Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: an ice tray configured to generate ice; and a tray frame for supporting the ice tray, the tray frame including a terminal and a heating material. The tray frame is configured such that, in a state in which the ice tray is supported by the tray frame, a voltage can be applied to the terminal to generate a current through the heating material, so that the heating material generates heat and the heat is transferred to the ice tray, thereby heating the ice tray.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator including an ice maker.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that maintains food freshness by including a main body with a storage compartment and a cooling system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment, which is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius and used to refrigerate food, and a freezer compartment, which is maintained at approximately 0 to -30 degrees Celsius and used to freeze food. Typically, the storage compartment is designed with an open front for food entry and exit, and the open front of the storage compartment is opened and closed by a door.

[0003] A refrigerator uses a compressor, condenser, expander, and evaporator to repeat the cooling cycle of compressing, condensing, expanding, and evaporating the refrigerant. A single evaporator located in the freezer can cool both the freezer and refrigerator compartments, or the freezer and refrigerator can each have their own evaporators, allowing for independent cooling.

[0004] A refrigerator may be equipped with an ice-making device that generates ice. The ice-making device may be equipped with an ice tray for generating ice, an ejector for discharging ice from the ice tray, an ice bucket for storing the ice discharged from the ice tray, and a control unit for controlling the ice-making process, thereby automatically generating ice.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure that enables ice to be efficiently discharged from an ice tray.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure for efficiently removing ice residue within an ice tray after ice is discharged from the ice tray.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure to prevent freezing in a water supply guide.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure in which an ice tray can be heated or heat can be generated from a water supply guide without a separate heater.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure to improve heating efficiency of an ice tray or heat generation efficiency in a water supply guide.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure so that generated heat is efficiently transferred to ice.

[0011] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0012] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice tray configured to generate ice, and a tray frame for supporting the ice tray, the tray frame including a terminal and a heat-generating material. The tray frame may be configured such that, when the ice tray is supported on the tray frame, voltage can be applied to the terminal to generate current through the heat-generating material, so that the heat-generating material generates heat, and the heat is transferred to the ice tray, thereby heating the ice tray.

[0013] The above tray frame can contact the edge of the ice tray while the ice tray is supported on the tray frame.

[0014] The above tray frame may further include a frame body supporting the ice tray. At least a portion of the terminal may be inserted into the frame body.

[0015] The terminal may include an insertion portion inserted into the frame body, and a connection portion extending from the insertion portion to the outside of the frame body.

[0016] The refrigerator may further include a power supply configured to apply voltage to the terminal; and a terminal connector electrically connected to the power supply via a wire. The terminal connector may be connected to the connection portion to electrically connect the power supply and the terminal.

[0017] The above tray frame may further include a frame body that supports the ice tray. The terminal may include a pair of terminals coupled to the frame body. A first terminal of the pair of terminals may be coupled to a first side of the frame body in the longitudinal direction. A second terminal of the pair of terminals may be coupled to a second side of the frame body in the longitudinal direction.

[0018] The ice tray may include a plurality of ice-making cells capable of storing water and generating ice. The plurality of ice-making cells may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame body. The first terminal of the pair of terminals may be arranged adjacent to one ice-making cell, which is located at a first end in the longitudinal direction of the frame body, among the plurality of ice-making cells. The second terminal of the pair of terminals may be arranged adjacent to another ice-making cell, which is located at a second end opposite to the first end in the longitudinal direction of the frame body, among the plurality of ice-making cells.

[0019] The ice tray is a first ice tray, and further includes a second ice tray that is configured to be connectable to the first ice tray and detachable from the first ice tray, so that when the second ice tray is connected to the first ice tray, the first ice tray and the second ice tray can be capable of storing water and generating ice together.

[0020] The tray frame may be configured to transfer at least a portion of the heat generated in an area where the first ice tray and the second ice tray come into contact with each other when the first ice tray and the second ice tray are coupled to each other, in a state where voltage is applied to the terminal to generate current through the heat generating material and the heat generating material generates heat.

[0021] The first ice tray may include a contact portion formed along the perimeter of the ice making cell and configured to come into contact with the second ice tray when the second ice tray is coupled to the first ice tray. The tray frame may cover the outer perimeter of the contact portion.

[0022] The first ice tray may be fixed to the tray frame. The second ice tray may be provided to be movable between a coupling position where it is coupled to the first ice tray and a separation position where it is separated from the first ice tray.

[0023] The above heat generating material may include a carbon nanotube (CNT) material.

[0024] The heat-generating material of the above frame is a first heat-generating material, and the refrigerator may further include a water supply pipe provided to supply water, and a water supply guide provided to guide water supplied from the water supply pipe to the ice tray, and including a second heat-generating material that generates heat when current flows.

[0025] The refrigerator may further include a water supply guide terminal coupled to the water supply guide and capable of applying voltage to the water supply guide to generate current in the second heating material.

[0026] The above tray frame and the above water supply guide may be integral.

[0027] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice tray configured to generate ice, a water supply pipe configured to supply water, and a water supply guide configured to guide water supplied from the water supply pipe to the ice tray, the water supply guide including a terminal and a heat-generating material. The water supply guide may be configured such that voltage can be applied to the terminal to generate current through the heat-generating material, thereby causing the heat-generating material to generate heat.

[0028] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice tray configured to generate ice, a tray frame configured to contact the ice tray and generate heat when current flows therethrough, a power supply configured to apply voltage to a terminal electrically connected to the tray frame, and a control unit electrically connected to the power supply unit. The control unit may be configured to control the power supply unit to apply voltage to the terminal based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an ice making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an exploded view of an ice making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 4 is an exploded view illustrating the configuration of an ice making unit included in an ice making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating some components of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating some components of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a tray frame and terminal included in an ice making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a water supply guide and terminal included in an ice making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating some components of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0045] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0046] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0047] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0048] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0049] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0050] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0051] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0052] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0053] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0054] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0055] The “body” may include an inner case, an outer case placed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0056] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0057] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0058] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0059] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of items.

[0060] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator includes two or more storage compartments, each compartment may have a different purpose and be maintained at different temperatures. To achieve this, each storage compartment may be separated from the others by a partition wall containing insulation.

[0061] The storage room may be provided to be maintained at an appropriate temperature range depending on the intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished according to the intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and the freezer room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling items to freeze them or keep them in a frozen state, and for example, a freezer room may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, at the user's option or not.

[0062] In addition to names such as "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room," a storage room may also be called by various other names such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice room." The terms "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room" used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms having corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0063] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment. The door may be configured to open and close one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be configured to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed on the front of the main body in a pivotal or sliding manner.

[0064] The “door” may be configured to seal the storage compartment when the door is closed. The door may include insulation, similar to the body, to insulate the storage compartment when the door is closed.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the back of the door and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided on the interior of these.

[0066] The door inner panel may be provided with a gasket that seals the storage compartment by contacting the front of the body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0067] In one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0068] Depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment, refrigerators can be classified into French door type, side-by-side type, bottom mounted freezer (BMF), top mounted freezer (TMF), or single-door refrigerator.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0070] A “cold air supply device” may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0071] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment by generating heat and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged.

[0073] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be connected to the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0074] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without having to open the door.

[0075] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice tray that stores water, an ice-separating device that separates ice from the ice tray, and an ice bucket that stores ice produced in the ice tray.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0077] The “control unit” may include a memory that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc. according to the program and / or data memorized in the memory.

[0078] Memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. Memory can store temporary data generated during the generation of control signals for controlling components within the refrigerator. Memory may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0079] The processor controls the overall operation of the refrigerator. The processor can control the components of the refrigerator by executing programs stored in memory. The processor may include a separate NPU that performs the operations of an artificial intelligence model. The processor may also include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. The processor may generate control signals to control the operation of the cooling system. For example, the processor may receive temperature information about the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cooling system based on the temperature information.

[0080] Additionally, the processor may process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface based on programs and / or data stored / stored in the memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor may receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor may transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface for displaying an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0081] The processor and memory may be provided as a single unit or separately. The processor may include one or more processors. For example, the processor may include a main processor and at least one subprocessor. The memory may include one or more memories.

[0082] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components within the refrigerator, and may include multiple processors and multiple memories that individually control the components within the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cooling device based on the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately include a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface based on user input.

[0083] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, via a nearby access point (AP). The AP can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator or user device can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0084] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0085] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0086] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0087] In describing embodiments according to the spirit of the present disclosure with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15, the terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” etc. used below are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, the terms “front” and “rear” below may mean front and rear in the X direction with respect to the drawings, respectively. The terms “upper” and “lower” below may mean upper in the Z direction and lower in the Z direction with respect to the drawings, respectively. The terms “left” and “right” below may mean left in the Y direction and right in the Y direction with respect to the drawings, respectively.

[0088] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) provided inside the main body (10), a door (30) for opening and closing the storage compartment (20), and a cooling system for supplying cold air to the storage compartment (20).

[0090] The main body (10) may include an inner case (11) forming a storage compartment (20) and an outer case (12) forming the exterior of the refrigerator (1).

[0091] The outer surface (12) can be formed to have a shape of a box with an open front. The outer surface (12) can form the top, bottom, left and right sides, and back of the refrigerator (1).

[0092] The inner case (11) can be opened at the front. The inner case (11) has a storage compartment (20) provided therein, which can be provided on the inner side of the outer case (12). The inner wall of the inner case (11) can form the inner wall of the storage compartment (20).

[0093] A storage compartment (20) may be formed inside the main body (10). For example, the storage compartment (20) may include a refrigerator that is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius and used to refrigerate food. For example, the storage compartment (20) may include a freezer that is maintained at approximately -30 to 0 degrees Celsius and used to freeze food.

[0094] For example, the storage room (20) can be divided into a plurality of areas by partitions (15). Specifically, the storage room (20) can be divided into a first storage room (21) at the top and a third storage room (22, 23) at the bottom by a first partition (17) extending in the horizontal direction. In addition, the lower storage room (22, 23) of the storage room (20) can be divided into a second storage room (22) at the left and a third storage room (23) at the right by a second partition (19) extending in the vertical direction. In this case, for example, the first storage room (21) can be used as a refrigerator, and both the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23) can be used as freezers, or one of the two can be used as a freezers and the other of the two can be used as a refrigerator.

[0095] The above-described division method of the storage room (20) and the respective uses of the divided storage rooms (21, 22, 23) are merely examples and are not limited thereto. However, in this embodiment, the description is made on the assumption that the second storage room (22) is a freezer.

[0096] Inside the storage room (20), a shelf (24) for placing food and a storage container (26) for storing food can be provided.

[0097] A refrigerator (1) may include a cooling system configured to generate cold air using a cooling cycle and supply the generated cold air to a storage compartment (20). The cooling system may generate cold air using a cooling cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant. For example, the cooling system may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, a blower fan, and the like.

[0098] The main body (10) may include a cold air supply duct that forms a cold air path through which cold air generated by the cooling system flows into the storage chamber (20). The cold air supply duct may be formed at the rear of the inner case (11) and may be provided at the rear of the storage chamber (20) to be connected to the storage chamber (20).

[0099] A door (30) may be provided to open and close the storage room (20). The door (30) may be provided to open and close an opening formed on one side of the main body (10). The door (30) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the main body (10).

[0100] The outer surface of the door (30) may form a part of the exterior of the refrigerator (1). When the door (30) is closed, the outer surface of the door (30) may form at least a part of the front exterior of the refrigerator (1). When the door (30) is closed, the inner surface of the door (30) may face the interior of the storage compartment (20). The inner surface of the door (30) referred to herein means one side of the door (30) that faces the storage compartment (20) when the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20). In addition, the outer surface of the door (30) referred to herein means the other side opposite to the inner surface of the door (30) that faces the storage compartment (20) when the door (30) closes the storage compartment (20), and means the front of the door (30) that is visible when the refrigerator (1) is viewed from the front.

[0101] A door gasket (37) may be provided on the inner surface of the door (30) to seal the gap between the door (30) and the main body (10) and prevent leakage of cold air from the storage compartment (20). The door gasket (37) may be provided along the perimeter of the inner surface of the door (30). The door gasket (37) may be configured to include an elastic material such as rubber.

[0102] The refrigerator (1) may include a plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) for opening and closing each compartmentalized storage compartment (21, 22, 23).

[0103] In detail, the first storage compartment (21) can be opened and closed by a pair of upper doors (30A, 30B). The refrigerator (1) may include a first door (30A) for opening and closing a portion of the first storage compartment (21) and a second door (30B) for opening and closing another portion of the first storage compartment (21). The first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be provided to open and close one first storage compartment (21). The first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be provided to be rotatable independently with respect to the main body (10).

[0104] The first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be arranged parallel to each other. Specifically, the first door (30A) and the second door (30B) may be arranged parallel to each other in the horizontal direction (Y direction). For example, the first door (30A) may be arranged to open and close the left side of the first storage compartment (21), and the second door (30B) may be arranged to open and close the right side of the first storage compartment (21).

