Refrigerator and controlling method for refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body for forming storage compartments; an ice-making device for making ice; a water supply device which is disposed in the storage compartment and which performs a water supply operation for supplying water to the ice-making device; a cooling device for supplying cold air to the storage compartments; a heater for heating the water supply device; a memory for storing a set temperature related to an operating condition of the cooling device; and a processor for operating the heater and increasing, to a second temperature, the set temperature set to a first temperature, on the basis that the supply of the water to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device performs the water supply operation.

Description

Refrigerator and refrigerator control method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator comprising an ice-making device and a water supply device for supplying water to the ice-making device, and a method for controlling the refrigerator.

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a device that cools and stores food using a cooling unit consisting of a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator, and such a refrigerator may be equipped with an ice-making device that generates ice and an automatic water supply device that supplies water to the user.

[0003] In addition, the refrigerator may be equipped with a water supply device for supplying water received from an external water source to an ice-making device and an automatic water supply device.

[0004] The water supply unit may freeze due to various causes. For example, if the water supply unit is placed in a storage room and the temperature of the storage room becomes excessively low, the water supply unit may freeze. As a result, the water supply operation from the water supply unit to the de-icing unit and the automatic water supply unit may not be performed normally.

[0005] The disclosed invention can provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the refrigerator that can drive a heater for heating a water supply device in order to normally perform the water supply operation of the water supply device.

[0006] The disclosed invention can provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the refrigerator that can adjust the set temperature of the storage room to normally perform the water supply operation of the water supply device.

[0007] 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.

[0008] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include: a main body forming a storage compartment; an ice-making device configured to generate ice; a water supply device disposed in the storage compartment and performing a water supply operation to supply water to the ice-making device; a cooling device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment; a heater configured to heat the water supply device; a memory storing a set temperature related to the operating conditions of the cooling device; and a processor that drives the heater and raises the set temperature, which is set to a first temperature, to a second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation.

[0009] In addition, the processor can raise the set temperature only up to a predetermined maximum temperature.

[0010] Additionally, the processor may raise the set temperature to a third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the second temperature.

[0011] The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature may be different from the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0012] In addition, the processor can determine the second temperature based on the ambient temperature.

[0013] Additionally, the processor may raise the set temperature to a fourth temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the third temperature.

[0014] In addition, the processor can supply a predetermined maximum power to the heater based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation.

[0015] Additionally, the processor may drive the heater and raise the set temperature to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device performs the water supply operation a predetermined number of times.

[0016] The refrigerator further includes an ice bucket that receives ice generated by the ice-making device; and the processor can control the water supply device to perform the water supply operation based on satisfying the condition of being less than full of ice in the ice bucket.

[0017] Additionally, the processor can restore the set temperature to the first temperature based on the detection of water supply to the ice-making device after raising the set temperature.

[0018] A control method for a refrigerator according to one embodiment comprises: a main body forming a storage compartment; an ice-making device configured to generate ice; a water supply device disposed in the storage compartment and performing a water supply operation to supply water to the ice-making device; a cooling device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment; and a heater configured to heat the water supply device. Based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation, the method may include driving the heater and raising a set temperature related to the driving conditions of the cooling device from a first temperature to a second temperature.

[0019] In addition, the control method of the refrigerator may further include raising the set temperature only up to a predetermined maximum temperature.

[0020] Additionally, the control method of the refrigerator may further include raising the set temperature to a third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the second temperature.

[0021] The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature may be different from the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0022] In addition, the control method of the refrigerator may further include determining the second temperature based on the ambient temperature.

[0023] Additionally, the control method of the refrigerator may further include raising the set temperature to a fourth temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the third temperature.

[0024] Driving the heater may include supplying a predetermined maximum power to the heater based on the fact that the supply of water to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation.

[0025] Driving the heater and raising the set temperature to the second temperature may include driving the heater and raising the set temperature to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device performs the water supply operation a predetermined number of times.

[0026] The refrigerator further includes an ice bucket that receives ice generated by the ice-making device; and the control method of the refrigerator may further include controlling the water supply device to perform the water supply operation based on satisfying the condition of being less than full of ice in the ice bucket.

[0027] Additionally, the control method of the refrigerator may further include restoring the set temperature to the first temperature based on the detection of water supply to the ice-making device after raising the set temperature.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, the ice-making function of an ice-making device can be maintained by driving a heater that heats the water supply device and adjusting the set temperature of the storage room so that the water supply operation of the water supply device is performed normally.

[0029] According to the present disclosure, by limiting the temperature of the storage room so as not to rise excessively, the water supply operation of the water supply device can be normalized, and at the same time, the appropriate storage temperature of the food inside the storage room can be maintained.

[0030] The effects intended to be achieved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 is a drawing showing the refrigerator door of Figure 1 in an open state.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the inner chamber, the water supply device, the ice making unit, and the water supply path arranged in the inner chamber of the refrigerator of FIG. 1.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating various configurations of a water supply device according to one embodiment.

[0035] Figure 5 is a disassembled drawing of the water supply device of Figure 4.

[0036] Fig. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the ice-making unit portion of Fig. 3.

[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of an ice-making device constituting the ice-making unit of FIG. 6.

[0038] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of an ice-making device constituting the ice-making unit of FIG. 6.

[0039] FIG. 9 illustrates various configurations of the ice-making device shown in FIG. 8.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0043] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0044] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0045] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] In this document, 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.

[0047] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0048] 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).

[0049] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0050] 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 document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] Hereinafter, refrigerators according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0054] The terms "front," "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.

[0055] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction as the first direction. The Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction as the second direction. The Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction as the third direction.

[0056] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0057] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0058] Figure 2 is a drawing showing the refrigerator door of Figure 1 in an open state.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the inner chamber, the water supply device, the ice making unit, and the water supply path arranged in the inner chamber of the refrigerator of FIG. 1.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a main body (10), a plurality of storage rooms (21, 22, 23) provided inside the main body (10), a plurality of doors (31, 32, 33, 34) for opening and closing the plurality of storage rooms (21, 22, 23), a user interface (510) provided on at least one door (31, 32, 33, 34), and a cooling device (520) for supplying cold air to the plurality of storage rooms (21, 22, 23).

[0061] A refrigerator (1) means a device capable of storing items at a low temperature. More specifically, a refrigerator (1) means a device capable of maintaining the temperature of a storage room (21, 22, 23) at a level below that desired by the user by repeating the evaporation and compression of a refrigerant so as to store items at a low temperature.

[0062] The main body (10) may include an inner body (11) forming a storage room (21, 22, 23), an outer body (12) formed by being coupled to the outer side of the inner body (11) to form an outer body, and an insulating material (not shown) provided between the inner body (11) and the outer body (12) to insulate the storage room (21, 22, 23).

[0063] Multiple storage rooms (21, 22, 23) can be divided into multiple rooms by a horizontal partition (15) and a vertical partition (16). Multiple storage rooms (21, 22, 23) can be divided by the horizontal partition (15) into an upper storage room, a first storage room (21), a lower storage room, a second storage room (22), and a third storage room (23), and the lower storage room can be divided by the vertical partition (16) into a second storage room (22) and a third storage room (23).

[0064] The upper storage room, which is the first storage room (21), can be used as a refrigerator. The lower storage rooms, which are the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23), can be used as a freezer. However, the division of multiple storage rooms (21, 22, 23) as described above is merely one example and is not limited thereto.

[0065] In the following, the upper storage room, the first storage room (21), is referred to as the refrigerator room, and the lower storage rooms, the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23), are referred to as the freezer room.

[0066] The refrigerator compartment is maintained at a temperature above freezing to refrigerate food, and the freezer compartment is maintained at a temperature below freezing to freeze food.

[0067] In addition, unlike the present embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may be an SBS (SIDE BY SIDE) type in which the storage compartment is divided into left and right by a vertical partition (16), or an FDR (FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATOR) type in which the storage compartment is divided into an upper refrigerator compartment and a lower freezer compartment by a horizontal partition (15).

[0068] A shelf (26) for placing food and a storage container (27) for storing food may be provided inside the multiple storage rooms (21, 22, 23).

[0069] The storage container (27) can form a storage place where the temperature can be adjusted according to the characteristics of various foods. For example, the temperature inside the storage container (27) can be set according to the type of food stored inside the storage container (27). Specifically, if the user intends to store fish inside the storage container (27), the user can set the temperature of the storage container (27) to 0°C. Also, if the user intends to store fruit inside the storage container (27), the user can set the temperature of the storage container (27) to 2°C.

