REFRIGERATOR

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment comprises: an icemaking compartment that provides a space where ice is made; a chiller for supplying cold to the icemaking compartment; and an icemaker that forms an icemaking cell which is a space where water undergoes a phase change to ice by the cold, wherein the icemaker comprises: a first tray assembly which includes a first tray forming a part of the icemaking cell; a second tray assembly which includes a second tray forming the other part of the icemaking cell; a heater for providing heat to the first tray; and a heater case which comes into contact with the heater.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

BACKGROUND ART

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance for storing food at a low temperature in a storage space that is covered by a door. The refrigerator is configured to keep stored food in in a refrigerated state or frozen state by cooling an inside of the storage space using cold air.

Typically, an ice maker to make ice is provided in a freezing chamber of a refrigerator. The ice maker receives water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and cools the water to make ice. The ice generated in the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin. Ice stored in the ice bin can be taken out of the ice bin by a user opening a freezing chamber door and approaching the ice bin.

A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as “first prior art document”.

A refrigerator of a first prior art document includes a storage chamber where food is stored; a first tray assembly provided in the storage chamber and forming a part of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice by cold; and a second tray assembly forming another part of the ice making cell.

In the case of the first prior art document, spherical ice can be generated using the first and second tray assemblies, but there is a disadvantage in that a user must open a door to use the ice.

In the case of the first prior art document, since only a small amount of ice can be generated at one time, there is a disadvantage in that a lot of waiting time is required when a large amount of ice is to be used.

An ice maker and an ice bank provided in a refrigerating chamber door is disclosed in Chinese Patent Publication No. 114174740A10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document (hereinafter referred to as “second prior art document”).

Ice stored in the ice bank can be taken out through a dispenser assembly. The ice maker includes an elastic mold that forms a cavity and is formed of an elastic material, a heat exchanger that is connected to the elastic mold and freezes water in the cavity, an elevating mechanism that easily discharges the ice from the cavity, and a driving mechanism that drives the elevating mechanism. The driving mechanism includes a motor and a rotating cam.

In the case of the second prior art document, spherical ice cannot be generated, and in a structure where the elevating mechanism presses the elastic mold from below, there is a disadvantage that it is difficult for the ice to separate from the elastic mold and fall downward. In order to completely separate the ice from the elastic mold, a vertical movement range of the elevating mechanism must be increased, and in this case, a size of the rotating cam must be increased, which has the disadvantage of increasing an overall size of the ice maker.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

One embodiment provides a refrigerator in which heat from a heater may be smoothly provided to each of a plurality of ice making cells.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which heat from a heater may be transferred to a first tray cover.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of increasing a number of generated ices during one ice making process.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of generating spherical ice from a door.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of easily discharging generated ice from a dispenser of a door.

Technical Solution

In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include a cooler. The cooler may be supply cold or operable to supply cold to the ice making chamber.

The refrigerator may further include an ice maker. The ice maker may be disposed in the ice making chamber. An ice maker of one aspect may include a first tray assembly. The first tray assembly may define a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by cold. The ice maker may further include a second tray assembly. The second tray assembly may define another portion of the ice making cell.

The first tray assembly may include a first tray. The second tray assembly may include a second tray.

The ice maker may include a heater to provide heat to a first tray. The ice maker may include a heater case in contact with the heater.

The ice making cell may include a first ice making cell provided in a first row and a second ice making cell provided in a second row. The heater may surround the first ice making cell of the first row and the second ice making cell of the second row.

The heater may include a first heater portion to supply heat to the first ice making cell and a second heater portion to supply heat to the second ice making cell.

The first heater portion may include a first curved portion and a second curved portion. The second curved portion may include a portion having a different length from the first curved portion, or the second curved portion may include a portion having a different curvature from the first curved portion.

The first heater portion may further include a third curved portion. The third curved portion may include a portion having a different length from the first and second curved portions, or the third curved portion may include a portion having a different curvature from the first and second curved portions.

The second heater portion may include a fourth curved portion and a fifth curved portion. The fifth curved portion may include a portion having a different length from the fourth curved portion, or the fifth curved portion may include a portion having a different curvature from the fourth curved portion.

The second heater portion may further include a sixth curved portion. The sixth curved portion may include a portion having a different length from the fourth and fifth curved portions, or the sixth curved portion may include a portion having a different curvature from the fourth and fifth curved portions.

The first tray may include a heater seating portion in which the heater is received. The heater case may include a case body and a heater contact portion protruding from the case body.

The heater contact portion may include a heater groove in which a portion of the heater is received. The heater contact portion may be received in the heater seating portion.

The first tray may further include a guide groove to receive a portion of the heater extending outward from the heater seating portion.

The heater case may include a coupling body for coupling to the first tray by a coupling member. The first tray may include a coupling boss on which the coupling body is seated.

The heater case may include a coupling body protruding from the case body. The first tray may include a coupling groove into which the coupling body is inserted.

The heater case may include a bent portion that is bent away from the heater seating portion so that a portion of the heater is positioned.

The ice maker may further include a first tray cover having a portion in contact with or supporting the first tray. The ice maker may further include a pillar that transfers heat of the heater between the first tray cover and the heater case.

The pillar may extend from the first tray cover toward the heater, or may extend from the heater case toward the first tray cover. The pillar may be coupled to a coupling hole of the first tray cover.

In another embodiment, an ice maker may include a tray to form an ice making cell, a tray case having a portion in contact with or supporting the tray; a heater to provide heat to the tray; and a heater case in contact with the heater and positioned between the tray and a first portion of the tray case.

A cooling passage through which cold air flows may be formed between the tray and the first portion.

The heater case may be coupled to the tray or coupled to the first portion.

A pillar for transferring heat from the heater may be provided between the heater case and the first portion.

In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber provided in the door. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker provided in the ice making chamber and configured to generate ice. The refrigerator may further include an ice bin to store ice generated by the ice maker. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided in the door and configured to discharge ice stored in the ice bin.

The ice maker may include a first tray assembly having a first tray to form a portion of an ice making cell, which is a space where water is phase-changed into ice. The ice maker may further include a second tray assembly having a second tray to form another portion of the ice making cell.

The ice maker may further include a heater and a heater case as described above.

Advantageous Effects

According to one embodiment, there is an advantage that ice may be smoothly separated from each of the plurality of ice making cells.

According to one embodiment, when heat of a heater is transferred to water or ice present in a first tray cover, there is an advantage that water or ice can be quickly vaporized or sublimated.

According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that spherical ice can be generated in a refrigerator door.

According to one embodiment, generated spherical ice can be easily discharged from a dispenser of a door.

According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that a number of generated ices in one ice making process can be increased.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door, and FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner of a first embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner of a first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion of a first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct of a first embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of a first embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of an ice maker according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a cold air guide as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a cold air guide as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a plan view of a first tray according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a bracket as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 18B is a perspective view of a bracket according to the first embodiment as viewed from another side.

FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a heater mounted on a first tray according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from a lower side according to a present embodiment.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from an upper side, and FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 21B-21B in FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a state in which a first tray assembly and a cold air guide are separated according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air guide is installed in a first tray assembly according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23B-23B of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 24B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from another side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25A-25A of FIG. 24A, and FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25B-25B of FIG. 24B.

FIG. 26A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26A-26A of FIG. 25B, and FIG. 26B is a drawing showing a state in which a heater case is coupled to a first tray according to A first embodiment.

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 27B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker when a second tray assembly is to a full ice detection position in an ice separation process.

FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray, and FIG. 31B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray.

FIG. 32A is a drawing showing a state where a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position, and FIG. 32B is a drawing showing a state where a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position.

FIG. 33 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from an upper side according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 34B is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from a lower side according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 35A is a front view of a heater case according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 35B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 35B-35B of FIG. 34A.

FIG. 36A is a perspective view showing a heater case coupled to a first tray cover according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 36B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 36B-36B of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing a case contact portion in contact with a heater in a first tray according to a third embodiment.

MODE FOR INVENTION

In this specification, at least one of component A and component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B. Additionally, at least one of component A or component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, or component B, or component A+B.

FIG. 1A is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a drawing showing a state in which one door of a refrigerator is separated.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a front of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a rear of a first refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3A is a drawing showing a state in which a basket and a filter are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door, and FIG. 3B is a drawing showing a state in which an ice making chamber door and a cover member are separated from a first refrigerating chamber door.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a cabinet 2. The cabinet 2 may have a storage space. The refrigerator 1 may further include a door that opens and closes the storage space. The door may be movably connected to the cabinet 2.

The storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 18. The storage chamber may alternatively or additionally include a freezing chamber 19. As an example, FIG. 1B illustrates that the storage space includes a refrigerating chamber 18 and a freezing chamber 19.

The door may include a refrigerating chamber door 5 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 18. The refrigerating chamber 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating chamber doors 5. The door may further include a freezing chamber door 30 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 19. The freezing chamber 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing chamber doors 30.

Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the refrigerating chamber 18 is opened and closed by a first refrigerating chamber door 10 and a second refrigerating chamber door 20.

At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include a dispenser 11 for discharging water and/or ice. Of course, depending on a type of a refrigerator, it is also possible for the freezing chamber door 30 to be provided with the dispenser 11.

At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 or the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may include at least one ice maker 200.

If a refrigerator includes a plurality of ice makers, types of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. Sizes (or volumes) of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. A transparency of ice generated by the ice makers may be the same or different. In ice makers, structures for generating ice and methods for separating generated ice may be the same or different.