[0105] The refrigerator (1) may include a rotation bar (31) that is provided to be rotatable with respect to one of a pair of upper doors (30A, 30B) (e.g., a first door (30A)) and is provided to cover a gap between the pair of upper doors (30A, 30B) when the pair of upper doors (30A, 30B) close the first storage compartment (21).

[0106] A rotating bar (31) may be provided to cover the gap between the first door (30A) and the second door (30B) when the first door (30A) and the second door (30B) close the first storage compartment (21). The rotating bar (31) may be rotatably coupled to the first door (30A). The rotating bar (31) may be formed in the shape of a bar that is formed long along the height direction (Z) of the first door (30A).

[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the refrigerator (1) may include a rotation guide (11g) provided to guide the rotation of the rotation bar (31). The rotation guide (11g) may be provided to guide the rotation of the rotation bar (31) when the first door (30A) is opened and closed. The rotation guide (11g) may include a groove structure formed so that a portion of the rotation bar (31) is inserted and moved. The rotation guide (11g) may be mounted on the main body (10). Specifically, the rotation guide (11g) may be mounted on the upper portion of the inner case (11).

[0108] The second storage compartment (22) can be opened and closed by the lower left door (30C). The refrigerator (1) may include a third door (30C) provided to open and close the second storage compartment (22). The third door (30C) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the main body (10). For example, the first door (30A) and the third door (30C) may be arranged parallel to each other in the vertical direction (Z).

[0109] The third storage compartment (23) can be opened and closed by the lower right door (30D). The refrigerator (1) may include a fourth door (30D) provided to open and close the third storage compartment (23). The fourth door (30D) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the main body (10). For example, the second door (30B) and the fourth door (30D) may be arranged parallel to each other in the vertical direction (Z). In addition, the third door (30C) and the fourth door (30D) may be arranged parallel to each other in the horizontal direction (Y).

[0110] For example, a handle may be provided on each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D), and a user may open or close each of the doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) by grasping the handle provided on each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D). In other words, a user may open or close each of the storage compartments (21, 22, 23) by grasping the handle provided on each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D).

[0111] A door basket (36) for storing food may be provided on the back surface of the door (30). A dyke (35) protruding to allow the door basket (36) to be mounted may be provided on the back surface of the door (30).

[0112] The door (30) may be provided with an automatic water supply device that automatically supplies water to the water tank. For example, the door (30) may be provided with a water tank mounting portion (72) for mounting a water tank, a water tank detection sensor that detects whether a water tank is mounted on the water tank mounting portion (72), and a water level sensor that detects the water level inside the water tank when the water tank is mounted on the water tank mounting portion (72), and the automatic water supply device may be provided to supply a predetermined amount of water to the water tank based on the fact that a water tank is mounted on the water tank mounting portion (72) and the water level inside the water tank is not at a full level.

[0113] Although not shown in the drawing, the door (30) may be provided with a dispenser for providing purified water.

[0114] The refrigerator (1) may include a hinge (40) connecting the main body (10) and the door (30). The hinge (40) may be provided so that the door (30) can rotate relative to the main body (10).

[0115] The hinge (40) can be fixed to the main body (10). Specifically, the hinge (40) can be coupled to the outer body (12).

[0116] The hinge (40) can rotatably support the door (30). The door (30) can be rotatably connected to the main body (10) by the hinge (40). The rotation axis of the door (30) can pass through the hinge (40).

[0117] In detail, the refrigerator (1) may include a plurality of hinges (41, 42, 43) provided to support each of the plurality of doors (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D).

[0118] For example, the refrigerator (1) may include an upper door hinge (41). The upper door hinge (41) may be coupled to the upper portion of the main body (10). For example, the upper door hinges (41) may be provided in pairs to rotatably support the first door (30A) and the second door (30B), respectively. The pair of upper door hinges (41) may be provided on the upper left and upper right portions of the main body (10), respectively. Each of the pair of upper door hinges (41) may be coupled to the upper portion of the first door (30A) and the upper portion of the second door (30B), respectively.

[0119] In addition, for example, the refrigerator (1) may include a lower door hinge (43). The lower door hinge (43) may be coupled to the lower portion of the main body (10). For example, the lower door hinges (43) may be provided in pairs to rotatably support the third door (30C) and the fourth door (30D), respectively. The pair of lower door hinges (43) may be provided on the lower left and lower right portions of the main body (10), respectively. Each of the pair of lower door hinges (43) may be coupled to the lower portion of the third door (30C) and the lower portion of the fourth door (30D), respectively.

[0120] In addition, for example, the refrigerator (1) may include a middle hinge (42). The middle hinge (42) may be coupled to a middle portion of the main body (10). The middle hinge (42) may be positioned between the upper door hinge (41) and the lower door hinge (43). For example, the middle hinges (42) may be provided in a pair to rotatably support the first door (30A) and the second door (20B), respectively. In addition, the middle hinges (42) may be provided in a pair to rotatably support the third door (30C) and the fourth door (30D), respectively. The pair of middle hinges (42) may be provided on the left and right sides of the middle portion of the main body (10), respectively. Each of the pair of middle hinges (42) may be coupled to a lower portion of the first door (30A) and a lower portion of the second door (20B), respectively. Additionally, each of a pair of intermediate hinges (42) can be coupled to the upper portion of the third door (30C) and the upper portion of the fourth door (30D).

[0121] The upper door hinge (41) and the middle hinge (42) may be arranged parallel to each other along the direction in which the rotation axes of the first door (30A) and the second door (30B) extend. As illustrated in Fig. 1, the upper door hinge (41) and the middle hinge (42) may be arranged parallel to each other in the vertical direction (Z).

[0122] The lower door hinge (43) and the middle hinge (42) may be arranged parallel to each other along the direction in which the rotation axes of the third door (30C) and the fourth door (30D) extend. As illustrated in Fig. 1, the lower door hinge (43) and the middle hinge (42) may be arranged parallel to each other in the vertical direction (Z).

[0123] The refrigerator (1) may include a water supply device (70). The water supply device (70) may be configured to purify and store water supplied from an external water source (not shown). For example, the water supply device (70) may include a filter configured to filter raw water, a water tank configured to store purified water, and the like.

[0124] The water supply device (70) may be configured to supply purified water or purified and stored water to another device. For example, the water supply device (70) may be configured to supply water to an ice making device (200) described below.

[0125] The water supply device (70) can be placed in the storage room (20). Specifically, the water supply device (70) can be placed in at least one storage room (21, 22, 23), and preferably in the refrigerator room (first storage room (21)).

[0126] A refrigerator (1) may include an ice-making device (200) configured to produce ice. The ice-making device (200) may be placed in a storage compartment (20). Specifically, the ice-making device (200) may be placed in a second storage compartment (22), which is a freezer. The ice-making device (200) may produce ice using cold air from the second storage compartment (22). The ice-making device (200) may be configured to discharge the produced ice.

[0127] The ice making device (200) may be mounted on the inner surface (11). Alternatively, the ice making device (200) may be mounted on the partition (15).

[0128] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the ice making device (200) may be supported by the first partition (17) and the second partition (19). Alternatively, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 1, the ice making device (200) may be mounted on a portion of the inner case (11) forming the second storage compartment (22).

[0129] The refrigerator (1) may include an ice bucket (100) provided to receive ice generated by an ice maker (200). Ice generated and then discharged by the ice maker (200) may be received in the ice bucket (100).

[0130] An ice bucket (100) may be provided in the second storage room (22). The ice bucket (100) may be placed below the ice maker (200) within the second storage room (22). The ice bucket (100) may be provided to receive ice discharged from the ice maker (200) and moved downward.

[0131] The configuration of the refrigerator (1) described above with reference to FIG. 1 is merely an example for explaining a refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure may be provided to include various configurations for performing the function of supplying cold air to a storage room for storing food.

[0132] The type of refrigerator to which the refrigerator according to the invention of the present disclosure is applied is not limited to the type of refrigerator (1) illustrated in the drawing, and the refrigerator according to the invention of the present disclosure may include various types of refrigerators such as a side-by-side type, a French door type, a BMF (Bottom Mounted Freezer) type, a TMF (Top Mounted Freezer) type, or a 1-door type.

[0133] In addition, the idea of ​​the present disclosure can be applied not only to a direct-cooling refrigerator but also to a direct-cooling refrigerator.

[0134] For convenience of explanation, the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 15 will be described in detail below based on the refrigerator (1) illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0135] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an ice-making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an exploded view of an ice-making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an ice making device (200) of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice making unit (400) that generates ice and a support case (300) that supports the ice making unit (400).

[0137] The ice making unit (400) may be configured to generate ice using the cold air of the storage room (20). The ice making unit (400) may receive and store water, and ice may be generated as the stored water changes state due to the cold air of the storage room (20). The ice making unit (400) may be configured to discharge the generated ice.

[0138] The refrigerator (1) may further include a water supply pipe (80) provided to supply water to the ice maker (200). The water supply pipe (80) may be provided to supply water from an external water source or a water supply device (70) to the ice maker (200). Specifically, the water supply pipe (80) may be provided to supply water to an ice tray (412, 422) (see FIG. 4) of the ice maker (200) described later. The water introduced into the ice tray (412, 422) may be received in an ice cell (412a, 422a) (see FIG. 4) described later, and may be changed into ice within the ice cell (412a, 422a). In this way, the ice maker (200) may produce ice using the water supplied through the water supply pipe (80).

[0139] For example, the water supply pipe (80) can be formed to have a shape of a pipe having a hollow space, and a water supply path through which water flows can be formed in the hollow space of the water supply pipe (80).

[0140] The water supply pipe (80) may be arranged to penetrate the main body (10). For example, the water supply pipe (80) may penetrate the first partition (17) and be connected to the water supply device (70) of the main body (10). Alternatively, for example, the water supply pipe (80) may penetrate the outer case (12) and the inner case (11) and be directly connected to an external water source. More specifically, the water supply pipe (80) may penetrate the rear wall of the outer case (12) and the rear wall of the inner case (11).

[0141] For example, the ice making unit (400) may be configured to produce ice having a roughly spherical shape. Alternatively, the ice making unit (400) may be configured to produce ice having various shapes other than a spherical shape.

[0142] A detailed description of the configuration and operation of the ice making unit (400) will be described later.

[0143] The support case (300) of the ice making device (200) can form the exterior of the ice making device (200). The support case (300) can be provided to accommodate the ice making unit (400). The support case (300) can form a receiving space (300a) in which at least a portion of the ice making unit (400) can be accommodated.

[0144] In detail, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the support case (300) may include an upper wall (330), a front wall (340), a rear wall (350), a left wall (320), and a right wall (310). The receiving space (300a) of the support case (300) may be formed between the upper wall (330), the front wall (340), the rear wall (350), the left wall (320), and the right wall (310).

[0145] The upper wall (330) of the support case (300) can form the upper surface of the support case (300). For example, the upper wall (330) of the support case (300) can face the first partition (17).

[0146] The front wall (340) of the support case (300) can form the front of the support case (300). The front wall (340) of the support case (300) can face the opening of the main body (10).

[0147] The rear wall (350) of the support case (300) can form the rear surface of the support case (300). The rear wall (350) of the support case (300) can face the rear wall of the inner case (11). The rear wall (350) of the support case (300) can be arranged opposite the front wall (340) of the support case (300).

[0148] The left wall (320) of the support case (300) may form a left side of the support case (300), and the right wall (310) of the support case (300) may be positioned opposite the left wall (320) to form a right side of the support case (300). For example, the right wall (310) of the support case (300) may face the second partition (19).

[0149] The support case (300) may be formed so that the lower side of the receiving space (300a) is open. Ice generated in the ice making unit (400) may be discharged through the lower side of the receiving space (300a) and received in the ice bucket (100).

[0150] However, the shape of the support case (300) is not limited to that described above and may have various shapes.

[0151] The support case (300) can support the ice making unit (400). The ice making unit (400) can be mounted on the support case (300).

[0152] The support case (300) may include an ice-making unit support (370) for supporting the ice-making unit (400). The ice-making unit (400) may be mounted on the ice-making unit support (370). For example, the ice-making unit support (370) may protrude downward from the upper wall (330) of the support case (300) to support the ice-making unit (400). For example, the ice-making unit support (370) may include a hook structure, and the ice-making unit (400) may be mounted on the ice-making unit support (370) by a hook connection.

[0153] Alternatively, the ice making unit (400) may be fixed to the support case (300) by a screw. For example, the ice making unit (400) may be fastened to the support case (300) by a screw that penetrates the support frame (450, see FIG. 4) of the support case (300) and the ice making unit (400).

[0154] Without being limited thereto, the support case (300) may include various structures for supporting the ice making unit (400).

[0155] The support case (300) can be supported by the main body (10). The support case (300) can be supported by the main body (10) to support the ice making unit (400). In other words, the support case (300) can be mounted on the main body (10). For example, the support case (300) can be supported by the first partition (17) or the second partition (19). For example, the support case (300) can be fastened to the first partition (17) by a screw. For example, the support case (300) can be supported by a protrusion (not shown) having a shape protruding from the inner wall of the second partition (19) facing the second storage compartment (22).