[0070] The cooling device (520) can generate cold air by using a cooling circulation cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant, and can supply the generated cold air to a plurality of storage rooms (21, 22, 23). To this end, the cooling device (520) may include a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator.

[0071] According to various embodiments, the cooling device (520) may be provided in at least one of the plurality of storage rooms (21, 22, 23). For example, the cooling device (520) may be provided only in the refrigerator room (21), only in the freezer room (22, 23), or in each of the refrigerator room (21) and the freezer room (22, 23).

[0072] Accordingly, the cooling device (520) can cool at least one storage room (21, 22, 23).

[0073] A refrigerator temperature sensor (302) may be provided in the refrigerator room (21). The refrigerator temperature sensor (302) can detect the temperature inside the refrigerator room (21).

[0074] The refrigerator compartment (21) can be opened and closed by a pair of doors. A pair of doors can be rotatably coupled to the main body (10). A pair of doors may include a first door (31) and a second door (32).

[0075] The first door (31) of the pair of doors may be provided with a filler (43) that prevents cold air from leaking between the pair of doors when the pair of doors are closed.

[0076] The second storage room (22), which is the left freezer, can be opened and closed by the third door (33), and the third door (33) can be rotatably connected to the main body (10).

[0077] The third storage room (23), which is the right freezer, can be opened and closed by the fourth door (34), and the fourth door (34) can be rotatably connected to the main body (10).

[0078] A plurality of doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may include door baskets (39, 40) having door storage spaces for storing food. A gasket that adheres to the front of the main body may be provided on the back of the plurality of doors (31, 32, 33, 34) to seal a plurality of storage chambers (21, 22, 23).

[0079] At least one of the plurality of doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may be configured as a double door having an inner door (35) and an outer door (36). For example, the first door (31) may include an inner door (35) and an outer door (36).

[0080] The inner door (35) can be rotatably connected to the main body (10) via a hinge. The inner door (35) may have an inner door space. The inner door space may be formed in the central part excluding the edge portion of the inner door (35). The inner door space may be formed to extend between the front and back sides of the inner door (35). Thus, when the inner door (35) is closed, the inner door space may be connected to the refrigerator room (21).

[0081] A door basket (39, 40) can be installed in the interior space of the door.

[0082] A dispenser (not shown) may be provided in the interior space of the door. Additionally, an automatic water supply device may be provided in the interior space of the door, including a water tank mounting space (72) in which a water tank can be mounted and a water level sensor (not shown) that detects the water level of the water tank when a water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space (72).

[0083] When the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space (72) through the automatic water supply device, a predetermined amount of water can be filled into the water tank. That is, the automatic water supply device can perform an auto-fill function.

[0084] A water supply device (50) may be placed in at least one storage room (21, 22, 23).

[0085] The water supply device (50) may be provided to purify and store water supplied from an external water source (not shown).

[0086] The water supply device (50) may be placed on one side of the refrigerator room (21). For example, the water supply device (50) may be placed between a pair of storage containers (27) arranged side by side in the refrigerator room (21). However, the location of the water supply device (50) is not limited thereto. The water supply device (50) may be placed at an appropriate location inside the refrigerator room (21).

[0087] An ice-making unit (1000) may be placed in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator (1). The ice-making unit (1000) can generate ice using the cold air of the freezer compartment. The ice-making unit (1000) may be provided inside the storage compartment.

[0088] For example, the ice-making unit (1000) may be placed in the second storage room (22), which is the left freezer. More specifically, the ice-making unit (1000) may be placed in the upper left corner of the left freezer. However, the installation location of the ice-making unit (1000) is not limited to this, and the ice-making unit (1000) may also be placed in the third storage room (23), which is the right freezer. Additionally, the ice-making unit (1000) may also be placed in the refrigerator room (21).

[0089] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making unit (1000) may include at least one ice-making device.

[0090] For example, the ice-making unit (1000) may include a pair of ice-making devices (200, 400). The pair of ice-making devices (200, 400) may include a first ice-making device (200) and a second ice-making device (400). The first ice-making device (200) and the second ice-making device (400) may be arranged side by side.

[0091] However, in one embodiment, the ice-making unit (1000) may include only one of the first ice-making device (200) or the second ice-making device (400).

[0092] When the ice-making unit (1000) includes a plurality of ice-making devices, for example, when the ice-making unit (1000) includes a first ice-making device (200) and a second ice-making device (400), the first ice-making device (200) and the second ice-making device (400) may be configured to produce ice of different forms. Accordingly, the user can select the desired form of ice from either the first ice-making device (200) or the second ice-making device (400).

[0093] Additionally, as the ice-making device (200, 400) is provided in multiple quantities, the amount of ice produced by the ice-making unit (1000) can be increased. The user can take out a relatively sufficient amount of ice instead of a refrigerator (1) with only one ice-making device.

[0094] The water supply device (50) can supply water to the ice-making unit (1000). For example, the water supply device (50) can supply water to the ice-making tray (170 and 270, 410, see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) of at least one ice-making device (200, 400) included in the ice-making unit (1000).

[0095] The water supply device (50) may include a first connecting hose (51) that connects water supplied from an external water source to a first ice-making device (200). Additionally, the water supply device (50) may include a second connecting hose (52) that connects water supplied from an external water source to a second ice-making device (400).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the water supply device (50) may include a first water supply device (53) that supplies water to a first ice-making device (200) and a second water supply device (54) that supplies water to a second ice-making device (400).

[0097] The first water supply device (53) may include a first water supply valve (51a) that opens and closes the first connecting hose (51). The first water supply valve (51a) can open and close a water supply path connected to the first ice-making device (200).

[0098] Additionally, the second water supply device (54) may include a second water supply valve (52a) that opens and closes the second connecting hose (52). The second water supply valve (52a) can open and close the water supply path connected to the second ice-making device (400).

[0099] The water supply device (50) can supply water to the first ice-making device (200) through the first connecting hose (51) by opening the first water supply valve (51a). Additionally, the water supply device (50) can supply water to the second ice-making device (400) through the second connecting hose (52) by opening the second water supply valve (52a).

[0100] The refrigerator (1) may include flow sensors (51b, 52b) that detect the amount of water supplied by the water supply device (50). For example, the water supply device (50) may itself include flow sensors (51b, 52b) that detect the amount of water supplied.

[0101] The flow sensor (51b, 52b) may include a first flow sensor (51b) provided downstream of the first water supply valve (51a) to detect the amount of water supplied to the first ice-making device (200) and / or a second flow sensor (52b) provided downstream of the second water supply valve (52a) to detect the amount of water supplied to the second ice-making device (400).

[0102] The flow sensor (51b, 52b) can detect the amount of water supplied to the ice making device (200, 400), more specifically, to the ice making tray (170 and 270, 410, see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) of the ice making device (200, 400).

[0103] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating various configurations of a water supply device according to one embodiment.

[0104] Figure 5 is a disassembled drawing of the water supply device of Figure 4.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the water supply device (50) may include an upper water supply hose (105) for supplying water from an external water source to an automatic water supply device for automatically supplying water to a water tank when a water tank is connected to the water tank mounting space (72). Water flowing through the upper water supply hose (105) is supplied to the automatic water supply device, thereby enabling an auto-fill function in which water is automatically filled into the water tank when the water tank is mounted in the water tank mounting space (72).

[0106] A first connecting hose (51) may be inserted into the first water supply device (53). The first water supply device (53) may include a first water pipe (51c) that guides water flowing through the first connecting hose (51) to the first ice-making device (200).

[0107] A second water supply device (54) may have a second connecting hose (52) inserted into it. The second water supply device (54) may include a second water supply pipe (52c) that guides water flowing through the second connecting hose (52) to a second ice-making device (400).

[0108] The first water supply pipe (51c) and the second water supply pipe (52c) may be formed of a metal material, for example, made of aluminum. An insulating part (not shown) may be provided to cover at least a portion of the first water supply pipe (51c) and the second water supply pipe (52c).

[0109] A water supply device (50) according to one embodiment may include a case (530) for accommodating a filter (540), a water tank (550), and a heater (600). The case (530) may include a first case (531), a second case (532), a third case (533), a fourth case (534), and / or a fifth case (535).