Hereinafter, an example in which an ice maker 200 is provided in the first refrigerating chamber door 10 will be described. Of course, if necessary, an ice maker may also be provided in the second refrigerating chamber door 20 or the freezing chamber door 30. At this time, the dispenser 11 and the ice maker may be provided in the same door. Alternatively, an additional ice maker may be provided in the refrigerating chamber 18 or the freezing chamber 19.

In FIG. 1B, the refrigerator 1 is exemplarily illustrated as a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but it should be noted that an idea of the present invention can be equally applied to a side-by-side type refrigerator or a top-mount type refrigerator. In a case of a side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerator, a freezing chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser, or a refrigerating chamber door may include an ice maker and a dispenser.

The dispenser 11 may be positioned at a front side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. A portion of the dispenser 11 may be recessed rearward to provide a space in which a container may be positioned.

The dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the ice maker 200. At least a portion of the ice maker 200 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include an outer case 101. The outer case 101 may form a front exterior of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a door liner 102. The door liner 102 may be directly or indirectly connected to the outer case 101. The door liner 102 may open and close the refrigerating chamber 18.

In a state in which the outer case 101 and the door liner 102 are connected, an insulating space may be formed between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102. An insulator may be provided in the insulating space. The insulator may be formed by hardening a foaming agent injected from an outside. Alternatively, a vacuum insulator may be provided in the insulating space. It is also possible for the insulator and the vacuum insulator to be provided together in the insulating space.

The refrigerator 1 may include an ice making chamber 122 that provides a space where ice is generated. The ice making chamber 122 may be provided, for example, in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The ice maker 200 may be disposed in the ice making chamber 122. For example, the door liner 102 may form the ice making chamber 122. The ice making chamber 122 may be formed as one surface of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice bin 600 in which ice generated in the ice maker 200 is stored. Ice stored in the ice bin 600 may be discharged to the dispenser 11. The ice bin 600 may be received in the ice making chamber 122 together with the ice maker 200. The ice bin 600 may be disposed below the ice maker 200.

Cold generated in a cooler 110 (see FIG. 31) may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122. That is, a cooler 110 may be configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122. Alternatively, the cooler 110 may be a component configured to operate to supply cold to the ice making chamber 122.

The cooler 110 may be configured to cool the ice making chamber 122, including at least one of a refrigerant cycle or a thermoelectric element. For example, cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122.

The refrigerator 1 may further include a supply passage 2a that guides cold air of the freezing chamber 19 or cold air of a space where an evaporator that generates cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 is disposed to the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The refrigerator 1 may include a discharge passage 2b that guides cold air discharged from the first refrigerating chamber door 10 to the freezing chamber 19 or a space where the evaporator is disposed. The supply passage 2a and the discharge passage 2b may be provided in the cabinet 2.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a cold air inlet 123a. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air inlet 123a may be communicated with the supply passage 2a. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air outlet 123b. When the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed, the cold air outlet 123b may be communicated with the discharge passage 2b. The cold air inlet 123a may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the supply passage 2a is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed. The cold air outlet 123b may be formed on one side of the door liner 102. Although not limited, the one side of the door liner 102 may be a side facing a wall where the discharge passage 2b is disposed in the refrigerating chamber 18 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed.

The ice maker 200 may form ice having a spherical shape. The “spherical shape” mentioned in this specification means not only a geometrically spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape.

The one side of the door liner 102 may include a first side portion 102a and a second side portion 102b having different widths in the front-back direction. A width of the second side portion 102b may be formed to be greater than a width of the first side portion 102a. At least one of the cold air inlet 123a or the cold air outlet 123b may be formed in the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102. The second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber 18 than the first side portion 102a.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include an ice making chamber door 130 that opens and closes the ice making chamber 122. The ice making chamber door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulator provided therein. The ice making chamber door 130 may be rotatably connected to the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge.

Meanwhile, a basket 136 (a first basket) capable of storing food, may be connected to the ice making chamber door 130. Of course, a basket 137 (a second basket) may also be provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10. For example, the second basket 137 may be positioned below the first basket 136.

A component space 123 for receiving a component may be formed in the first refrigerating chamber door 10. At least one of a valve 750 for controlling the flow of water, a filter (not shown) for purifying water, or a water tank 700 for storing water may be received in the component space 123. The component space 123 may be formed by the door liner 102. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cover member 132 that covers the component space 123. A holder 125 to which the filter is coupled may be provided in the component space 123.

The cover member 132 may include an opening 133. The filter may be coupled to the holder 125 through the opening 133. The second basket 137 may cover the opening 133. When the second basket 137 is separated, the opening 133 may be exposed. The holder 125 may be exposed to the opening 133.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a space 11b. A container such as a cup may be positioned in the space 11b. Water or ice may be discharged into the space 11b. At least a portion of the dispenser housing 11a may be arranged to overlap the component space 123 in a front-back direction.

The ice maker 200 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction. The ice bin 600 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction. As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may include a second pusher 530. The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice bin 600 in a vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a vertical direction.

The ice bin 600 may include an ice discharging portion 630 that operates to discharge stored ice. The ice discharging portion 630 may include, for example, a rotating member that rotates.

An ice chute 800 may be arranged at a lower side of the ice making chamber 122. The ice chute 800 may be opened and closed by a cap duct 820. An ice guide 840 may be positioned at a lower side of the ice chute 800. The ice chute 800 may provide a path for ice to move. The ice chute 800 may guide ice discharged from the ice bin 600 to the ice guide 840. The ice guide 840 may guide ice to the space 11b. The ice chute 800 may overlap at least a portion of the ice making chamber 122 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the ice chute 800 may overlap the ice maker 200 in a vertical direction.

The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice chute 800 in the vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the cap duct 820 in a vertical direction. The second pusher 530 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.

As will be described later, the ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510. The second pusher 530 may be positioned closer to the outer case 101 than the first pusher 510. A horizontal distance between the second pusher 530 and a front surface of the outer case 101 may be less than a horizontal distance between a path formed by the ice chute 800 and a front surface of the outer case 101.

The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice discharging portion 630 in a vertical direction. The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice chute 800 in a vertical direction. The first pusher 510 may overlap the ice guide 840 in a vertical direction.

The ice maker 200 may overlap the water tank 700 in a vertical direction.

FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air duct is connected to a door liner of a first embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a drawing showing an ice making chamber wall of a door liner of a first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which an ice maker is installed in a supporting portion of a first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an arrangement relationship between an ice maker and a cold air duct of a first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the door liner 102 may include an ice making chamber wall 140 forming the ice making chamber 122. The door liner 102 may further include a peripheral wall 102c. The peripheral wall 102c may be spaced apart from the ice making chamber wall 140 at an outer side of the ice making chamber wall 140.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air duct 900. The cold air duct 900 may guide cold air introduced through the cold air inlet 123a to the ice making chamber 122. The cold air duct 900 may guide cold air of the ice making chamber 122 to the cold air outlet 123b.

The cold air duct 900 may include a first duct 910 forming a first passage. The first passage may communicate the cold air inlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122. The cold air duct 900 may further include a second duct 920. The second duct 920 may form the first passage together with the first duct 910.

A portion of the first duct 910 may be aligned with the cold air inlet 123a. A portion of the second duct 920 may be in contact with the ice making chamber wall 140. A first through hole 140a may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140. The first through hole 140a is a supply through hole through which cold air is supplied to the ice making chamber 122. A portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the first through hole 140a. One surface of the second duct 920 may form the first passage.

The cold air duct 900 may further include a third duct 930. The third duct 930 may form a second passage. The second passage may communicate the cold air outlet 123a with the ice making chamber 122. The third duct 930 may form the second passage together with the second duct 920. For example, another surface of the second duct 920 may form the second passage. A second through hole 140b may be formed in the ice making chamber wall 140. The second through hole 140b is a discharge through hole through which cold air is discharged from the ice making chamber 122. The second through hole 140b may be located below the first through hole 140a. Another portion of the second duct 920 may be aligned with the cold air outlet 123b. A portion of the third duct 930 may be aligned with the second through hole 140b.

If the ice maker 200 is provided in the freezing chamber door 30, the cold air duct 900 may be omitted.

The ice making chamber wall 140 may include a front wall 141. The front wall 141 may be a wall facing the outer case 101. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a first side wall 143. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a second side wall 144 positioned opposite the first side wall 143. The cold air duct 900 may be positioned between the second side wall 144 and the peripheral wall 102c. The first through hole 140a and the second through hole 140b may be formed in the second side wall 144. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include an upper wall 142. The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a lower wall 148.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a supporting portion 150 on which the ice maker 200 is installed. The supporting portion 150 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. As another example, a portion or all of the supporting portion 150 may be integrally formed with the ice making chamber wall 140. Alternatively, the supporting portion 150 may be omitted and the ice maker 200 may be installed on the ice making chamber wall 140. In either case, the ice maker 200 may be described as being supported on the ice making chamber wall 140.

The supporting portion 150 may include a first member 152. The first member 152 may extend in a vertical direction. The ice maker 200 may be installed on the first member 152. The first member 152 may include a mounting portion 155. The mounting portion 155 may be disposed at an upper portion of the first member 152. For example, the first member 152 may be provided with a slot 154 through which a portion of the ice maker 200 passes. A motor assembly for driving an ice discharging portion 630 of the ice bin 600 may be mounted on the first member 152.

The supporting portion 150 may further include a second member 153. The second member 153 may extend in a horizontal direction from the first member 152. The ice bin 600 may be seated on the second member 153. An ice through hole 153a through which ice passes may be formed in the second member 153.