[0156] The support case (300) may include a first case opening (331) formed to allow water to flow in from a water supply pipe (80). The first case opening (331) may be formed by opening a portion of the support case (300). For example, the first case opening (331) may be formed in an upper wall (330) of the support case (300). A water supply guide (460) of an ice making unit (400) described later may be arranged in the first case opening (331), and water supplied from the water supply pipe (80) may flow into an ice tray (412, 422) (see FIG. 4) through the water supply guide (460) exposed to the outside of the support case (300) through the first case opening (331).

[0157] The support case (300) may include a second case opening (332) through which a wire (W) may pass. The second case opening (332) may be formed by opening a portion of the support case (300). For example, the second case opening (332) may be formed in the upper wall (330) of the support case (300). The wire (W) may pass through the second case opening (332) to connect various components of the ice making unit (400) disposed within the support case (300) and devices disposed outside the support case (300) (e.g., power supply unit (600), control unit (50), etc., see FIG. 11).

[0158] The structure of the support case (300) is not limited to that described above, and may include various configurations capable of supporting the ice making unit (400) including the ice tray (412, 422) described below.

[0159] FIG. 4 is an exploded view illustrating the components of an ice-making unit included in an ice-making device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a view illustrating some components of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the ice making unit (400) may include an ice tray (412, 422) configured to generate ice. The ice tray (412, 422) may be configured to store water supplied from a water supply pipe (80) and turn it into ice. The ice tray (412, 422) may include an ice making cell (412a, 422a) configured to store water supplied from the water supply pipe (80). The water stored in the ice making cell (412a, 422a) may be turned into ice by cold air from the storage chamber (20). The ice making cell (412a, 422a) may be provided inside the ice tray (412, 422).

[0161] For example, the ice tray (412, 422) may be provided to produce a plurality of ice cubes simultaneously. The ice tray (412, 422) may include a plurality of ice-making cells (412a, 422a). For example, the water supply guide (460) described below may supply collected water to only some of the plurality of ice-making cells (412a, 422a), and the plurality of ice-making cells (412a, 422a) may be formed so that the interiors thereof are connected to each other so that the collected water can be supplied to the interiors of the entire ice-making cells. Alternatively, for example, the water supply guide (460) may be provided in a plurality corresponding to the number of the plurality of ice-making cells (412a, 422a), and may supply collected water to each of the plurality of ice-making cells (412a, 422a).

[0162] In detail, the ice making unit (400) may include a first ice tray (412) and a second ice tray (422). The first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) may be provided to be coupled or detachable. The first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) may form one ice tray for producing ice when coupled together. The first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) may form an ice making cell (412a, 422a) when coupled together.

[0163] The first ice tray (412) may be fixed in position, and the second ice tray (422) may be provided to be movable with respect to the first ice tray (412). The second ice tray (422) may be provided to be movable between a position where it is coupled to the first ice tray (412) and a position where it is separated from the first ice tray (412). As described below, the first ice tray (412) may include a first ice-making cell (412a), and the second ice tray (422) may include a second ice-making cell (422a), and when the second ice tray (422) moves to the first ice tray (412) and is coupled to the first ice tray (412), the first ice-making cell (412a) and the second ice-making cell (422a) may form one ice-making cell in which water is stored and ice is produced. After ice production is complete, the ice can be discharged when the second ice tray (422) moves in a direction that separates it from the first ice tray (412). That is, the second ice tray (422) can be provided to be movable between a position where it is coupled to the first ice tray (412) to form an ice-making cell together with the first ice tray (412) and a position where it is separated from the first ice tray (412).

[0164] Below, an example of a detailed structure of an ice making unit (400) including a first ice tray (412) and a second ice tray (422) is described.

[0165] The ice making unit (400) may include a support frame (450). The support frame (450) may be supported by the ice making unit support member (370) of the support case (300). Each component of the ice making unit (400) may be supported by the support frame (450).

[0166] In detail, the support frame (450) may include a first support frame (451) and a second support frame (452). The first support frame (451) may be coupled to the upper portion of the second support frame (452) to form the upper surface of the support frame (450).

[0167] The first support frame (451) may include a first support body (451a). The first support body (451a) may form the exterior of the first support frame (451).

[0168] A guide mounting portion (451b) and a cut portion (451c) may be provided on the upper surface of the first support body (451a). A water supply guide (460), which will be described later, may be mounted to the first support frame (451) by the guide mounting portion (451b). The water supply guide (460) may extend between the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) by penetrating the cut portion (451c).

[0169] An intermediate connector (C1), which will be described later, may be mounted on the upper surface of the first support body (451a). A connector mounting portion (451d), on which the intermediate connector (C1) is mounted, may be provided on the upper surface of the first support body (451a). The intermediate connector (C1) may be mounted on the connector mounting portion (451d), and thereby the intermediate connector (C1) and the wire (W) connected thereto may be stably fixed.

[0170] The second support frame (452) may include a second support body (452a). The second support body (452a) may form the exterior of the second support frame (452).

[0171] The second support body (452a) may include a rack gear mounting portion (452b). The rack gear mounting portion (452b) may be formed on the inner side of both sides extending downward from the upper surface of the second support body (452a). The rack gear mounting portion (452b) may be formed to accommodate a rack gear (474) to be described later. The rack gear (474) may be supported so as to be movable in a horizontal direction with respect to the second support frame (452).

[0172] The second support body (452a) may include a leg support portion (452c). The leg support portion (452c) may be provided so that the leg portion (433) of the first ejector (430) is secured thereto. The leg portion (433) of the first ejector (430) may be supported by the leg support portion (452c). The leg portion (433) of the first ejector (430) may be supported so as to be movable in a horizontal direction with respect to the second support frame (452).

[0173] For example, the leg support portion (452c) may be formed on the inner side of both sides extending downward from the upper surface of the second support body (452a).

[0174] The second support body (452a) may include an ejector mounting portion (452d). The ejector mounting portion (452d) may be provided so that the second ejector (440) may be mounted thereon. Specifically, the frame mounting portion (443) of the second ejector (440) and the ejector mounting portion (452d) of the second support frame (452) may be fastened by a fastening member such as a screw, and thus the second ejector (440) may be fixed to the support frame (450).

[0175] The second support body (452a) may include a pinion gear receiving portion (452e). The pinion gear receiving portion (452e) may be provided to receive a pinion gear (472) of a driving portion (470) to be described later.

[0176] For example, the pinion gear receiving portion (452e) may be formed on the upper portion of both sides extending downward from the upper surface of the second support body (452a). For example, a plurality of pinion gears (472) may be provided to be received on both sides of the second support body (452a), and a plurality of rack gears (474) meshed with the pinion gear (472) may also be provided to be received on both sides of the second support body (452a).

[0177] The second support body (452a) may include a shaft member penetration portion (452g). The shaft member penetration portion (452g) may be formed by cutting off a portion of the upper surface of the second support body (452a). In other words, the shaft member penetration portion (452g) may be formed to have a concave shape in the upper surface of the second support body (452a). The shaft member (473) of the driving unit (470) described below may be arranged to penetrate the shaft member penetration portion (452g) and may be arranged on the inside of the support frame (450).

[0178] The support frame (450) may include a cover frame (453).

[0179] The cover frame (453) may be positioned in front of the first support frame (451) and the second support frame (452). The cover frame (453) may be arranged to cover an open side of the second support frame (452). The cover frame (453) may form one side of the support frame (450). A portion of the first ejector (430) may be accommodated in the cover frame (453).

[0180] The configuration of the support frame (450) described above is only an example of a support frame for supporting each component of the ice making unit (400), and the spirit of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The support frame may be configured in various ways to support each component of the ice making unit (400), such as the first ice tray unit (410), the second ice tray unit (420), the ejector (430, 440), and the driving unit (470). In addition, although FIG. 4 illustrates the support frame (450) as including a first support frame (451), a second support frame (452), and a cover frame (453) that are distinct from each other, the support frame (450) may be formed as an integral component.

[0181] The ice making unit (400) may include a water supply guide (460). The water supply guide (460) may be connected to an ice tray (412, 422). The water supply guide (460) may be provided to guide water from a water supply pipe (80) to the ice tray (412, 422). The water supply guide (460) may be provided to guide water from the water supply pipe (80) into an ice making cell (412a, 422a) formed between a first ice tray (412) and a second ice tray (422).

[0182] The water supply guide (460) can be combined with the first ice tray (412) among the ice trays (412, 422). The water supply guide (460) can be fixed to the first ice tray (412).

[0183] The water supply guide (460) may include a guide body (461) formed to be mounted on the first support frame (451). A guide surface (462) formed to be inclined downward may be formed on the inside of the guide body (461). Water introduced into the water supply guide (460) may flow along the guide surface (462).

[0184] The water supply guide (460) may include a connecting portion (463) extending downward from the guide body (461). The connecting portion (463) may be connected to an inlet hole of an ice tray (412, 422) formed to allow water to flow into the ice tray (412, 422). Specifically, the connecting portion (463) may be coupled to a first inlet hole (412b) formed in the first ice tray (412). The connecting portion (463) may be inserted between the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422). Water flowing along the guide surface (462) may flow into the ice tray (412, 422) through the connecting portion (463).

[0185] By this configuration, water supplied from the water supply pipe (80) can flow along the guide surface (462) of the water supply guide (460) to the connection part (463) and can flow into the interior of the ice tray (412, 422).

[0186] The ice making unit (400) may include a heater (480). The heater (480) may be provided to heat the ice tray (412, 422). For example, the heater (480) may be supported by the first tray case (411) of the first ice tray unit (410) described below, and may be provided to heat the first ice tray (412) described below. The heater (480) may be provided to locally heat a portion of the first ice tray (412) for a predetermined period of time while ice is being produced in the ice tray (412, 422), thereby improving the transparency of the ice.

[0187] The ice making unit (400) may include a full ice detection lever (492). The full ice detection lever (492) may detect whether a predetermined amount or more of ice is stored in the ice bucket (100). If the full ice detection lever (492) detects that a predetermined amount or more of ice is stored in the ice bucket (100) (i.e., if the ice bucket (100) is full of ice), the ice making device (200) may not perform an ice making operation.

[0188] The ice making unit (400) may include a first ice tray unit (410) including a first ice tray (412). The ice making unit (400) may include a second ice tray unit (420) including a second ice tray (422). The second ice tray unit (420) may be provided to be movable relative to the first ice tray unit (410).

[0189] The first ice tray unit (410) and the second ice tray unit (420) may each be supported by a support frame (450). The first ice tray unit (410) may be fixed to the support frame (450). The second ice tray unit (420) may be provided to be movable with respect to the support frame (450). Specifically, the second ice tray unit (420) may be provided to be movable between the first ice tray unit (410) and the second ejector (440).

[0190] The first ice tray unit (410) and the second ice tray unit (420) may be positioned in a position where they are coupled to each other or in a position where they are separated from each other. As the second ice tray unit (420) moves, the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) may come into contact with each other and be coupled to each other, or the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) may be spaced apart from each other and separated from each other.

[0191] When the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) come into contact with each other, the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) can form an ice-making space for producing ice as one unit.

[0192] In detail, the first ice tray (412) may include a first ice-making cell (412a). The first ice-making cell (412a) may be configured to receive water supplied from a water supply pipe (80). The first ice-making cell (412a) may be formed to have a shape that is sunken inward from the inner surface of the first ice tray (412).

[0193] Additionally, the second ice tray (422) may include a second ice-making cell (422a). The second ice-making cell (422a) may be configured to receive water supplied from a water supply pipe (80). The second ice-making cell (422a) may be configured to form a portion of ice. The second ice-making cell (422a) may be formed to have a shape that is recessed inward from the inner surface of the second ice tray (422).

[0194] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, a plurality of first ice-making cells (421a) and a plurality of second ice-making cells (422a) may be provided. The plurality of first ice-making cells (421a) and the plurality of second ice-making cells (422a) may be provided in the same number, and each of the first ice-making cells (421a) and each of the second ice-making cells (422a) may be arranged at corresponding positions.

[0195] When the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined with each other, the first ice-making cell (412a) provided on the inside of the first ice tray (412) and the second ice-making cell (422a) provided on the inside of the second ice tray (422) can form one ice-making cell. Therefore, when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined with each other, water can be supplied from the water supply pipe (80) into the inside of the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422), and ice can be generated. For example, one ice-making cell formed by combining the first ice-making cell (412a) and the second ice-making cell (422a) can have an approximately spherical shape.

[0196] The ice trays (412, 422) may include an inlet hole through which water is introduced from the water supply guide (460). Specifically, the first ice tray (412) may include a first inlet hole (412b), and the second ice tray (422) may include a second inlet hole (422b). When the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are coupled to each other, the first inlet hole (412b) and the second inlet hole (422b) may be coupled to each other to form a single inlet hole. The inlet holes of the ice trays (412, 422) may be communicated with the ice-making cell. Water supplied from the water supply pipe (80) may be supplied to the ice-making cell through the water supply guide (460) and the inlet hole.