[0110] The first case (531) may include a first coupling hole (531a) and a second coupling hole (531b). The second case (532) may include a first coupling projection (532a) corresponding to the first coupling hole (531a) and a second coupling projection (532b) corresponding to the second coupling hole (531b). A filter (540) and a water tank (550) may be accommodated in the receiving space formed by combining the first case (531) and the second case (532).

[0111] The third case (533) may be provided to cover the front of the filter (540) and the water tank (550). The third case (533) may include a hole (533a) through which the handle (141) of the filter (540) passes, and a projection (533b) provided to be inserted into the hinge hole (534a) of the fourth case (534). By inserting the projection (533b) of the third case (533) into the hinge hole (534a) of the fourth case (534), the fourth case (534) may be hinge-coupled to the third case (533).

[0112] The fifth case (535) may be provided to cover the rear of the filter (540) and the water tank (550). The fifth case (535) may include a first hole (535a) into which a first connecting hose (51) is inserted, a second hole (535b) into which a second connecting hose (52) is inserted, and a third hole (535c) into which an upper water supply hose (105) is inserted.

[0113] A water supply device (50) according to one embodiment may include a filter (540) configured to purify water supplied from an external water source, and a water tank (550) provided to store water purified through the filter (540).

[0114] The water supply device (50) may include an inlet water supply hose (106) connecting an external water source and a filter (540). Water can be supplied from the external water source to the filter (540) through the inlet water supply hose (106).

[0115] The water supply device (50) may include a first connecting pipe (101) connecting a filter (540) and a control valve (560). One end of the first connecting pipe (101) may be connected to the outlet of the filter (540), and the other end of the first connecting pipe (101) may be connected to the control valve (560).

[0116] The water supply device (50) may include a second connecting pipe (102) configured to connect a first connecting hose (51) and a control valve (560). One end of the second connecting pipe (102) may be connected to the control valve (560), and the other end of the second connecting pipe (102) may be connected to a first fitting member (102a). One end of the first connecting hose (51) may be connected to a first water supply device (53), and the other end of the first connecting hose (51) may be connected to a first fitting member (102a).

[0117] The water supply device (50) may include a third connecting pipe (103) configured to connect a second connecting hose (52) and a control valve (560). One end of the third connecting pipe (103) may be connected to the control valve (560), and the other end of the third connecting pipe (103) may be connected to a second fitting member (103a). One end of the second connecting hose (52) may be connected to a second water supply device (54), and the other end of the second connecting hose (52) may be connected to a second fitting member (103a).

[0118] The water supply device (50) may include a fourth connecting pipe (104) connecting the control valve (560) and the water tank (550). One end of the fourth connecting pipe (104) may be connected to the control valve (560), and the other end of the fourth connecting pipe (104) may be connected to the inlet of the water tank (550).

[0119] The water supply device (50) may include a control valve (560) that supplies water purified in the filter (540) to the ice-making device (200, 400) or water tank (550).

[0120] The control valve (560) can supply water purified in the filter (540) to the ice-making device (200, 400).

[0121] For example, the control valve (560) allows water purified in the filter (540) to flow through the first connecting pipe (101) to the second connecting pipe (102), thereby allowing water to be supplied to the first ice-making device (200) through the first water supply device (53).

[0122] In another example, the control valve (560) allows water purified in the filter (540) to flow through the first connecting pipe (101) to the third connecting pipe (103), thereby allowing water to be supplied to the second ice-making device (400) through the second water supply device (54).

[0123] The control valve (560) can allow purified water from the filter (540) to be supplied to the water tank (550). For example, the control valve (560) can supply water to the water tank (550) by allowing the purified water from the filter (540) to flow through the first connecting pipe (101) to the fourth connecting pipe (104). The water stored in the water tank (550) can be supplied to an automatic water supply device through the upper water supply hose (105).

[0124] If water flowing or stored through various configurations of the water supply device (50) freezes, the water supply operation to the ice-making device (200, 400) or automatic water supply device by the water supply device (50) may not be performed normally. For example, if water flowing through a plurality of connecting hoses (51, 52), a plurality of connecting pipes (101, 102, 103, 104), an upper water supply hose (105), an inflow water supply hose (106), etc. freezes, the water supply operation may not be performed normally. As another example, if water stored in the water tank (550) freezes, the water supply operation may not be performed normally.

[0125] Water flowing or stored through various configurations of the water supply device (50) may freeze due to various causes. For example, if the water supply device (50) is placed in the refrigerator room (21) and the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) becomes excessively low, water flowing or stored through various configurations of the water supply device (50) may freeze.

[0126] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a heater (600) for heating a water supply device (50). By heating the water supply device (50), the heater (600) can prevent water flowing or stored through various configurations of the water supply device (50) from freezing.

[0127] The heater (600) may be placed inside the case (530) of the water supply device (50). For example, the heater (600) may be attached to the inside of the second case (532). However, the placement of the heater (600) is not limited to this and may be placed in various locations.

[0128] The heater (600) can be implemented in various types. For example, the heater (600) can be implemented as a sheath heater with a resistance heating element inserted therein. Additionally, the heater (600) can be implemented as a planar heater including a planar heating element made of carbon material. However, the type of heater (600) is not limited thereto and can be implemented as a ceramic heater made of ceramic material or a heating wire heater made of a metal resistor such as copper wire.

[0129] Fig. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the ice-making unit portion of Fig. 3.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 6, water supplied from an external water source can be supplied to a first ice-making device (200) via a first water supply device (53), and water supplied from an external water source can be supplied to a second ice-making device (400) via a second water supply device (54). The first water supply device (53) and the second water supply device (54) can be provided on the upper part of the ice-making housing (100) by penetrating the inner part (11).

[0131] As described above, the first water supply device (53) and the second water supply device (54) may include a first water supply pipe (51c) and / or a second water supply pipe (52c) that guide water from the first connecting hose (51) and the second connecting hose (52) to the first ice making device (200) and the second ice making device (400), respectively.

[0132] The ice-making unit (1000) may include an ice-making housing (100, see FIG. 3) that accommodates a first ice-making device (200) and / or a second ice-making device (400).

[0133] The first ice-making device (200) and / or the second ice-making device (400) can produce ice by cooling water supplied from the water supply device (50).

[0134] Additionally, the ice making unit (1000) may include an ice bucket (60) arranged to store ice produced from a first ice making device (200) and / or a second ice making device (400).

[0135] An ice bucket (60) may be mounted on one side of an ice-making housing (100, see FIG. 3) and may include a first ice bucket for storing ice produced from a first ice-making device (200) and a second ice bucket for storing ice produced from a second ice-making device (400).

[0136] The first ice-making device (200) and the second ice-making device (400) can produce ice of different shapes and / or sizes.

[0137] For example, the first ice-making device (200) can produce spherical ice. Spherical ice may also be referred to as craft ice.

[0138] Additionally, the second ice-making device (400) can produce ice of a shape other than spherical ice. For example, the second ice-making device (400) can produce cube ice.

[0139] However, the types of ice produced by the first ice-making device (200) and the second ice-making device (400) are not limited to this.

[0140] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of an ice-making device constituting the ice-making unit of FIG. 6.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 7, the first ice-making device (200) may include a cover frame (120). The cover frame (120) may be provided to be coupled with the ice-making housing (100, see FIG. 3) inside the ice-making housing (100, see FIG. 3). The cover frame (120) may be provided in a box shape with approximately one side and one bottom open.

[0142] The first ice-making device (200) may include a water pass (130). The water pass (130) may be mounted on one side of the cover frame (120). Specifically, the water pass (130) may be mounted on the upper surface of the cover frame (120). The water pass (130) may be provided so that water supplied from the water supply device (50) moves into the inside of the cover frame (120). In other words, the water pass (130) can transfer water supplied from the water supply device (50) to the ice-making tray (170, 270).

[0143] The ice making tray (170, 270) may include a first ice making tray (170) and a second ice making tray (270).

[0144] That is, the water pass (130) can be configured to move water supplied from the water supply device (50) into the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270).

[0145] The first ice-making device (200) may include a first case (140) formed on a cover frame (120), a first ice-making tray (170) accommodated in the first case (140), a first fixed frame (190), and a first ice-making heating device (160).

[0146] The first ice-making case (140) may be formed on one side of the cover frame (120). The first ice-making case (140) may be formed integrally with the cover frame (120), but may also be provided in a form that is coupled to one side of the cover frame (120) by a separate member. The first ice-making case (140) may be provided to accommodate the first ice-making tray (170).

