Refrigerator

Abstract

The refrigerator comprises an ice maker configured to generate ice and discharge the ice, and an ice bucket disposed below the ice and configured to accommodate the ice. The ice bucket comprises: a container body including an accommodation space configured to accommodate ice; and a scoop holder connected to one side of the container body, wherein the scoop holder is located outside the accommodation space and includes a mounting hole configured to allow an ice scoop to pass through the mounting hole so as to be mounted outside the accommodation space.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that keeps food fresh by having a main body with a storage compartment and a cold air supply system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment that refrigerates food by maintaining it at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius, and a freezer compartment that freezes food by maintaining it at approximately 0 to minus 30 degrees Celsius. Generally, the storage compartment is designed so that the front is open for the retrieval of food, and the open front of the storage compartment is opened and closed by a door.

[0003] A refrigerator repeats a cooling cycle in which the refrigerant is compressed, condensed, expanded, and evaporated using a compressor, condenser, expander, and evaporator. At this time, both the freezer and refrigerator compartments can be cooled by a single evaporator installed on the freezer side, or cooling can be achieved independently by installing evaporators in the freezer and refrigerator compartments, respectively.

[0004] The refrigerator may be equipped with an ice-making device. The ice-making device may automatically produce ice by comprising an ice tray for generating ice, an ejector for releasing ice from the ice tray, and a control unit for controlling the ice-making process. The ice released from the ice tray may be stored in an ice bucket.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure that can stably support an ice scoop.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure in which a space for mounting an ice scoop and a space for receiving ice are separated.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure that can reduce manufacturing costs for forming a structure for holding an ice scoop.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure that eliminates the process of assembling a separate part for mounting an ice scoop to an ice bucket and prevents the said part from being misassembled or interfering with other parts, such as a full ice detection device.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure in which a portion on which an ice scoop is mounted can be utilized as a handle for an ice bucket.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having an improved structure that can reduce the angle at which an ice bucket is tilted when the ice bucket is withdrawn from a drawer.

[0011] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0012] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice-making device configured to generate ice and discharge ice, and an ice bucket configured to receive ice and disposed below the ice-making device. The ice bucket may include a container body comprising a receiving space configured to receive ice, and a scoop holder connected to one side of the container body, wherein the scoop holder is located outside the receiving space and includes a mounting hole configured to pass through the mounting hole so that an ice scoop is mounted outside the receiving space.

[0013] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body including a storage compartment, an ice-making device disposed in the storage compartment, a drawer disposed in the storage compartment and configured to be pulled out forward relative to the main body, and an ice bucket disposed inside the drawer. The ice bucket may include a container body disposed below the ice-making device and comprising a receiving space configured to receive ice discharged from the ice-making device. Additionally, the ice bucket may include a scoop holder configured to accommodate an ice scoop. The scoop holder may be disposed in front of the receiving space and may include a mounting hole configured to allow the ice scoop to pass through and be mounted.

[0014] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice-making device, an ice bucket configured to receive ice, and an ice scoop configured to scoop ice. The ice bucket may include a container body having a receiving space provided to receive ice discharged downward from the ice-making device, and a scoop holder that is spaced apart from the receiving space and provided to allow the ice scoop to pass through and be mounted, is positioned above the bottom surface of the container body, and is formed integrally with the container body.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the interior, drawer, and door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a drawer is inserted into the main body in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a drawer is withdrawn from the main body in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an ice-making device, a drawer, an ice bucket and an ice scoop disposed within the drawer of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an ice-making device, a drawer, an ice bucket, and an ice scoop, illustrating that the height of the ice stored in the ice bucket is at the full ice height in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the ice bucket and ice scoop of a refrigerator separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the ice bucket and ice scoop of a refrigerator separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a top view showing an ice bucket of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 10 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of an ice bucket of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an ice scoop mounted on a scoop holder of an ice bucket included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the lifting of an ice bucket included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a drawer.

[0027] FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the lifting of an ice bucket included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a drawer.

[0028] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0029] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0030] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] In the present disclosure, each of the phrases such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0032] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0033] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0034] Additionally, terms such as 'front,' 'rear,' 'top,' 'bottom,' 'side,' 'left,' 'right,' 'top,' and 'bottom' used in this disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and location of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0035] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this disclosure, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0036] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0037] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0038] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a main body.

[0039] The “main body” may include an inner body, an outer body positioned on the outside of the inner body, and an insulating material provided between the inner body and the outer body.

[0040] The “inner body” may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage chamber. The inner body may be formed as a single body or may be formed by assembling multiple plates. The “outer body” may form the exterior of the main body and may be coupled to the outer side of the inner body so that an insulating material is disposed between the inner body and the outer body.

[0041] The “insulating material” can insulate the interior and exterior of the storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room is maintained at a set appropriate temperature without being affected by the external environment. According to one embodiment, the insulating material may include a foamed insulating material. The foamed insulating material can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, which is a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the insulation material may additionally include a vacuum insulation material in addition to a foam insulation material, or the insulation material may consist solely of a vacuum insulation material instead of a foam insulation material. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation material or vacuum insulation material described above and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0043] The “storage room” may include a space defined by an internal structure. The storage room may further include an internal structure defining a space corresponding to the storage room. Various items such as food, medicine, and cosmetics may be stored in the storage room, and the storage room may be formed so that at least one side is open to allow for the retrieval and retrieval of items.

[0044] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When two or more storage compartments are formed in a refrigerator, each storage compartment may have a different use and may be maintained at a different temperature. To this end, each storage compartment may be partitioned from one another by a partition containing insulation.

[0045] The storage room may be provided to be maintained within an appropriate temperature range according to its intended use and may include a "refrigeration room," "freezing room," or "variable temperature room" distinguished according to its intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature suitable for refrigerated storage of goods, and the freezer room may be maintained at a temperature suitable for frozen storage of goods. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling goods to a temperature that does not freeze them; for example, the refrigerator room may be maintained within a range of 0°C to 7°C. "Freezing" may mean cooling goods to freeze them or to maintain them in a frozen state; for example, the freezer room may be maintained within a range of -20°C to -1°C. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, with or without the user's choice.

[0046] Storage rooms may be referred to by various names, such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice-making room," in addition to terms like "refrigeration room," "freezing room," and "variable temperature room." The terms "refrigeration room," "freezing room," and "variable temperature room" used below should be understood as encompassing storage rooms with corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close one side of the storage compartment. The door may be provided to open and close each of one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be provided to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed to be rotatable or sliding on the front of the main body.

[0048] The “door” may be configured to seal the storage room when the door is closed. The door may include insulation material, similar to the main body, to insulate the storage room when the door is closed.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door and facing the storage room, an upper cap, a lower cap, and a door insulation material provided inside the same.