The ice maker 200 may further include a bracket 220 supported by the supporting portion 150 or supported by the ice making chamber wall 140. When the ice maker 200 is directly supported by the ice making chamber wall 140, the ice maker 200 may be supported by the front wall 141.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from one upper side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from another upper side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 9A is a front view of an ice maker of a first embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an ice maker as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an ice maker according to a first embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of an ice maker according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 4 to 11, the ice maker 200 may include a first tray assembly 201. The first tray assembly 201 may form a portion of an ice making cell 203. The ice maker 200 may further include a second tray assembly 202. The second tray assembly 202 may form another portion of the ice making cell 203. The ice making cell 203 is a space where water is phase-changed by cold.

A driver 480 may be mounted on one side of the bracket 220. The driver 480 may provide driving force to the second tray assembly 202. The first tray assembly 201 may be installed on the bracket 220. The second tray assembly 202 may move relative to the first tray assembly 201. For example, the second tray assembly 202 may move linearly, curvedly, or rotationally.

The driver 480 may include a motor housing 481. The driver 480 may further include a motor received in the motor housing 481 and a power transfer portion. A coupling portion 482 may be formed at an upper side of the motor housing 481. The coupling portion 482 may be coupled to the bracket 220 by a coupling member. The driver 480 may be positioned adjacent to the first side wall 143. That is, the driver 480 may be positioned opposite a first through hole (inlet through hole) 140a through which cold air is introduced.

The ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550 for detecting a full ice of the ice bin 600. One end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the driver 480. Another end of the full ice detection lever 550 may be connected to the bracket 220.

The ice making chamber wall 140 may be provided with a recess formed at a position corresponding to the driver 480. The recess may include a first recess 145a formed in the first side wall 143. The recess may further include a second recess 145b formed in the front wall 141.

The ice making chamber wall 140 may further include a third recess 145c in which a portion of the supporting portion 150 is positioned. The third recess 145c may be formed in the front wall 141. The third recess 145c may be connected to the second recess 145b.

The ice maker 200 may further include a cold guide. The cold guide may provide a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203. The cold guide may be provided outside the ice making cell 203. Hereinafter, an example in which the cold is cold air will be described. The cold guide may include, for example, a cold air guide 270. Accordingly, all configurations described in the cold air guide may be understood as configurations of the cold guide. In the present specification, a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203 may be formed by the cold air guide, the first tray, and the first tray cover. Accordingly, at least a portion of each of the cold guide, the first tray and the first tray cover may serve as the cold guide.

The cold air guide 270 may be adjacent to or in contact with the second side wall 144. The cold air guide 270 may be a separate component from the first tray case described below or may be a portion of the first tray case.

The driver 480 may be located at an opposite side of the second side wall 144 or the cold air guide 270 with respect to the ice maker 200. The ice making chamber wall 140 may have slots 146, 147 formed therein through which a water pipe through which water flows and one or more connectors (or wire) for connection with the ice maker 200 pass. The slots 146, 147 may be formed in the front wall 141.

A portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the first tray assembly 201. Another portion of water may be phase-changed into ice while being received in a portion of the ice making cell 203 formed by the second tray assembly 202. In a state in which an ice making is completed, a portion of ice may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. In a state in which an ice making is completed, another portion of ice may be in contact with the second tray assembly 202.

The first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray 320. The first tray 320 may form a portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.

At least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material to facilitate a transfer of cold air. The first tray assembly 201 may include a first tray case. The first tray case may include a portion that is in contact with the first tray or that is supported by the first tray.

The first tray case may further include a first tray cover 300. The first tray cover 300 may be coupled to the first tray 320. The first tray cover 300 may be disposed at one side of the first tray 320.

The first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220. For example, the first tray 320 may be coupled to the bracket 220 in a state in which the first tray cover 300 is coupled to one side of the first tray 320. Alternatively, when the bracket 220 is omitted, the first tray 320 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.

The ice maker 200 may further include a heater 330 to provide heat to the ice making cell 203. For example, the first tray assembly 201 may include the heater 330.

The heater 330 may operate at least in an ice separation process to provide heat to the first tray 320 after an ice making is completed. The heater 330 may function as an ice separation heater. The heater 330 may be in contact with the first tray 320.

The first tray assembly 201 may include a heater case 340 (or heater cover).

The heater case 340 may include a portion in contact with the heater 330 or supported by the heater 330. The heater case 340 may cover the heater 330. The heater case 340 may be a separate component from the first tray cover 300 or may be integrally formed with the first tray cover.

The heater case 340 may press the heater 330 toward the first tray 320. The heater case 340 may be positioned between the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300. For example, the heater case 340 may be positioned at an upper side of a portion of the first tray 320 and at a lower side of a portion of the first tray cover 300.

The second tray assembly 202 may include a second tray 360. The second tray 360 may form another portion of each of a plurality of ice making cells 203.

At least a portion of the second tray 360 may be formed of a deformable material so that ice may be easily separated.

The second tray assembly 202 may further include a second tray case. The second tray case may be in contact with the second tray 360.

The second tray case may include a second tray cover 350. A portion of the second tray cover 350 may be positioned closer to the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360. The second tray case may further include a second tray supporter 380. A portion of the second tray supporter 380 may be positioned farther way from the first tray 320 than a portion of the second tray 360.

The ice maker 200 may further include a water supply 240 for supplying water to the ice making cell. The water supply 240 may supply water to some of a plurality of ice making cells. The water supply 240 may be installed on the bracket 220. The water supply 240 may be provided with a slot 242 through which a water pipe passes. The water supply 240 may include a through hole 241 through which water is discharged.

The cold air guide 270 may be installed on, for example, the bracket 220, the first tray 320, or the first tray cover 300. The cold air guide 270 may guide cold air to the ice making cell 203. The cold air guide 270 may be in contact with the first tray assembly 201. The cold guide 270 may be in contact with one or more of the first tray 320 and the first tray cover 300.

A portion of the cold air guide 270 may be positioned at an opposite side of the driver 480 with respect to the first tray assembly 201. Cold air guided by the cold air guide 270 may flow in a direction close to the driver 480. The driver 480 may be prevented from acting as a flow resistance of cold air by an arrangement of the driver 480.

The ice maker 200 may further include a temperature sensor 710 for detecting a temperature of water or ice in an ice making cell. For example, the temperature sensor 710 may detect a temperature of the first tray 320. The temperature sensor 710 may be seated on the first tray 320. The temperature sensor 710 may be covered by an insulator 720. The insulator 720 may prevent cold air from directly contacting the temperature sensor 710.

The ice maker 200 may further include a transfer portion 420, 421 for transmitting a power of the driver 480. For example, a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the second tray assembly 202 by a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421. A first transfer portion 420 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be connected to the driver 480. The first transfer portion 420 may be coupled to one side of the second tray supporter 380. A second transfer portion 421 of a plurality of transfer portions 420, 421 may be coupled to another side of the second tray supporter 380.

The ice maker 200 may further include a shaft 410 coupled to each of the plurality of transfer portions 420 and 421. The first transfer portion 420 may be movably supported by one side of the first tray 320. The second transfer portion 421 may be movably supported by another side of the first tray 320.

A material of the transfer portions 420, 421 is different from a material of the first tray 320. The transfer portions 420, 421 may be, for example, a plastic injection molded product. To prevent direct friction between two components having different materials, an intermediate member 416 may be coupled to one of the transfer portions 420, 421 and the first tray 320. For example, the intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the first tray 320. The transfer portions 420, 421 may pass through the intermediate member 416 and be in contact with the intermediate member 416.

The ice maker 200 may further include a first pusher 510 to press ice or a first tray assembly 201 in an ice separation process. The first pusher 510 may push ice so that ice is separated from the first tray 320. The first pusher 510 may pass through the first tray cover 300 to push ice, for example. The first pusher 510 may push ice by passing through the first tray 320.

The first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480. For example, the first pusher 510 may receive a power from the driver 480 transmitted to the second tray assembly 202.

The ice maker 200 may further include a pusher link 440. For example, a plurality of pusher links 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510. One side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the first pusher 510, and another side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202. For example, the other side of the pusher link 440 may be connected to the second tray supporter 380.

The ice maker 200 may further include an elastic member 460. One end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the transfer portion 420, 421, and another end of the elastic member 460 may be connected to the second tray assembly 202. When the elastic member 460 is tensioned, a position of the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be moved to an initial position by a restoring force. The elastic member 460 may increase an adhesion force between the first tray assembly 201 and the second tray assembly 202 at an ice making position. The other end of the elastic member 460 may be coupled to the second tray supporter 380.

The ice maker 200 may further include a second pusher 530 to press ice or the second tray assembly 202 in an ice separation process. The second pusher 530 may be installed on the bracket 220, for example. If the bracket 220 is omitted, the second pusher 530 may be installed on the supporting portion 150 or the ice making chamber wall 140.

The ice maker 200 may further include a full ice detection lever 550. The full ice detection lever 550 may include a lever body 552 extending in one direction. The full ice detection lever 550 may further include a first extension 553 extending from one end of the lever body 552. The full ice detection lever 550 may further include a second extension 554 extending from another end of the lever body 552. The first extension 553 may be connected to the driver 480. The second extension 554 may be connected to the bracket 220.