[0147] The first ice tray (170) may be placed inside the ice-making housing (100). More specifically, the first ice tray (170) may be mounted inside the cover frame (120). The first ice tray (170) may be made of an elastic material.

[0148] The first ice-making tray (170) can receive water from a water supply device (50). The first ice-making tray (170) may include a first guide part (172) that allows the supplied water to flow into an ice-making cell inside the first ice-making tray (170). The first guide part (172) may be formed on the upper side of the first ice-making tray (170).

[0149] The first ice-making tray (170) may include a first ice-making cell (173) provided to form a portion of ice. The first ice-making cell (173) may be provided in a roughly circular shape. Accordingly, the ice produced in the first ice-making device (200) may be spherical. Although the first ice-making cell (173) in the first ice-making device (200) of the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention has been illustrated and described as being provided in three numbers, the number of first ice-making cells (173) is not limited thereto.

[0150] The first ice tray (170) may include a first insertion hole (171). The first insertion hole (171) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0151] The first insertion hole (171) can be provided so that the first coupling projection (191) of the first fixed frame (190) is inserted. Through this, the first fixed frame (190) can fix the first ice tray (170) to the first ice case (140). In other words, the first fixed frame (190) can fix the first ice tray (170) to one side of the cover frame (120).

[0152] The first fixed frame (190) may include a first coupling projection (191). The first coupling projection (191) may be provided in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of first insertion holes (171). The first coupling projection (191) may extend toward the first ice-making tray (170) from one side of the first fixed frame (190). The first coupling projection (191) may also be inserted into a through hole formed in the first ice-making case (140) and coupled with the first ice-making case (140).

[0153] The first fixed frame (190) may be provided to support the edge of the first ice cell (173) of the first ice tray (170). Since the material of the first ice tray (170) is made of an elastic material, the lack of rigidity of the first ice tray (170) can be reinforced through the first fixed frame (190).

[0154] The first ice-making device (200) may include a first ice-making heating device (160). The first ice-making heating device (160) may be placed between the first ice-making tray (170) and the first case (140). More specifically, the first ice-making heating device (160) may be placed between the first ice-making tray (170) and the cover frame (120). By placing the first ice-making heating device (160) on one side of the first ice-making tray (170), the ice can be easily separated from the first ice-making cell (173) after ice formation is completed in the first ice-making cell (173) of the first ice-making tray (170).

[0155] Accordingly, the first ice-making case (140) formed on one side of the cover frame (120), the first ice-making heating device (160), the first ice-making tray (170), and the first fixed frame (190) are provided to be fixed to one side of the cover frame (120).

[0156] The first ice-making device (200) may include a second ice-making case (240), a second ice-making tray (270) accommodated in the second ice-making case (240), a second fixed frame (290), and a second ice-making heating device (260).

[0157] The second ice-making case (240) can be movably provided inside the cover frame (120).

[0158] The second ice-making case (240) may be provided to accommodate the second ice-making tray (270).

[0159] The second ice-making case (240) may include a second tray receiving portion (241). The second tray receiving portion (241) may be provided to accommodate the second ice-making cell (273) of the second ice-making tray (270). The second tray receiving portion (241) may be provided in three portions corresponding to the number of the second ice-making cell (273).

[0160] The second ice-making case (240) may include a second through hole (242). The second through hole (242) may be formed by cutting into the second tray receiving portion (241). The second through hole (242) may be provided so that the pressurizing portion of the second ejector (250), which will be described later, passes through it.

[0161] The second ice-making case (240) may include a second fixing part (243). The second fixing part (243) may be provided so that the second coupling projection (291) of the second fixing frame (290), which will be described later, is inserted therein.

[0162] The second ice-making case (240) may include a second elastic member mounting portion (244). An elastic member (335) connecting the rack gear (330), which will be described later, and the second ice-making case (240) may be mounted on the second elastic member mounting portion (244).

[0163] The second ice-making case (240) may include a projection (245). The projection (245) may extend outward from the side of the second case (240). The projection (245) may be inserted into the leg portion (153) of the first ejector (150), which will be described later. Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0164] The second ice tray (270) may be placed inside the ice-making housing (100). More specifically, the second ice tray (270) may be mounted inside the cover frame (120). The second ice tray (270) may be made of an elastic material. The second ice tray (270) may be provided to interlock with the first ice tray (170) to form the remaining portion of the ice.

[0165] The second ice tray (270) can receive water from the water supply device (50). The second ice tray (270) may include a second guide section (272) so that the supplied water flows into the second ice cell (273) inside the second ice tray (270). The second guide section (272) may be formed on the upper side of the second ice tray (270).

[0166] The second ice-making tray (270) may include a second ice-making cell (273) provided to form the remaining portion of the ice. The second ice-making cell (273) may be provided in a roughly circular shape. Accordingly, the ice produced in the first ice-making device (200) may be provided in a spherical shape. Although the second ice-making cell (273) in the first ice-making device (200) of the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention has been illustrated and described as being provided in three numbers, the number of second ice-making cells (273) is not limited thereto.

[0167] The second ice tray (270) may include a second insertion hole (271). The second insertion hole (271) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0168] The second insertion hole (271) may be provided so that the second coupling projection (291) of the second fixed frame (290) is inserted. Through this, the second fixed frame (290) can fix the second ice tray (270) to the second case (240). In other words, the second fixed frame (290), the second ice tray (270), and the second case (240) can be driven as a single unit.

[0169] The second fixed frame (290) may include a second coupling projection (291). The second coupling projection (291) may be provided in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of second insertion holes (271). The second coupling projection (291) may extend toward the second ice tray (270) from one side of the second fixed frame (290). The second coupling projection (291) may also be inserted into the second through hole (242) of the second case (240) and coupled with the first case (140). That is, the second coupling projection (291) may penetrate the second insertion hole (271) of the second ice tray (270) and be coupled to the second through hole (242) of the second case (240).

[0170] The second fixed frame (290) may be provided to support the edge of the second ice cell (273) of the second ice tray (270). Since the material of the second ice tray (270) is made of an elastic material, the lack of rigidity of the second ice tray (270) can be reinforced through the second fixed frame (290).

[0171] The first ice-making device (200) may include a second ice-making heating device (260). The second ice-making heating device (260) may be placed between the second ice-making tray (270) and the second ice-making case (240). By placing the second ice-making heating device (260) on one side of the second ice-making tray (270), the ice can be easily separated from the second ice-making cell (273) after ice formation is completed in the second ice-making cell (273) of the second ice-making tray (270).

[0172] Additionally, the first ice-making heating device (160) and the second ice-making heating device (260) can heat water stored between the first ice-making tray (170) and the second ice-making tray (270).

[0173] Accordingly, the second ice-making case (240), the second ice-making heating device (260), the second ice-making tray (270), and the second fixed frame (290) are arranged to move as a single unit on the other side of the cover frame (120). Additionally, the second ice-making case (240), the second ice-making heating device (260), the second ice-making tray (270), and the second fixed frame (290) are arranged to move horizontally relative to the cover frame (120). In other words, the second ice-making tray (270), which is arranged to form ice, is arranged to move horizontally relative to the first ice-making tray (170).

[0174] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a first ice-making sensor (351).

[0175] The first ice-making sensor (351) can detect the temperature of the first ice-making device (200). Detecting the temperature of the first ice-making device (200) may include detecting the temperature of the second ice-making tray (270). The first ice-making sensor (351) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 7 and can be placed in various locations. For example, the first ice-making sensor (351) may be attached to the first ice-making tray (170) to detect the temperature of the first ice-making tray (170).

[0176] The first ice-making device (200) may include a first ejector (150) and a second ejector (250).

[0177] The first ejector (150) may be provided to pressurize the first ice tray (170). More specifically, the first ejector (150) may be provided to pressurize the first ice cell (173) of the first ice tray (170).

[0178] The first ejector (150) may include a first body (151), a first pressurizing part (152), and a leg part (153).

[0179] The first body (151) may be formed to extend in a direction parallel to the second ice-making case (240). That is, the first body (151) may extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the first ejector (150).

[0180] The first pressure member (152) may be provided extending from the first body (151). The first body (151) may be provided to support the first pressure member (152).

[0181] The first ejector (150) may be configured to pass through a first through hole (142) formed in the first ice-making case (140). Specifically, the first pressurizing part (152) of the first ejector (150) may be configured to pass through the first through hole (142) and pressurize the first ice-making tray (170).