[0050] A gasket may be provided on the edge of the door inner panel to seal the storage compartment by adhering to the front of the main body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to allow a door basket for storing items to be mounted.

[0051] According to 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 a door insulation material provided inside them.

[0052] Refrigerators can be classified into French Door Type, Side-by-side Type, BMF (Bottom Mounted Freezer), TMF (Top Mounted Freezer), or 1-door refrigerators depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device arranged to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0054] The “cold air supply device” may include a machine, apparatus, electronic device, and / or a system combining these that can generate cold air and guide cold air to cool a storage room.

[0055] According to one embodiment, a cold 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 supply device may include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. According to one embodiment, the cold supply device may include a semiconductor such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage chamber through heat generation and cooling action via the Peltier effect.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room arranged to accommodate at least some parts belonging to a cold air supply device.

[0057] The “machine room” may be configured to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated from components placed in the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to communicate with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed inside the machine room.

[0058] According to 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 opening the door.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to generate ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray that stores water, an ice-removing device that separates ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket that stores the ice generated from the ice-making tray.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0061] The “control unit” may include a memory that stores or remembers a program and / or data for controlling a refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc., according to the program and / or data stored in the memory.

[0062] The memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc., necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. The memory can store temporary data generated while generating control signals to control the components included in the refrigerator. The memory may include at least one of volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0063] 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 operation of an artificial intelligence model. Additionally, the processor may include a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc. The processor can generate control signals to control the operation of the cold air supply unit. For example, the processor can receive temperature information of the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cold air supply unit based on the temperature information of the storage compartment.

[0064] Additionally, the processor can process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface according to programs and / or data stored in memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor can receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor can transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface to display an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0065] 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 sub-processor. The memory may include one or more memory units.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components included in the refrigerator, and may include a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories that individually control the components of the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cold air supply device according to the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately provide a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface according to user input.

[0067] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, through nearby Access Points (APs). The Access Point (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 be connected to the server through the Wide Area Network (WAN).

[0068] The input interface may include keys, touchscreens, microphones, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0069] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface can output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0070] Refrigerators according to various embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0071] In describing various embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13, terms such as "upward," "downward," "forward," "rear," "left," and "right" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, the following terms "upward" and "downward" may mean upward in the Z direction and downward in the Z direction, respectively, based on the drawings. The following terms "forward" and "rear" may mean forward and rear in the X direction, respectively, based on the drawings. The following terms "left" and "right" may mean left in the Y direction and right in the Y direction, respectively, based on the drawings.

[0072] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (10), a storage room (20) provided inside the main body (10), a door (30) for opening and closing the storage room (20), and a cooling system for supplying cold air to the storage room (20).

[0074] The main body (10) may include an inner section (12) forming a storage room (20) and an outer section (11) forming the exterior of the refrigerator (1). The outer section (11) may be formed to have the shape of a box with an open front. The outer section (11) may form the top surface, bottom surface, left and right sides, rear surface, etc. of the refrigerator (1). The inner section (12) may have an open front. The inner section (12) may have a storage room (20) provided inside and may be provided on the inner side of the outer section (11). The inner wall of the inner section (12) may form the inner wall of the storage room (20).

[0075] A body insulation material may be provided between the inner layer (12) and the outer layer (11) to insulate the space between the inner layer (12) and the outer layer (11). The body insulation material may be foamed between the inner layer (12) and the outer layer (11). The body insulation material may bond the inner layer (12) and the outer layer (11) together. The body insulation material can prevent heat exchange from occurring between the inside of the storage room (20) and the outside of the body (10), thereby improving the cooling efficiency inside the storage room (20). For example, the body insulation material may include insulation materials of various materials such as urethane foam insulation, expanded polystyrene insulation, and vacuum insulation.

[0076] A storage room (20) may be formed inside the main body (10). The front of the storage room (20) may be open. For example, the storage room (20) may include a refrigerator room maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for refrigerated storage of food. For example, the storage room (20) may include a freezer room maintained at approximately minus 23 to minus 17 degrees Celsius for frozen storage of food.

[0077] In various embodiments, the storage room (20) may be divided into a plurality of areas. According to one embodiment, the plurality of storage rooms (20) may include a first storage room (21), a second storage room (22), and a third storage room (23), and the first storage room (21), the second storage room (22), and the third storage room (23) may be divided from each other.

[0078] For example, the first storage room (21) may be provided at the top of the refrigerator (1). For example, the second storage room (22) may be provided at the bottom of the refrigerator (1). For example, the third storage room (23) may be placed between the first storage room (21) and the second storage room (22). For example, the third storage room (23) may be placed below the first storage room (21), and the second storage room (22) may be placed below the third storage room (23).

[0079] For example, the first storage room (21) and the third storage room (23) may be partitioned by the first partition (16). The first partition (16) may be positioned approximately horizontally to partition the first storage room (21) and the third storage room (23) vertically. The first partition (16) may form the bottom surface of the first storage room (21) and the top surface of the third storage room (23).

[0080] For example, the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23) may be partitioned by a second partition (17, see FIG. 2). The second partition (17) may be positioned approximately horizontally to partition the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23) vertically. The second partition (17) may be positioned below the first partition (16). The second partition (17) may form the upper surface of the second storage room (22) and the lower surface of the third storage room (23).

[0081] For example, the first storage room (21) can be used as a refrigerator. For example, the second storage room (22) can be used as a freezer. For example, the third storage room (23) can be used as a variable temperature room. However, the uses of each of the storage rooms (21, 22, 23) described above are merely examples, and in various embodiments, the first storage room (21), the second storage room (22), and the third storage room (23) can each be used for various purposes.

[0082] Inside the storage room (20), a shelf (25) on which food can be placed and a drawer (26) for storing food may be provided.

[0083] The refrigerator (1) may include a cooling system configured to generate cold air using a cooling cycle and supply the generated cold air to the storage room (20). The cooling system may generate cold air using a cooling circulation cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant. As an example, the cooling system may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a blower fan. The cold air generated by the cooling system may be supplied to the storage room (20) through a cold air supply duct formed in the rear part of the inner chamber (12).

[0084] A door (30) may be provided to open and close the storage room (20). A door (30) may be provided to open and close the open front of the storage room (20). A door (30) may be provided to open and close an opening formed on one side of the main body (10).