[0197] After the ice production in the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) is completed, the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are separated from each other, and the produced ice can be discharged from the ice trays (412, 422).

[0198] The first ice tray (412) may include a first contact portion (412e). The first contact portion (412e) may be provided to contact the second ice tray (422) when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are coupled to each other.

[0199] For example, the first contact portion (412e) of the first ice tray (412) may be formed along the edge of the first ice-making cell (412a).

[0200] The second ice tray (422) may include a second contact portion (422e). The second contact portion (422e) may be provided to contact the first ice tray (412) when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are coupled to each other. That is, when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are coupled to each other, the first contact portion (412e) and the second contact portion (422e) may contact each other.

[0201] The second contact portion (422e) of the second ice tray (422) can be formed along the edge of the second ice-making cell (422a).

[0202] For example, the first contact portion (412e) and the second contact portion (422e) may be formed to interlock with each other. Accordingly, when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are coupled to each other, the coupling area can be sealed to prevent water from leaking from the ice-making cells (412a, 422a).

[0203] As described above, when the first ice tray (412) includes a plurality of first ice-making cells (412a) and the second ice tray (422) includes a plurality of second ice-making cells (422a), the first ice tray (412) may include a communication portion (412d). The communication portion (412d) may be formed between the plurality of first ice-making cells (412a) so that water introduced into a portion connected to the first inlet hole (412b) among the plurality of first ice-making cells (412a) may flow to the adjacent first ice-making cell (412a). Correspondingly, the second ice tray (422) may also include a communication portion formed between the plurality of second ice-making cells (422b). That is, when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are coupled to each other, the plurality of ice-making cells formed therein may be connected to each other.

[0204] The first ice tray unit (410) may include a first tray case (411). The first tray case (411) may support a first ice tray (412). At least a portion of the first ice tray (412) may be accommodated in the first tray case (411).

[0205] The first tray case (411) may include a first ice tray receiving portion (411a). The first ice tray receiving portion (411a) may be configured to receive a portion of the first ice tray (412). The first ice tray receiving portion (411a) may be divided into a number corresponding to the number of first ice-making cells (412a).

[0206] The first tray case (411) may include a first through hole (411b). The first through hole (411b) may be formed by cutting the central portion of the first ice tray receiving portion (411a). The first through hole (411b) may be formed so that the first pressure portion (432) of the first ejector (430) may pass through it.

[0207] The first ice tray unit (410) may include a first tray frame (413). The first tray frame (413) may support a first ice tray (412). The first tray frame (413) may be in contact with the first ice tray (412). For example, the first tray frame (413) may be in contact with a rim of the first ice tray (412). The first tray frame (413) may be formed along the rim of the first ice tray (412).

[0208] The first tray frame (413) may include a first ice-making cell cover (413a) formed along the perimeter of the first ice-making cell (412a). The first ice-making cell cover (413a) may cover the outer perimeter of the first ice tray (412).

[0209] For example, when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined, the first ice-making cell cover part (413a) may cover both the edge of the first ice tray (412) and the edge of the second ice tray (422). In this case, the first ice-making cell cover part (413a) may be formed along the edge of the part where the first ice-making cell (412a) and the second ice-making cell (422a) come into contact. That is, the first ice-making cell cover part (413a) may cover the edge of the area where the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined. That is, the first ice-making cell cover part (413a) may cover the outer periphery of the first contact part (412e) and the second contact part (422e).

[0210] The first tray frame (413) may have an opening, and the first ice cell cover (413a) may be formed to surround the opening. Accordingly, the first ice tray (412) may face the second ice tray (422) through the opening of the first tray frame (413) and may be combined with the second ice tray (422).

[0211] The first tray frame (413) may be provided to secure the first ice tray (412) to the first tray case (411). The first tray frame (413) may be coupled with the first tray case (411). The first tray frame (413) and the first tray case (411) may secure the first ice tray (412) by being coupled to each other.

[0212] The first tray frame (413) and the first tray case (411) can support the first ice tray (412) by being coupled to each other. The first ice tray (412) can be fixed by having a part of the first ice tray (412) placed between the first tray frame (413) and the first tray case (411).

[0213] In detail, the first tray frame (413) may include a first fixing member (413b) that is provided to be fixed to the first tray case (411) and the first ice tray (412). The first ice tray (412), the first tray case (411), and the first tray frame (413) may be coupled to each other by a fastening member (not shown) that penetrates the first fixing member (413b). With this configuration, the first tray case (411), the first ice tray (412), and the first tray frame (413) may be fixed to each other.

[0214] The configuration of the first ice tray unit (410) is not limited to that described above, and the first ice tray unit (410) may include a first ice tray (412) and various configurations for supporting the same.

[0215] The second ice tray unit (420) may include a second tray case (421). The second tray case (421) may support a second ice tray (422). At least a portion of the second ice tray (422) may be accommodated in the second tray case (421).

[0216] The second tray case (421) may include a second ice tray receiving portion (421a). The second ice tray receiving portion (421a) may be configured to receive a portion of the second ice tray (422). The second ice tray receiving portion (421a) may be divided into a number corresponding to the number of second ice-making cells (422a).

[0217] The second tray case (421) may include a second through hole (421b). The second through hole (421b) may be formed by cutting out the central portion of the second ice tray receiving portion (421a). The second through hole (421b) may be formed so that the second pressurizing portion (442) of the second ejector (440) may pass through it.

[0218] The second tray case (421) may include a first elastic member mounting portion (421c). The first elastic member mounting portion (421c) may be provided such that an elastic member (475) is connected thereto. One end of the elastic member (475) may be connected to the first elastic member mounting portion (421c) of the second tray case (421), and the other end of the elastic member (475) may be connected to the second elastic member mounting portion (474c) of the rack gear (474). Accordingly, when the rack gear (474) moves horizontally, the second tray case (421) may also move together.

[0219] The second tray case (421) may include a protrusion (421d). The protrusion (421d) may be accommodated in a protrusion accommodation space (433a) formed in the leg portion (433) of the first ejector (430). The protrusion (421d) of the second tray case (421) may be arranged to move the first ejector (430) in conjunction with the movement of the second tray case (421). Specific details related thereto will be described later.

[0220] The second ice tray unit (420) may include a second tray frame (423). The second tray frame (423) may support a second ice tray (422). The second tray frame (423) may be in contact with the second ice tray (422). For example, the second tray frame (423) may be formed along the edge of the second ice tray (422).

[0221] The second tray frame (423) may include a second ice-making cell cover portion (423a) formed along the perimeter of the second ice-making cell (423a). The second ice-making cell cover portion (423a) may cover a portion of the outer perimeter of the second ice tray (422).

[0222] Meanwhile, according to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, as described above, the first ice-making cell cover part (413a) may be configured to cover both the edge of the first ice tray (412) and the edge of the second ice tray (422) when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined. However, alternatively, the second ice-making cell cover part (423a) may cover both the edge of the first ice tray (412) and the edge of the second ice tray (422). In this case, the second ice-making cell cover part (423a) may be formed along the edge of the part where the first ice-making cell (412a) and the second ice-making cell (422a) come into contact. That is, the second ice-making cell cover part (423a) may cover the edge of the area where the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined. That is, the second ice-making cell cover part (423a) can cover the outer periphery of the first contact part (412e) and the second contact part (422e).

[0223] The second tray frame (423) may include an opening, and the second ice cell cover (423a) may be formed to surround the opening. Accordingly, the second ice tray (422) may face the first ice tray (412) through the opening of the second tray frame (423) and be coupled with the first ice tray (412).

[0224] The second tray frame (423) may be provided to secure the second ice tray (422) to the second tray case (421). The second tray frame (423) may be coupled with the second tray case (421). The second tray frame (423) and the second tray case (421) may secure the second ice tray (422) by being coupled to each other.

[0225] The second tray frame (423) and the second tray case (421) can support the second ice tray (422) by being coupled to each other. The second ice tray (422) can be fixed by having a part of the second ice tray (422) placed between the second tray frame (423) and the second tray case (421).

[0226] In detail, the second tray frame (423) may include a second fixing member (423b) that is provided to be fixed to the second tray case (421) and the second ice tray (422). The second ice tray (422), the second tray case (421), and the second tray frame (423) may be coupled to each other by a fastening member (not shown) that penetrates the second fixing member (423b). With this configuration, the second tray case (421), the second ice tray (422), and the second tray frame (423) may be fixed to each other and may be movable together.

[0227] The configuration of the second ice tray unit (420) is not limited to that described above, and the second ice tray unit (420) may include a second ice tray (422) and various configurations for supporting the same.

[0228] The ice making unit (400) may include a driving unit (470) configured to provide power for the second ice tray unit (420) to move relative to the first ice tray unit (410), and an ejector (430, 440) for ejecting ice generated in the ice tray (412, 422) from the ice tray (412, 422).

[0229] The driving unit (470) may include a motor (not shown) that generates power, a motor case (471) that accommodates the motor, and a power transmission member (472, 473, 474) that transmits power generated from the motor.

[0230] The driving unit (470) can be electrically connected to the control unit (50, see FIG. 11) described below. Specifically, the motor of the driving unit (470) can be electrically connected to the control unit (50), and the control unit (50) can control the operation of the motor. For example, the motor of the driving unit (470) can be electrically connected to the control unit (50) via a wire (W). At this time, the motor of the driving unit (470) can be electrically connected to the control unit (50) via a part of the wire (W) connected to the intermediate connector (C1) (see FIG. 6).

[0231] The motor case (471) can be coupled to the support frame (450). Specifically, the motor case (471) can be coupled to the outer surface of one side of the support frame (450).

[0232] The power transmission members (472, 473, 474) are connected to the motor of the driving unit (470) and can receive power generated by the motor. The power transmission members (472, 473, 474) can transmit the power received from the motor to the second ice tray unit (420). For example, the power transmission members (472, 473, 474) can include at least one gear.

[0233] The power transmission member (472, 473, 474) may be provided to convert the rotational motion of the motor of the driving unit (470) into linear motion and transmit it to the second ice tray unit (420).

[0234] For example, the power transmission members (472, 473, 474) may include a pinion gear (472) and a rack gear (474). The pinion gear (472) may be connected to a rotational shaft of a motor of a driving unit (470). The pinion gear (472) may receive power from the motor of the driving unit (470) and rotate. The pinion gear (472) may mesh with the rack gear (474), and the rotational motion of the pinion gear (472) may be converted into the linear motion of the rack gear (474).

[0235] The rack gear (474) may be coupled to the second ice tray unit (420). The second ice tray unit (420) may be provided to enable linear movement with respect to the first ice tray unit (410) by linear movement of the rack gear (474).

[0236] The driving unit (470) may further include an elastic member (475). The rack gear (474) may be connected to the second tray case (421) via the elastic member (475). For example, the elastic member (475) may include an elastic spring.

[0237] The rack gear (474) may include a toothed portion (474a) that is arranged to mesh with the pinion gear (472). The rack gear (474) may include a support portion (474b) that is supported on a support frame (450). For example, the toothed portion (474a) may be formed on the upper surface of the support portion (474b).

[0238] The teeth (474a) of the rack gear (474) and the pinion gear (472) can be arranged to mesh with each other. Accordingly, when the pinion gear (472) rotates, the rack gear (474) can move horizontally with respect to the support frame (450).

[0239] The rack gear (474) may include a second elastic member mounting portion (474c) extending from the support portion (474b). An elastic member (475) may be mounted on the second elastic member mounting portion (474c).

[0240] When the rack gear (474) receives power generated from the driving unit (470) from the pinion gear (472) and moves in a horizontal direction, the second tray case (421) can also move in a horizontal direction. The second tray case (421) can be coupled with the second ice tray (422) and the second tray frame (423) and move together. In this way, as the second ice tray unit (420) moves to be separated from the first ice tray unit (410), ice generated between the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) can be separated from the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422).

[0241] In addition, as described above, the rack gear (474) and the second tray case (421) can be connected by an elastic member (475). When the second tray case (421) moves toward the first tray case (411) and the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are engaged, the rack gear (474) can be further moved toward the first ice tray (412) by the elastic force of the elastic member (475). Accordingly, the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) can be coupled to be more closely coupled to each other.

[0242] A plurality of pinion gears (472) may be provided so as to be arranged on each side of the support frame (450). The driving unit (470) may include a shaft member (473) provided to connect a plurality of pinion gears (472). The shaft member (473) may be provided to transmit the rotation of the pinion gear (472) on one side to the pinion gear (472) on the other side. The shaft member (473) may be provided in a shape of a bar that is extended approximately elongated.

[0243] However, the configuration of the driving unit (470) described above is merely an example of a configuration that provides power to move the second ice tray unit (420) relative to the first ice tray unit (410). The concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and for example, the driving unit (470) may include various configurations capable of transmitting power generated from a power source.