[0182] The first ejector (150) may be movably provided with respect to the cover frame (120). The first ejector (150) may be movably provided based on the movement of the second case (240).

[0183] The second ejector (250) may be fixed to one side of the cover frame (120). The second ejector (250) may be provided to press the second ice tray (270). More specifically, the second ejector (250) may be provided to press the second ice cell (273) of the second ice tray (270).

[0184] The second ejector (250) may include a second body (251), a second pressurizing part (252), and a frame coupling part (253). The second body (251) may extend in a direction parallel to the second ice-making case (240). The second pressurizing part (252) may extend from the second body (251) toward the second ice-making case (240). The frame coupling part (253) may be formed at both ends of the second body (251) and coupled with the cover frame (120).

[0185] The second ejector (250) may be configured to pass through a second through hole (242) formed in the second ice-making case (240). Specifically, the second pressurizing part (252) of the second ejector (250) may be configured to pass through the second through hole (242) and pressurize the second ice-making tray (270).

[0186] That is, the second ejector (250) is fixed to the cover frame (120), and as the second ice tray (270) moves relative to the cover frame (120), the second ejector (250) can press the second ice tray (270).

[0187] The first ice-making device (200) may include a driving unit (300), a pinion (310), a bar (320), a rack gear (330), and an elastic member (335).

[0188] The drive unit (300) may be configured to generate power. Various electrical components, such as a motor and a circuit board, may be placed inside the drive unit (300). The drive unit (300) may be coupled to the cover frame (120).

[0189] A pinion (310) may be coupled to a drive unit (300) and configured to transmit power generated from the drive unit (300). A pair of pinions (310) may be provided. A pair of pinions (310) may be connected by a bar (320). A pinion (310) may be configured to rotate according to the drive of the drive unit (300). A pinion (310) may be configured to have a toothed shape to mesh with a rack gear (330).

[0190] The rack gear (330) can be movably provided with respect to the cover frame (120). More specifically, the rack gear (330) can be moved linearly based on the rotational movement of the pinion (310).

[0191] The rack gear (330) may include a support portion (332) supported by the cover frame (120). The rack gear (330) may include a tooth portion (331) formed on the upper surface of the support portion (332). The tooth portion (331) of the rack gear (330) and the pinion (310) may be engaged so that the rack gear (330) moves horizontally relative to the cover frame (120).

[0192] The rack gear (330) may include a first elastic member mounting portion (333) extending from a support portion (332). An elastic member (335) may be mounted on the first elastic member mounting portion (333).

[0193] That is, the pinion (310) and the rack gear (330) mesh together to convert the rotational motion of the drive unit (300) into linear motion. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and any structure capable of converting rotational motion into linear motion may be applied.

[0194] The elastic member (335) may be provided to connect the rack gear (330) and the second ice-making case (240). That is, the rack gear (330) and the second ice-making case (240) may be connected.

[0195] Through this, the rack gear (330) moves by receiving power from the drive unit (300), and in conjunction with this, the second ice-making case (240) can move horizontally relative to the cover frame (120). In other words, the second ice-making tray (270) and the second ice-making case (240) can move linearly relative to the cover frame (120) by means of the rack gear (330).

[0196] That is, the movement of the second ice-making case (240) is carried out integrally with the second ice-making tray (270), the second ice-making heating device (260), and the second fixed frame (290), so that the second ice-making tray (270) can move horizontally relative to the first ice-making tray (170).

[0197] The first ice-making device (200) may include an ice-full detection sensor (301) for detecting full ice of ice stored in an ice bucket (60).

[0198] Detecting the fullness of the ice stored in the ice bucket (60) means detecting that the ice bucket (60) is full of ice.

[0199] In one embodiment, the ice full detection sensor (301) may include a light-emitting part that emits light toward the ice bucket (60) and a light-receiving part that receives light reflected from the ice contained in the ice bucket (60). The ice full detection sensor (301) may detect whether the ice is full based on the intensity of the light received by the light-receiving part.

[0200] In another embodiment, the ice detection sensor (301) may be implemented in the form of a detection lever that detects physical contact with the ice on the top of the ice bucket (60).

[0201] However, the example of the ice detection sensor (301) is not limited to this, and any sensor capable of detecting whether the ice bucket (60) is in an ice-covered state can be adopted without limitation as the ice detection sensor (301).

[0202] The drive unit (300) can separate the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270) by transmitting power to the pinion (310), and accordingly, ice formed inside the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270) can fall into the ice bucket (60).

[0203] That is, when ice formation is completed inside the first ice cell (173) and the second ice cell (273), the pinion (310) and the bar (320) can be rotated counterclockwise by the drive unit (300), and through this, the rack gear (330) and the second ice case (240) connected thereto move to the other side of the cover frame (120). As the second ice case (240) moves away from the first case (140), the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270) can be separated.

[0204] At this time, if ice formed between the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270) is attached to either of the ice trays (170, 270), the ice can be separated from the ice trays (170, 270) by being pressurized by the ejector (150, 250) as the pinion (310) and the bar (320) are continuously rotated counterclockwise by the drive unit (300).

[0205] When ice is separated from the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270), the pinion (310) and the bar (320) can be rotated clockwise by the drive unit (300), and thereby the rack gear (330) and the second ice case (240) connected thereto move toward the cover frame (120). As the second ice case (240) moves in a direction that brings it closer to the first ice case (140), the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270) can come into contact.

[0206] In this way, the operation of separating the ice formed inside the first ice-making cell (173) and the second ice-making cell (273) from the ice-making tray (170, 270) is called the ice-making operation.

[0207] Accordingly, the driving unit (300) that performs the bing operation may be referred to as a bing device (300).

[0208] In summary, the first ice-making device (200) can cool water supplied through the water supply device (50) to produce spherical ice and provide it to the ice bucket (60).

[0209] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of an ice-making device constituting the ice-making unit of FIG. 6.

[0210] The second ice-making device (400) is a commonly used ice-making device, and the description of the configuration that overlaps with the first ice-making device (200) (e.g., water path (130)) is omitted.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 8, the second ice-making device (400) may include an ice-making tray (410).

[0212] The ice tray (410) may be configured to form ice cubes. More specifically, the ice tray (410) may include at least one ice cell that stores water. Each ice cell may be partitioned by a partition wall.

[0213] The ice tray (410) may include a rotation axis (411). The rotation axis (411) may be provided to protrude outward from the front / rear of the ice tray (410).

[0214] The second ice-making device (400) may include a driving unit (420).

[0215] The drive unit (420) may be connected to the front of the rotation axis (411) to rotate the ice tray (410).

[0216] The driving unit (420) may include various electrical components such as a motor that generates power, a power transmission gear, and a circuit board. The driving unit (420) may be fixed inside the ice-making housing (100).

[0217] The second ice-making device (400) may include a full ice detection lever (430) and a second lever mounting part (440).

[0218] The ice full detection lever (430) may be provided to detect whether the ice bucket (60) placed at the bottom of the second ice-making device (400) is full of ice. The ice full detection lever (430) may be coupled to the case of the drive unit (420) by the second lever mounting part (440).

[0219] The ice detection lever (430) can be rotatably coupled to the case of the drive unit (420). More specifically, the ice detection lever (430) can be configured to rotate in the up and down direction with respect to a second lever mounting part (440) coupled to the case of the drive unit (420).

[0220] The lever mounting portion (440) may be connected to the side of the case of the drive portion (420) to connect the ice detection lever (430) and the case of the drive portion (420). However, it is not limited thereto, and the lever mounting portion (440) may be formed integrally with the case of the drive portion (420).

[0221] As previously explained, the ice detection lever (430) can be replaced with another type of ice detection sensor (301, 430). For example, the ice detection lever (430) can be replaced by an ice detection sensor (301, 430) that includes a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part.

[0222] The ice making tray (410) may include a motor coupling part (412). The motor coupling part (412) may be formed at the front of the ice making tray (410) and connected to a driving part (420).

[0223] The drive unit (420) can rotate the ice tray (410) by transmitting power to the rotating shaft (411), and accordingly, the ice generated in the ice tray (410) can fall into the ice bucket (60).

[0224] In this way, the action of separating the ice formed in the ice tray (410) from the ice tray (410) is called the ice-removing action.

[0225] Accordingly, the driving unit (420) that performs the bing operation may be referred to as a bing device (420).