[0085] The refrigerator (1) may include a plurality of doors (31, 32, 33, 34) arranged to open and close a plurality of storage compartments (21, 22, 23) that are partitioned from one another.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first storage room (21) may be opened and closed by a pair of doors (31, 32). The refrigerator (1) may include a first door (31) that opens and closes a portion of the first storage room (21) and a second door (32) that opens and closes another portion of the first storage room (21). The first door (31) and the second door (32) may each be rotatably provided with respect to the main body (10). The first door (31) and the second door (32) may each be rotatably coupled to the main body (10). The first door (31) and the second door (32) may be arranged side by side in a horizontal direction (Y direction). For example, the first door (31) may be provided to open and close the left portion of the first storage room (21), and the second door (32) may be provided to open and close the right portion of the first storage room (21).

[0087] A rotating bar (39) may be provided on either the first door (31) or the second door (32) (e.g., the first door (31)), which is rotatably provided with respect to the first door and is provided to cover the gap between the first door (31) and the second door (32) when the first door (31) and the second door (32) close the first storage room (21). For example, the rotating bar (39) may be provided to rotate between a folded position with respect to the first door (31) and an unfolded position with respect to the first door (31) by being guided by a rotating guide (19) provided in the inner part (12) as the first door (31) rotates.

[0088] For example, a door shelf (37) capable of storing food may be provided on the inner surface of each of the first door (31) and the second door (32). For example, the door shelf (37) may be mounted on a dyke protruding from the inner surface of each of the first door (31) and the second door (32).

[0089] The refrigerator (1) may include a hinge (40) that connects the main body (10) and the door (30) and rotatably supports the door (30) with respect to the main body (10). For example, the hinge (40) may connect the main body (10) and the first door (31) and rotatably support the first door (31) with respect to the main body (10). For example, the hinge (40) may connect the main body (10) and the second door (32) and rotatably support the second door (32) with respect to the main body (10).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a third door (33) provided to open and close the second storage compartment (22). The third door (33) may be provided to be slidably movable relative to the main body (10). The third door (33) may slide and be pulled out from the main body (10) to open the second storage compartment (22), or be pulled into the main body (10) to close the second storage compartment (22). A drawer (50, see FIG. 2, etc.) provided to store items may be provided at the rear of the third door (33), and a detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a fourth door (34) provided to open and close a third storage compartment (23). The fourth door (34) may be provided to be slidable relative to the main body (10). The fourth door (34) may slide and be pulled out from the main body (10) to open the third storage compartment (23), or be pulled into the main body (10) to close the third storage compartment (23). A drawer may be provided at the rear of the fourth door (34) to store items.

[0092] However, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the opening and closing structure of the door (30) is not limited to the examples of the first door (31), second door (32), third door (33), and fourth door (34) described above, and the door (30) can open or close the storage room (20) by various structures.

[0093] The configuration of the refrigerator (1) described above with reference to FIG. 1 is merely an example of the present disclosure and is not limited thereto. A refrigerator according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided to include various configurations for performing the function of supplying cold air to a storage compartment for storing food.

[0094] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the interior, drawer, and door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the state in which the drawer is retracted into the main body of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the state in which the drawer is withdrawn from the main body of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drawer (50). The drawer (50) may be placed in a second storage compartment (22). The drawer (50) may be placed behind a third door (33).

[0096] The drawer (50) can be withdrawn from the second storage room (22) or inserted into the second storage room (22) by sliding relative to the main body (10). For example, a rail (60) may be mounted on the inner wall of the inner chamber (12) forming the second storage room (22), and the drawer (50) may be supported by the rail (60) and slide along the rail (60). The drawer (50) may be mounted on the third door (33), and when a user grasps the third door (33) and pulls it forward, the drawer (50) can be withdrawn from the second storage room (22), and when a user pushes the third door (33) backward, the drawer (50) can be inserted into the second storage room (22).

[0097] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4, according to one embodiment, the drawer (50) may include a first drawer (51) and a second drawer (52). The first drawer (51) and the second drawer (52) may be slidably movable relative to the main body (10) depending on the opening and closing of the third door (33). The first drawer (51) may be slidably movable relative to the main body (10) to be withdrawn from or inserted into the second storage room (22). The second drawer (52) may be slidably movable relative to the main body (10) to be withdrawn from or inserted into the second storage room (22).

[0098] For example, the second drawer (52) can be attached to the back of the third door (33), and when the user grasps the third door (33) and pulls it forward, the second drawer (52) is pulled forward and the first drawer (51) can also be pulled forward.

[0099] The first drawer (51) and the second drawer (52) may each include a receiving space. For example, the first drawer (51) may include a first drawer space (51a, 51b) formed to allow items to be stored on the inside, and the second drawer (52) may include a second drawer space (52a) formed to allow items to be stored on the inside. The first drawer space (51a, 51b) and the second drawer space (52a) of the second drawer (52) may be partitioned from each other. According to one embodiment, the first drawer space (51a, 51b) may be partitioned into a plurality of first drawer spaces (e.g., a left space (51a) and a right space (51b)) by a drawer partition (51c), but is not limited thereto.

[0100] The first drawer (51) may be open at the top. The first drawer space (51a, 51b) of the first drawer (51) may be open at the top. An opening may be formed on the upper side of the first drawer (51). The first drawer (51) may have a box shape with an open upper surface.

[0101] The second drawer (52) may be open at the top. The second drawer space (52a) of the second drawer (52) may be open at the top. An opening may be formed on the upper side of the second drawer (52). The second drawer (52) may have a box shape with an open upper surface.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the first drawer (51) and the second drawer (52) may be arranged perpendicular to each other. For example, the first drawer (51) may be positioned above the second drawer (52).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the first drawer (51) may be provided to be slidably movable relative to the second drawer (52) on the upper side of the second drawer (52). For example, when both the first drawer (51) and the second drawer (52) are withdrawn, the user may push the first drawer (51) backward to retrieve items stored in the second drawer (52) if necessary.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice-making device (80). The ice-making device (80) may be configured to produce ice. The ice-making device (80) may be configured to discharge the produced ice.

[0105] The ice-making device (80) may be configured to produce ice by receiving water from an external water source or from a water storage tank of the refrigerator (1). For example, the ice-making device (80) may receive water from a water supply pipe (70), and the water supplied from the water supply pipe (70) may be converted into ice using the cold air of the storage room (20) (for example, the cold air of the second storage room (22), which is a freezer). The water supply pipe (70) may have the shape of a pipe in which a water flow path is formed inside.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the ice-making device (80) may be placed in the second storage room (22). The ice-making device (80) may be fixed to the main body (10). The ice-making device (80) may be mounted on a part forming the second storage room (22) of the inner body (12).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include an ice bucket (100) configured to receive ice. The ice bucket (100) may be configured to receive and store ice produced by an ice-making device (80). The ice bucket (100) may be configured to receive and store ice discharged from the ice-making device (80). The ice bucket (100) may include a receiving space (110a) provided to receive ice.

