourth wall (224) may form the other wall (e.g., rear wall) of the housing (220).

[0140] A water supply unit (240) may be connected to the fourth wall (224). The water supply unit (240) is configured to supply fluid to the tray assembly and may be positioned at a location corresponding to any one of the multiple cells. Fluid supplied to any one of the cells may be distributed and introduced to other cells.

[0141] The above water supply unit (240) can be supported by the storage room wall (325a) of the first tray (300).

[0142] A second pusher (540) may be provided on the fourth wall (224). The second pusher (540) may include a coupling plate (542) coupled to the housing (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 from each other in a first direction (e.g., horizontal direction).

[0143] The above ice maker (200) may include a first pusher (700) that is movably provided by receiving power from a driving unit (510). The first pusher (700) may operate to separate ice generated in the cell.

[0144] The above ice maker (200) may include a guide bar (350) that forms a slot (355) that guides the movement of the first pusher (700).

[0145] The ice maker (200) may include a sensor device (800) capable of detecting the water level supplied to the cell. For example, the sensor device (800) may be placed on the first wall (221) or the first tray (300).

[0146] The above sensor device (800) can be placed at a position corresponding to the central tray part among the multiple tray parts of the first tray (300).

[0147] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 2.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, along with FIGS. 4 and 5 previously described, an ice maker (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray assembly and a second tray assembly.

[0149] The first tray assembly may include a first tray (300), a first tray case, or both the first tray (300) and the first tray case. For example, in the present embodiment, the first tray assembly may include a first tray (300).

[0150] The second tray assembly may include a second tray (400), a second tray case, or the second tray (400) and a second tray case.

[0151] The second tray case may include at least one of a second tray supporter and a second tray cover.

[0152] The above housing (220) can define at least a portion of a space that accommodates the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly.

[0153] The housing (220) may be disposed, for example, on one side wall (e.g., the upper wall) of the freezer (32). A water supply unit (240) may be disposed on the housing (220). The water supply unit (240) may guide water supplied from one side (e.g., the upper side) to the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the water supply unit (240). A water supply pipe (not shown) through which water is supplied may be disposed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the water supply unit (240).

[0154] Since the above water supply unit (240) 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 (240), and even if water is moved in one direction (e.g., downward) due to the lowered height, the amount of splashing can be reduced.

[0155] The above ice maker (200) may include a cell (360), which is a space where water changes into ice due to cold.

[0156] The first tray (300) may form at least a portion of the cell (360). The second tray (400) may form another portion of the cell (360). The cell (360) may include a first cell (321a) formed by the first tray (300) and a second cell (411a) formed by the second tray (400).

[0157] The above first tray (300) can be coupled to the housing (220).

[0158] The second tray (400) can be positioned so as to be able to move relative to the first tray (300). The second tray (400) can move linearly or rotate.

[0159] During the ice-making process, the second tray (400) moves relative to the first tray (300), so that the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) can come into contact. When the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) come into contact, the cell (360) can be defined.

[0160] After the ice making is completed, the second tray (400) may move relative to the first tray (300) during the ice removal process, so that the second tray (400) may be separated from the first tray (300).

[0161] In this embodiment, the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) can be arranged in one direction (e.g., up and down) while forming the cell (360). Therefore, the first tray (300) can be referred to as an upper tray, and the second tray (400) can be referred to as a lower tray.

[0162] A plurality of cells (360) can be defined by the first tray (300) and the second tray (400). For example, the plurality of cells (360) can include three cells (360).

[0163] When water is supplied to the cell (360) and the water is cooled by cold, ice having a shape identical to or similar to that of the cell (360) can be created. For example, the cell (360) can be formed in a spherical shape or a shape similar to a sphere. Of course, the cell (360) can also be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape or a polygonal shape.

[0164] The first tray (300) may include a plurality of tray parts. The number of the plurality of tray parts may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells (360).

[0165] The first tray (300) can define a first cell that is part of a cell (360). Each of the plurality of tray parts can define the first cell.

[0166] The first tray (300) may include a first tray wall (321) forming a part of the cell (360).

[0167] The first tray (300) may include a first extension wall (327) extending in a first direction (e.g., horizontally) from the first tray wall (321). For example, the first extension wall (327) may extend in the first direction (e.g., horizontally) around the upper end of the first tray wall (321).

[0168] The above ice maker (200) may include a first pusher (700). The first pusher (700) may be provided to be movable by receiving power from the driving unit (510). The first pusher (700) may be referred to as a "movable pusher."

[0169] The ice maker (200) may include a guide bar (350) that forms a slot (355) that guides the movement of the first pusher (700). For example, the guide bar (350) may be configured to extend in one direction (e.g., upward) from both sides of the first extension wall (327) of the first tray (300). However, alternatively, the guide bar (350) may be provided as a separate component separate from the first tray (300).

[0170] A protrusion (740, see Fig. 9) of the first pusher (600) can be inserted into the above slot (355). The protrusion (740) can be guided along the guide slot (355).

[0171] The first pusher (700) may include at least one bar (720). For example, the first pusher (700) may include a number of bars (720) equal to the number of cells (360), but is not limited thereto.