[0226] Although an ice-making unit (1000) including a plurality of ice-making devices has been described above, the number and type of ice-making devices in the ice-making unit (1000) are not limited to this.

[0227] According to various embodiments, the refrigerator (1) may include only the first ice-making device (200), or it may include both the first ice-making device (200) and the second ice-making device (400).

[0228] FIG. 9 illustrates an ice-making sensor provided in the ice-making device illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0229] Referring to FIG. 9, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a second ice-making sensor (352) that detects the temperature of a second ice-making device (400). The second ice-making sensor (352) detecting the temperature of the second ice-making device (400) may include detecting the temperature of an ice-making tray (410).

[0230] The second ice-making sensor (352) is positioned below the ice-making tray (410) to detect the temperature of the ice-making tray (410). However, the positioning of the second ice-making sensor (352) is not limited to this, and the temperature of the second ice-making device (400) can be detected at various locations.

[0231] FIG. 10 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0232] Referring to FIG. 10, the refrigerator (1) may include various parts and / or devices and may include a control unit (500) electrically connected to the various parts and / or devices. For example, the refrigerator (1) may include an ice making sensor (350), a refrigerator room temperature sensor (302), an ice full detection sensor (301), an ice full detection lever (430), a user interface (510), a water supply device (50), a cooling device (520), a heater (600), and a control unit (500).

[0233] The control unit (500) can control the ice making sensor (350), the refrigerator room temperature sensor (302), the ice full detection sensor (301), the ice full detection lever (430), the user interface (510), the water supply device (50), the cooling device (520), and / or the heater (600).

[0234] The ice-making sensor (350) may include a first ice-making sensor (351) that detects the temperature of the first ice-making device (200) and / or a second ice-making sensor (352) that detects the temperature of the second ice-making device (400). Each of the first ice-making sensor (351) and the second ice-making sensor (352) may be configured as a temperature sensor for detecting temperature.

[0235] The first ice-making sensor (351) is attached to the first ice-making tray (170) and / or the second ice-making tray (270) of the first ice-making device (200) and can detect the temperature of the first ice-making tray (170) and / or the second ice-making tray (270). That is, detecting the temperature of the first ice-making device (200) may include detecting the temperature of the first ice-making tray (170) and / or the second ice-making tray (270).

[0236] The second ice-making sensor (352) is attached to the ice-making tray (410) of the second ice-making device (400) and can detect the temperature of the ice-making tray (410). That is, detecting the temperature of the first ice-making device (200) may include detecting the temperature of the ice-making tray (410) of the second ice-making device (400).

[0237] Temperature data of the ice-making device (200, 400) obtained by the ice-making sensor (351, 352) can be transmitted to the control unit (500).

[0238] The refrigerator room temperature sensor (302) can detect the temperature inside the refrigerator room (21). For example, the refrigerator room temperature sensor (302) can be placed inside the refrigerator room (21) to detect the temperature inside the refrigerator room (21).

[0239] Temperature data of the refrigerator room (21) acquired by the refrigerator room temperature sensor (302) can be transmitted to the control unit (500).

[0240] The ice detection sensor (301) can detect the ice in the ice bucket (60).

[0241] Detecting the fullness of the ice stored in the ice bucket (60) means detecting that the ice bucket (60) is full of ice.

[0242] When the ice full detection sensor (301) detects that the ice stored in the ice bucket (60) is full, it can transmit the ice full data of the ice bucket (60) to the control unit (500).

[0243] The control unit (500) can determine that the ice bucket (60) is filled with ice and the ice condition is satisfied based on the ice data received from the ice detection sensor (301).

[0244] If the control unit (500) does not receive full ice data from the full ice detection sensor (301), it can determine that the ice bucket (60) is not filled with ice and the condition of being under-ice is satisfied.

[0245] The ice full detection lever (430) can detect the ice fullness of the ice stored in the ice bucket (60). When the ice full detection lever (430) detects the ice fullness of the ice stored in the ice bucket (60), it can transmit the ice fullness data of the ice bucket (60) to the control unit (500).

[0246] The control unit (500) can determine that the ice bucket (60) is filled with ice and satisfies the ice full condition based on the ice full data of the ice bucket (60) received from the ice full detection lever (430).

[0247] The control unit (500) can determine that the ice bucket (60) is not filled with ice and the ice is not satisfied based on the fact that it has not received full ice data from the full ice detection sensor (301) and the full ice detection lever (430).

[0248] The user interface (510) may provide an interface for the user and the refrigerator (1) to interact. The user interface (510) may include at least one input interface (511) and at least one output interface (512). The user interface (510) may receive various user inputs and output various information regarding the operation of the refrigerator (1).

[0249] The input interface (511) may include various buttons and / or dials. For example, the input interface (511) may include a power button, a refrigerator temperature setting button for setting the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (21), and a freezer temperature setting button for setting the temperature of the freezer compartments (22, 23). Additionally, the input interface (511) may include a storage container temperature setting button for setting the temperature of the storage container (27).

[0250] The output interface (512) can visually and / or audibly convey information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) to the user. Information regarding the operation of the refrigerator (1) can be output as images, text, indicators, and / or voice. Additionally, the output interface (512) can display a graphic user interface (GUI) that enables control of the refrigerator (1). That is, the display can display UI elements such as icons.

[0251] The output interface (512) may include at least one of a display and a speaker. The display may also be used as an input device, including a touch screen.

[0252] The output interface (512) can provide a notification indicating the full ice condition based on the fact that the ice bucket (60) is filled with ice.

[0253] Additionally, the output interface (512) can provide a notification indicating a non-ice condition based on satisfying the condition that the ice bucket (60) is not filled with ice.

[0254] The water supply device (50) can supply water to the ice trays (170, 270, 410) of the ice making device (200, 400). Supplying water to the ice trays (170, 270, 410) may include supplying water to the ice cell formed by the contact between the first ice tray (170) and the second ice tray (270) of the first ice making device (200). Additionally, supplying water to the ice trays (170, 270, 410) may include supplying water to the ice cell of the ice tray (410) of the second ice making device (400).

[0255] The cooling device (520) may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The control unit (500) can control the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23) by controlling the compressor of the cooling device (520). For example, the control unit (500) can control the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23) by controlling the operating frequency of the compressor. In addition, the control unit (500) can control the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23) by adjusting the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the evaporator or the opening amount of the expansion valve.

[0256] The cooling device (520) may operate based on the set temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23). For example, the cooling device (520) may operate based on the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23) being greater than the set temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23). As another example, the cooling device (520) may not operate based on the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23) being lower than or equal to the set temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23).

[0257] In one embodiment, the cooling device (520) supplies cold air to the freezer (22), thereby supplying cold air to the ice-making device (200) provided in the freezer (22).

[0258] According to various embodiments, the cooling device (520) may directly deliver cold air to the ice-making device (200, 400). To this end, the cooling device (520) may be provided within the ice-making unit (1000).

[0259] The heater (600) can heat the water supply device (50). For example, the heater (600) can be placed inside the case (530) of the water supply device (50) to heat various components of the water supply device (50).

[0260] The heater (600) can be driven by power supplied to the heater (600). The greater the amount of power supplied to the heater (600), the more heat the heater (600) can output.

[0261] The control unit (500) may include a processor (501) that generates control signals regarding the operation of the refrigerator (1), and a memory (502) that stores programs, applications, instructions, and / or data for the operation of the refrigerator (1). The processor (501) and the memory (502) may be implemented as separate semiconductor devices or as a single semiconductor device. Additionally, the control unit (500) may include a plurality of processors (501) or a plurality of memories (502). The control unit (500) may be provided at various locations inside the refrigerator (1). For example, the control unit (500) may be included in a printed circuit board provided inside a control panel.

[0262] The processor (501) may include an arithmetic circuit, a memory circuit, and a control circuit. The processor (501) may include a single chip or a plurality of chips. Additionally, the processor (501) may include a single core or a plurality of cores.

[0263] The memory (502) can store a program for performing a water supply operation and data necessary for performing a water supply operation.

[0264] The memory (502) can store a set temperature related to the operating conditions of the cooling device (520). The operating conditions of the cooling device (520) may include the operating frequency of the compressor included in the cooling device (520), the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the evaporator included in the cooling device (520), and the opening amount of the expansion valve included in the cooling device (520).

