EP4603772A1

EP4603772A1 - Refrigerator

Info

Publication number: EP4603772A1
Application number: EP23877476.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Donghoon Lee; Changho Seo; Chongyoung PARK; Wookyong Lee
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2022-10-13
Filing date: 2023-08-28
Publication date: 2025-08-20
Also published as: WO2024080546A1

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment comprises: a cabinet that forms a storage chamber; a door that opens and closes the storage chamber; a dispenser, provided on the door, for dispensing water or ice; a first space formed in the door and at least partially disposed above the dispenser and storing ice; a second space formed in the door and at least partially disposed below the first space and storing ice; and a space door that opens and closes the second space. The ice stored in the first space can be discharged via the dispenser, and the ice stored in the second space can be discharged by opening the space door.

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.
The refrigerator may be a side-by-side type refrigerator in which a freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber are arranged left and right, a top mount type refrigerator in which the freezing chamber is located above the refrigerating chamber, or a bottom freezer type refrigerator in which the refrigerating chamber is located above the freezing chamber.
Typically, an ice maker is provided in the freezing chamber of a refrigerator to make ice. The ice maker receives water supplied from a water source or a water tank in a tray and cools the water to generate ice. The ice generated by the ice maker may be stored in an ice bin.
The ice stored in the ice bin can be discharged through a dispenser provided in the door, or the user can open a freezing chamber door, approach the ice bin, and take out the ice in the ice bin.
A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0136659 that is a prior art document.
The refrigerator of the prior art document comprises a cabinet in which a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber below the refrigerating chamber are formed; a pair of refrigerating chamber doors arranged on the left and right sides to open and close the refrigerating chamber, and an ice maker and a dispenser being provided on one side; a main water tank provided in the refrigerating chamber and cooling the supplied water; a water purifier provided in the cabinet and purifying supplied water; a sub water tank provided in the refrigerating chamber door and additionally cooling the supplied water; a water supply path connecting the water purifier, the main water tank, the sub water tank, the dispenser and the ice maker; and a branch valve provided on the water supply path of the refrigerating chamber door to selectively supply purified water to the dispenser or the ice maker.
However, in the case of the prior art, since the sub-water tank and the branch valve are provided at a rear side of the dispenser, there is a disadvantage that a space at the rear of the dispenser cannot be used as a separate storage space or an ice making chamber.
In the case of prior art, since a main water tank is installed in a refrigerating chamber, there is a disadvantage in that it is difficult to access the water tank.
In the case of the prior art, a door recess is formed at a rear side of the refrigerator door, and the door recess is covered by a cover plate while the sub-water tank is positioned in the space, so there is a disadvantage in that the cover plate must be removed in order to access the sub-water tank.

[Disclosure]

[Technical Problem]

One embodiment provides a refrigerator that can form a space for a specific purpose at a rear side of a dispenser.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator that can generate ice in the space.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator that is easy to replace a filter for purifying water.
Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator that is easy to mount or detach a water tank for storing purified water.

[Technical Solution]