[0108] The ice bucket (100) may be placed below the ice making device (80) inside the second storage room (22). The ice making device (80) may be placed above the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100). The ice making device (80) may be provided to discharge the generated ice downward, and the ice discharged downward may be received in the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the ice bucket (100) may be placed in the drawer (50). For example, the ice bucket (100) may be placed within the first drawer space (51a) of the first drawer (51). Thus, when the first drawer (51) is withdrawn from the second storage room (22), the ice bucket (100) may also be withdrawn from the second storage room (22), and the user may easily take out the ice contained in the ice bucket (100). When the first drawer (51) is inserted into the second storage room (22), the ice bucket (100) may also be inserted into the second storage room (22).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include an ice scoop (200) for scooping ice. The ice scoop (200) may be configured to scoop ice from an ice bucket (100). A user may use the ice scoop (200) to scoop ice stored in the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100). A user may use the ice scoop (200) to scoop ice stored in the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100) out of the ice bucket (100).

[0111] Below, the ice making device (80), ice bucket (100), and ice scoop (200) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 13.

[0112] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an ice-making device, a drawer, an ice bucket and an ice scoop disposed within the drawer of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an ice-making device, a drawer, an ice bucket and an ice scoop in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the height of the ice stored in the ice bucket at the full ice height.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, an ice-making device (80) of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a support case (81). The support case (81) may form the exterior of the ice-making device (80). The support case (81) may support other components of the ice-making device (80). For example, the support case (81) may be mounted on the main body (10). For example, the support case (81) may be mounted on the inner wall of the inner chamber (12).

[0114] The support case (81) can be opened at the bottom. By doing so, ice generated in the ice tray (82), which will be described later, can be discharged downward and received in the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the ice making device (80) may include an ice tray (82) in which ice is generated. The ice tray (82) may include at least one ice making cell, and water may be supplied to and stored in the ice making cell (e.g., supplied from a water supply pipe (70)). The water stored in the ice making cell of the ice tray (82) may change into ice by the cold air of the second storage chamber (22).

[0116] The ice-making cell of the ice tray (82) may have a shape with one side open. When water is supplied to the ice-making cell, or while the water is freezing, the ice tray (82) may be positioned so that the open side of the ice-making cell faces upward toward the refrigerator (1). When the ice generated in the ice-making cell is discharged into the ice bucket (100), the ice tray (82) may be positioned so that the open side of the ice-making cell faces downward toward the refrigerator (1).

[0117] An ice tray (82) can be placed on top of an ice bucket (100). More specifically, the ice tray (82) can be placed on top of the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100).

[0118] For example, a temperature sensor may be installed on the lower side of the ice tray (82) to detect the temperature of the ice tray (82), and when the temperature sensor detects that the temperature inside the ice tray (82) is below a reference temperature, it may be determined that the formation of ice inside the ice tray (82) is complete.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the ice making device (80) may include a driving unit (83) for providing power to the ice tray (82) for an ice-moving operation to move the generated ice from the ice tray (82) to the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100). For example, the driving unit (83) may rotate the ice tray (82) around a rotation axis extending in the horizontal direction (e.g., X direction) of the refrigerator (1), thereby allowing the ice in the ice tray (82) to fall into the receiving space (110a).

[0120] For example, the drive unit (83) may include a power transmission member such as a motor that generates power, a gear for transmitting the power of the motor to an ice tray, etc.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the ice making device (80) may include an ice full detection device (84). The ice full detection device (84) may be provided to detect whether the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100) is filled with ice. Whether the receiving space (110a) is filled with ice is not necessarily determined based on the case where the ice is filled up to the maximum height of the receiving space (110a), but may be determined based on whether the height of the ice (I, see FIG. 6) contained in the receiving space (110a) has reached a predetermined full ice height (h1, see FIG. 6). For example, the full ice height (h1) may be appropriately determined experimentally or empirically within a range to prevent the ice (I) from overflowing out of the receiving space (110a) or causing a malfunction in the function of the ice making device (80).

[0122] As shown in FIG. 6, when the height of the ice (I) in the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100) reaches the full ice height (h1), the ice (I) can come into contact with the lowered full ice detection device (84), and thus the full ice detection device (84) can detect that the height of the ice (I) has reached the full ice height (h1).

[0123] The ice making device (80) may be configured to discharge ice into the receiving space (110a) until the ice stored in the receiving space (110a) reaches a predetermined full ice height (h1), and as shown in FIG. 6, when the height of the ice (I) in the receiving space (110a) reaches the full ice height (h1) by the full ice detection device (84), the supply of water from the water supply pipe (70) to the ice tray (82) may be stopped. Alternatively, when the height of the ice (I) in the receiving space (110a) reaches the full ice height (h1) by the full ice detection device (84), the driving unit (83) may not operate and the ice may not be discharged from the ice tray (82), even if ice has already been created in the ice tray (82).

[0124] With such a structure, the ice making device (80) can generate ice and discharge the generated ice into the receiving space (110a) of the ice bucket (100). However, the structure of the ice making device (80) described above is merely an example, and according to various embodiments, the ice making device (80) may include various configurations for generating ice.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the ice bucket (100) may include a container body (110) that includes a receiving space (110a). The receiving space (110a) in which ice is received may be formed inside the container body (110).

[0126] For example, the container body (110) may include a bottom surface (111), a front wall (113), a rear wall (114), and a pair of side walls (112), and the receiving space (110a) may be formed between the bottom surface (111), the front wall (113), the rear wall (114), and the pair of side walls (112). The receiving space (110a) may be surrounded by the bottom surface (111), the front wall (113), the rear wall (114), and the pair of side walls (112) of the container body (110).

[0127] The bottom surface (111) of the container body (110) forms the bottom surface of the receiving space (110a) and can support ice contained in the receiving space (110a). For example, the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110) can be supported by the bottom surface of the first drawer (51).

[0128] The front wall (113) of the container body (110) may extend from the front end of the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). The front wall (113) of the container body (110) may extend approximately upward from the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). According to one embodiment, the front wall (113) of the container body (110) may be positioned on one side of the receiving space (110a) adjacent to the scoop holder (120) described later. The front wall (113) of the container body (110) may be provided in a part of the container body (110) connected to the scoop holder (120) described later.

[0129] The rear wall (114) of the container body (110) may extend from the rear end of the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). The rear wall (114) of the container body (110) may extend approximately upward from the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). The rear wall (114) of the container body (110) may be located on the opposite side of the front wall (113). The rear wall (114) and the front wall (113) of the container body (110) may face each other in the front-rear direction.