[0265] The set temperature associated with the operating conditions of the cooling device (520) may include the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21), the set temperature of the freezer room (22, 23), and the set temperature of the storage container (27).

[0266] The processor (501) can control the cooling device (520) based on a set temperature associated with the operating conditions of the cooling device (520). For example, the processor (501) can operate the cooling device (520) according to the operating conditions of the cooling device (520) (e.g., operating frequency of the compressor, flow rate of refrigerant supplied to the evaporator, opening amount of the expansion valve) such that when the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) is higher than the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21), the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) becomes the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21). As another example, the processor (501) can stop the operation of the cooling device (520) or lower the operating frequency of the compressor when the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) is below the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21).

[0267] The memory (502) can store information regarding the maximum rise value of the set temperature. The information regarding the maximum rise value of the set temperature may include a limit value for which the set temperature of the refrigerator (21) can be raised to the maximum, a limit value for which the set temperature of the freezer (22, 23) can be raised to the maximum, and a limit value for which the set temperature of the storage container (27) can be raised to the maximum. The maximum rise value of the set temperature may be approximately 3°C.

[0268] The memory (502) can store data related to the operation of the heater (600). The data related to the operation of the heater (600) can store data regarding the magnitude of various power that can be supplied to the heater (600). The data regarding the magnitude of power that can be supplied to the heater (600) may include the maximum power value that can be supplied to the heater (600).

[0269] The memory (502) may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory, S-RAM) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory, D-RAM), and non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory: ROM) and EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory: EPROM). The memory (502) may include a single memory element or a plurality of memory elements.

[0270] The processor (501) can process data and / or signals using a program provided from memory (502) and can transmit control signals to each component of the refrigerator (1) based on the processing results. For example, the processor (501) can process user input received through the user interface (510), information regarding the temperature detected by the ice-making sensor (350), information regarding the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) detected by the refrigerator room temperature sensor (302), full ice information detected by the full ice detection sensor (301), and full ice information detected by the full ice detection lever (430).

[0271] The water supply device (50), user interface (510), cooling device (520), and heater (600) can be operated based on a control signal from the control unit (500).

[0272] In one embodiment, the control unit (500) can control the user interface (510) to display various information.

[0273] Additionally, the control unit (500) can control the cooling device (520) so that at least one storage room (21, 22, 23) maintains a predetermined temperature.

[0274] Additionally, the control unit (500) can control the heater (600) so that the heater (600) generates heat.

[0275] In one embodiment, the control unit (500) can operate the water supply device (50) to supply water to the ice-making device (200, 400) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition, and can stop the operation of the water supply device (50) to stop the water supply based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0276] For example, the control unit (500) can control the water supply device (50) to perform a water supply operation based on satisfying the condition that the ice bucket (60) is not filled with ice.

[0277] Operating the water supply device (50) to supply water to the ice-making device (200, 400) may include opening the water supply valve (51a). Stopping the operation of the water supply device (50) to stop the water supply may include closing the water supply valve (51a).

[0278] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0279] Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment, a processor (501) may perform a water supply operation (1100). The water supply operation may include supplying water to a first ice-making device (200) through a water supply device (50). The water supply operation may include supplying water to a second ice-making device (400) through a water supply device (50). Additionally, the water supply operation may include supplying water to an automatic water supply device by the water supply device (50). The water supply device (50) performing the water supply operation may include transmitting a water supply operation command to the water supply device (50) to supply water to the ice-making device (200, 400) and / or the automatic water supply device.

[0280] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can control the water supply device (50) to perform a water supply operation based on satisfying the condition of being less than full of ice in the ice bucket (60). For example, the processor (501) can transmit a water supply control signal to the water supply device (50) to perform a water supply operation based on satisfying the condition of being less than full of ice in the ice bucket (60) by means of the ice full detection sensor (301) or the ice full detection lever (430).

[0281] Additionally, the processor (501) may not perform a water supply operation based on the condition that the ice bucket (60) is filled with ice and the ice is full.

[0282] In various embodiments, the processor (501) may drive the heater (600) based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while performing a water supply operation (no to 1200 and 1300).

[0283] When the water supply operation is to supply water to an automatic water supply device, the processor (501) may drive the heater (600) or raise the set temperature based on the fact that the supply of water to the automatic water supply device is not detected. For example, it may be determined that water is not supplied to the automatic water supply device based on the fact that the water level change value detected by the water level sensor provided in the automatic water supply device is smaller than the reference water level change value. However, for convenience of explanation, the following description describes driving the heater (600) or raising the set temperature based on the fact that the supply of water to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected.

[0284] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can detect the supply of water to the first ice-making device (200) based on a change in temperature detected by the first ice-making sensor (351) while performing a water supply operation to the first ice-making device (200). For example, the processor (501) can determine that water is not supplied to the first ice-making device (200) if, while performing a water supply operation to the first ice-making device (200), the change in temperature of the first ice-making device (200) is smaller than a predetermined first change value.

[0285] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can detect the supply of water to the second ice-making device (400) based on a change in temperature detected by the second ice-making sensor (352) while performing a water supply operation to the second ice-making device (400). For example, the processor (501) can determine that water is not supplied to the second ice-making device (400) if, while performing a water supply operation to the second ice-making device (400), the change in temperature of the second ice-making device (400) is smaller than a predetermined second change value.

[0286] That is, when water is supplied to the ice-making device (200, 400), the temperature of the ice-making device (200, 400) may change as thermal energy is transferred from the ice-making device (200, 400) to the water during the process of generating ice. Conversely, when water is not supplied to the ice-making device (200, 400), the temperature of the ice-making device (200, 400) may not change. Accordingly, the supply of water to the ice-making device (200, 400) can be detected based on the change value of the temperature of the ice-making device (200, 400).

[0287] In one embodiment, the processor (501) may supply a predetermined maximum power to the heater (600) based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while the water supply device (50) is performing a water supply operation. The predetermined maximum power may include power capable of outputting the maximum amount of heat among the heat outputs which are the operating specifications of the heater (600). The memory (502) may store the maximum power value supplied to the heater (600) in advance.

[0288] In various embodiments, the processor (501) may raise the set temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while the water supply device (50) is performing a water supply operation (1200 no and 1400).

[0289] In one embodiment, when the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) is the first temperature, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while the water supply device (50) is performing a water supply operation.

[0290] When the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) is the first temperature, the processor (501) can control the cooling device (520) so that the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) becomes the first temperature.

[0291] When the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) is the second temperature, the processor (501) can control the cooling device (520) so that the temperature of the refrigerator room (21) becomes the second temperature.

[0292] In one embodiment, when the set temperature of the storage container (27) is the first temperature, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature of the storage container (27) to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while the water supply device (50) is performing a water supply operation.

[0293] When the set temperature of the storage container (27) is the first temperature, the processor (501) can control the cooling device (520) so that the temperature of the storage container (27) becomes the first temperature.

[0294] When the set temperature of the storage container (27) is the second temperature, the processor (501) can control the cooling device (520) so that the temperature of the storage container (27) becomes the second temperature.

[0295] Conventionally, the water supply device (50) was prevented from freezing by driving the heater (600) according to the ambient temperature or the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23). However, there was a problem in that the water supply device (50) was not determined to be frozen, so even when the temperature of the storage room (21, 22, 23) dropped excessively, no measures were taken to prevent the water supply device (50) from freezing, and thus water supply to the automatic water supply device or the ice-making device was not performed normally.

[0296] According to the present disclosure, the freezing problem of the water supply device (50) placed in the refrigerator room (21) can be solved by determining whether the water supply device (50) is frozen depending on whether a water supply operation by the water supply device (50) is performed, driving the heater (600), and raising the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) or the storage container (27).

[0297] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature only up to a set maximum temperature.

[0298] For example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) to approximately 3°C based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while the water supply device (50) is performing a water supply operation.

[0299] In another example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature of the storage container (27) to approximately 3°C based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while the water supply device (50) is performing a water supply operation.

[0300] In order to solve the problem of freezing of the water supply device (50), if the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) or storage container (27) is raised excessively, the food stored in the refrigerator room (21) or storage container (27) may be stored at an inappropriate temperature.

[0301] According to the present disclosure, in order to solve the problem of freezing of the water supply device (50), the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) or storage container (27) can be raised, thereby preventing the storage of food at an inappropriate temperature.