[0172] When the ice maker includes a plurality of cells (360), the first pusher (700) may include a plurality of bars (720). Two adjacent bars (720) may be connected by a connecting portion (710).

[0173] For example, the connecting portion (710) can connect the ends of one side (e.g., the upper side) of the bar (720) to each other. Accordingly, the connecting portion (710) can be prevented from interfering with the first tray (300) during the process of inserting the bar (720) into the cell (360).

[0174] The above bar (720) can push out ice located in the cell (360) during the ice-breaking process. For example, the bar (720) can be inserted into the cell (360) by penetrating the opening (324, through hole) of the first tray (300).

[0175] The first pusher (700) may be coupled to the link (490). At this time, the first pusher (700) may be coupled to the link (490) so as to be movable or rotatable. Accordingly, when the link (490) moves, the first pusher (700) may also move along the slot (355).

[0176] The second tray case may include, for example, a second tray cover (480) and a second tray supporter (450). The second tray cover (480) and the second tray supporter (450) may be formed integrally, or may be manufactured as separate components and then combined.

[0177] In this embodiment, the second tray cover (480) and the second 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.

[0178] The second tray cover (480) may include a cover wall (481) forming an opening (482). The opening (482) may be formed such 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) may pass through it. The opening (482) may be configured to have an area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​a plurality of second cells of the second tray (400) so that the plurality of second cells may pass through it.

[0179] The cover wall (481) may be placed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the first extension wall (420) of the second tray (400). The cover wall (481) may be arranged to surround the peripheral wall (430) of the second tray (400).

[0180] The second tray cover (480) may include a cover fastening portion (485) that protrudes in one direction (e.g., downward) from the cover wall (481). A plurality of the cover fastening portions (485) are provided along the perimeter of one side (e.g., the bottom side) of the cover wall (481), and may be coupled to the fastening portion (425) of the second tray (400) and the supporter fastening portion (456) of the second tray supporter (450).

[0181] At least a portion of the second tray supporter (450) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the second tray (400).

[0182] The second tray supporter (450) can support the second tray (400) on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the second tray (400). For example, at least a portion of the second tray wall (410) forming the second cell (411a) of the second tray (400) can be supported by the second tray supporter (450).

[0183] The second tray wall (410) may include a second cell surface (410a) defining the second cell (411a).

[0184] The second tray supporter (450) may include a first wall (451) forming an outer surface. The first wall (451) may include a first side wall (e.g., a front wall), a second side wall (e.g., a side wall), and a third side wall (e.g., a rear wall) of the second tray supporter (450).

[0185] The second tray supporter (450) may include a second wall (453) forming one side (e.g., an upper side) of the second tray supporter (450). The first extension wall (420) of the second tray (400) may be mounted on the second wall (453).

[0186] The second tray supporter (450) may include a tray support wall (452, see FIG. 5) that is recessed in one direction (e.g., downward) from the second wall (453) to support at least a portion of the second tray wall (410) of the second tray (400). The tray support wall (452) may be referred to as a “third wall.” The tray support wall (452) may be surrounded by the first wall (451).

[0187] The second tray supporter (450) may include two extensions (455) provided on both sides of the end portion (e.g., rear end) of the first wall (451). The two extensions (455) may protrude in one direction (e.g., rearward) from the end portion (e.g., rear end) of the first wall (451).

[0188] Each of the above extension parts (455) may have a through hole (455a) formed into which a shaft connection part (463) of the arm (460) is inserted.

[0189] The above arm (460) may be provided on at least one end of the shaft (520), for example, on both ends.

[0190] For example, the first arm of the two arms (460) may include a driving connection (462) connected to the driving unit (510). The first arm may constitute a driving arm. The second arm of the two arms (460) may constitute a driven arm.

[0191] The two arms (460) above may each include a shaft connection portion (463) coupled with the shaft (520). In the case of the first arm, the drive connection portion (462) and the shaft connection portion (463) may be positioned on opposite sides with respect to the arm (460).

[0192] One end of the arm (460) is connected to one end of a spring (470), so that when the spring (470) is tensioned, the position of the arm (460) can be moved to the initial position by the restoring force.

[0193] The second tray supporter (450) may include a link connecting portion (457a) to which a link (490) is connected. The link connecting portion (457a) is provided on both side walls of the second tray cover (450) so that two links (490) can be connected to each other.

[0194] In the process of moving the second tray (400), the link (490) can be movably or rotatably connected to the second tray supporter (450) through the link connecting portion (457a).

[0195] The second tray supporter (450) may include a spring coupling portion (457b) to which the spring (470) is coupled. The spring coupling portion (457b) may form a loop to allow one end (e.g., the lower end) of the spring (470) to be caught.

[0196] The ice maker (200) may include a second pusher (540). The second pusher (540) may be coupled to the housing (220), for example. The second pusher (540) may be referred to as a “fixed pusher.”

[0197] The above second pusher (540) may be provided in the same number as the number of cells (360), but is not limited thereto.

[0198] The second pusher (540) can push out ice located in the cell (360). For example, the second pusher (540) can come into contact with the second tray (400) forming the cell (360) by penetrating the second tray supporter (450), and pressurize the second tray (400) that has come into contact with it.

[0199] The above ice maker (200) may include a heater (530, 535).