[0130] A pair of side walls (112) of the container body (110) may extend from the left and right sides, respectively, of the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). A pair of side walls (112) of the container body (110) may extend approximately upward from the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). Each of the pair of side walls (112) of the container body may connect the front wall (113) and the rear wall (114). Each of the pair of side walls (112) of the container body may face each other in the left-right direction (Y). According to one embodiment, a handle (112a) may be provided on each of the pair of side walls (112) of the container body (110). The handle (112a) may be provided approximately adjacent to the top of the side wall (112) of the container body (110).

[0131] The container body (110) may include an opening on the upper side. The upper opening of the container body (110) may face the bottom surface (111). By providing an opening on the upper side of the container body (110), the receiving space (110a) may be opened upward.

[0132] The container body (110) may be positioned below the ice-making device (80). With the ice bucket (100) located within the second storage chamber (22), the container body (110) may be positioned below the ice-making device (80) in the vertical direction (Z). To prevent ice discharged from the ice-making device (80) from falling into a place other than the receiving space (110a), preferably, with the ice bucket (100) located within the second storage chamber (22), the container body (110) may be positioned so that the receiving space (110a) is located below the ice-making device (80) in the vertical direction (Z). For example, a receiving space (110a) of the container body (110) is positioned in the lower area in the vertical direction (Z) of the ice tray (82), which may be an area located between the front wall (113) and the rear wall (114) of the container body (110), or an area located between a pair of side walls (112) of the container body (110). Thus, ice discharged vertically downward from the ice tray (82) can be received in the receiving space (110a), and the ice can be prevented from falling out of the receiving space (110a). In particular, the lower area in the vertical direction (Z) of the ice tray (82) can be positioned behind the front wall (113) of the container body (110), thereby effectively preventing the ice from flowing into the scoop holder (120) described later or coming into contact with the ice scoop (200) mounted thereon.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the ice bucket (100) may include a scoop holder (120) provided to accommodate an ice scoop (200). The ice scoop (200) may be mounted on the scoop holder (120) or detached from the scoop holder (120) as needed. For example, normally, the ice scoop (200) may be stored in the second storage chamber (22) by being mounted on the scoop holder (120), and when the user wishes to take out ice from the receiving space (110a) using the ice scoop (200), the user may detach the ice scoop (200) from the scoop holder (120) and then scoop the ice with the ice scoop (200).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the scoop holder (120) may include a mounting hole (120a) for mounting an ice scoop (200). The mounting hole (120a) may be provided so that the ice scoop (200) can pass through it. The ice scoop (200) may be mounted on the scoop holder (120) by passing through the mounting hole (120a). For example, the mounting hole (120a) may be provided in the holder base (121) described later. For example, the mounting hole (120a) may have a shape through which the holder base (121) described later passes in an approximately vertical direction (Z). A more detailed description of the mounting hole (120a) will be provided later.

[0135] In an embodiment in which the ice bucket (100) includes both a container body (110) for holding ice and a scoop holder (120) for holding an ice scoop (200), if the space where the ice scoop (200) is placed is not separated from the receiving space (110a) where ice is stored, there is a concern that the area where ice can be stored within the receiving space (110a) may be somewhat narrowed by the ice scoop (200). Additionally, since the ice scoop (200) is generally held and used by the user, if the space where the ice scoop (200) is placed is not separated from the receiving space (110a) where ice is stored, there is a concern that ice may come into contact with the ice scoop (200), which is undesirable for hygiene.

[0136] Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder (120) may be separated from the receiving space (110a). The scoop holder (120) may be positioned outside the receiving space (110a). For example, the scoop holder (120) may be positioned in front of the container body (110) and the receiving space (110a). For example, the scoop holder (120) may be positioned closer to the opening of the second storage chamber (22) than the container body (110) and the receiving space (110a).

[0137] The aforementioned mounting hole (120a) may be separated from the receiving space (110a). The mounting hole (120a) may be positioned outside the receiving space (110a). The mounting hole (120a) may be positioned forward of the container body (110) and its receiving space (110a). The mounting hole (120a) may be positioned closer to the opening of the second storage room (22) than to the container body (110) and its receiving space (110a).

[0138] The scoop holder (120) can be connected to the container body (110). The scoop holder (120) can be connected to one side of the container body (110). The scoop holder (120) can be connected to the container body (110) but can extend from one side of the container body (110) in a direction opposite to the receiving space (110a) so as to be positioned outside the receiving space (110a). For example, the scoop holder (120) can be connected to the front part of the container body (110). For example, the scoop holder (120) can extend forward from the front part of the container body (110).

[0139] For example, the scoop holder (120) may extend from the front wall (113) of the container body (110) in a direction opposite to the receiving space (110a). For example, the scoop holder (120) may extend forward from the front wall (113) of the container body (110). The scoop holder (120) may be positioned further forward than the front wall (113) of the container body (110).

[0140] In order to effectively prevent ice contained in the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110) from overflowing and passing over to the scoop holder (120), the scoop holder (120) may be positioned above at least the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110), and preferably, the scoop holder (120) may have a height greater than the height of the receiving space (110a). For example, the scoop holder (120) may extend from the top of the front wall (113) of the container body (110) in a direction opposite to the receiving space (110a) (e.g., forward). For example, the holder base (121) of the scoop holder (120), described later, may extend from the top of the front wall (113) in a direction opposite to the receiving space (110a) (e.g., forward).

[0141] As such, according to one embodiment, the scoop holder (120) and the receiving space (110a) may be partitioned by the front wall (113) of the container body (110). The front wall (113) of the container body (110) may be referred to by terms such as "separating wall (113)". The separating wall (113) may extend from the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110) toward one side (e.g., rear side) of the scoop holder (120) connected to one side (e.g., front side) of the container body (110) so as to partition the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110) and the scoop holder (120).

[0142] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the scoop holder (120) may be positioned above the ice level (h1). The height of the scoop holder (120), for example, the height (h2) of the holder base (121) described later, may be greater than the ice level (h1) in the receiving space (110a). The top of the front wall (113) may be higher than the ice level (h1). This prevents ice within the receiving space (110a) from overflowing toward the scoop holder (120), and allows the scoop holder (120) and the receiving space (110a) to be separated more efficiently.

[0143] Hereinafter, the structure and function of a scoop holder (120) according to one embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 13.

[0144] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the separation of an ice bucket and an ice scoop of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the separation of an ice bucket and an ice scoop of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a top view illustrating the ice bucket of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the ice bucket of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the ice scoop mounted on the scoop holder of the ice bucket included in the refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the ice bucket included in the refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being lifted from a drawer. FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the ice bucket included in the refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being lifted from a drawer.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 13, an ice bucket (100) of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a scoop holder (120) provided to accommodate an ice scoop (200).