[0244] The ejectors (430, 440) of the ice making unit (400) may include a first ejector (430) and a second ejector (440). The first ejector (430) may be provided at a position adjacent to the first ice tray unit (410). The second ejector (440) may be provided at a position adjacent to the second ice tray unit (420). The first ice tray unit (410) and the second ice tray unit (420) may be arranged between the first ejector (430) and the second ejector (440).

[0245] The first ejector (430) may be provided to be movable relative to the support frame (450). The first ejector (430) may be provided to be movable based on the movement of the second ice tray unit (420).

[0246] The first ejector (430) may include a first body (431), a first pressurizing portion (432), and a leg portion (433).

[0247] The first body (431) can extend in a direction parallel to the first tray case (411). That is, the first body (431) can extend in a direction perpendicular to the movement direction of the first ejector (430).

[0248] The first pressurizing portion (432) can extend from the first body (431). The first body (431) can support the first pressurizing portion (432).

[0249] The first pressurizing portion (432) may be provided to pressurize the first ice tray (412) by passing through the first through hole (411b) of the first tray case (411). The number of first pressurizing portions (432) may correspond to the number of first ice-making cells (412a).

[0250] The first ice tray (412) may be configured to be elastically deformable. For example, the first ice tray (412) may include an elastically deformable material such as silicone or rubber. Accordingly, when the first pressurizing unit (432) presses the first ice tray (412), the shape of the first ice-making cell (412a) may be deformed.

[0251] The leg portion (433) may extend from both ends of the first body (431) and be inserted into the side of the support frame (450). More specifically, the leg portion (433) may be supported by the leg support portion (452c) of the support frame (450). The leg portion (433) may extend in a direction parallel to the movement direction of the first ejector (430). The leg portions (433) may be provided as a symmetrical pair at each end of the first body (431).

[0252] When the second ice tray unit (420) moves away from the first ice tray unit (410), the first ejector (430) can move along the moving direction of the second ice tray unit (420). That is, since the first ice tray unit (410) is positioned between the first ejector (430) and the second ice tray unit (420), the first ejector (430) can move in a direction closer to the first ice tray unit (410).

[0253] Additionally, when the second ice tray unit (420) is moved in a direction closer to the first ice tray unit (410), the first ejector (430) can also be moved along the movement direction of the second ice tray unit (420). That is, since the first ice tray (412) is placed between the first ejector (430) and the second ice tray unit (420), the first ejector (430) can be moved in a direction away from the first ice tray unit (410).

[0254] For example, the leg portion (433) may be provided to accommodate the protrusion (421d) of the second tray case (421). A protrusion accommodation space (433a) may be formed on the inside of the leg portion (433). The protrusion (421d) of the second tray case (421) may be accommodated in the protrusion accommodation space (433a) of the leg portion (433) and may interfere with the leg portion (433). As the second ice tray unit (420) moves, the protrusion (421d) of the second tray case (421) and the leg portion (433) interfere with each other, and the first ejector (430) may also move together.

[0255] The second ejector (440) may include a second body (441), a second pressurizing portion (442), and a frame mounting portion (443).

[0256] The second body (441) may extend in a direction parallel to the second tray case (421). That is, the second body (441) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the movement direction of the second tray case (421). The second body (441) may extend to connect both sides of the second support frame (452).

[0257] The second pressurizing portion (442) may extend from the second body (441). The second pressurizing portion (442) may extend from the second body (441) toward the second ice tray (422). The second body (441) may support the second pressurizing portion (442).

[0258] The second pressurizing portion (442) may be provided to pressurize the second ice tray (422) by passing through the second through hole (421b) of the second tray case (421). The number of second pressurizing portions (442) may correspond to the number of second ice-making cells (422a).

[0259] The second ice tray (422) may be configured to be elastically deformable. For example, the second ice tray (422) may include an elastically deformable material such as silicone or rubber. Accordingly, when the second pressurizing unit (442) presses the second ice tray (422), the shape of the second ice-making cell (422a) may be deformed.

[0260] The second ejector (440) can be fixed to one side of the support frame (450).

[0261] The frame mounting portion (443) may be provided at a position corresponding to the ejector mounting portion (452d) of the second support frame (452). The frame mounting portion (443) may be formed at both ends of the second body (441). The second ejector (440) may be mounted on one side of the second support body (452a) through the frame mounting portion (443). That is, the second ejector (440) may be coupled to the second support frame (452).

[0262] The second ejector (440) may be fixed to the support frame (450) and may be arranged to pressurize the second ice tray (422) when the second ice tray unit (420) moves toward the second ejector (440). More specifically, the second ejector (440) may be arranged to pressurize the second ice-making cell (422a) of the second ice tray (422) when the second ice tray unit (420) moves toward the second ejector (440).

[0263] Below, the operation of the ice making unit (400) during the ice making operation and the ice breaking operation is described.

[0264] As described above, the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) can be combined or separated from each other.

[0265] When the ice trays (412, 422) produce ice using water supplied from the water supply pipe (80), the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) can be combined with each other.

[0266] After ice production is complete, the second ice tray unit (420) including the second ice tray (422) can be separated from the first ice tray unit (410) including the first ice tray (412) and moved linearly toward the second ejector (440).

[0267] The second pressurizing portion (442) of the second ejector (440) can pressurize the second ice-making cell (422a) by penetrating the second tray case (421) when the second ice tray unit (420) approaches. At this time, the second ice-making cell (422a) can be elastically deformed, and ice located therein can be discharged from the second ice tray (422). The ice discharged from the second ice tray (422) can be moved to the ice bucket (100).

[0268] When the second ice tray (422) is pressed by the second pressurizing portion (442) and the second ice tray unit (420) moves further in the same direction, the first ejector (430) can move toward the first ice tray (412) as the protrusion (421d) of the second tray case (421) and the leg portion (433) of the first ejector (430) interfere with each other. Accordingly, the first pressurizing portion (432) of the first ejector (430) can pressurize the first ice tray (412) by penetrating the first tray case (411). At this time, the first ice-making cell (412a) can be elastically deformed, and if ice is placed in the first ice-making cell (412a) rather than the second ice-making cell (422a), the ice can be discharged from the first ice tray (412). Ice discharged from the first ice tray (412) can be moved to the ice bucket (100).

[0269] By the above configuration, ice generated within the ice tray (412, 422) can be discharged from the ice tray (412, 422) (ice removal operation) and moved to the ice bucket (100).

[0270] Meanwhile, when attempting to discharge ice from the ice tray (412, 422) in this manner, if the ice is stuck to the inner surface of the ice tray (412, 422), there is a possibility that the ice-breaking operation may not proceed smoothly. In particular, if ice forms in the area where the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are joined, i.e., the first contact portion (412e) and the second contact portion (422e), the second ice tray (422) may not be smoothly separated from the first ice tray (412), and thus the ice-breaking operation may not proceed smoothly. In addition, there is a possibility that some ice may remain in the ice tray (412, 422) even after the ice is discharged from the ice tray (412, 422).

[0271] Furthermore, during the process of supplying water to the ice tray (412, 422), the water passes through the water supply guide (460), which may cause freezing to occur on the water supply guide (460). If freezing occurs on the water supply guide (460), the subsequent water supply process may not proceed smoothly.

[0272] To solve this problem, the first tray frame (413) included in the ice making device (200) of the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to generate heat. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the first tray frame (413) may be referred to as a 'tray frame (413)'.

[0273] Additionally, the water supply guide (460) included in the ice making device (200) of the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged to generate heat.

[0274] Below, the structure of the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) is described in detail.

[0275] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating some components of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating some components of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0276] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, an ice making device (200) of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tray frame (413) that supports a first ice tray (412). The tray frame (413) may be configured to generate heat to heat the ice trays (412, 422).

[0277] The tray frame (413) may be configured to generate heat when current flows through it. In other words, the tray frame (413) may be configured to generate heat when voltage is applied.

[0278] In detail, the tray frame (413) may include a material that generates heat when current flows. The tray frame (413) may include a conductive material that allows current to flow when voltage is applied, and generates heat due to resistance as the current flows. Due to this material, when voltage is applied to the tray frame (413), current may flow in the tray frame (413), and the tray frame (413) may generate heat due to resistance caused by the current. The material of the tray frame (413) may be referred to as a “heat-generating material.”

[0279] For example, a material that generates heat when current flows through the tray frame (413) may include a carbon nanotube (CNT) material.

[0280] Carbon nanotubes are an allotrope of carbon with cylindrical nanostructures, consisting of multiple carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb pattern. Carbon nanotubes possess extremely high thermal and electrical conductivity.

[0281] When voltage is applied to carbon nanotubes, current flows through them, and their resistance can generate heat. Furthermore, carbon nanotubes have very high electrical conductivity, so when voltage is applied, power consumption is low, and their heat generation efficiency is relatively high. Furthermore, carbon nanotubes have high thermal conductivity, resulting in excellent heat transfer efficiency.

[0282] Since the tray frame (413) includes a carbon nanotube material having such characteristics, when voltage is applied, current flows through the tray frame (413), and heat may be generated due to resistance. In addition, since the tray frame (413) includes carbon nanotubes as a material for generating heat, the power consumption rate when generating heat may be reduced, and the heat transfer efficiency may also be increased, so that the ice trays (412, 422) may be efficiently heated.

[0283] For example, the tray frame (413) may include a composite material of carbon nanotubes and polymer using a polymer as a matrix. The tray frame (413) may be formed through an injection molding process using the composite material of carbon nanotubes and polymer.

[0284] The polymer included in the tray frame (413) may include various types of polymer resins such as nylon, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, etc.

[0285] Without being limited thereto, the tray frame (413) may include various types of materials that can allow current to flow when voltage is applied and generate heat when current flows.

[0286] Since the tray frame (413) includes a conductive material, the tray frame (413) may include a coating layer covering the outer surface of the conductive material portion to protect peripheral components of the tray frame (413) or to protect the tray frame (413) and components electrically connected thereto from peripheral components. The coating layer of the tray frame (413) may form the outer surface of the tray frame (413).

[0287] The coating layer may include a material with high electrical insulation properties. Additionally, the coating layer may include a material with high water repellency. For example, the coating layer may include materials such as silicone or polyurethane, but the type of material is not limited thereto.

[0288] In addition, it is desirable that the coating layer be composed of a material that is harmless to the human body or that is indifferent to food contact.

[0289] Since the tray frame (413) may be arranged to generate heat based on the voltage applied, the tray frame (413) may include a terminal (500A) arranged to allow voltage to be applied to the tray frame (413). The terminal (500A) included in the tray frame (413) may be referred to as a 'frame terminal (500A)'.

[0290] For example, the frame terminal (500A) may include various types of conductive materials such as copper, copper-nickel alloy, copper-tin alloy, silver-plated copper, and copper-magnesium alloy.

[0291] In detail, the frame terminal (500A) may include a pair of frame terminals (510, 520) provided to apply voltage to the tray frame (413). Among the frame terminals (510, 520), one frame terminal (510) positioned forward in the X direction with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 may be conveniently referred to as a first terminal (510), and the other frame terminal (520) may be conveniently referred to as a second terminal (520).

[0292] The tray frame (413) may include a frame body (413c). The frame body (413c) may support the ice tray (412). For example, the first ice-making cell cover part (413a) described above may be formed integrally with the frame body (413c). For example, the first fixing part (413b) described above may be formed integrally with the frame body (413c). The frame body (413c) is a component of the tray frame (413), and may include a conductive material and be configured to generate heat when current flows. For example, the frame body (413c) may include a carbon nanotube (CNT) material.

[0293] The frame terminal (500A) may be connected to the frame body (413c). The frame terminal (500A) may be electrically connected to the frame body (413c). The frame terminal (500A) may be directly connected to the frame body (413c). The frame terminal (500A) may be coupled to the frame body (413c). The frame terminal (500A) may be coupled to the frame body (413c) and electrically connected to the frame body (413c). However, in one embodiment, the frame terminal (500A) may be directly coupled to the first ice-making cell cover (413a).

[0294] As described below, the frame terminal (500A) can be connected to the terminal connector (C2). To enable the terminal connector (C2) to be easily connected to the frame terminal (500A), the frame terminal (500A) can be coupled to a side of the frame body (413c) opposite to the second ice tray (422). In other words, the frame terminal (500A) can be arranged to face the frame body (413c) in a direction opposite to the direction toward the second ice tray (422).

[0295] For example, the frame terminal (500A) may be arranged to face horizontally (e.g., in the Y direction based on the drawing) with respect to the frame body (413c), and the terminal connectors (C2) may be coupled horizontally to the frame terminal (500A).

[0296] One frame terminal (500A) of the frame terminals may be coupled to one side of the frame body (413c), and the other frame terminal may be coupled to the other side of the frame body (413c). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a first terminal (510) of the frame terminals (500A) may be coupled to one side of the frame body (413c) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the X direction based on the drawing), and a second terminal (520) may be coupled to the other side of the frame body (413c) in the longitudinal direction.