[0200] The above heater (530, 535) is placed in the sunken receiving space (453a) of the second tray supporter (450) and may include a first heater (530) for applying heat to the second tray (400).

[0201] The first heater (530) may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with one side (e.g., the lower side) of the second tray (400) to supply heat to a portion (e.g., the lower side) of the second tray (400).

[0202] The above first heater (530) can function as an ice-making heater that supplies heat to the second tray (400) during the ice-making process, or can function as a transparent ice heater that helps create transparent ice during the ice-making process.

[0203] The above first heater (530) may be, for example, a wire type heater.

[0204] The above heater (530, 535) may include a second heater (535) that is controlled to be turned on at least for a portion of the time after ice making is completed so that ice can be easily separated from the tray assembly.

[0205] The second heater (535) may be placed adjacent to the first tray (300). The second heater (535) may be, for example, a wire-type heater.

[0206] For example, the second heater (535) may be positioned so as to be in contact with the first tray (300) or may be positioned at a predetermined distance from the first tray (300). In either case, the second heater (535) may supply heat to the first tray (300), and the heat supplied to the first tray (300) may be transferred to the cell (360).

[0207] The above ice maker (200) may include a tray insulation material (440) provided at a position adjacent to the first heater (530).

[0208] The above tray insulation material (440) may be provided at a position that supports the second tray (400) or the second tray supporter (450). At least a portion of the tray insulation material (440) may be positioned on a portion (e.g., the lower portion) of the second tray (400) or the second tray supporter (450).

[0209] The above tray insulation (440) may be provided at a location capable of insulating the exterior of the first heater (530). The above tray insulation (440) may be provided at a location capable of surrounding the first heater (530).

[0210] The above tray insulation (440) may include an insulation body (441) that supports one side (e.g., the lower side) of the second tray (400) or the second tray supporter (450). The insulation body (441) may include a through hole (442) that is sunken in one direction (e.g., downward) corresponding to the shape of the cell (360). The through hole (442) may be configured in a shape that allows at least a portion of the insulation body (441) to pass through.

[0211] The above through holes (442) may be provided in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of cells (360). Through the through holes (442), the tray support wall (452) of the second tray supporter (450) and the end (e.g., the lower end) of the second tray (400) may be exposed to the outside.

[0212] In order to manufacture transparent ice, cold must be supplied from one side (e.g., the upper side) of the tray assembly, and a heater must be operated from the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the tray assembly. For example, the cold may be supplied through an opening (324) of the first tray (300), and the heat supplied by the heater may be supplied through the first heater (530).

[0213] When the heat capacity of the first heater (530) is high, the transparency of the transparent ice may be improved, but the ice-making speed may be slowed. To solve this problem, it is necessary to increase the amount of cold supplied to lower the temperature of one side (e.g., the upper side) of the tray assembly while efficiently driving the first heater (530) to increase the temperature of the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the tray assembly. In other words, the greater the difference between the temperature of one side (e.g., the upper side) and the temperature of the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the tray assembly, the higher the ice-making speed can be while maintaining the set transparency. In order to control the amount of cold supplied, the ice-maker fan (900) may be driven.

[0214] In order to improve the heater efficiency of the first heater (530), it is necessary to insulate the periphery of the first heater (530). Therefore, in the present embodiment, a tray insulation material (440) may be provided that is placed adjacent to the periphery of the first heater (530).

[0215] The above ice maker (200) may include a driving unit (510) that provides driving force. By receiving the driving force of the driving unit (510), the second tray (400) can move relative to the first tray (300).

[0216] The ice maker (200) may include a shaft (520) that passes through the through hole (455a) of the second tray supporter (450). The shaft (520) extends between the two extensions (455) and may be moved by receiving power from the driving unit (510).

[0217] The above driving unit (510) may include a motor and a plurality of gears.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] The refrigerator controller can determine the position of the second tray (400) (or second tray assembly) based on the type and pattern of the signal output from the sensor. That is, since the second tray (400) and the cam are moved by the motor, the position of the second tray (400) can be indirectly determined based on the detection signal of the magnet provided in the cam.

[0221] 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.

[0222] The second tray (400) may be formed of a non-metallic material. For example, the second tray (400) may be formed of a flexible or malleable material that can be deformed when pressed by the second pusher (540). Although not limited, the second tray (400) may be formed of a silicone material, for example.

[0223] Accordingly, in the process of pressurizing the second tray (400) by the second pusher (540), the second tray (400) is deformed and the pressing force of the second pusher (540) can be transmitted to the ice. The ice and the second tray (400) can be separated by the pressing force of the second pusher (540).

[0224] When the second 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 second tray (400) may be reduced, so that the ice may be easily separated from the second tray (400).

[0225] When the second tray (400) is formed of a non-metallic material and a flexible or malleable material, after the shape of the second tray (400) is deformed by the second pusher (540), when the pressing force of the second pusher (540) is removed, the second tray (400) can be easily restored to its original shape.

[0226] For example, the first tray (300) may be formed of a metal material or a plastic material. In this case, the bonding or adhesive force per unit area between the first tray (300) and the ice may be relatively strong.

[0227] As another example, the first tray (300) may be formed of a non-metallic material. In this case, the bonding or adhesive force per unit area between the first tray (300) and the ice may be relatively weak. Accordingly, ice separation may be facilitated. Although not limited, the first tray (300) may be formed of, for example, a silicone material.