[0146] The scoop holder (120) may include a holder base (121). The holder base (121) may serve as a base on which an ice scoop (200) is mounted. The holder base (121) may support the ice scoop (200). A mounting hole (120a) may be formed in the holder base (121). The ice scoop (200) may be supported by the holder base (121) by passing through the mounting hole (120a).

[0147] The holder base (121) may be connected to the container body (110). The holder base (121) may be connected to the container body (110) but positioned outside the receiving space (110a). The holder base (121) may extend from the container body (110) to the outside of the receiving space (110a). For example, the holder base (121) may be positioned in front of the receiving space (110a). For example, the holder base (121) may be positioned in front of the front wall (113) of the container body (110). For example, the holder base (121) may be connected to the front wall (113) of the container body (110). For example, the holder base (121) may extend from the front wall (113) of the container body (110) in a direction opposite to the receiving space (110a). For example, the holder base (121) can be extended forward from the front wall (113) of the container body (110).

[0148] The holder base (121) may be positioned above the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110). The height of the holder base (121) may be greater than the height of the receiving space (110a). The holder base (121) may be connected to the top of the front wall (113). The holder base (121) may extend from the top of the front wall (113) in a direction opposite to the receiving space (110a) (e.g., forward).

[0149] The scoop holder (120) may include side walls (122). For example, the side walls (122) of the scoop holder (120) may be provided in pairs. The pair of side walls (122) of the scoop holder (120) may each form the left side and the right side of the scoop holder (120). The pair of side walls (122) of the scoop holder (120) may face each other in the left-right direction (Y). The side walls (122) of the scoop holder (120) may extend from the holder base (121). For example, the side walls (122) of the scoop holder (120) may extend approximately upward from the holder base (121).

[0150] The side wall (122) of the scoop holder (120) can be connected to the container body (110). For example, the side wall (122) of the scoop holder (120) can be connected to the side wall (112) of the container body (110). For example, the side wall (122) of the scoop holder (120) can extend forward from the side wall (112) of the container body (110).

[0151] The scoop holder (120) may include a front wall (123). The front wall (123) of the scoop holder (120) may form the front surface of the scoop holder (120). The front wall (123) of the scoop holder (120) may extend from the holder base (121). For example, the front wall (123) of the scoop holder (120) may extend approximately upward from the holder base (121). For example, the front wall (123) of the scoop holder (120) may connect a pair of side walls (122) of the scoop holder (120).

[0152] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder (120) and the container body (110) may be formed integrally. For example, an ice bucket (100) including the scoop holder (120) and the container body (110) may be formed integrally. For example, the scoop holder (120) and the container body (110) may be formed integrally by injection molding.

[0153] If we assume an embodiment in which the scoop holder (120) and the container body (110) are not formed integrally but are formed as separate parts so that the scoop holder (120) is assembled to the container body (110), the burden of manufacturing costs, such as material costs, may be high because separate parts must be designed, manufactured, and assembled. Additionally, problems may arise during the process of assembling the scoop holder (120) to the container body (110), such as assembling the scoop holder (120) to an incorrect position, such as the rear part of the container body (110), or assembling it incorrectly to a position that interferes with other parts, such as the ice detection device (84).

[0154] However, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder (120) and the container body (110) are formed integrally, so the manufacturing cost of the product can be reduced and problems such as the scoop holder (120) being incorrectly assembled to the container body (110) can be prevented.

[0155] For example, the holder base (121) of the scoop holder (120) may be formed integrally with the front wall (113) of the container body (110). For example, the side wall (122) of the scoop holder (120) may be formed integrally with the side wall (112) of the container body (110).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the ice scoop (200) may include a scoop head (210) formed concavely to hold ice. The scoop head (210) may include a concave surface (211) formed concavely to hold ice. For example, the concave surface (211) may be formed in a plurality of interconnected flat or curved shapes. A scoop space (210a) in which ice can be held may be formed inside the concave surface (211). The scoop head (210) may include a convex surface (212) provided on the side opposite to the concave surface (211).

[0157] The ice scoop (200) may include a scoop handle (220) connected to a scoop head (210). The scoop handle (220) may be provided so that a user can grip it.

[0158] As described above, the ice scoop (200) can be mounted on the scoop holder (120) by passing through the mounting hole (120a). For example, when the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), the mounting hole (120a) can be penetrated by the scoop head (210). When the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), the scoop head (210) can come into contact with the edge of the mounting hole (120a). When the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), the scoop head (210) can be supported by coming into contact with the support surface (124) to be described later.

[0159] When the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), the ice scoop (200) can be positioned so that the scoop head (210) faces downward and the scoop handle (220) faces upward. That is, when the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), the scoop head (210) can be positioned below the scoop handle (220). As the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120) in this manner, the convenience of the user in mounting the ice scoop (200) on the scoop holder (120) or removing it from the scoop holder (120) can be improved.

[0160] According to one embodiment, when the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), that is, when the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a), the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200) may face the side opposite to the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110). When the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a), the ice scoop (200) may be positioned so that the scoop space (210a), which is formed to hold ice, faces the side opposite to the receiving space (110a). For example, when the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a), the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200) may face forward. When the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a), the convex surface (212) of the ice scoop (200) may be positioned in a direction (e.g., rearward) toward the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110).

[0161] As such, when the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a), the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200) faces the side opposite to the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110), as shown in FIG. 12, the user can reach their hand into the scoop space (210a) of the ice scoop (200) and the mounting hole (120a) of the scoop holder (120) from the front of the ice bucket (100). That is, the scoop space (210a) of the ice scoop (200) and the mounting hole (120a) of the scoop holder (120) can provide a gripping space, and when the user wants to separate the ice bucket (100) from the container body (110), the user can grasp the scoop holder (120) with their hand through the scoop space (210a) and the mounting hole (120a). That is, the scoop holder (120) can be used as a handle formed on the front part of the ice bucket (100).

[0162] Furthermore, as the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200) faces the side opposite to the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110) when the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a), hygiene can be improved by preventing the user's hand or other body part from coming into contact with the ice scoop (200) when the user holds the scoop holder (120).

[0163] In order to secure a gripping space through the scoop space (210a) and the mounting hole (120a), the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200) may be spaced apart from the edge of the mounting hole (120a). The concave surface (211) may not be directly supported by a structure of the scoop holder (120), such as a holder base (121).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the scoop holder (120) may include a support surface (124) provided to support an ice scoop (200). The support surface (124) may be provided at the edge of the mounting hole (120a). For example, the support surface (124) may support a scoop head (210) that passes through the mounting hole (120a). The support surface (124) may be connected to a holder base (121), and, for example, the support surface (124) may extend downward from the edge of the mounting hole (120a).