The driver 480 may include an extension rib 484 for insertion into or passing through the bracket 220. For example, a plurality of extension ribs 484 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal or vertical direction. For example, the extension ribs 484 may protrude from the motor housing 481.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a cold air guide as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a cold air guide as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 12, the cold air guide 270 may include a first opening 272 (or a cold air inlet). The first opening 272 may provide a path for cold air, which is an example of cold, to flow into an inside of a space defined by the cold air guide 270. The cold air guide 270 may further include a second opening 278 (or a cold air outlet). The second opening 278 may provide a path for the cold air to be discharged from an inside of a space defined by the cold air guide 270 to an outside.

The cold air guide 270 may include a first guide 271 to form the first opening 272. The cold air guide 270 may further include a second guide 275 to form the second opening 278. The second guide 275 may extend from the first guide 271. The first guide 271 and the second guide 275 may define a cold air passage 270a, which is a path through which cold air flows.

The first guide 271 may further include a rounded wall 274. The rounded wall 274 may be formed to be convex upward, for example. The cold air guide 270 may include a guide wall that provides one side of a space or cold air passage 270a defined by the cold air guide 270. The guide wall may include a first guide wall 275a.

The first guide wall 275a may provide a first surface of the cold air passage 270a. For example, the first surface may be a portion of an upper surface of the cold air guide 275. The guide wall may further include a second guide wall 276. The second guide wall 276 may extend from the first guide wall 275a. The second guide wall 276 may provide a second surface of the cold air passage 270a. The second surface may define a first side surface of the cold air passage 270a. The second surface may form a first corner portion of the cold air guide 270 together with the first surface.

The guide wall may further include a third guide wall 277. The third guide wall 277 may extend from the first guide wall 275a. The third guide wall 277 may provide a third surface of the cold air passage 270a. The third surface may define a second side surface of the cold air passage 270a. The third surface may form a second corner portion of the cold air guide 270 together with the first surface. In one example, the second guide 275 may include the first to third guide walls 275a, 276, 277.

The first guide wall 275a may include a first inclined surface 275b. The first inclined surface 275b may be inclined in a direction closer to the second opening 278. The first guide wall 275a may further include a second inclined surface 275c. An inclination direction of the second inclined surface 275c may be different from an inclination direction of the first inclined surface 275b. The second inclined surface 275c may be inclined in a direction closer to the second opening 278. The second opening 278 may be formed in the first guide wall 275a or the third guide wall 277.

The cold guide 270 may further include a bracket coupling portion 273a coupled to the bracket 220. The bracket coupling portion 273a may be formed on the first guide 271 or the second guide 275. The cold guide 270 may further include a protrusion 273b coupled to the bracket 200. The protrusion 273b may be formed on the second guide 275, for example.

The cold guide 270 may further include a recess 276c on which a portion of the water supply 240 is disposed. The recess 276c may be formed in the second guide 275, for example.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first tray as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a plan view of a first tray according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, the first tray 320 may define a first cell 321, which is a portion of the ice making cell 203. The first tray 320 may include a first cell wall 322 to form the first cell 321. The first cell 321 may be formed in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere, for example.

The first tray 320 may include a first contact surface 322a in contact with the second tray 360. The first contact surface 322a may be one surface of the first cell wall 322.

The first tray 320 may form, for example, a plurality of first cells 321. A plurality of first cells 321 may be arranged in a plurality of rows so as to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of ices. The plurality of first cells 321 may include a first cell portion 321a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 321b arranged in a second row.

The first cell portion 321a may form a portion of a first ice making cell of a first row, and the second cell portion 321b may form a portion of a second ice making cell of a second row.

The first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing. The Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door. The first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 321a. The second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 321b.

The first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row. The second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.

A number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a may be the same as or different from a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b. For example, a number of the plurality of first cell portions 321a may be less than a number of the plurality of second cell portions 321b.

One first cell portion 321a may be arranged to correspond to an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. Alternatively, one first cell portion 321a may be arranged to face an area between two adjacent second cell portions 321b. That is, a first cell portion 321a and a second cell portion 321b may be arranged in a zigzag shape.

The first tray 320 may further include through holes 323a, 323b that provide a path for water or cold air. The through holes 323a, 323b may be provided in the same number as a number of the plurality of first cells 321.

The first tray 320 may further include an auxiliary storage chamber 323d. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may allow water or cold air to pass through. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be disposed at an upper side of the through holes 323a, 323b. The first tray 320 may further include an extension wall 323c. The extension wall 323c may extend upward from a periphery of the through holes 323a, 323b to form the auxiliary storage chamber 323d. The extension wall 323c may extend from the first cell wall 322.

The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a space where ice is generated. Alternatively, the auxiliary storage chamber 323d may be a portion of an ice making cell 203.

When an ice making is completed, an upper end of ice may be located in the through hole 323a, 323b or adjacent to the through hole 323a, 323b. Accordingly, generated ice may have a spherical shape or a shape that is almost spherical.

The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store water supplied in excess to the ice making cell 203. The auxiliary storage chamber 323d may store ice that expands in a process of supplied water being phase-changed.

The first tray 320 may further include an extension 324. The extension 324 may include a portion extending from the first cell wall 322. The extension 324 may be in contact with guide walls 275a, 276, 277, which provide one surface of a space defined by the cold air guide 270, or may support the guide walls 275a, 276, 277.

The extension 324 may include a portion spaced apart from the guide walls 275a, 276, 277, so that the cold air passage 270a may be positioned in a space between the extension 324 and the guide walls 275a, 276, 277.

A space defined by the cold guide may be formed by a first surface (for example, a lower surface an upper surface or a horizontal surface) and a second surface (for example, a side surface or a vertical surface) forming a corner portion together with the first surface.

The extension 324 may provide at least a portion of the first surface. The guide walls 275a, 276, and 277 may provide the second surface. The extension 324 may be in contact with the guide wall or be spaced apart from the guide wall at the corner portion.

Alternatively, the extension 324 may further include a first extension wall 324e providing at least a portion of the first surface, and a second extension wall 324d providing at least a portion of the second surface.

The second extension wall 324d may extend in a direction crossing the first extension wall 324e. The first and second extension walls 324d, 324e may be in contact with the guide wall or be spaced apart from the guide wall at the corner portion.

The first tray 320 may further include one or more coupling parts to be coupled to the bracket 220. For example, the first tray 320 may include a first coupling part 324a. The first tray 320 may further include a second coupling part 324b. When the bracket 220 is omitted, the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may be in contact with or be supported by the ice making chamber wall 140.

The extension 324 may further include the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b. For example, the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may extend from one end of the first extension wall 324e in a direction away from the second tray 360. The first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction (a direction crossing a Y-axis, for example, a horizontal direction). The first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b may include a coupling hole 324c.

The first tray 320 may further include a supporter 325 that supports a component for a movement of the second tray assembly 202. For example, a plurality of supporters 325 may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an X-axis direction. The supporter 325 may extend in one direction from the extension 324. The supporter 325 may extend in a direction opposite to an extension direction of the first and second coupling parts 324a, 324b.

The supporter 325 may include a hole 325a. For example, the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be movably coupled to the supporter 325. For example, the transfer portions 420 and 421 may be rotatably coupled to the supporter 325. The intermediate member 416 may be coupled to the hole 325a of the supporter 325, and a slot 325b into which a portion of the intermediate member 416 is inserted may be provided in the supporter 325 to prevent the intermediate member 416 from rotating with respect to the supporter 325. The slot 325b may extend outwardly from the hole 325a.

The intermediate member 416 may be formed of a different material than the first tray 320. An entirety of the first tray 320 may be formed of the same material, or at least a portion of the first tray 320 may be formed of a metal material.

The first tray 320 may further include a bracket coupling portion 325c to be coupled to the bracket 220. The bracket coupling portion 325c may protrude from the extension 324. The bracket coupling portion 325c may be positioned between a plurality of supports 325.

The first tray 320 may further include a cover coupling portion 327 to be coupled to the first tray cover 300. For example, a plurality of cover coupling portions 327 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a left-right direction or a front-back direction. For example, the cover coupling portion 327 may protrude from the extension 324.

The first tray 320 may further include a sensor mounting portion 326 on which the temperature sensor 710 is mounted. The sensor mounting portion 326 may be formed in a recessed shape toward the second tray 360. The temperature sensor 710 may be received in the sensor mounting portion 326.

A portion of the sensor mounting portion 326 may be positioned between two adjacent first cell portions 321a. Another portion of the sensor mounting portion 326 may be positioned between two adjacent second cell portions 321b.

The first tray 320 may further include a receiving portion 326a for receiving an insulator 720 seated on the temperature sensor 710. An upper portion of the receiving portion 326a may be positioned lower than an upper end of the auxiliary storage chamber 323d.

The first tray 320 may further include a plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c. The plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may include a first coupling boss 328a. The heater case 340 may be seated on the first coupling boss 328a. The first coupling boss 328a may be coupled to a coupling member passing through the first tray cover 300 and the heater case 340. The first coupling boss 328a may protrude from the extension 324.

The plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may further include a second coupling boss 328b. The first tray cover 300 may be seated on the second coupling boss 328b. The second coupling boss 328b may be coupled to a coupling member that is coupled to the first tray cover 300. The second coupling boss 328b may protrude from the first cell wall 322.

The plurality of coupling bosses 328a, 328b, 328c may further include a third coupling boss 328c. The third coupling boss 328c may be coupled to a coupling member passing through the first tray cover 300. The third coupling boss 328c may protrude from the extension 324.