[0228] The first tray (300) and the second tray (400) may be formed of the same material. In this case, the hardness of the first tray (300) and the hardness of the second tray (400) may be different so that sealing performance is maintained at the contact area between the first tray (300) and the second tray (400).

[0229] In the present embodiment, since the second tray (400) is pressed by the second pusher (540) to change shape, the hardness of the second tray (400) may be lower than the hardness of the first tray (300) so that the shape of the second tray (400) can be easily changed.

[0230] The first tray (300) may include a plurality of tray parts. The number of the plurality of tray parts may correspond to the number of the plurality of cells (360).

[0231] The above multiple tray parts can be arranged in a row in one direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0232] The above first tray (300) can form an upper tray.

[0233] The first tray (300) may include a first portion (322) defining a portion of the cell (360). The first portion (322) may be, for example, a portion of the first tray wall (321).

[0234] The first portion (322) may include a first cell surface (322b) forming a first cell (321a). The first portion (322) may include an opening (324). The opening (324) may be in communication with the first cell (321a). Water may be supplied or cold may be supplied through the opening (324).

[0235] The first part (322) may include a portion to which the second heater (535) is coupled. One end (e.g., the lower end) of the first part (322) may form a contact surface that comes into contact with the second tray (400).

[0236] The first tray (300) may include an auxiliary storage chamber (325) that is connected to the cell (360). For example, the auxiliary storage chamber (325) may store water overflowing from the cell (360). The auxiliary storage chamber (325) may be formed by a storage chamber wall (325a). The storage chamber wall (325a) may extend in one direction (e.g., upward) around the opening (324).

[0237] The above first pusher (700) can pass through the opening (324) after passing the storage room wall (325a).

[0238] When the first tray (320) defines a plurality of first cells (321a), at least one (325b) of the plurality of storage chamber walls (325a) can support the water supply unit (240).

[0239] The first pusher (700) may extend between two guide bars (350). Both sides of the first pusher (700) may pass through the slots (355) of the guide bars (350) and be positioned on the outside of the guide bars (350).

[0240] Links (490) may be coupled to both sides of the first pusher (700). The links (490) may be coupled to the protrusions (740) of the first pusher (700).

[0241] The above link (490) may have a bent or rounded shape. Based on the shape of the link (490), the link (490) can move during the movement of the second tray assembly, while the link (490) can move the first pusher (700) up and down.

[0242] The above link (490) may include one end coupled to the second tray supporter (450) and the other end coupled to the first pusher (700).

[0243] The above first pusher (700) can be connected to the other end of the link (490) after passing through the slot (355).

[0244] As the second tray assembly moves, the link (490) connected to the second tray assembly moves along with it. When the link (490) moves, the first pusher (700) connected to the link (490) moves along the slot (355). The link (490) may play a role in converting the moving force of the second tray assembly into the moving force of the first pusher (700).

[0245] Arms (460) can be connected to both sides of the second tray supporter (450).

[0246] The above arm (460) may include an arm body (461) having a bent or rounded shape.

[0247] The arm (460) may include a shaft connection portion (463) that protrudes from the arm body (461) in a direction toward the shaft (520) and is coupled to the shaft (520). The shaft connection portion (463) may pass through the through hole (455a) of the extension portion (455).

[0248] The above shaft connection part (463) can be provided at one end of the arm (460).

[0249] Among the two arms (460), the first arm (460) connected to the driving unit (510) may include a driving connection unit (462). The driving connection unit (462) may be axially coupled to the driving unit (510).

[0250] A spring (470) may be connected to the other end of the arm (460). The spring (470) may provide elasticity to the second tray supporter (450) so that the second tray (400) can maintain contact with the first tray (300).

[0251] The other end of the arm (460) may include a spring connecting portion (465) to which the spring (470) is coupled. The spring connecting portion (465) may include a coupling hole to allow the end of the spring (470) to be coupled.

[0252] The first tray (300) may include a first cell surface (322b) defining a first cell (321a). The second tray (400) may include a second cell surface (410a) defining a second cell (411a).

[0253] When the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) are in a closed position, i.e., an ice-making position, the first cell (321a) and the second cell (411a) can be combined to form a cell (360).

[0254] The second tray (400) may include a second tray wall (410) forming the second cell (411a) and a peripheral wall (430) extending in one direction (e.g., upward) from the second tray wall (410) and surrounding at least a portion of the first tray wall (321).

[0255] The first extension wall (420) of the second tray (400) extends in a first direction (e.g., horizontal direction) from an end (e.g., upper end) of the second tray wall (410), and the peripheral wall (430) can protrude in one direction (e.g., upward) from the first extension wall (420).

[0256] By configuring the second tray (400), it is possible to reduce water supplied to the cell (360) from leaking between the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly during the process of the second tray (400) moving from the water supply position to the ice-making position. In addition, it is possible to reduce water expanding during the ice-making process from leaking between the first tray assembly and the second tray assembly and freezing.

[0257] A recessed portion (412) may be formed at an end (e.g., a lower portion) of the second tray wall (410). By virtue of the recessed portion (412), even if the second tray wall (410) is deformed during the ice-making expansion process, a desired ice shape can be realized.