[0297] Here, it can be assumed that a plurality of first ice-making cells (412a) in the first ice tray (412) are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame body (413c) (for example, the X direction based on the drawing). At this time, a first terminal (510) among the frame terminals (500A) may be arranged adjacent to one ice-making cell (412a) located at the shortest side (for example, the shortest side on the front side based on the drawing) of the plurality of first ice-making cells (412a) in the longitudinal direction of the frame body (413c). In addition, a second terminal (520) among the frame terminals (500A) may be arranged adjacent to another ice-making cell (412a) located at the shortest side on the opposite side (for example, the shortest side on the rear side based on the drawing) of the plurality of first ice-making cells (412a) in the longitudinal direction of the frame body (413c).

[0298] By this structure, the first terminal (510) and the second terminal (520) can be positioned at positions far apart from each other on the frame body (413c). Accordingly, when voltage is applied between the first terminal (510) and the second terminal (520), current can flow uniformly throughout approximately the entire area of ​​the tray frame (413), and the uniformity of heat generation in the tray frame (413) can be improved.

[0299] However, this is not limited thereto, and the frame terminal (500A) can be coupled to various locations of the frame body (413c).

[0300] The refrigerator (1) may include a power supply unit (600, see FIG. 11) electrically connected to a frame terminal (500A). Specifically, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) electrically connected to the frame body (413c). The power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage between a first terminal (510) and a second terminal (520). In other words, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage for causing current to flow to the tray frame (413). The power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) under control of a control unit (50, see FIG. 11). The power supply unit (600) may generate a potential difference between the first terminal (510) and the second terminal (520), or may remove the potential difference.

[0301] For example, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply a constant voltage to the frame terminal (500A). Alternatively, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply a variable voltage to the frame terminal (500A).

[0302] For example, the power supply unit (600) may be connected to an external power source and may receive power from the external power source. Alternatively, for example, the power supply unit (600) may be connected to a battery that charges power and may receive power from the battery.

[0303] For example, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to include electronic components for applying voltage between terminals (500) and a printed circuit board on which these components are mounted.

[0304] The frame terminal (500A) can be electrically connected to the power supply unit (600) by a wire (W). Specifically, the refrigerator (1) can include a terminal connector (C2) electrically connected to the power supply unit (600) by the wire (W), and the terminal connector (C2) can be connected to each of the frame terminals (500A). The terminal connector (C2) can be connected to the frame terminal (500A) to electrically connect the power supply unit (600) and the frame terminal (500A). The terminal connector (C2) can be provided in multiple numbers, and the number of the plurality of terminal connectors (C2) and the number of the plurality of frame terminals (500A) can correspond to each other.

[0305] As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the terminal connector (C2) can be electrically connected to a wire (W) extending from the outside of the ice maker (200). Specifically, some of the wires (W) extending from the outside of the ice maker (200) can be connected to the intermediate connector (C1), and some of the wires (W) connected to the intermediate connector (C1) can be connected to the terminal connector (C2). Alternatively, the terminal connector (C2) can be directly connected to the wire (W) extending from the outside of the ice maker (200).

[0306] The terminal connector (C2) can be detachably coupled to the frame terminal (500A).

[0307] As described above, the tray frame (413) may have a fixed position. The tray frame (413) may have a fixed position together with the first ice tray (412).

[0308] The configurations of the second ice tray unit (420) are arranged to be movable relative to the configurations of the first ice tray unit (410), while the tray frame (413) has its position fixed, so that the frame terminal (500A) and the terminal connector (C2) connected thereto can be stably connected to each other, and the wire (W) connected to the terminal connector (C2) can also have a stable position.

[0309] As described above, the tray frame (413) can be in contact with the outer surface of the first ice tray (412). In particular, the tray frame (413) can be in contact with the edge of the first ice tray (412). In addition, as an example, the tray frame (413) can also be in contact with the edge of the second ice tray (422). With this configuration, when heat is generated in the tray frame (413), the heat can be transferred to the ice trays (412, 422).

[0310] The tray frame (413) may be arranged to heat the area where the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) come into contact with each other when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined with each other.

[0311] In detail, the tray frame (413) can cover the outer periphery of the first contact portion (412e). As described above, the tray frame (413) can include the first ice-making cell cover portion (413a), and when current flows through the first ice-making cell cover portion (413a), heat generated in the first ice-making cell cover portion (413a) can be more efficiently transferred to the first contact portion (412e).

[0312] By this configuration, when heat is generated in the tray frame (413), the heat can be efficiently transferred to the area where the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) come into contact with each other.

[0313] In this way, the ice making device (200) includes a tray frame (413) that includes a material that generates heat when current flows, and can efficiently discharge the generated ice by heating the ice tray (412, 422) using the tray frame (413) after ice making is completed. In addition, the ice making device (200) can efficiently remove any remaining ice in the ice tray (412, 422) after ice is discharged from the ice tray (412, 422).

[0314] In addition, the ice maker (200) can heat the ice tray (412, 422) without a separate heater by using the tray frame (413) that generates heat when current flows. Since the tray frame (413) includes a material that generates heat when current flows, heat can be generated in approximately the entire area, so that the ice tray (412, 422) can be heated more efficiently, and unlike a general heater, even if a part thereof is damaged, heat can be generated in the remaining part. In addition, the heat generated in the tray frame (413) can be efficiently transferred to the ice.

[0315] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, an ice making device (200) of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a water supply guide (460) configured to guide water to an ice tray (412, 422). Water flowing along the water supply guide (460) may flow into an ice making cell (412a, 422a). The water supply guide (460) may be configured to generate heat to prevent freezing from forming on the water supply guide (460).

[0316] The water supply guide (460) may be configured to generate heat when current flows through it. In other words, the water supply guide (460) may be configured to generate heat when voltage is applied.

[0317] Specifically, the water supply guide (460) may include a material that generates heat when current flows. The water supply guide (460) may include a conductive material that allows current to flow when voltage is applied, and generates heat due to resistance as the current flows. Due to this material, when voltage is applied to the water supply guide (460), current may flow through the water supply guide (460), and the water supply guide (460) may generate heat due to resistance caused by the current. The material of the water supply guide (460) may be referred to as a "heat-generating material."

[0318] As in the case of the frame (413), for example, the material that generates heat through which current flows, included in the water supply guide (460), may include a carbon nanotube (CNT) material.

[0319] Additionally, as an example, similar to the tray frame (413), the water supply guide (460) may include a composite material of carbon nanotubes and polymer using a polymer as a matrix. The water supply guide (460) may be formed through an injection molding process using the composite material of carbon nanotubes and polymer.

[0320] The polymer included in the water supply guide (460) may include various types of polymer resins such as nylon, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene, etc.

[0321] Without being limited thereto, the water supply guide (460) may include various types of materials that can allow current to flow when voltage is applied and generate heat when current flows.

[0322] The water supply guide (460) may include a coating layer covering the outer surface of the conductive material portion. The coating layer of the water supply guide (460) may form the outer surface of the water supply guide (460). The coating layer of the water supply guide (460) may have characteristics corresponding to the coating layer of the tray frame (413).

[0323] The water supply guide (460) may be provided to be detachable from the first ice tray unit (410) including the tray frame (413). Furthermore, the water supply guide (460) may be electrically insulated from the tray frame (413).

[0324] Accordingly, the water supply guide (460) may include a terminal (500B) to which voltage is applied separately from the tray frame (413) to generate heat. Specifically, the water supply guide (460) may include a terminal (500B) provided to allow voltage to be applied to the water supply guide (460). The terminal (500B) included in the water supply guide (460) may be referred to as a 'water supply guide terminal (500B)'.

[0325] For example, the water supply guide terminal (500B) may include various types of conductive materials such as copper, copper-nickel alloy, copper-tin alloy, silver-plated copper, and copper-magnesium alloy.

[0326] In detail, the water supply guide terminal (500B) may include a pair of water supply guide terminals (530, 540) provided to apply voltage to the water supply guide (460). Among the water supply guide terminals (500B), one terminal (530) positioned forward in the X direction with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 may be conveniently referred to as a third terminal (530), and the other terminal (540) may be conveniently referred to as a fourth terminal (540).

[0327] The water supply guide terminal (500B) can be directly connected to the guide body (461). The water supply guide terminal (500B) can be coupled to the guide body (461). The water supply guide terminal (500B) can be coupled to the guide body (461) and electrically connected to the guide body (461).

[0328] As described below, the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be connected to the terminal connector (C2). In order for the terminal connector (C2) to be easily connected to the water supply guide terminal (500B), the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be provided on the upper part of the water supply guide (460). That is, the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be coupled to the upper part of the guide body (461). Alternatively, in order for the terminal connector (C2) to be easily connected to the water supply guide terminal (500B), the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be provided on the edge of the water supply guide (460). That is, the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be coupled to the edge of the guide body (461).

[0329] For example, the water supply guide terminal (500B) may be positioned to face horizontally (e.g., in the X direction based on the drawing) with respect to the guide body (461), and the terminal connector (C2) may be coupled horizontally to the water supply guide terminal (500B).

[0330] One terminal of the water supply guide terminals (500B) can be coupled to one side of the guide body (461), and the other terminal can be coupled to the other side of the guide body (461). Specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the third terminal (530) of the water supply guide terminals (500B) can be coupled to one side of the edge of the guide body (461), and the fourth terminal (540) can be coupled to the other side of the edge of the guide body (461). In other words, the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540) can be positioned at opposite positions on the edge of the guide body (461). As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540) may be positioned opposite to each other at positions at almost the same height, or alternatively, the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540) may be positioned at positions at different heights.

[0331] By this structure, the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540) can be positioned at positions far apart from each other on the guide body (461). Accordingly, when voltage is applied between the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540), current can flow uniformly throughout approximately the entire area of ​​the water supply guide (460), and the uniformity of heat generation in the water supply guide (460) can be improved.

[0332] However, this is not limited thereto, and the water supply guide terminal (500B) may be provided at various locations of the water supply guide (460).

[0333] The water supply guide terminal (500B) may be electrically connected to a power supply unit (600, see FIG. 11). The power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B). In other words, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage for causing current to flow to the water supply guide (460). The power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B) under control of a control unit (50, see FIG. 11). The power supply unit (600) may generate a potential difference between the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540), or may remove the potential difference.

[0334] For example, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply a constant voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B). Alternatively, the power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply a variable voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B).

[0335] As with the frame terminal (500A), the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be electrically connected to the power supply unit (600) via a wire (W). Specifically, the terminal connector (C2) connected to the wire (W) can be connected to the water supply guide terminal (500B). The terminal connector (C2) can be connected to the water supply guide terminal (530, 540) to electrically connect the power supply unit (600) and the water supply guide terminal (530, 540).

[0336] As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the terminal connector (C2) connected to the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be electrically connected to a wire (W) extending from the outside of the ice maker (200). Specifically, some of the wires (W) extending from the outside of the ice maker (200) can be connected to the intermediate connector (C1), and some of the wires (W) connected to the intermediate connector (C1) can be connected to the terminal connector (C2), respectively. Alternatively, the terminal connector (C2) connected to the water supply guide terminal (500B) can also be directly connected to the wire (W) extending from the outside of the ice maker (200).

[0337] The terminal connector (C2) can be detachably coupled to the water supply guide terminal (500B).

[0338] As described above, the water supply guide (460) can be mounted on the support frame (450) and its position can be fixed. Accordingly, the water supply guide terminal (500B) and the terminal connector (C2) connected thereto can be stably connected to each other, and the wire (W) connected to the terminal connector (C2) can also have a stable position.

[0339] In this way, the ice making device (200) can prevent freezing from occurring in the water supply guide (460) by including a water supply guide (460) that includes a material that generates heat when current flows.

[0340] In addition, the ice maker (200) can generate heat in the water supply guide (460) without a separate heater by using the water supply guide (460) that generates heat when current flows. Since the water supply guide (460) includes a material that generates heat when current flows, heat can be generated in approximately the entire area, thereby improving heat generation efficiency. In addition, unlike a typical heater, even if a part of the water supply guide (460) is damaged, heat can be generated in the remaining area. In addition, the heat generated in the water supply guide (460) can be efficiently transferred to ice.

[0341] The power supply unit (600, see FIG. 11) may be configured to independently apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) and the water supply guide terminal (500B), or may be configured to apply voltage simultaneously and in dependence on each other.

[0342] The frame terminal (500A) and the water supply guide terminal (500B) may be connected to one power supply unit (600) or may be connected to multiple power supply units (600) that are separate modules.

[0343] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a tray frame and terminals included in an ice maker of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a water supply guide and terminals included in an ice maker of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0344] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a portion of the frame terminal (500A) may be inserted into the frame body (413c). In addition, a portion of the water supply guide terminal (500B) may be inserted into the guide body (461). In FIGS. 9 and 10, only the first terminal (510) and the third terminal (530) are illustrated, but the following description may be equally applied to the second terminal (520) and the fourth terminal (540).

[0345] As illustrated in Fig. 9, a portion of the frame terminal (500A) can be inserted into the frame body (413c). A portion of the frame terminal (500A) can be inserted into the frame body (413c) and combined with the frame body (413c).