[0302] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0303] Referring to FIG. 12, as described in FIG. 11, the processor (501) can drive the heater (600) based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected while performing the water supply operation, and raise the set temperature, which is set to a first temperature, to a second temperature (2100, 2110, 2120 and 2130).

[0304] In various embodiments, the processor (501) may raise the set temperature multiple times based on whether the supply of water to the ice-making device (200, 400) is detected.

[0305] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can perform the water supply operation again based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) has been raised to a second temperature (2200).

[0306] In one embodiment, the processor (501) may raise the set temperature of the refrigerator (21) to a third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature of the refrigerator (21) has been raised to a second temperature (No to 2210 and 2220).

[0307] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature of the storage container (27) to a third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature of the storage container (27) has been raised to a second temperature.

[0308] The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature can be approximately 1℃.

[0309] The difference between the second temperature and the third temperature can be approximately 1℃.

[0310] The difference between the third temperature and the fourth temperature described later may be approximately 1°C.

[0311] The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature can be the same as the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0312] That is, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) from the first temperature to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) has been raised from the first temperature to the second temperature, and then raise the set temperature to the third temperature which is raised by the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature.

[0313] In one embodiment, the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature may be different from the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0314] For example, if the first temperature is 1°C and the second temperature is 3°C, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature to a third temperature (e.g., 4°C) which is 1°C higher than the difference between 1°C and 3°C, which is 2°C, based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after raising the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) from 1°C to 3°C.

[0315] In one embodiment, the processor (501) may determine the increase value of the set temperature based on the ambient temperature. For example, the processor (501) may increase the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) from a first temperature to a second temperature according to the ambient temperature of the environment in which the refrigerator (1) is installed, and may determine the second temperature to be higher as the ambient temperature is lower. Conversely, the processor (501) may determine the second temperature to be lower as the ambient temperature is higher.

[0316] The increase value of the set temperature may include the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature, and / or the difference between the third temperature and the fourth temperature to be described later.

[0317] The increase value of the set temperature can be stored in memory (502) in advance. For example, the increase value of the set temperature determined according to the installation environment of the refrigerator (1) can be stored in memory (502) in advance.

[0318] The memory (502) can store table data defining the relationship between the ambient temperature and the set temperature rise value. The processor (501) can raise the set temperature by the set temperature rise value corresponding to the ambient temperature based on the table data. For example, if the set temperature is a first temperature, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature to a second temperature by the set temperature rise value corresponding to the ambient temperature using the table data.

[0319] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can perform the water supply operation again based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature is raised to the third temperature (2300).

[0320] In one embodiment, the processor (501) may raise the set temperature to a fourth temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to a third temperature (no to 2310 and 2320).

[0321] For example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature to a fourth temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised twice from the first temperature to the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0322] The difference between the second temperature and the third temperature can be the same as the difference between the third temperature and the fourth temperature.

[0323] That is, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature by the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) has been raised from the second temperature to the third temperature.

[0324] In one embodiment, the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature may be different from the difference between the third temperature and the fourth temperature.

[0325] For example, if the second temperature is 2°C and the third temperature is 3°C, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature to a fourth temperature (e.g., 3.5°C) by 0.5°C, which is different from 1°C, the difference between 2°C and 3°C, based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even after raising the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) from 2°C to 3°C.

[0326] In the above description, the set temperature was increased three times. For example, in the above description, the set temperature was increased from the first temperature to the second temperature, from the second temperature to the third temperature, and from the third temperature to the fourth temperature. However, the number of times the set temperature is increased is not limited to this, and depending on various embodiments, the set temperature of the refrigerator room (21) and / or storage container (27) may be increased fewer than three times or more than three times.

[0327] In one embodiment, the processor (501) may drive the heater (600) and raise the set temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (50) is not detected while the water supply device (50) performs a water supply operation a predetermined number of times. Performing a water supply operation a predetermined number of times by the water supply device (50) may include transmitting a water supply operation command to the water supply device (50) a predetermined number of times for the water supply device (50) to supply water to the ice-making device (200, 400).

[0328] For example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even though the water supply operation command has been transmitted to the water supply device (50) five times.

[0329] In another example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature from the second temperature to the third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even though the processor has transmitted a water supply operation command to the water supply device (50) five times after raising the set temperature to the second temperature.

[0330] In another example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature from the third temperature to the fourth temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even though the processor has transmitted a water supply operation command to the water supply device (50) five times after raising the set temperature to the third temperature.

[0331] In another example, the processor (501) can supply a predetermined maximum power to the heater (600) based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) is not detected even though the water supply operation command has been transmitted to the water supply device (50) five times.

[0332] The fixed number of times the water supply operation is performed is not limited to 5 times, and may be less than 5 times or more than 5 times.

[0333] According to the present disclosure, the reliability of the freezing judgment of the water supply device (50) can be improved by performing a water supply operation multiple times to detect the supply of water to the ice-making device (200, 400).

[0334] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can restore the set temperature to the first temperature (2400) based on the detection of water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) after raising the set temperature.

[0335] For example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature and then restore the set temperature to the first temperature based on detecting the supply of water to the ice-making device (200, 400).

[0336] In another example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature and the third temperature, respectively, and then restore the set temperature to the first temperature based on detecting the supply of water.

[0337] In another example, the processor (501) can raise the set temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature, the third temperature, and the fourth temperature, respectively, and then restore the set temperature to the first temperature based on detecting the supply of water.

[0338] According to the present disclosure, by raising the set temperature to remove freezing of the water supply device (50), the set temperature can be restored to the original temperature, thereby maintaining a suitable set temperature for the stored food.

[0339] In one embodiment, the processor (501) can adjust the power supplied to the heater (600) based on the detection of water supply to the ice-making device (200, 400) after raising the set temperature. For example, by removing the freezing of the water supply device (50), the power supplied to the heater (600) can be reduced, thereby preventing the cooling function of the stored food from deteriorating due to the operation of the heater (600).

[0340] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0341] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random access memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0342] Additionally, computer-readable recording media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0343] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein 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 product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through 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 temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0344] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

Claims

1. A main body forming a storage chamber; An ice-making device configured to generate ice; A water supply device positioned in the above storage room and performing a water supply operation to supply water to the above ice-making device; A cooling device configured to supply cold air to the above storage room; A heater configured to heat the above-mentioned water supply device; A memory for storing a set temperature related to the operating conditions of the above-mentioned cooling device; and A refrigerator comprising: a processor that drives the heater and raises the set temperature, which is set to a first temperature, to a second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A refrigerator that raises the above-mentioned set temperature only up to a predetermined maximum temperature.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A refrigerator that raises the set temperature to a third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the second temperature.

4. In Paragraph 3, A refrigerator in which the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is different from the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature.

5. In Paragraph 3, The above processor is, A refrigerator that determines the second temperature based on the ambient temperature.

6. In Paragraph 3, The above processor is, A refrigerator that raises the set temperature to a fourth temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the third temperature.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A refrigerator that supplies a predetermined maximum power to the heater based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A refrigerator that drives the heater and raises the set temperature to the second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device performs the water supply operation a predetermined number of times.

9. In Paragraph 1, It further includes an ice bucket that accommodates ice generated by the above-mentioned ice-making device, The above processor is, A refrigerator that controls the water supply device to perform the water supply operation based on satisfying the condition that the ice bucket is not filled with ice.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A refrigerator that restores the set temperature to the first temperature based on the detection of water supply to the ice-making device after raising the set temperature.

11. A control method for a refrigerator comprising: a main body forming a storage chamber; an ice-making device configured to generate ice; a water supply device disposed in the storage chamber and performing a water supply operation to supply water to the ice-making device; a cooling device configured to supply cold air to the storage chamber; and a heater configured to heat the water supply device. A method for controlling a refrigerator comprising: driving the heater and raising the set temperature related to the operating conditions of the cooling device from a first temperature to a second temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected while the water supply device is performing the water supply operation.

12. In Paragraph 11, A refrigerator control method further comprising raising the above-mentioned set temperature only up to a predetermined maximum temperature.

13. In Paragraph 11, A method for controlling a refrigerator further comprising raising the set temperature to a third temperature based on the fact that water supply to the ice-making device is not detected even after the set temperature has been raised to the second temperature.

14. In Paragraph 13, A method for controlling a refrigerator, wherein the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature is different from the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature.

15. In Paragraph 13, A method for controlling a refrigerator, further comprising determining the second temperature based on the ambient temperature.

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