[0258] The ice maker (200) may include an ice maker fan (900). The ice maker fan (9000) may be controlled to operate so that a constant amount of cold can be introduced into the ice maker (200).

[0259] Depending on the storage compartment temperature or operating conditions of the refrigerator, the ice maker (200) may provide an uneven cold temperature. In this case, ice may not be uniformly formed on the tray, ice may not be properly made in some areas, or ice may easily melt in some areas in conjunction with the operation of the heater (530, 535).

[0260] To solve this, the ice maker fan (900) can be operated in conjunction with the operation of the storage compartment fan (35). For example, when the output (movement number) of the storage compartment fan (35) increases, the output (movement number) of the ice maker fan (900) is controlled to decrease in response, thereby preventing excessive cold from being supplied to the ice maker.

[0261] On the other hand, when the output (movement number) of the storage room fan (35) decreases, the output (movement number) of the ice maker fan (900) is controlled to increase in response, thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of cold supplied to the ice maker.

[0262] The above ice maker (200) may be equipped with a temperature sensor (226) to detect the temperature of the cold supply path from the ice maker fan (900) to the cell (360). The temperature sensor (226) may be referred to as an “ice maker temperature sensor.”

[0263] The temperature sensor (226) may be placed on the cold supply path. The temperature sensor (226) may be placed on any one wall constituting the housing (220). For example, the temperature sensor (226) may be placed on the inner surface of the first wall (221) of the housing (220).

[0264] Based on the value detected by the temperature sensor (226), the output of the ice maker fan (900) can be adjusted. For example, if the value detected by the temperature sensor (226) is higher than the reference temperature, the output of the ice maker fan (900) can be increased to a value higher than the set output.

[0265] On the other hand, if the value detected by the temperature sensor (226) is lower than the reference temperature, the output of the ice maker fan (900) can be reduced to below the set output. In particular, in order to prevent excessive cold from being supplied when the ice-making operation is performed after ice-making is completed, the reference temperature during the ice-making operation can be higher than the reference temperature during the ice-making operation.

[0266] The above ice maker (220) may include a third heater (538) that is driven to control the temperature of the cold supply path. The third heater (538) may be referred to as an “ice maker heater.”

[0267] The third heater (538) may be disposed on the cold supply path. The third heater (538) may be disposed on any one wall constituting the housing (220). For example, the temperature sensor (226) may be disposed on the first wall (221) of the housing (220). A heater groove (225) in which the third heater (538) is disposed may be formed on the first wall (221).

[0268] Based on the value detected by the temperature sensor (226), the operation of the third heater (538) may be selectively performed. For example, the third heater (538) may be turned off during the ice-making process. On the other hand, during the ice-breaking process, the third heater (538) may be turned on for a set time period together with the first heater (530) or the second heater (535). At this time, the temperature of the cold supply path may increase.

[0269] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first tray and a first pusher according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 4, FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a part of the configuration of a first tray according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a bottom view showing a part of the configuration of a first tray according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0270] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12, a first tray (300) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first tray wall (321) forming at least a portion of a first cell (321a).

[0271] The first tray wall (321) may include a first portion (322). The first portion (322) may be formed to be round to correspond to the shape of a portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the cell (360). The inner surface of the first portion (322) may form a first cell surface (322b).

[0272] The first tray (300) may include a first extension wall (327) extending in a first direction (e.g., horizontal direction) from the first tray wall (321). The first extension wall (327) may include a sensor device (800) capable of detecting the water level of water supplied to the cell (360).

[0273] As another example, the sensor device (800) may be placed on the first wall (221) of the housing (220), and at least a portion of the sensor device (800) may be supported on the first extension wall (327).

[0274] The above sensor device (800) may include a sensor case (810) forming an exterior. The sensor case (810) may be located on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the first extension wall (327).

[0275] A space in which a sensor (830) is accommodated may be formed inside the sensor case (810). For example, the sensor case (810) may have the shape of a polyhedron with an empty interior.

[0276] The sensor (830) may include a temperature sensor that is exposed to the cell (360) and can detect the temperature inside the cell (360). When the fluid supplied into the cell (360) comes into contact with the sensor (830), the sensor (830) can detect a temperature change and recognize that water has been supplied to the corresponding location.

[0277] Referring to FIG. 12, the sensor (830) may protrude from the inside of the sensor case (810) and extend into the inside of the cell (360).

[0278] The sensor (830) may be exposed to the cell (360) through a sensor hole (326) formed in the first tray wall (321). For example, an end of the sensor (830) may extend into the interior of the cell (360) through the sensor hole (326).

[0279] As another example, the end of the sensor (830) may not protrude into the interior of the cell (360) but may be positioned on the inside of the sensor hole (326). In this case, the end of the sensor (830) may be positioned to form the same surface as the inner circumferential surface of the first cell surface (322b). The sensor hole (326) may be formed in the first portion (322) of the first tray wall (321).

[0280] The sensor (830) may include a sensing member (831). For example, the sensing member (831) may have a shape of a bar extending in one direction (e.g., in an up-down direction) and may be inserted into the sensor hole (326) or positioned to pass through the sensor hole (326).