The first tray 320 may further include a heater seating portion 329 on which the heater 330 is seated. The heater seating portion 329 may be formed, for example, by a portion of the first tray 320 being recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360. For example, the heater seating portion 329 may be formed in a shape that is recessed downward. The heater seating portion 329 may be arranged to surround the plurality of first cell portions 321a and the plurality of second cell portions 321b.

The first tray 320 may further include a guide groove 329a for guiding a portion of the heater 330 disposed outside the heater seating portion 329.

The first tray 320 may further include a recess 329c recessed in a direction toward the second tray 360 from the extension 324 or the first cell wall 322. The heater seating portion 329 may be formed by being recessed in the recess 329c. Of course, the recess 329c may be omitted.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a first tray cover as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the first tray cover 300 may include a first portion 301. At least a portion of the first portion 301 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, at least a portion of the first portion 301 may be positioned at an upper side of the first tray 320.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a second portion 302 extending from one side of the first portion 301. The second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction crossing the first portion 301. For example, the second portion 302 may extend from the first portion 301 in a direction away from the first tray 320.

The second portion 302 may cover the first pusher 510 at an ice making position. The second portion 302 may minimize an exposure of the first pusher 510. The second portion 302 may be positioned between the first pusher 510 and the ice making chamber door 130. A hole 302a may be formed in the second portion 302. A coupling member may pass through the hole 302a.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide 303. The guide 303 may extend from the first portion 301 and provide a movement path of the first pusher 510. The guide 303 may extend in a direction crossing the first portion 301 from the first portion 301. The guide 303 may include a guide slot 303a.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a water supply hole 301a. The water supply hole 301a may be aligned with a through hole 241 of the water supply 240.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a communication hole 301b aligned with the auxiliary storage chamber 323d (or a through hole 323a, 323b) of the first tray 320. The water supply hole 301a and the communication hole 301b may be referred to as a cover opening. For example, a plurality of communication holes 301b may be formed in the first portion 301.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a first coupling hole 301d aligned with the first coupling boss 328a. A coupling member may be coupled to the first coupling boss 328a by passing through the first coupling hole 301d and the heater cover 340.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a coupling portion 301e aligned with the second coupling boss 328b. The coupling portion 301e may protrude from the first portion 301. A coupling member may be coupled to the second coupling boss 328b by passing through the coupling portion 301e.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a second coupling hole 301f aligned with the third coupling boss 328c. A coupling member may be coupled to the third coupling boss 328c by passing through the second coupling hole 301f.

The first portion 301 may further include a receiving groove 301g in which an extension wall 323c of the first tray 320 is received. A rib 301c may be formed in a portion of the receiving groove 301g corresponding to the communication hole 301b.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide cover 304 in contact with a portion of the cold air guide 270. The guide cover 304 may cover a portion of the cold air guide 270. The guide cover 304 may be bent at the first portion 301.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a guide contact portion 304a in contact with the cold air guide 270. The guide contact portion 304a may extend upward from the first portion 301.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a tray seating portion 305 seated on the first tray 320. For example, a plurality of tray seating portions 305 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first portion 301. The tray seating portion 305 may extend downward from both ends of the first portion 301. The first portion 301 may be spaced apart from a portion of the first tray 320 by the tray seating portion 305.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a tray coupling portion 306 to be coupled to the first tray 320. The cover coupling portion 327 may be coupled to the tray coupling portion 306. For example, the cover coupling portion 327 may be inserted into the tray coupling portion 306.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a case contact portion 307. The case contact portion 307 may protrude from the first portion 301. The case contact portion 307 may be in contact with the heater case 340. The case contact portion 307 may press the heater case 340. For example, a plurality of case contact portion s 307 may be arranged to be spaced apart in a front-back direction and a left-right direction.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a pressing protrusion 308. The pressing protrusion 380 may press the insulator 720. For example, a plurality of pressing protrusions 308 may protrude from the first portion 301.

The first tray cover 300 may further include a heater guide 309. The heater guide 309 may be positioned adjacent to one tray seating portion of a plurality of tray seating portions 305. The heater guide 309 may protrude from the first portion 301. A portion of the heater 330 may be positioned between the heater guide 309 and the one tray seating portion 305.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a bracket as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 18B is a perspective view of a bracket according to the first embodiment as viewed from another side.

Referring to FIG. 18, the bracket 220 may include a first portion 221. The first tray assembly 201 may be in contact with the first portion 221 or supported by the first portion 221. The first portion 221 may be coupled to the supporting portion 150. The bracket 220 may further include a second portion 230 extending from the first portion 221. The driver 480 may be coupled to the second portion 230.

The first portion 221 may include a first supporter 222a to support the water supply 240. A portion of the water supply 240 may be inserted into the first supporter 222a. The first portion 221 may further include a first coupling portion 222b through which a coupling member coupled to the water supply 240 passes.

The first portion 221 may further include a second supporter 223a that supports the cold air guide 270. A protrusion 273b of the cold air guide 270 may be inserted into the second supporter 223a. The first portion 221 may further include a second coupling portion 223b through which a coupling member coupled to the cold air guide 270 passes.

The first portion 221 may further include a third supporter 224a that supports the first tray assembly 201. For example, the first tray 320 may be supported by the third supporter 224a. The third supporter 224a may be provided on a first surface of the first portion 221. A bracket coupling portion 325c of the first tray 320 may be inserted into the third supporter 224a. The first portion 221 may further include a third coupling portion 224d, 224e through which a coupling member coupled to the first tray 320 passes. For example, a plurality of third coupling portions 224d, 224e may be arranged spaced apart in a horizontal or vertical direction.

The first portion 221 may further include guide ribs 224b, 224c that guide a position of the first tray 320 in a state in which the first tray 320 is supported by the third supporter 224a. For example, a plurality of guide ribs 224b, 224c may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal or vertical direction.

A first guide rib 224b of the plurality of guide ribs 224b, 224c may be adjacent to or in contact with the first coupling part 324a. A second guide rib 224c of the plurality of guide ribs 224b, 224c may be adjacent to or in contact with the second coupling part 324b.

The first portion 221 may include a first wall 221a. At least a portion of the first wall 221a may extend in a vertical direction. The first portion 221 may further include a second wall 221b extending from a lower end of the first wall 221a. The second wall 221b may be inclined from the first wall 221a. The first portion 221 may further include a third wall 221c extending from the second wall 221b. The third wall 221c may be divided into a part extending in a horizontal direction and a part extending in a vertical direction.

The second pusher 530 may be coupled to or supported by the first portion 221. For example, the second pusher 530 may be coupled to or supported by the third wall 221c.

The bracket 220 may further include a bracket extension 225 passing through a slot 154 of the supporting portion 150. The bracket extension 225 may be formed on the first portion 221. The bracket extension 225 may be provided on a second surface opposite to the first surface of the first wall 221.

The bracket 220 may further include a heater guide 226 that guides the heater 330. The heater guide 226 may form a space 226a that receives the heater 330 therein by protruding a portion of the first portion 221. The heater guide 226 may protrude from a second surface of the first wall 221. The first portion 221 may include a hole 226b through which a portion of the heater 330 passes. The hole 226a may be positioned adjacent to the second portion 230 in the first portion 221.

The second portion 230 may surround a portion of an outer surface of the driver 480.

The second portion 230 may include an opening 232 through which a component for connecting the driver 480 and the second tray assembly 202 passes.

The second portion 320 may be provided with a coupling protrusion 231c for coupling with the driver 480. A rib 232 for reinforcing strength may be provided at a connection portion between the second portion 230 and the first portion 221. The ribs 232 may be formed on a second surface of the first wall 221a.

The second portion 230 may further include a rib receiving portion 231a and 231b that receives an extension rib 484 of the driver 480.

The bracket 220 may further include a lever coupling portion 228 to which a second extension 554 of the full ice detection lever 550 is coupled. The lever coupling portion 228 may include a lever through hole 228a. The lever coupling portion 228 may be disposed at an opposite side of the second portion 230 in the first portion 221. The lever coupling portion 228 may include, for example, a first part 228c extending from the third wall 221c. The lever coupling portion 228 may further include a second part 228d bent from the first part 228c. The lever through hole 228a may be formed in the second part 228d.

FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a heater mounted on a first tray according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 13, 15, and 19, the heater 330 may be seated on the heater seating portion 329 of the first tray 320. The heater 330 may be arranged to surround a first ice making cell of a first row and a second ice making cell of a second row.

The heater 330 may include a first heater portion 330a that provides heat to the first cell portion 321a of the first row, and a second heater portion 330b that provides heat to the second cell portion 321b of the second row.

The first heater portion 330a may include a first curved portion 331a. The first curved portion 331a may surround a water supply through hole 323al through which water passes or an ice making cell 203 communicating with the water supply through hole 323al or may be positioned adjacent to the water supply through hole 323a1.

The first heater portion 330a may further include a second curved portion 331b. A curvature of at least a portion of the first curved portion 331a may be different from a curvature of the second curved portion 331b. A curvature of at least a portion of the first curved portion 331a may be smaller than a curvature of at least a portion of the second curved portion 331b.

The first heater portion 330a may further include a third curved portion 331c. A curvature of at least a portion of the third curved portion 331c may be different from a curvature of the first curved portion 331a. A curvature of at least a portion of the first curved portion 331a may be less than a curvature of at least a portion of the third curved portion 331c. A length of the third curved portion 331c may be greater than a length of the second curved portion 331b.

The third curved portion 331c may surround an outermost through hole 323a2 disposed at an outermost among a plurality of through holes 323a of a first row or an ice making cell 203 communicating with the outermost through hole 323a2 or may be disposed adjacent to the outermost through hole 323a2.