[0346] The frame terminal (500A) may include an insertion portion (501) inserted into the frame body (413c) and a connection portion (502) extending from the insertion portion (501) to the outside of the frame body (413c).

[0347] The aforementioned terminal connector (C2) can be connected to the connection portion (502). The terminal connector (C2) can be coupled to the connection portion (502). For example, the connection portion (502) can be inserted into the terminal connector (C2) and connected to the terminal connector (C2). As a result, the frame terminal (500A) can be electrically connected to the power supply portion (600).

[0348] For example, the tray frame (413) can be formed by insert molding with the insert portion (501) inserted into the frame body (413c).

[0349] As illustrated in Fig. 10, a portion of the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be inserted into the guide body (461). A portion of the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be inserted into the guide body (461) and combined with the guide body (461).

[0350] The water supply guide terminal (500B) may include an insertion portion (501) inserted into the guide body (461) and a connection portion (502) extending from the insertion portion (501) to the outside of the guide body (461).

[0351] The aforementioned terminal connector (C2) can be connected to the connection portion (502). The terminal connector (C2) can be coupled to the connection portion (502). For example, the connection portion (502) can be inserted into the terminal connector (C2) and connected to the terminal connector (C2). As a result, the water supply guide terminal (500B) can be electrically connected to the power supply portion (600).

[0352] With this configuration, the terminal (500A, 500B) can be connected to the frame body (413c) or the guide body (461) and can be connected to the power supply unit (600) through the terminal connector (C2).

[0353] However, the structure of the frame terminal (500A) or the water supply guide terminal (500B) described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 is only an example, and the terminals (500A, 500B) can be electrically connected to the frame body (413c) or the guide body (461) in various ways.

[0354] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating some components of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0355] Referring to FIG. 11, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a control unit (50) that controls various components of the refrigerator (1).

[0356] The control unit (50) may include a processor (51) that generates a control signal regarding the operation of the refrigerator (1) and a memory (52) that stores programs, applications, instructions and / or data for the operation of the refrigerator (1). The processor (51) and the memory (52) may be implemented as separate semiconductor devices or as a single semiconductor device.

[0357] Additionally, the control unit (50) may include a plurality of processors or a plurality of memories. The control unit (50) may be provided at various locations within the refrigerator (1). For example, the control unit (50) may be configured as a printed circuit board placed in the electrical section (not shown) of the refrigerator (1).

[0358] The processor (51) may include an arithmetic circuit, a memory circuit, and a control circuit. The processor (51) may include one chip or multiple chips. In addition, the processor (51) may include one core or multiple cores.

[0359] The memory (52) stores various programs and data required for control, and can temporarily store temporary data generated during control. For example, the memory (52) can store programs for performing water supply and ice-making cycles, and data required for performing water supply and ice-making cycles.

[0360] The memory (52) may include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAM), and non-volatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM) and Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM). The memory (52) may include one memory element or may include a plurality of memory elements.

[0361] The processor (51) can process data and / or signals using a program provided from the memory (52), and transmit a control signal to each component of the refrigerator (1) based on the processing result. Each component of the refrigerator (1) can be operated based on the control signal of the processor (51).

[0362] The refrigerator (1) may include a user interface (60). For example, the user interface (60) may be implemented as a control panel.

[0363] The user interface (60) may include an input device (61) configured to obtain user input. The input device (61) may be electrically connected to the control unit (50). The input device (61) may transmit an electrical signal for the obtained user input to the control unit (50).

[0364] Types of user input that can be obtained through the input device (61) may include turning the power on / off, starting / stopping the ice-making operation, and setting the ice-making operation.

[0365] The input device (61) may include various types of input devices such as a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, or a touch switch.

[0366] The user interface (60) may include a display (62) for displaying information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1). The display (62) may provide various types of information based on output signals (such as images) received from the control unit (50).

[0367] The operation information of the refrigerator (1) that can be displayed by the display (62) may include the status of the ice-making operation, the status of the water supply operation, the amount of water supplied, the progress of the ice-making operation, the elapsed time or the time remaining until the end of the ice-making operation, and information on the occurrence of various errors.

[0368] The display panel of the display (62) may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, etc.

[0369] The refrigerator (1) may include a temperature sensor (491). For example, the temperature sensor (491) of the refrigerator (1) may be provided to detect the temperature of the ice tray (410, 420). The temperature sensor (491) may output an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the ice tray (410, 420). For example, the temperature sensor (491) may be mounted on the first tray case (411), but the location of the temperature sensor (491) is not limited thereto.

[0370] The temperature sensor (491) can be electrically connected to the control unit (50). The temperature sensor (491) can output an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the ice tray (410, 420) and transmit it to the control unit (50). The control unit (50) can control the components such as the power supply unit (600), the driving unit (470), and the heater (480) based on the electrical signal received from the temperature sensor (491).

[0371] As described above, the refrigerator (1) may include a full ice detection lever (492) that detects the amount of ice stored in the ice bucket (100). For example, the full ice detection lever (492) may output an electrical signal corresponding to whether the amount of ice stored in the ice bucket (100) is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. The 'predetermined amount' referred to herein may mean, for example, the maximum amount of ice that the ice bucket (100) can accommodate, and may be experimentally and empirically set. Information regarding the 'predetermined amount' may be stored in the memory (52).

[0372] The full ice detection lever (492) can be electrically connected to the control unit (50). The full ice detection lever (492) can output an electrical signal corresponding to whether the amount of ice stored in the ice bucket (100) is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount and transmit the signal to the control unit (50). The control unit (50) can control the configuration of the water supply valve (81), etc., based on the electrical signal received from the full ice detection lever (492).

[0373] The refrigerator (1) may include a water supply valve (81) that opens or closes the water supply pipe (80).

[0374] The water supply valve (81) may be electrically connected to the control unit (50). The control unit (50) may control the water supply valve (81) based on conditions for opening or closing the water supply pipe (80). The water supply valve (81) may open or close the water supply pipe (80) based on a control signal received from the control unit (50). For example, the control unit (50) may control the water supply valve (81) to open the water supply pipe (80) based on conditions for supplying water into the ice-making cells (412a, 422a) to perform an ice-making operation. Alternatively, for example, the control unit (50) may receive a signal output from a flow sensor that detects the amount of water supplied through the water supply pipe (80), or a water level sensor that detects the water level inside the ice-making cell (412a, 422a), and may control the water supply valve (81) to close the water supply pipe (80) based on a condition for stopping the water supply to the ice-making cell (412a, 422a).

[0375] For example, the water supply valve (81) may be configured as a solenoid valve.

[0376] As described above, the refrigerator (1) may include a power supply unit (600) electrically connected to a plurality of terminals (500). The power supply unit (600) may be configured to apply voltage to a frame terminal (500A) or a water supply guide terminal (500B).

[0377] The power supply unit (600) may be electrically connected to the control unit (50). The control unit (50) may control the power supply unit (600) to apply or not apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) or the water supply guide terminal (500B). The power supply unit (600) may or may not apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) or the water supply guide terminal (500B) based on a control signal received from the control unit (50).

[0378] For example, the control unit (50) may control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422). Here, the condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) may include that the ice-making operation is completed based on the temperature of the ice tray (412, 422) being lower than or equal to a predetermined ice-making completion reference temperature or the ice-making progress time exceeding a predetermined ice-making completion reference time. Alternatively, the condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) may include that ice separation from the ice tray (412, 422) is completed (for removing residual ice).

[0379] Alternatively, for example, the control unit (50) may control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B) based on a condition for generating heat in the water supply guide (460). Here, the condition for generating heat in the water supply guide (460) may include that the water supply to the ice tray (412, 422) has been terminated, that the ice-making operation has been completed, that the ice-breaking operation has been completed, etc.

[0380] As described above, the refrigerator (1) may include a driving unit (470) for moving the second ice tray unit (420) and the first ejector (430) relative to the first ice tray unit (410). The driving unit (470) may move the second ice tray unit (420) so that the second ice tray unit (420) is separated from the first ice tray unit (410) in a separating operation for ejecting ice after ice production in the ice trays (412, 422) is completed, and may move the first ejector (430) so that the first ejector (430) pressurizes the first ice tray (412). When the moving operation is completed, the driving unit (470) can move the second ice tray unit (420) back to a position where it is coupled with the first ice tray unit (410) and can move the first ejector (430) back to a position where it does not pressurize the first ice tray (412).

[0381] The driving unit (470) may be electrically connected to the control unit (50). More specifically, the motor of the driving unit (470) may be electrically connected to the control unit (50). The control unit (50) may control the motor of the driving unit (470) to separate the second ice tray unit (420) from the first ice tray unit (410) and cause the first ejector (430) to pressurize the first ice tray (412) based on conditions for performing the ice-breaking operation. The motor of the driving unit (470) may be driven based on a control signal received from the control unit (50).

[0382] As described above, the refrigerator (1) may include a heater (480). The heater (480) may be arranged to locally heat a portion of the ice tray (412, 422).

[0383] The heater (480) may be electrically connected to the control unit (50). In order to improve the transparency of the ice, the control unit (50) may turn the heater (480) on or off in real time based on conditions such as the time during which ice is made and the temperature of the ice tray (412, 422) during the ice-making process in which ice is created within the ice tray (412, 422). The heater (480) may or may not heat the ice tray (412, 422) based on the control signal of the control unit (50).

[0384] The configuration of the refrigerator (1) described above with reference to FIG. 11 is only an example of a refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0385] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0386] Referring to FIG. 12, a method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step (S10) of supplying water to an ice-making cell (412a, 422a) in an ice tray (412, 422). At this time, the control unit (50) may control a water supply valve (81) to open a water supply pipe (80) based on a condition for starting an ice-making operation.

[0387] For example, a condition for initiating an ice-making operation may include obtaining user input for ice production. Furthermore, for example, a condition for initiating an ice-making operation may include the amount of ice stored in the ice bucket (100) being less than a predetermined amount.

[0388] After water is supplied to the ice-making cells (412a, 422a), if the temperature of the ice tray (412, 422) is lower than or equal to a predetermined ice-making completion reference temperature or exceeds a predetermined ice-making completion reference time, the ice-making operation can be completed (S20). The control unit (50) can determine the end of the ice-making operation based on whether the temperature of the ice tray (412, 422) is lower than or equal to a predetermined ice-making completion reference temperature or exceeds a predetermined ice-making completion reference time.

[0389] Thereafter, before discharging ice from the ice tray (412, 422), a step (S30) of heating the ice tray (412, 422) may be performed to facilitate the ice-making operation. Specifically, the control unit (50) may control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A) connected to the tray frame (413) to heat the tray frame (413) based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422).

[0390] After the heating of the ice tray (412, 422) begins, an ice-ejecting operation may begin (S40) in which ice is ejected from the ice tray (412, 422). The control unit (50) may control the motor of the driving unit (470) to move the second ice tray unit (420) and the first ejector (430) for the ice-ejecting operation. The ejected ice may be moved to the ice bucket (100) and stored there.

[0391] Thereafter, when the moving operation is completed (S50), the control unit (50) can control the motor of the driving unit (470) to move the second ice tray unit (420) back to a position where it is combined with the first ice tray unit (410) and to move the first ejector (430) to a position where it does not pressurize the first ice tray (412).

[0392] Even after the ice removal operation is completed and the first ice tray unit (410) and the second ice tray unit (420) are re-connected, voltage may be applied to the frame terminal (500A) connected to the tray frame (413) to remove any remaining ice within the ice tray (412, 422).

[0393] Thereafter, based on whether the temperature of the ice tray (412, 422) is higher than a predetermined heating termination reference temperature or whether the heating time of the ice tray (412, 422) is higher than a predetermined heating termination reference time, the control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) not to apply voltage to the frame terminal (500A). As a result, heating of the ice tray (412, 422) can be terminated (S60).

[0394] Meanwhile, the control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B) connected to the water supply guide (460) to heat the water supply guide (460) before, during, or after starting to supply water to the ice-making cell (412a, 422a).

[0395] Alternatively, the control unit (50) may control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B) connected to the water supply guide (460) to heat the water supply guide (460) at the same time as heating the tray frame (413) to heat the ice tray (412, 422) before starting the moving operation.

[0396] Alternatively, the control unit (50) may control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the water supply guide terminal (500B) connected to the water supply guide (460) to heat the water supply guide (460) after the moving operation is completed.

[0397] The control method of the refrigerator (1) described above with reference to FIG. 12 is only an example, and the idea of ​​the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0398] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0399] In describing one embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to FIG. 13, the same components as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 12 may be given the same drawing reference numerals and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0400] Referring to FIG. 13, in a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a tray frame (413) and a water supply guide (460) may be electrically connected to each other. That is, even if voltage is applied to a terminal located at least in a portion of the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460), current may flow together.

[0401] Specifically, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be formed integrally. The tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be injection-molded using the same conductive material that generates heat when current flows. For example, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be injection-molded together using a material including carbon nanotubes.

[0402] As illustrated in Fig. 13, a frame terminal (500A) may be provided on the tray frame (413). Specifically, a first terminal (510) and a second terminal (520) may be coupled to the frame body (413c). Alternatively, a terminal may not be provided on the water supply guide (460).