[0281] The first tray (300) may include a sensor coupling portion (323) that supports the sensor (830). The sensor coupling portion (323) is positioned to protrude from the first tray wall (321), and at least a portion of the sensor (830) may be inserted into the interior of the sensor coupling portion (323).

[0282] The sensor coupling part (323) may be positioned at a position connected to the sensor hole (326). That is, the sensor hole (326) may be formed on the inside of the sensor coupling part (323). The sensor (830) may be inserted into the sensor hole (326) after passing through the sensor coupling part (323).

[0283] The sensor (830) may include a sensor bracket (832) for positioning and fixing the sensing member (831) within the sensor case (810). The sensor bracket (832) may be coupled to the sensor (830). For example, the sensor bracket (832) may be fitted to the sensing member (831) and configured to extend in a first direction (e.g., horizontal direction).

[0284] The above sensor device (800) may include a sensor insulation material (820) provided inside the sensor case (810). The sensor insulation material (820) may be arranged to surround the sensor (830).

[0285] The above sensor insulation material (820) can insulate the surroundings of the sensor (830) so that the external temperature of the sensor device (800) does not affect the sensor (830). The sensor (830) can be coupled to the sensor insulation material (820).

[0286] The above sensor bracket (832) may include an insulation hole (833). At least a portion of the sensor insulation (820) may be positioned in the insulation hole (833) so that the sensor (830) may be firmly coupled to the sensor insulation (820).

[0287] The first tray (300) may include a contact end (321b) that comes into contact with the second tray (400). The contact end (321b) forms an end (e.g., a lower end) of the first tray (300) and may form a border of the first cell (321a).

[0288] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a control method of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0289] Referring to FIG. 13, an ice maker (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first temperature sensor (226) that detects the temperature of cold oil inside a housing (220).

[0290] The above ice maker (200) may include a sensor (830) provided in the sensor device (800). For convenience of explanation, the sensor (830) may be referred to as a “second temperature sensor.”

[0291] The ice maker (200) may include a third temperature sensor (380) for detecting the temperature inside the cell (360). For example, the third temperature sensor (380) may be placed on the second tray wall (410) of the second tray (400).

[0292] The second temperature sensor (830) may be placed on a part (e.g., the upper part) of the cell (360), and the third temperature sensor (380) may be placed on another part (e.g., the lower part) of the cell (360).

[0293] The above ice maker (200) may include a first heater (530) positioned adjacent to the second tray (400).

[0294] The above ice maker (200) may include a second heater (535) positioned adjacent to the first tray (300).

[0295] The above ice maker (200) may include a third heater (538) provided in the housing (220) to provide heat to increase the temperature of the cold oil.

[0296] The refrigerator may include a controller (650) that controls the operation of the first to third heaters (530, 535, 538) or the driving unit (510) based on information detected by the first to third temperature sensors (226, 830, 380).

[0297] Referring to FIG. 14, a method for controlling a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0298] The ice maker (200) can be moved to the water supply position. For example, by moving the second tray (400) in the forward direction by a set angle, the close contact between the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) can be released (see FIG. 18) (S11).

[0299] The initial value of the sensor (830) provided in the above sensor device (800) can be detected. Since the supply of water at room temperature has not yet been performed, the initial value of the sensor (830) may detect a temperature below zero as the initial value (S12).

[0300] When the above ice maker (200) is in the water supply position, a set amount of water can be supplied (S13).

[0301] After the above-described amount of water supply is achieved, the ice maker (200) can return to the ice-making position. For example, the second tray (400) can move in the reverse direction and be in close contact with the first tray (300) (see FIG. 15) (S14).

[0302] At the above ice-making position, the water level inside the cell (360) can be detected through the sensor (830) (S15).

[0303] It can be recognized whether the temperature rise detected by the above sensor (830) is greater than or equal to a set value. As the room temperature fluid is supplied, the sensor (830) can detect a temperature value that has increased from the initial value detected in step S12 (S16). For example, the set value can be determined in the range of approximately 0.5 to 1.0°C.

[0304] At this time, if the rising temperature value is higher than the set value, it is determined that the water supply has reached the required level, so the water supply is terminated and the ice-making mode can be performed (S17). On the other hand, if the rising temperature value is lower than the set value, it is determined that the water supply has not reached the required level, so additional water supply can be performed (S18).

[0305] During the above additional water supply, a preset small amount of additional water can be supplied to prevent overflow. After completing the additional water supply, steps S15 and below can be performed again. The preset small amount can be understood as an additional water supply amount (one time). Since a fixed amount of water can be supplied through these water supply and additional water supply processes, the desired shape of ice can be produced.

[0306] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cold flow shape in an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a first ice-breaking position of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a second ice-breaking position of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a water supply position of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0307] Referring to FIG. 15, when the water supply to the ice maker (200) is completed and it is in the ice-making position, the storage fan (35) or the ice maker fan (900) may be driven to supply cold to the interior of the ice maker (200).

[0308] When the above fan (35,900) is driven, cold in the freezer (32) can flow toward the cell (360) through the hole (222b) of the ice maker or the space of the open end (e.g., the top) of the ice maker (200). Cold supplied to the ice maker (200) can be discharged to the outside of the ice maker (200) through the opening (223a) of the end (e.g., the bottom) of the housing (220).