[0165] The support surface (124) may be provided to support other parts of the ice scoop (200) without being spaced apart from and not in contact with the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200).

[0166] For example, the support surface (124) of the scoop holder (120) may include a first support surface (125, 126, 127) provided to support the convex surface (212) of the ice scoop (200). The first support surface (125, 126, 127) may support the ice scoop (200) by contacting the convex surface (212) when the ice scoop (200) passes through the mounting hole (120a). To support the convex surface (212), the first support surface (125, 126, 127) may be provided along the side edge adjacent to the receiving space (110a) of the mounting hole (120a). For example, the first support surface (125, 126, 127) may extend downward from the side edge adjacent to the receiving space (110a) of the mounting hole (120a). For example, the first support surface (125, 126, 127) may be provided along the rear edge of the mounting hole (120a).

[0167] As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the first support surface (125, 126, 127) may include a rear portion (125) provided to support the central portion of the convex surface (212) and side portions (126, 127) provided to support both sides extending from the central portion of the convex surface (212). The side portions (126, 127) of the first support surface may each extend approximately forward from the rear portion (125). For example, the side portions (126, 127) of the first support surface may each extend such that the distance between them increases as they move forward from the rear portion (125). For example, the side portions (126, 127) of the first support surface may each extend such that the distance to the side wall (122) of the scoop holder (120) decreases as they move forward from the rear portion (125). However, the shape of the first support surface (125, 126, 127) is not limited thereto, and the first support surface (125, 126, 127) may have various shapes depending on the shape of the convex surface (212) of the ice scoop (200).

[0168] For example, the first support surface (125, 126, 127) may be inclined with respect to the vertical direction (Z) so that the width of the mounting hole (120a) becomes narrower as it faces downward. The rear portion (125) of the first support surface may be extended at an angle with respect to the vertical direction (Z) so that it faces forward as it faces downward. The side portions (126, 127) of the first support surface may be extended at an angle with respect to the vertical direction (Z) so that the distance between them becomes closer as it faces downward.

[0169] The support surface (124) of the scoop holder (120) may further include a second support surface (128) provided to support the ice scoop (200) on the side opposite to the receiving space (110a). For example, the second support surface (128) may be provided to support the boundary portion between the concave surface (211) and the convex surface (212) of the ice scoop (200). The second support surface (128) may be positioned in front of the first support surface (125, 126, 127). When the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120), the rear of the scoop head (210) may be supported by the first support surface (125, 126, 127), and the front may be supported by the second support surface (128). For example, the second support surface (128) may extend from the side (126, 127) of the first support surface.

[0170] The scoop holder (120) may include a guide projection (129) provided on the edge of the mounting hole (120a). For example, the guide projection (129) may be provided on the front edge of the mounting hole (120a). For example, the guide projection (129) may protrude from the second support surface (128). For example, the guide projection (129) may protrude from the second support surface (128) in a direction approaching the receiving space (110a) of the container body (110). For example, the guide projection (129) may protrude from the second support surface (128) toward the rear. The guide projection (129) may face the concave surface (211) of the ice scoop (200).

[0171] As a guide projection (129) is formed on the edge of the mounting hole (120a) in this manner, the shape of the mounting hole (120a) may be approximately similar to the shape of the cross-section of the scoop head (210) (the cross-section obtained by cutting the scoop head (210) along the horizontal plane (XY plane) when the ice scoop (200) is mounted on the scoop holder (120). Due to this shape of the mounting hole (120a), the user can intuitively recognize that the concave surface (211) should face forward when mounting the ice scoop (200) on the scoop holder (120), and can guide the ice scoop (200) not to be mounted on the scoop holder (120) in the opposite direction.

[0172] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 12, when a user holds the ice bucket (100) with their hand through the scoop space (210a) and the mounting hole (120a), a guide projection (129) provided on the edge of the mounting hole (120a) can function as a gripping part.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the bottom of the scoop holder (120) may be positioned above the bottom of the container body (110). For example, the scoop holder (120) may extend forward from approximately the top of the container body (110). Thus, other structures of the ice bucket (100) may not be formed below the scoop holder (120) and in front of the container body (110). In other words, other structures of the ice bucket (100) may not be formed in the lower region of the scoop holder (120) (see region S in FIG. 13), which may be an empty region where no structures other than the ice scoop (200) are placed.

[0174] In this way, when no other structure is formed in the lower region (S) of the scoop holder (120), the lower end of the scoop holder (120) is almost parallel to the lower end of the container body (110), and when the ice bucket (100) is withdrawn from the first drawer (51) as shown in FIG. 13, the angle (a) at which the ice bucket (100) is tilted can be reduced in order to prevent interference between the ice bucket (100) and the first drawer (51) (in FIG. 13, the angle (a) at which the ice bucket (100) is tilted is defined as the angle at which the bottom surface (111) of the container body (110) is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction).

[0175] If the scoop holder (120) extends to the lower area (S), it is expected that the ice bucket (100) must be tilted at a larger angle so that the ice bucket (100) does not interfere with the first drawer (51). In this case, not only is it inconvenient for the user to retrieve the ice bucket (100), but if there is ice remaining in the receiving space (110a), the problem of the ice spilling out may occur as the ice bucket (100) is tilted excessively.

[0176] However, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the bottom of the scoop holder (120) is positioned above the bottom of the container body (110), thereby leaving the lower region (S) of the scoop holder (120) empty, so that the angle (a) at which the ice bucket (100) is tilted to be drawn out from the first drawer (51) without interference can be reduced.

[0177] In the above description, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a French door type, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various embodiments of the present disclosure may include various types of refrigerators, such as a BMF (Bottom Mounted Freezer) type in which a refrigerator compartment is arranged on the upper side and a freezer compartment is arranged on the lower side, a TMF (Top Mounted Freezer) type in which a freezer compartment is arranged on the upper side and a refrigerator compartment is arranged on the lower side, and a side-by-side type in which a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment are arranged side by side.

[0178] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above based on an embodiment in which an ice-making device (80) and an ice bucket (100) are mounted on a main body (10), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the ice-making device (80) and the ice bucket (100) may be mounted on a door (30), and the directions of the ice-making device (80) or the ice bucket (100) described above, such as upward, downward, forward, rear, left, and right, may be defined based on the state in which the ice-making device (80) and the ice bucket (100) are mounted on the door (30), rather than based on the main body (10).

[0179] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice-making device configured to generate ice and discharge ice, and an ice bucket configured to receive ice and disposed below the ice-making device. The ice bucket may include a container body comprising a receiving space configured to receive ice, and a scoop holder connected to one side of the container body, wherein the scoop holder is located outside the receiving space and includes a mounting hole configured to pass through the mounting hole so that an ice scoop is mounted outside the receiving space.