The third curved portion 331c may be provided in multiple numbers. A portion 316 extending from any one of a plurality of third curved portions 331c may be seated in the guide groove 329a.

The second curved portion 331b may be positioned surrounding or adjacent to remaining through holes 323a3, excluding the water supply through holes 323al and the outermost through holes 323a2, among the plurality of through holes 323a of the first row. Alternatively, the second curved portion 331b may surround the ice making cell 203, communicated with the remaining through holes 323a3.

The first to third curved portions 331a, 331b, and 331c may be directly connected or may be connected by a connecting portion including a straight portion or a curved portion.

The second heater portion 330b may include a fourth curved portion 332a. The fourth curved portion 332a may be connected to another one of a plurality of third curved portions 331c.

The fourth curved portion 332a may surround the ice making cell 203, communicated with one of outermost through holes 323b1 among the plurality of through holes 323b of the second row or the one of the outermost through holes 323b1, or may be positioned adjacent to one of the outermost through holes 323b1.

The second heater portion 330b may further include a fifth curved portion 332b. A length of the fifth curved portion 332b may be less than a length of the fourth curved portion 332a. A plurality of fifth curved portions 332b may be connected to each other. A curvature of the fifth curved portion 332b may be the same as or different from a curvature of the fourth curved portion 332a.

The second heater portion 330c may further include a sixth curved portion 332c. A length of the sixth curved portion 332c may be greater than a length of the fifth curved portion 332b. A curvature of the fifth curved portion 332b may be the same as or different from a curvature of the sixth curved portion 332c.

The sixth curved portion 332c may surround the ice making cell 203, communicated with another outermost through hole 323b2 or the other outermost through hole 323b2 among the plurality of through holes 323b of the second row, or may be positioned adjacent to the other outermost through hole 323b2.

A portion 317 extending from the sixth curved portion 332c may be seated in the guide groove 329a.

The fourth to sixth curved portions 332a, 332b, and 332c may be directly connected or may be connected by a connecting portion including a straight portion or a curved portion.

Meanwhile, since the heater 330 is seated on the heater seating portion 329, the heater seating portion 329 may also include curved portions having the same or corresponding shape as the heater 330. That is, the heater seating portion 329 may also include the first curved portion to the sixth curved portion.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from a lower side according to a present embodiment. FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from an upper side, and FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 21B-21B in FIG. 21A.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the heater case 340 may include a case body 341. The case body 341 may be formed in a closed loop shape.

The case body 341 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the heater seating portion 329. That is, the case body 341 may also include a plurality of curved portions.

The case body 341 may include a plurality of curved portions 341a surrounding a first cell 321, and a connecting portion 341b connecting two curved portions 341a. The connecting portion 341b may be a curved portion or a straight portion.

The heater case 340 may further include a heater contact portion 342. The heater contact portion 342 may protrude from the case body 341. A horizontal thickness or width of the heater contact portion 342 may be less than a horizontal thickness or width of the case body 341. The heater contact portion 342 may be inserted into the heater seating portion 329 to contact the heater 330 or press the heater 330. Alternatively, the heater contact portion 342 may be in contact with the heater 330 or press the heater 330 from an outside of the heater seating portion 329.

The heater contact portion 342 may include a heater groove 342a in which a portion of the heater 330 is received. The heater groove 342a may include a rounded surface. The heater groove 324a may be formed by a surface of the heater contact portion 342 being recessed.

The heater case 340 may further include a bent portion 343. The bent portion 343 may be bent in a direction away from the ice making cell 203 in the case body 341. The bent portion 343 may be bent so as not to interfere with a portion of the heater 330 disposed outside the heater seating portion 329.

For example, the bent portion 343 may include a plurality of first parts 343a, 343b extending from the case body 341, and a second part 343c connecting the plurality of first parts 343a, 343b. A portion of the heater 330 may be positioned in a space between the plurality of first parts 343a, 343b.

The heater case 340 may further include a coupling body 345. The coupling body 345 may be coupled to the first coupling boss 328a and the first tray cover 300 by a coupling member. For example, the heater case 340 may include a plurality of coupling bodies 345.

The coupling body 345 may include a first section 345a extending in a direction crossing the case body 341. The coupling body 345 may further include a second section 345b bent from the first section 345a. A hole 345c may be formed in the second section 345b. The second section 345b may be seated on the first fastening boss 328a.

FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a state in which a first tray assembly and a cold air guide are separated according to a first embodiment. FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a state in which a cold air guide is installed in a first tray assembly according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23B-23B of FIG. 23A.

Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the heater 330 can be seated on the heater seating portion 329. In this state, the heater case 340 may be in contact with the heater 330. The second section 345b of the coupling body 345 may be seated on the first coupling boss 328a.

The temperature sensor 710 may be received in the sensor mounting portion 326. The insulator 720 may be seated on an upper side of the temperature sensor 710.

The first tray cover 300 may be seated on the first tray 320. When the first tray cover 300 is seated on the first tray 320, the cover coupling portion 327 may be coupled to the tray coupling portion 306.

A first coupling hole 301d of the first tray cover 300 may be aligned with the second section 345b and the first coupling boss 328a.

The cold air guide 270 may be seated on, for example, an extension 324 of the first tray 300. A portion of a lower side of the cold air passage 270a may be formed by the extension 324.

In a state in which the cold air guide 270 is seated on the extension 324, the guide cover 304 may cover a portion of the cold air guide 270.

The second inclined surface 275c of the first guide wall 275a may be inclined downward toward the first tray cover 300. The guide cover 304 may cover the second inclined surface 275c.

The recess 276c of the cold air guide 270 may be aligned with the water supply hole 301a. The guide contact portion 304a may be in contact with the second guide 275. For example, the guide contact portion 304a may be in contact with the third guide wall 277.

One guide 303 of the plurality of guides 303 may be positioned between the second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 and the cold air guide 270.

When the guide contact portion 304a is in contact with the second guide 275, cold air may be restricted from flowing between the guide contact portion 304a and the second guide 275. Then, cold air may be restricted from flowing toward the first guide 303, thereby preventing freezing of the first guide 303.

FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 24B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from another side according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25A-25A of FIG. 24A, and FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25B-25B of FIG. 24B. FIG. 26A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26A-26A of FIG. 25B, and FIG. 26B is a drawing showing a state in which a heater case is coupled to a first tray according to A first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 24 to 26, in a state in which the first tray assembly 201 is assembled, the first tray cover 300 may define a cooling passage 310 together with the first tray 320. The cooling passage 310 may be formed, for example, by one surface of the first portion 301. Since there is a height difference between at least a portion of the first portion 301 and at least a portion of the extension 324, the cooling passage 310 may be formed by a height difference. In a process of cold air flowing along the cooling passage 310, the first tray 320 may be cooled.

In the present specification, the cooling passage 310 may be communicated with the cold air passage 270a. A portion of a path for supplying cold to the ice making cell 203 may be formed by the cold air passage 270a, and another portion of the path may be formed by the cooling passage 310. Therefore, in terms of cold flowing, the cold air passage 270a may be a first cold passage (or a first path or a first cooling passage) and the cooling passage 310 may be a second cold passage (or a second path or a second cooling passage).

Cold air may be guided to the second path through the first path, and cold air may be supplied to the ice making cell during a process of cold air flowing through the second path. Therefore, cold air may be concentrated around the ice making cell, so there is an advantage that an ice making time may be reduced.

In a state in which the heater case 340 is coupled to the first tray 320, a plurality of extension walls 323c of the first tray 320 may pass through the heater case 340. Since a plurality of extension walls 323c are spaced apart from each other, a space between the plurality of extension walls 323c may provide a portion of the cooling passage 310.

A coupling body 345 is seated on the first coupling boss 328a, and the coupling member S2 may couple the coupling body 345 with the first coupling boss 328a. The second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 and the guide 303 are spaced apart from each other, and the first coupling boss 328a may be coupled to the coupling hole 301b in a space between the second portion 302 and the guide 303.

The case contact portion 307 may press the heater case 340. The pressing protrusion 308 may press the insulator 720. The case contact portion 307 may include a portion whose diameter decreases toward the ice making cell 203.

The temperature sensor 710 is received in the sensor mounting portion 326, and the insulator 720 may be received in the receiving portion 326a. The pressing protrusion 308 may press the insulator 720. The receiving portion 326a may be spaced apart from the first portion 301. Therefore, cold air may flow between the receiving portion 326a and the first portion 301.

The first portion 301 may be seated on an extension wall 323c of the first tray 320. A portion of the extension wall 323c may be received in the receiving groove 301g of the first portion 301, and the rib 301c may be received in a rib seating groove 324c4 formed in the extension wall 323c.

Even if water overflows from the auxiliary storage chamber 323d, overflowed water may move to an upper side of the first portion 301. Therefore, water may be prevented from flowing directly to the first tray 320 and from freezing around the first tray 320.

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from an upper side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 27B is a perspective view of a second tray assembly as viewed from a lower side according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 27, the second tray 360 may be seated on the second tray supporter 380. When the second tray 360 is seated on the second tray supporter 380, a portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray supporter 380.

In a state in which the second tray 360 is seated on the second tray supporter 380, the second tray cover 350 may be seated on the second tray 360. A portion of the second tray 360 may pass through the second tray cover 350.

The second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the second tray cover 350 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S4. The coupling member S4 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.