[0309] At the ice-making position of the ice maker (200), the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) can be maintained in a closed state to form a cell (360).

[0310] In the above ice-making position, the first pusher (700) is located on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the storage room wall (325a), and cold is supplied to the ice maker to perform the ice-making process, so that ice (I) can be created in the cell (360).

[0311] Referring to Fig. 16, when ice making is completed, the driving unit (510) is driven so that the second tray (400) can move in the forward direction.

[0312] As the second tray (400) moves forward, the link (490) can move together with the second tray (400) and the first pusher (700) can move downward.

[0313] The first pusher (700) can be lowered to a position inside the cell (360). The bar (720) of the first pusher (700) can be at a position passing through the opening (324).

[0314] As the first pusher (700) moves, the ice (I) can be separated from the first tray (300) by being pressed by the first pusher (700).

[0315] Referring to FIG. 17, the second tray (400) may additionally move further forward so that an end (e.g., a lower end) of the second tray (400) may contact the pusher (540) and be deformed. The ice in the second tray (400) may be separated from the second tray (400) by the pressure of the pusher (540).

[0316] The moving position of the second tray (400) illustrated in Fig. 17 can be called the “maximum moving position.”

[0317] The second tray (400) may be formed of a flexible or ductile material that can be deformed when pressed by the second pusher (540).

[0318] In the ice-breaking process according to FIGS. 16 and 17, at least one of the first heater (530) and the second heater (535) may be driven to assist in the ice-breaking process.

[0319] Ice separated from the second tray (400) may fall and be stored in the ice bin (600). When the ice-breaking operation is completed, the driving unit (510) may be driven to move the second tray assembly in the reverse direction and return to the ice-making position (Fig. 15).

[0320] Referring to Fig. 18, the ice-making position according to Fig. 15 may be moved to the water supply position for water supply. For example, the second tray (400) may be in a position 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 7 to 15°.

[0321] At the above water supply position, the first pusher (700) may be located on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the cell (700). At the above water supply position, fluid is supplied through the water supply unit (240), and the fluid may be supplied to a plurality of cells (360). For example, water may be supplied to any one of the plurality of cells (360) through the water supply unit (240).

[0322] When the preset amount of water supply is completed, the water can be supplied by spreading from one cell (360) to another cell (360) by waiting for a preset time. At this time, the water can flow along the peripheral wall (430) of the second tray (400).

[0323] Since the water supply is performed while the second tray (400) is moved in the forward direction by the set angle, water can be easily spread to a number of cells (360).

[0324] FIG. 19 is an experimental graph showing changes in transparency according to the amount of minerals in the supplied fluid when changing the output of the heater, FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a control method of a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0325] The horizontal axis of the graph in Fig. 19 shows the amount of minerals (ppm) detected by the water source detection unit (660). The water source detection unit (660) may be placed in a water supply pipe that delivers water to the water supply unit (240).

[0326] The above water source detection unit (660) may include, for example, a TDS sensor. The TDS sensor can detect the amount of minerals contained in water by measuring the conductivity of the water.

[0327] The vertical axis of the graph in Fig. 19 shows the transparency of the frozen ice.

[0328] The three lines depicted in the graph of Fig. 19 are lines showing changes in transparency according to the amount of minerals when the heater is driven at different outputs. The heater can be understood as the first heater (530) that operates as a "transparent ice heater" during the ice-making process.

[0329] Referring to Fig. 19, it can be seen that, regardless of the output of the heater, when the amount of minerals increases from 0 to a certain amount (a predetermined amount), the transparency increases, whereas when the amount of minerals exceeds the predetermined amount, the transparency tends to decrease.

[0330] Based on the transparency (To, approximately 85%) required for the ice maker (200) according to the embodiment of the present invention, it can be seen that the desirable mineral amount to achieve the transparency or higher is 100 to 150 ppm, regardless of the output of the heater. Accordingly, the mineral amount of water supplied to the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present invention can be adjusted to be 100 to 150 ppm.

[0331] In the graph of Fig. 19, an experiment was conducted with three different heater amounts. The three amounts are the first heater amount (A1), the second heater amount (A2), and the third heater amount (A3).

[0332] The third heater amount (A3) may be greater than the second heater amount (A2), and the second heater amount (A2) may be greater than the first heater amount (A1).

[0333] The heater amount can be understood as a value determined by output or time. For example, when the heater's operating time is constant, if the output is high, the heater amount may increase, and if the output is low, the heater amount may decrease.

[0334] As another example, when the output of the heater is constant, the amount of heater may increase when the operating time increases, and the amount of heater may decrease when the operating time is short.

[0335] Referring to Figure 19, it can be seen that transparency increases overall as the amount of heater increases, regardless of the amount of minerals. This can be understood as meaning that as the amount of first heater (530) increases, ice can slowly form at the bottom of the cell (360), resulting in an increase in transparency.

[0336] Referring to FIG. 21, a method for controlling a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0337] The ice maker (200) can be moved to the water supply position. For example, by moving the second tray (400) in the forward direction by a set angle, the close contact between the first tray (300) and the second tray (400) can be released (see FIG. 18).