[0403] At this time, when voltage is applied to the frame terminal (500A) provided on the tray frame (413), current may flow to both the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460), and heat may be generated in both the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460).

[0404] The control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage to the first terminal (510) and the second terminal (520) based on conditions for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) or generating heat in the water supply guide (460).

[0405] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0406] In describing one embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to FIG. 14, the same configurations as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 12 may be given the same drawing reference numerals and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0407] Referring to FIG. 14, in a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) can be electrically connected to each other. That is, even if voltage is applied between terminals (500) located at least in some of the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460), current can flow together.

[0408] Specifically, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be formed integrally. The tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be injection-molded using the same conductive material that generates heat when current flows. For example, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be injection-molded together using a material including carbon nanotubes.

[0409] As illustrated in Fig. 14, a water supply guide terminal (500B) may be provided in the water supply guide (460). Specifically, a third terminal (530) and a fourth terminal (540) may be coupled to the guide body (461). Alternatively, the tray frame (413) may not be provided with a terminal.

[0410] At this time, when voltage is applied to the water supply guide terminal (500B) provided in the water supply guide (460), current may flow to both the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460), and heat may be generated in both the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460).

[0411] The control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage between the third terminal (530) and the fourth terminal (540) based on conditions for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) or generating heat in the water supply guide (460).

[0412] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating some configurations of an ice-making unit of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0413] In describing one embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to FIG. 15, the same configurations as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 12 may be given the same drawing reference numerals and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0414] Referring to FIG. 15, in a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) can be electrically connected to each other. That is, even if voltage is applied between terminals (500) located at least in some of the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460), current can flow together.

[0415] Specifically, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be formed integrally. The tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be injection-molded using the same conductive material that generates heat when current flows. For example, the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) may be injection-molded together using a material including carbon nanotubes.

[0416] As illustrated in Fig. 15, one terminal (510) of the plurality of terminals may be provided on the tray frame (413), and another terminal (540) of the plurality of terminals may be provided on the water supply guide (460). Specifically, the first terminal (510) may be coupled to the frame body (413c), and the fourth terminal (540) may be coupled to the guide body (461).

[0417] The control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage between the first terminal (510) and the fourth terminal (540) based on conditions for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) or generating heat in the water supply guide (460).

[0418] Alternatively, unlike as shown in FIG. 15, the second terminal (520, see FIG. 8) may be provided on the tray frame (413), and the third terminal (530, see FIG. 8) may be provided on the water supply guide (460).

[0419] In this case, the control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage between the second terminal (520) and the third terminal (530) based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) or generating heat in the water supply guide (460).

[0420] Alternatively, unlike as shown in FIG. 15, the first terminal (510) may be provided on the tray frame (413), and the third terminal (530, see FIG. 8) may be provided on the water supply guide (460).

[0421] In this case, the control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage between the first terminal (510) and the third terminal (530) based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) or generating heat in the water supply guide (460).

[0422] Alternatively, unlike as shown in FIG. 15, the second terminal (520, see FIG. 8) may be provided on the tray frame (413), and the fourth terminal (540) may be provided on the water supply guide (460).

[0423] In this case, the control unit (50) can control the power supply unit (600) to apply voltage between the second terminal (520) and the fourth terminal (540) based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray (412, 422) or generating heat in the water supply guide (460).

[0424] In such embodiments, the distance between a pair of terminals can be arranged further than in the embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14, so that when voltage is applied between a pair of terminals, current can flow uniformly throughout approximately the entire area of ​​the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460), and the uniformity of heat generation in the tray frame (413) and the water supply guide (460) can be improved.

[0425] In the above, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15, an embodiment in which a first tray frame (413) supporting a first ice tray (412) having a fixed position is configured to generate heat has been described, but the spirit of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a second tray frame (423) supporting a second ice tray (422) that is movably provided with respect to the first ice tray (412) may include a material that generates heat when current flows, and terminals may be connected to the second tray frame (423) so that when voltage is applied to the terminals (500), the second tray frame (423) may generate heat.

[0426] In the above, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15, the structure of the ice making device (200) mounted on the main body (10) and placed in the storage room (20) has been described, but the idea of ​​the present disclosure can also be applied to the structure of the ice making device mounted on the door (30).

[0427] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice tray (412) configured to generate ice, and a tray frame (413) configured to support the ice tray, include a material that generates heat when current flows through it, and transmit the generated heat to the ice tray. The tray frame may include a terminal (500A) configured to apply voltage to the tray frame.

[0428] The above tray frame can be in contact with the rim of the above ice tray.

[0429] The above tray frame may further include a frame body (413c) that supports the ice tray. At least a portion of the terminal may be inserted into the frame body.

[0430] The terminal may include an insertion portion (501) inserted into the frame body and a connection portion (502) extending from the insertion portion to the outside of the frame body.

[0431] The refrigerator may further include a power supply unit (600) configured to apply voltage to the terminal, and a terminal connector (C2) electrically connected to the power supply unit via a wire. The terminal connector (C2) may be connected to the connection unit (502) to electrically connect the power supply unit and the terminal.

[0432] The above tray frame may further include a frame body supporting the ice tray. The terminal may include a pair of terminals coupled to the frame body. One of the pair of terminals may be coupled to one side of the frame body in the longitudinal direction. The other of the pair of terminals may be coupled to the other side of the frame body in the longitudinal direction.

[0433] The ice tray may include a plurality of ice-making cells configured to store water and produce ice. The plurality of ice-making cells may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame body. One terminal of the pair of terminals may be arranged adjacent to one ice-making cell located at the shortest side of the frame body among the plurality of ice-making cells in the longitudinal direction. The other terminal of the pair of terminals may be arranged adjacent to another ice-making cell located at the shortest side of the opposite side of the frame body among the plurality of ice-making cells in the longitudinal direction.

[0434] The above ice tray is a first ice tray (412), and the refrigerator may further include a second ice tray (422) coupled to the first ice tray or detachable from the first ice tray to form an ice-making cell in which water is stored and ice is produced together with the first ice tray.

[0435] The above tray frame (413) may be arranged to heat an area where the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) come into contact with each other when the first ice tray (412) and the second ice tray (422) are combined with each other.

[0436] The first ice tray may include a contact portion (412e) formed along the perimeter of the ice making cell and arranged to come into contact with the second ice tray when combined with the second ice tray. The tray frame may cover the outer perimeter of the contact portion.

[0437] The first ice tray may be fixed to the tray frame. The second ice tray may be provided to be movable between a position where it is coupled to the first ice tray and a position where it is separated from the first ice tray.

[0438] The material that generates heat through which current flows and is included in the above tray frame may include a carbon nanotube (CNT) material.

[0439] The refrigerator may further include a water supply pipe (80) provided to supply water to the ice tray, and a water supply guide (460) disposed in the storage room and provided to guide water from the water supply pipe to the ice tray, the water supply guide including a material that generates heat when current flows.

[0440] The above refrigerator may further include a water supply guide terminal (500B) coupled to the water supply guide and configured to apply voltage to the water supply guide.

[0441] The above tray frame (413) and the above water supply guide (460) can be formed integrally.

[0442] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice tray (412, 422) configured to generate ice, a water supply pipe (80) configured to supply water to the ice tray, and a water supply guide (460) configured to guide water from the water supply pipe to the ice tray and including a material that generates heat when current flows therethrough. The water supply guide may include a terminal (500B) configured to apply voltage to the water supply guide.

[0443] The commercial terminal may include a pair of terminals. One of the pair of terminals may be provided on one side of the edge of the water supply guide. The other of the pair of terminals may be provided on the other side of the edge of the water supply guide.

[0444] The above water supply guide may further include a guide body (461). At least a portion of the terminal may be inserted into the guide body.

[0445] The refrigerator may further include an ice tray configured to generate ice, and a tray frame configured to support the ice tray, include a material that generates heat when current flows through it, and transmit the generated heat to the ice tray. The tray frame and the water supply guide may be formed integrally.

[0446] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice tray (412) configured to generate ice, a tray frame (413) configured to contact the ice tray and generate heat when current flows through it, a power supply unit (600) configured to apply voltage to a terminal electrically connected to the tray frame, and a control unit (50) electrically connected to the power supply unit. The control unit may be configured to control the power supply unit to apply voltage to the terminal based on a condition for heating at least a portion of the ice tray.

[0447] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0448] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0449] Additionally, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a nontransitory storage medium. Here, the term "nontransitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "nontransitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0450] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a commodity. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable recording medium, such as a memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0451] According to the invention, a refrigerator includes a tray frame including a material that generates heat when current flows through it, and can efficiently discharge the ice produced by heating the ice tray using the tray frame after ice making is completed.

[0452] According to the invention, a refrigerator can efficiently remove ice residue within an ice tray after ice is discharged from the ice tray, including a tray frame including a material that generates heat when current flows through it.

[0453] According to the invention, a refrigerator can heat an ice tray without a separate heater by including a tray frame that generates heat when current flows through it.

[0454] According to the invention of the present invention, a refrigerator can prevent freezing in a water supply guide without having a separate heater by including a water supply guide that generates heat when current flows.

[0455] According to the invention, a refrigerator can have improved power generation efficiency and heat transfer efficiency by including a tray frame that generates heat in approximately the entire area when voltage is applied.

[0456] According to the invention, a refrigerator can have improved heat generation efficiency and heat transfer efficiency by including a water supply guide that generates heat in approximately the entire area when voltage is applied.

[0457] The effects according to the idea of ​​the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0458] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. An ice tray configured to produce ice; and As a tray frame for supporting the above ice tray, the tray frame includes a terminal and a heating material; A refrigerator in which the tray frame is configured such that, while the ice tray is supported on the tray frame, voltage can be applied to the terminal to generate current through the heat-generating material, so that the heat-generating material generates heat and the heat is transferred to the ice tray, thereby heating the ice tray.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the tray frame is in contact with the edge of the ice tray while the ice tray is supported on the tray frame.

3. In paragraph 1, The above tray frame further includes a frame body supporting the ice tray; A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the terminal is inserted into the frame body.

4. In paragraph 3, The above terminals are, An insertion part inserted into the above frame body; and A refrigerator including a connecting portion extending from the insert portion to the outside of the frame body.

5. In paragraph 4, A power supply unit configured to apply voltage to the above terminal; and Further comprising a terminal connector electrically connected to the power supply unit by a wire; The above terminal connector, A refrigerator connected to the above connection part and electrically connecting the power supply part and the terminal.

6. In paragraph 1, The above tray frame further includes a frame body that supports the ice tray, The above terminal comprises a pair of terminals coupled to the frame body, The first terminal of the above pair of terminals is coupled to the first side in the longitudinal direction of the frame body, A refrigerator wherein the second terminal of the above pair of terminals is connected to the second side in the longitudinal direction of the frame body.

7. In paragraph 6, The above ice tray comprises a plurality of ice-making cells capable of storing water and generating ice; The above plurality of ice-making cells are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame body, Among the above pair of terminals, the first terminal is arranged adjacent to one of the plurality of ice-making cells located at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the frame body, A refrigerator in which the second terminal of the above pair of terminals is positioned adjacent to another ice-making cell located at a second end opposite to the first end in the longitudinal direction of the frame body among the plurality of ice-making cells.

8. In paragraph 1, The above ice tray is a first ice tray, A refrigerator further comprising a second ice tray configured to be connectable to the first ice tray and separable from the first ice tray, wherein, when the second ice tray is connected to the first ice tray, the first ice tray and the second ice tray are capable of storing water together and generating ice.

9. In paragraph 8, The above tray frame, A refrigerator configured to transfer at least a portion of the heat generated in an area where the first ice tray and the second ice tray come into contact when the first ice tray and the second ice tray are coupled to each other, when voltage is applied to the terminal to generate current through the heat generating material, causing the heat generating material to generate heat.

10. In paragraph 9, The above first ice tray, In a state where the second ice tray is coupled to the first ice tray, a contact portion configured to come into contact with the second ice tray and formed along the edge of the ice making cell is included; A refrigerator wherein the above tray frame covers the outer perimeter of the above contact portion.

11. In paragraph 8, The above first ice tray is fixed to the tray frame, A refrigerator in which the second ice tray is provided to be movable between a joining position where it is joined to the first ice tray and a separation position where it is separated from the first ice tray.

12. In paragraph 1, The above heat generating material is a refrigerator containing carbon nanotube (CNT) material.

13. In paragraph 1, The above heating material of the above tray frame is a first heating material, A water supply pipe provided to supply water; and A refrigerator further comprising: a water supply guide configured to guide water supplied from the water supply pipe to the ice tray, the water supply guide including a second heating material that generates heat when current flows; 14. In paragraph 13, A refrigerator further comprising a water supply guide terminal coupled to the water supply guide and capable of applying voltage to the water supply guide to generate current in the second heating material.

15. In paragraph 13, A refrigerator in which the above tray frame and the above water supply guide are integrated.

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