The second tray assembly 202 may further include a fixing portion 390. Although not limited, when the second tray assembly 202 is divided into three regions in an X-axis direction (left and right direction), the fixing portion 390 may be positioned in a region located in a center portion. The fixing portion 390 may be seated on the second tray 360. In a state in which the fixing portion 390 is seated on the second tray 360, a portion of the fixing portion 390 may pass through the second tray 360.

The fixing portion 390 passing through the second tray 360 may be in contact with the second tray supporter 380 or may pass through the second tray supporter 380.

The second tray supporter 380, the second tray 360, and the fixing portion 390 may be coupled at once by a coupling member S5. The coupling member S5 may be coupled, for example, at a lower side of the second tray supporter 380.

The second tray 360 may define a second cell 361, which is another portion of the ice making cell. The second tray 360 may include a second cell wall 362 forming the second cell 361. The second cell 361 may be formed, for example, in a hemispherical shape or a shape similar to a hemisphere.

The second tray 360 may form, for example, a plurality of second cells 361. In order to reduce a size of generated ice while increasing a number of generated ices, a plurality of second cells 361 may be arranged in a plurality of rows.

The plurality of second cells 361 may include a first cell portion 361a arranged in a first row and a second cell portion 361b arranged in a second row.

The first cell portion 361a may form another portion of a first ice making cell of a first row, and the second cell portion 361b may form another portion of a second ice making cell of a second row.

The first row and the second row may be arranged in a Y-axis direction in the drawing. The Y-axis direction may be, for example, a front-back direction of a refrigerator or a front-back direction of a door. The first row may include a plurality of first cell portions 361a. The second row may include a plurality of second cell portions 361b.

The first row may be positioned closer to the front wall 141 or an outer case 101 or a front surface of the door or a cold air guide 270 than the second row. The second row may be positioned closer to the ice making chamber door 130 than the first row.

Since a second cell 361 in the second tray 360 may be arranged to correspond to a first cell 321 of the first tray 320, a description of specific arrangement of the second cell 361 will be omitted.

Hereinafter, an operation of the ice maker 200 will be described.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at a water supply position of a second tray assembly according to a first embodiment. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker at an ice making position of a second tray assembly according to a first embodiment. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker when a second tray assembly is to a full ice detection position in an ice separation process.

FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a first column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray, and FIG. 31B is a cross-sectional view showing an ice maker in a state where a second column of a second pusher is in contact with a second tray.

FIG. 32A is a drawing showing a state where a first column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position, and FIG. 32B is a drawing showing a state where a second column of a second pusher presses a second tray in an ice separation position. FIG. 33 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 28 to 33, the refrigerator may further include a controller 100. The controller 100 may be installed or separated from a component for control. The controller 100 may be disposed inside or outside the component for control.

The driver 480 may be controlled by the controller 100. The controller 100 may control the driver 480 so that the second tray assembly 202 moves to a water supply position, an ice making position, a full ice detection position, and an ice separation position.

A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 28 is a water supply position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 29 is an ice making position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 30 is a full ice detection position. A position of the second tray assembly 202 in FIG. 32 is an ice separation position.

The second tray assembly 202 may move in a first direction from the water supply position to the ice making position. The first direction is clockwise direction in the drawing. The second tray assembly 202 may move in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, from the ice making position to the water supply position. The second direction is counterclockwise direction in the drawing.

The second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the water supply position to the full ice detection position. The second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction from the full ice detection position to the ice separation position. The second tray assembly 202 may move in the first direction from the ice separation position to the water supply position.

Referring to FIG. 28, a water supply process may be performed at an water supply position of the second tray assembly 202. Water may be supplied to the ice making cell 203 through the water supply 240.

At the water supply position of the second tray assembly 202, at least a portion of the second tray 360 may be spaced apart from the first tray 320. For example, the first cell 321 and the second cell 361 may be spaced apart from each other.

The first row may be positioned closer to a rotation center C1 of the second tray assembly 202 than the second row. A distance between the second cell portion 321b of the first tray 320 and the second cell portion 361b of the second tray 360 in the second row may be greater than a distance between the first cell portion 321a of the first tray 320 and the first cell portion 361a of the second tray 360 in the first row.

The first pusher 510 may include a first column 513. A first column 513 of the first pusher 510 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the first row. The first column 513 may push ice of the ice making cell 203 of the first row. The first pusher 510 may include a second column 514. The second column 514 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the second row. The second column 514 may push ice of the ice making cell 203 of the second row.

Each of the first column 513 and the second column 514 may include a first edge 513b, 514b to press ice, and a second edge 513c, 514c positioned opposite the first edge 513b, 514b. The first edge 513b, 514b may be positioned closer to the ice making cell 203 than the second edge 513c, 514c.

The second portion 302 of the first tray cover 300 at the water supply position and/or ice making position may overlap the pusher body 511 in a horizontal direction.

When a water supply is completed, the second tray assembly 202 may move to an ice making position. When the second tray assembly 202 moves to the ice making position, the first tray 320 and the second tray 360 may be in contact with each other. In this state, a complete ice making cell 203 may be formed by the first cell 321 and the second cell 322. A portion of the water received in the second tray 360 may be distributed to the first cell 321 of the first tray 320.

At the ice making position, a portion of the full ice detection lever 550 may be positioned below the second pusher 530. For example, the lever body 552 may be positioned below the second pusher 530. At least a portion of the first extension 553 connected to the driver 480 may be extended in a direction close to the second pusher 530.

At the ice making position, an ice making process may be performed. Cold air may be introduced into the cold air passage 270a through the first opening 272 of the cold air guide 270. Cold air may pass through the second opening 278 after flowing through the cold air passage 270a. Cold air passing through the second opening 278 may flow through the cooling passage 310. In the present embodiment, cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during the water supply process. Alternatively, cold air can be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 only during an ice making process. Cold air may be supplied to the ice making chamber 122 even during an ice separation process.

During an ice making process, it may be determined whether an ice making is complete based on at least one of a temperature detected by the temperature sensor 710 or a time for supply cold air.

When an ice making is completed, an ice separation process may be performed. The ice separation process may include a heating process in which the heater 330 operates. When the heater 330 is turned on, heat of the heater 330 may be transferred to the ice making cell 203. Ice may be separated from the first tray 320 by heat of the heater 330. A turning off of the heater 330 may be determined based on at least one of an operating time of the heater 330 or a temperature detected by the temperature sensor 710.

The ice separation process may further include a moving process in which the second tray assembly 202 moves. The moving process may be performed after the heater 330 is turned off, or the moving process may be performed while the heater 330 is operating, and the heater 330 may be turned off during the moving process.

In the ice separation process, the second tray assembly 202 may move in the second direction (direction of arrow A) from the ice making position toward the ice separation position.

In the ice separation process, while the second tray assembly 202 moves in the second direction, a power of the driver 480 may be transmitted to the full ice detection lever 550 to move. The full ice detection lever 550 may be maintained in a stopped state before the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by a predetermined angle in the second direction from the ice making position. The full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated when the second tray assembly 202 is rotated by the predetermined angle or more. At this time, the full ice detection lever 550 may be rotated in a first direction (direction of arrow B) opposite to a rotational direction of the second tray assembly 202.

In a state in which the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved to a full ice detection position. At this time, the lever body 552 may be spaced apart from the second tray assembly 202.

If a full ice is not detected in a state in which the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the full ice detection position, the second tray assembly 202 may be additionally moved in the second direction toward the ice separation position.

While the second tray assembly 202 is additionally moved in a state in which the full ice detection lever 550 is moved to the full ice detection position, the full ice detection lever 550 may also be moved in the second direction and returned to an initial position. Accordingly, an interference between the full ice detection lever 550 and the second tray assembly 202 may be prevented.

Meanwhile, while the second tray assembly 202 is moved from the ice making position to the ice separation position, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may be inserted into the first cell 321 by passing through the through holes 323a and 323b of the first tray 320. In a process of inserting the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 into the first cell 321, the columns 513 and 514 of the first pusher 510 may press ice.

The second pusher 530 may include a first column 532. The second pusher 530 may further include a second column 533. The first column 532 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the first row. The second column 533 may separate ice from the ice making cell 203 of the second row.

While the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, the first column 532 of the second pusher 530 may first contact the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 31A. The first column 532 may be positioned closer to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1 than the second column 533.

A distance between a first row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360 is different from a distance between a second row and the rotation center C1 in the second tray 360. Therefore, positions of the first column 532 and the second column 533 need to be different with respect to a vertical line V1 passing through a rotation center C1. A horizontal distance between the first column 532 and the vertical line V1 may be less than a horizontal distance between the second column 533 and the vertical line V1.

The first column 532 may include a first pressing surface 532b. The first pressing surface 532b may press a portion corresponding to the first row in the second tray 360. The second column 533 may include a second pressing surface 533b. The second pressing surface 533b may press a portion corresponding to the second row in the second tray 360.

The first pressing surface 532b may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1. The second pressing surface 533b may be inclined with respect to the vertical line V1. An inclination angle of the first pressing surface 532b may be different from an inclination angle of the second pressing surface 533b.

For example, an inclination angle of the first pressing surface 532b with respect to a vertical line may be less than an inclination angle of the second pressing surface 533b.

In a state in which the first column 532 is in contact with the second tray 360, the second column 533 may be spaced apart from the second tray 360. In this state, when the second tray assembly 202 is further moved in the second direction, the second column 533 may be in contact with the second tray 360 as shown in FIG. 29B. The first column 532 may press the first row in the second tray 360, so that a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row can be deformed.