[0338] A water supply mode can be performed. With the ice maker (200) in the water supply position, a set amount of water can be supplied. In addition, during the water supply process, the mineral content contained in the fluid can be detected through the water supply source detection unit (660) (S21, S22).

[0339] After the above set amount of water supply is achieved, the ice maker (200) can return to the ice-making position. For example, the second tray (400) can move in the reverse direction and be in close contact with the first tray (300) (see FIG. 15).

[0340] At the above ice-making position, the ice-making mode can be performed. As described above, in the ice-making mode, cold can be supplied to the interior of the ice maker (200).

[0341] In the above ice-making mode, the standard heating amount of the heater (530) may be preset. Alternatively, when the ice-making mode starts, the heater (530) may be set to the standard heating amount and operated (S23).

[0342] It can be recognized whether the mineral content detected by the above water source detection unit (660) is equal to or greater than a first set value. For example, the first set value may be approximately 150 ppm based on FIG. 19 (S24).

[0343] If the mineral content is greater than or equal to the first set value, the amount of heat output from the heater (530) may increase. That is, the amount of the heater (530) may be adjusted to be greater than or equal to the reference heater amount (S25).

[0344] On the other hand, if the mineral content is greater than the second set value and less than or equal to the first set value, the amount of heat output from the heater (530) can be maintained. That is, the amount of the heater (530) can maintain the reference heater amount. The second set value may be approximately 100 ppm based on FIG. 19 (S26).

[0345] If the mineral content is below the second set value, the amount of heat output from the heater (530) may increase. That is, the amount of the heater (530) may be adjusted to be greater than or equal to the reference heater amount (S27).

[0346] In summary, when the amount of minerals contained in the supplied fluid is equal to or greater than the second set value and equal to or less than the first set value, the standard heater amount is maintained, and in other ranges, the amount of heat output to the heater can be controlled to increase.

[0347] This method of controlling the amount of heater can be performed until the ice-making mode ends (S29). This control method has the effect of improving the transparency of the ice being made.

[0348] The present invention relates to an ice maker and / or a refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, and has remarkable industrial applicability because it can improve the ice making speed while maintaining the required transparency of ice.

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; A tray forming at least a portion of said cell; a housing supporting the above tray in the ice making room; and A refrigerator comprising an ice maker fan disposed in the housing.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the housing includes an ice maker hole for sucking the cold into the interior of the housing, and the ice maker fan is disposed in the ice maker hole.

3. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator comprising: the housing including a cold path through which cold introduced through the ice maker fan flows; and an ice maker heater disposed on the cold path.

4. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator including an ice maker temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cold oil to determine whether to operate the ice maker heater.

5. In paragraph 1, The housing includes a cold path that guides cold introduced through the ice maker fan to one side of the cell and a transparent ice heater arranged on the other side of the cell. A refrigerator in which one side and the other side of the above cell form opposite sides.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator comprising a tray insulation material for insulating the transparent ice heater and the outside, the tray insulation material being positioned adjacent to the transparent ice heater.

7. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator comprising a storage compartment fan disposed in the storage compartment.

8. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator comprising a sensor device disposed in the housing or the tray to detect the water level of the cell.

9. In paragraph 8, The above sensor device is a refrigerator including a temperature sensor.

10. In paragraph 8, A refrigerator wherein the sensor device includes a sensing member inserted into the tray and exposed inside the cell.

11. In paragraph 8, The above sensor device, A refrigerator comprising a sensor case, a sensor accommodated inside the sensor case, and a sensor insulation material surrounding the sensor.

12. In paragraph 11, The above sensor, A refrigerator comprising a sensing member having a bar shape to be inserted into the tray and a sensor bracket coupled to the sensing member and supported by the sensor insulation material.

13. In paragraph 8, A controller is included that controls the amount of water supplied to the tray based on the value detected by the sensor device. A refrigerator in which the above controller compares the value detected by the above sensor device with the set value to determine the additional water supply amount.

14. In paragraph 1, A water supply detection unit for detecting the amount of minerals contained in a liquid substance supplied to the above tray; and A refrigerator including a transparent ice heater whose output heat amount is controlled based on a value detected by the water supply detection unit.

15. In paragraph 14, A refrigerator wherein the above water supply detection unit includes a TDS sensor.

16. In paragraph 14, A controller is included that controls the operation of the transparent ice heater based on the value detected by the water supply detection unit. The above controller, If the amount of minerals detected by the above water supply detection unit is in a range greater than the second set value and less than the first set value, the heater output is adjusted to the standard heater amount. A refrigerator that controls the heater output to a level higher than the standard heater amount when the detected mineral amount is less than the second set value or greater than the first set value.

17. 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 at least a portion of said cell; An ice maker fan supplying cold to one side of the above tray; and A refrigerator including a transparent ice heater provided on the other side of the above tray.

18. In paragraph 17, An ice maker temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cold oil flowing from the ice maker fan toward the tray; and A refrigerator including an ice maker heater that provides heat to the cold oil based on a value detected by the ice maker temperature sensor.

19. In Article 17, A refrigerator including a cold path formed opposite the transparent ice heater based on the cell and guiding cold introduced through the ice maker fan toward the cell.

20. In paragraph 17, A refrigerator comprising a tray insulation provided at a position surrounding the transparent ice heater.

Images