[0180] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder may extend from one side of the container body in a direction opposite to the receiving space.

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the container body and the scoop holder may be formed integrally.

[0182] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder may be positioned above the bottom surface of the container body.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the container body further includes a separating wall on one side of the container body, and the separating wall may extend from the bottom surface of the container body to one side of the scoop holder connected to the one side of the container body.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder may extend from the top of the separating wall in a direction opposite to the receiving space.

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ice making device may be configured to discharge ice into the receiving space until the ice stored in the receiving space reaches a predetermined full ice height. The scoop holder may be positioned above the predetermined full ice height.

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mounting hole may be configured such that when the ice scoop is mounted in the mounting hole, the concave surface of the ice scoop configured to receive ice faces the side opposite to the receiving space.

[0187] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the concave surface may be spaced apart from the front edge of the mounting hole facing the side opposite to the receiving space.

[0188] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder may include a support surface configured to support a convex surface opposite to the concave surface of the ice scoop.

[0189] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support surface may be provided along the side edge adjacent to the receiving space of the mounting hole.

[0190] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support surface may be inclined with respect to the vertical direction such that the width of the mounting hole becomes narrower as it faces downward.

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the lower end of the scoop holder may be positioned above the lower end of the container body.

[0192] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ice scoop may include a scoop head formed concavely to hold ice, and a scoop handle connected to the scoop head. When the ice scoop is mounted on the scoop holder, the scoop head may pass through the mounting hole.

[0193] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the ice scoop is mounted on the scoop holder, the scoop head may be located below the scoop handle.

[0194] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body including a storage compartment, an ice-making device disposed in the storage compartment, a drawer disposed in the storage compartment and configured to be pulled out forward relative to the main body, and an ice bucket disposed inside the drawer. The ice bucket may include a container body disposed below the ice-making device and comprising a receiving space configured to receive ice discharged from the ice-making device. Additionally, the ice bucket may include a scoop holder configured to accommodate an ice scoop. The scoop holder may be disposed in front of the receiving space and may include a mounting hole configured to allow the ice scoop to pass through and be mounted.

[0195] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the container body and the scoop holder may be formed integrally.

[0196] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the container body may further include a separating wall extending upward from the bottom surface of the container body. The scoop holder may extend forward from the top of the separating wall.

[0197] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ice scoop may include a concave surface formed to hold ice. When the ice scoop passes through the mounting hole, the concave surface may face forward.

[0198] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an ice-making device, an ice bucket configured to receive ice, and an ice scoop configured to scoop ice. The ice bucket may include a container body having a receiving space provided to receive ice discharged downward from the ice-making device, and a scoop holder that is spaced apart from the receiving space and provided to allow the ice scoop to pass through and be mounted, is positioned above the bottom surface of the container body, and is formed integrally with the container body.

[0199] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an ice bucket is provided with a scoop holder including a mounting hole through which an ice scoop is inserted and mounted, so that the ice scoop can be stably mounted.

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the receiving space for ice in an ice bucket and the mounting hole for an ice scoop are provided to be separated from each other, thereby allowing the ice receiving space to be larger and preventing the ice scoop from coming into contact with the stored ice, thereby improving hygiene issues.

[0201] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an ice bucket is integrally formed with a scoop holder on which an ice scoop is mounted and a container body that receives ice, so that the manufacturing cost for forming a structure for mounting an ice scoop can be reduced.

[0202] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the scoop holder and the container body are formed integrally, the process of assembling a separate part for mounting the ice scoop into the ice bucket is omitted, thereby preventing the problem of the part being incorrectly assembled and preventing the problem of the part being incorrectly assembled and interfering with other parts, such as a full ice detection device, which could cause functional failure.

[0203] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a mounting hole is formed in the scoop holder, and the ice scoop is positioned so that when it passes through the mounting hole, its concave surface faces the side opposite to the ice receiving space, so that the space between the mounting hole and the concave surface of the ice scoop can be utilized as a handle of the ice bucket.

[0204] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the scoop holder extends from the upper part of the container body and there is no other structure on the lower side of the scoop holder, so that when withdrawing the ice bucket from the drawer, the ice bucket can be easily withdrawn without interfering with the drawer even if the ice bucket is tilted at a relatively small angle.

[0205] The effects according to the concept of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0206] Specific embodiments have been illustrated and described above. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art may make various modifications without departing from the essence of the technical concept of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. An ice-making device configured to generate ice and discharge ice; and It includes an ice bucket configured to accommodate ice and positioned below the ice-making device; The above ice bucket is, A container body including a receiving space configured to accommodate ice; and A refrigerator comprising: a scoop holder connected to one side of the container body, wherein the scoop holder is located outside the receiving space and includes a mounting hole configured to pass through the mounting hole so that an ice scoop is mounted outside the receiving space.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above scoop holder is a refrigerator that extends from one side of the container body in a direction opposite to the receiving space.

3. In Paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned container body and the above-mentioned scoop holder are formed integrally.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above scoop holder is a refrigerator positioned above the bottom surface of the container body.

5. In Paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the container body further includes a separating wall on one side of the container body, and the separating wall extends from the bottom surface of the container body to one side of the scoop holder connected to the one side of the container body.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above scoop holder is a refrigerator extending from the top of the dividing wall in a direction opposite to the receiving space.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above ice-making device is configured to discharge ice into the receiving space until the ice stored in the receiving space reaches a predetermined full ice height, and The above scoop holder is a refrigerator positioned above the above-determined ice height.

8. In Paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the concave surface of the ice scoop, configured to receive ice when the ice scoop is placed in the mounting hole, faces the side opposite to the receiving space.

9. In Paragraph 8, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned concave surface is spaced apart from the front edge of the mounting hole facing the side opposite to the above-mentioned receiving space.

10. In Paragraph 8, A refrigerator comprising a scoop holder configured to support a convex surface opposite to the concave surface of the ice scoop.

11. In Paragraph 10, A refrigerator in which the support surface is provided along the side edge adjacent to the receiving space of the mounting hole.

12. In Paragraph 10, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned support surface is inclined with respect to the vertical direction such that the width of the mounting hole narrows as it faces downward.

13. In Paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the bottom of the scoop holder is positioned above the bottom of the container body.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above ice scoop is, A scoop head formed concavely to hold ice; and It includes a scoop handle connected to the scoop head; and A refrigerator in which the scoop head penetrates the mounting hole when the ice scoop is mounted on the scoop holder.

15. In Paragraph 14, A refrigerator in which the scoop head is located below the scoop handle when the ice scoop is mounted on the scoop holder.

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