Referring to FIG. 32, when the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, a portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the first row is deformed by the first column 532, so that ice in the first row can be separated from the second tray 360. In addition, another portion of the second cell wall 362 forming the second row is deformed by the second column 533, so that ice in the second row can be separated from the second tray 360.

At the ice separation position, the first edges 513b, 514b of the first and second columns 513, 514 of the first pusher 510 may pass through the first cell 321 and be positioned outside of the first cell 321. For example, the first edges 513b, 514b may be positioned lower than the first tray 320 based on the drawing. According to the present embodiment, ice may be sufficiently pressed by the first edges 513b, 514b, so that ice separation performance may be improved.

Ice separated from the second tray assembly 202 may fall downward and be stored in the ice bin 600.

After the second tray assembly 202 is moved to the ice separation position, the second tray assembly 202 may be moved in the first direction toward the water supply position.

FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from an upper side according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 34B is a perspective view of a heater case as viewed from a lower side according to a second embodiment. FIG. 35A is a front view of a heater case according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 35B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 35B-35B of FIG. 34A.

This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment in other parts, but differs in a shape of a heater case. Therefore, characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described, and same symbols will be used for the same configurations as a first embodiment, and a description of the first embodiment will be cited.

Referring to FIGS. 34 and 35, a heater case 1340 of the present embodiment may include a case body 1341. The case body 1341 of the present embodiment may also include a plurality of curved portions.

A shape or arrangement of the plurality of curved portions of the case body 1341 of the present embodiment may be the same as or different from a shape or arrangement of the plurality of curved portions of the case body 341 of the first embodiment.

The case body 1341 may include a plurality of curved portions 1341a surrounding a first cell 321, and a connecting portion 1341b connecting two curved portions 1341a. The connecting portion 1341b may be a curved portion or a straight portion.

The heater case 1340 may further include a heater contact portion 342. The heater contact portion 342 may protrude from the case body 1341. A horizontal thickness or width of the heater contact portion 342 may be less than a horizontal thickness or width of the case body 1341. The heater contact portion 342 may be inserted into the heater seating portion 329 to contact the heater 330 or press the heater 330. Alternatively, the heater contact portion 342 may be in contact with the heater 330 or press the heater 330 from an outside of the heater seating portion 329.

The heater contact portion 342 may include a heater groove 342a in which a portion of the heater 330 is received. The heater groove 342a may include a rounded surface. The heater groove 324a may be formed by a surface of the heater contact portion 342 being recessed.

The heater case 1340 may further include a bent portion 343. Since the bent portion 343 is the same as that described in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The heater case 1340 may further include a coupling body 1345. The coupling body 1345 may be coupled to a first tray cover (described later). The coupling body 1345 may protrude from the case body 1341. For example, the coupling body 1345 may protrude in a direction away from the heater contact portion 342. The coupling body 1345 may include an extension 1345a and a plurality of hooks 1345b extending from the extension 1345a. The heater case 1340 may include, for example, a plurality of coupling bodies 1345.

FIG. 36A is a perspective view showing a heater case coupled to a first tray cover according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 36B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 36B-36B of FIG. 36A. FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing a case contact portion in contact with a heater in a first tray according to a third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 36, a first tray cover 1300 of the present embodiment may include the first portion 301, a second portion 302, and a guide 303 described in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, only parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

The first portion 301 may be formed with a coupling hole 1301d to which the coupling body 1345 is coupled. The first portion 301 may be provided with a recess 1301d1 that is recessed toward the ice making cell 203. The coupling hole 1301d may be disposed in the recess 1301d. A plurality of hooks 1345b of the coupling body 1345 may pass through the coupling hole 1301d and be disposed in the recess 1301d1.

The first tray cover 1300 may further include a case contact portion 1307 in contact with the heater case 1340. The heater contact portion 1307 may protrude from the first portion 301.

In the present embodiment, the case contact portions 307, 1307 and the coupling body 1345 of the second embodiment allow heat of the heater 330 to be transferred to the first tray cover 300, 1300. Therefore, the case contact portions 307, 1307 and the coupling body 1345 may be referred to as a pillar that acts as a heat bridge.

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing a case contact portion in contact with a heater in a first tray according to a third embodiment.

This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment in other parts, but differs in a shape of a heater case. Therefore, characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described.

Referring to FIG. 37, a heater case 2340 of this embodiment may include a case body 2341. A shape of the case body 2341 may be the same as the shape of the case body of the first embodiment or the second embodiment.

The heater case 2340 may further include a heater contact portion 2343. The heater contact portion 2343 may protrude from the case body 2341. The heater contact portion 2343 may include a heater groove 2343a.

The heater contact portion 2343 may be received in a heater seating portion 329 in which the heater 330 is received.

The heater case 2340 may further include a coupling body 2342. The coupling body 2342 may be coupled to for example, the first tray 320. The coupling body 2342 may protrude from the case body 2341.

For example, the coupling body 2342 may protrude from a point on one surface of the case body 2341. The heater contact portion 2343 may protrude from another point on one surface of the case body 2341. The coupling body 2342 may be spaced apart from the heater contact portion 2343. A protruding length of the coupling body 2342 may be greater than a protruding length of the heater contact portion 2343.

The first tray 320 may include a groove 329d into which the coupling body 2342 is inserted. The groove 329d may be arranged to be spaced apart from the heater seating portion 329. The case contact portion 307 of the first tray cover 300 may press a portion that overlaps the heater contact portion 2343. As another example, the case contact portion 307 of the first tray cover 300 may press a portion that overlaps the coupling body 2342. Alternatively, some of the plurality of case contact portions 307 may press a portion that overlaps the heater contact portion 2343, and other some of the plurality of case contact portions 307 may press a portion that overlaps the coupling body 2342.

According to the present embodiment, since the case contact portion 2343 is in contact with the case body 2341 while the coupling body 2342 is inserted into the first tray 320, there is an advantage in that a position of the heater case can be stably fixed without forming a coupling structure such as a screw or a hook.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising:

an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated;

a cooler configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber; and

an ice maker to define an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by the cold,

wherein the ice maker includes a first tray assembly to define a portion of the ice making cell;

a second tray assembly to define another portion of the ice making cell;

a heater configured to provide heat to a first tray; and

a heater case in contact with the heater.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1,

wherein the ice making cell includes a first ice making cell provided in a first row and a second ice making cell provided in a second row, and

the heater is configured to surround the first ice making cell of the first row and the second ice making cell of the second row.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2,

wherein the heater includes a first heater portion to supply heat to the first ice making cell and a second heater portion to supply heat to the second ice making cell.

4. The refrigerator of claim 3,

wherein the first heater portion includes a first curved portion and a second curved portion, and

the second curved portion includes a portion having a different length from the first curved portion, or the second curved portion includes a portion having a different curvature from the first curved portion.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4,

wherein the first heater portion includes a third curved portion, and

the third curved portion includes a portion having a different length from the first and second curved portions, or the third curved portion includes a portion having a different curvature from the first and second curved portions.

6. The refrigerator of claim 3,

wherein the second heater portion includes a fourth curved portion and a fifth curved portion, and

the fifth curved portion includes a portion having a different length from the fourth curved portion, or the fifth curved portion includes a portion having a different curvature from the fourth curved portion.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6,

wherein the second heater portion further includes a sixth curved portion, and

the sixth curved portion includes a portion having a different length from the fourth and fifth curved portions, or the sixth curved portion includes a portion having a different curvature from the fourth and fifth curved portions.

8. The refrigerator of claim 1,

wherein the first tray includes a heater seating portion in which the heater is received, and

the heater case includes a case body and a heater contact portion protruding from the case body.

9. The refrigerator of claim 8,

wherein the heater contact portion includes a heater groove in which a portion of the heater is received, or the heater contact portion is received in the heater seating portion.

10. The refrigerator of claim 8,

wherein the first tray further includes a guide groove to receive a portion of the heater extending outward from the heater seating portion.

11. The refrigerator of claim 8,

wherein the heater case includes a coupling body for coupling to the first tray by a coupling member, and

the first tray includes a coupling boss on which the coupling body is seated.

12. The refrigerator of claim 8,

wherein the heater case includes a coupling body protruding from the case body, and

the first tray includes a coupling groove into which the coupling body is inserted.

13. The refrigerator of claim 8,

wherein the heater case includes a bent portion that is bent away from the heater seating portion so that a portion of the heater is positioned.

14. The refrigerator of claim 1,

wherein the ice maker includes a first tray cover having a portion in contact with or supporting the first tray, and

a pillar that transfers heat of the heater between the first tray cover and the heater case.

15. The refrigerator of claim 14,

wherein the pillar extends from the first tray cover toward the heater, or extends from the heater case toward the first tray cover.

16. The refrigerator of claim 14,

wherein the pillar is coupled to a coupling hole of the first tray cover.

17. A refrigerator comprising:

an ice making chamber to provide a space in which ice is generated;

a cooler configured to supply cold to the ice making chamber; and

an ice maker to define an ice making cell, which is a space in which water is phase-changed into ice by the cold,

wherein the ice maker includes:

a tray to form an ice making cell,

a tray case having a portion in contact with or supporting the tray;

a heater to provide heat to the tray; and

a heater case in contact with the heater and positioned between the tray and a first portion of the tray case.

18. The refrigerator of claim 17,

wherein a cooling passage through which cold air flows is formed between the tray and the first portion.

19. The refrigerator of claim 17,

wherein the heater case is coupled to the tray or coupled to the first portion.

20. The refrigerator of claim 17,

wherein a pillar for transferring heat from the heater is provided between the heater case and the first portion.