In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided on the door for discharging water or ice. The refrigerator may further include a first space formed in the door and at least a portion of the first space being disposed at an upper side of the door to store ice.
The refrigerator may further include a second space formed in the door and at least a portion of the second space being disposed at a lower side of the first space to store ice. The refrigerator may further include a space door to open and close the second space.
A transparency of ice stored in the first space and a transparency of ice stored in the second space may be different from each other.
The ice stored in the first space may be discharged through the dispenser. The ice stored in the second space may be discharged by opening the space door.
The door may include a water passage for guiding water supplied from a water source. At least two of a filter, a valve, or a water tank may be provided on the water passage.
At least two of the filter, valve, or water tank may be provided at a front side of the second space and are accessible when the door is closed. At least two of the filter, valve, or water tank may be provided at a lower side or an upper side of the second space and are accessible when the door is closed.
The space door may be provided at an inner side of the door and may accessible when the door is opened.
The door may include a first surface to form a front surface of an outer side of the door and on which the dispenser is disposed, a second surface to form a side surface of an outer side of the door and disposed at both left and right sides of the dispenser, a third surface to form a lower surface of an outer side of the door and disposed at a lower side of the dispenser, and a fourth surface to form an upper surface of an outer side of the door and disposed at an upper side of the dispenser.
At least two of the filter, valve, or water tank may be disposed at at least two surfaces among the first surface to the fourth surface of the door and are accessible when the door is closed.
The refrigerator may include a filter receiving portion disposed on one of second and third surfaces of the door. The refrigerator may further include a filter mounted on the filter receiving portion and configured to purify water. The refrigerator may further include a water tank provided around the dispenser on the door. The refrigerator may further include a valve receiving portion disposed on another of the second and third surfaces of the door. The refrigerator may further include a valve disposed in the valve receiving portion and configured to control a flow of water.
In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space; a door to open and close the storage space; and a dispenser provided on the door to discharge water or ice.
The door may include a front surface where the dispenser is disposed, side surfaces disposed at left and right sides of the dispenser, and a lower surface disposed at a lower side of the dispenser.
The refrigerator may further include a filter receiving portion disposed on one of side surfaces of the door and a lower surface of the door. The refrigerator may further include a filter mounted on the filter receiving portion and to purify water. The refrigerator may further include a water tank provided around the dispenser in the door. The refrigerator may further include a valve receiving portion disposed on another of side surfaces of the door and a lower surface of the door. The refrigerator may further include a valve disposed in the valve receiving portion to control a flow of water.
The refrigerator may further include a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the door; and a space door to open and close the space.
A tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank may be disposed at a lower side of the space in the door. The tank receiving portion may be disposed higher than the valve receiving portion. The tank receiving portion may overlap the dispenser in a horizontal direction.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space; a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space; and a dispenser provided on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice.
The refrigerator may further include a filter receiving portion disposed at one of left and right sides of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a filter mounted to the filter receiving portion and to purify water. The refrigerator may further include a water tank provided around the dispenser in the refrigerator door.
The refrigerator may further include a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a space door to open and close the space.
The refrigerator may further include a valve receiving portion disposed at a lower side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a valve received in the valve receiving portion. The refrigerator may further include a valve cover to cover the valve receiving portion.
At least a portion of the filter receiving portion may be disposed to overlap the valve receiving portion in a vertical direction.
The refrigerator may further include a first passage connected to an inlet of the filter. A through hole through which the first passage passes may be formed on a bottom surface of the filter receiving portion.
The refrigerator may further include a first branch passage connected to the valve and for supplying water to the dispenser. The refrigerator may further include a second branch passage connected to the valve and for supplying water to the space.
A tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank may be disposed at a rear side of the valve receiving portion in the refrigerator door.
A tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank may be disposed at a lower side of the space in the refrigerator door.
The water tank may be disposed at another side of left and right sides of the dispenser or at an upper side of the space.
The refrigerator may further include a guide tube to guide a water passage through which water flows inside the refrigerator door. At least a portion of the guide tube may be disposed at another of left and right sides of the dispenser.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser disposed on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice. The refrigerator may further include a filter receiving portion disposed at one of left and right sides of the dispenser on the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a filter mounted on the filter receiving portion to purify water.
The refrigerator may further include a water tank provided around the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a space door to open and close the space.
The refrigerator may further include a valve receiving portion disposed at a lower side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a valve received in the valve receiving portion. The refrigerator may further include a valve cover to cover the valve receiving portion. The valve receiving portion may be formed by a lower surface of the refrigerator door being recessed upward. At least a portion of the filter receiving portion may overlap the valve receiving portion in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the valve may overlap the filter in a vertical direction.
The refrigerator may further include a first passage connected to an inlet of the filter. A through hole through which the first passage passes may be formed on a bottom surface of the filter receiving portion. The refrigerator may further include a tank receiving portion in which the water tank is received. The refrigerator may further include a second passage connected to an outlet of the filter. The second passage may be withdrawn from the filter receiving portion. The second passage may be introduced into the tank receiving part and connected to an inlet of the water tank. The refrigerator may further include a third passage connected to an outlet of the water tank. The third passage may be withdrawn from the tank receiving portion. The third passage may be introduced into the valve receiving portion and connected to the valve.
The refrigerator may further include a first branch passage connected to the valve and to supply water to the dispenser. The refrigerator may further include a second branch passage connected to the valve and to supply water to the space.
At least one of the first branch passage and the second branch passage may pass through the filter housing and extend upward.
A tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank may be disposed at a rear side of the valve receiving portion in the refrigerator door. The tank receiving portion may be disposed higher than the valve receiving portion. A tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank may be disposed at a lower side of the space in the refrigerator door. The tank receiving portion may overlap the dispenser in a horizontal direction.
The water tank may be disposed at another side of left and right sides of the dispenser or at an upper side of the space.
The refrigerator may further include a guide tube to guide a water passage through which water flows inside the refrigerator door. At least a portion of the guide tube may be disposed at one of left and right sides of the dispenser.
In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a filter receiving portion disposed at one of left and right sides of the dispenser in a refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a filter mounted in the filter receiving portion to purify water. The refrigerator may further include a valve receiving portion disposed at a lower side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a valve received in the valve receiving portion. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may include an ice making chamber door to open and close the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a tank receiving portion disposed at a lower side of the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a water tank mounted in the tank receiving portion.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a filter receiving portion disposed at one of left and right sides of the dispenser in a refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a filter mounted on the filter receiving portion to purify water. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber door to open and close the ice making chamber.
The refrigerator may further include a water tank disposed at an upper side of the ice making chamber in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a valve disposed at an upper side of the ice making chamber.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser disposed on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice. The refrigerator may further include a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser. The refrigerator may further include a space door to cover the space.
The refrigerator may further include a tank receiving portion formed by being recessed toward the space in the refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include a water tank mounted in the tank receiving portion.
The refrigerator door may include an outer case and a door liner connected to the outer case. The space may be formed as one surface of the door liner is recessed toward the dispenser. The tank receiving portion may be formed as a lower surface of the door liner is recessed upward.
In a state in which the water tank is received in the tank receiving portion, the water tank may form an outer surface of the refrigerator door. The water tank may form a lower surface of the refrigerator door. The water tank may be disposed between the dispenser and the space door.
A left-right length and a front-back length of the water tank may be greater than a height.
The water tank may include an upper body. The water tank may further include a lower body spaced apart from the upper body. The water tank may further include a peripheral body to connect the upper body and the lower body. At least a portion of the upper body may be flat. At least a portion of the upper body may be disposed to face the space.
The water tank may include an inlet. The inlet may be disposed on the peripheral body. The water tank may further include an outlet disposed higher than the inlet. The inlet may extend in a horizontal direction. The outlet may extend in a horizontal direction. The water tank may further include a protruding body protruding upward from the upper body. The outlet may extend from the protruding body.
The water tank may include a barrier to divide an inlet passage through which water introduced through the inlet flows and an outlet passage through which water to be discharged through the outlet flows.
The water tank may further include a plurality of ribs disposed in a direction crossing an extension direction of the barrier and to form a flow passage through which water flows. The plurality of ribs may include a first rib extending from the barrier. The plurality of ribs may further include a second rib extending from the peripheral body. The first rib and the second rib may be disposed to overlap in an extension direction of the barrier.
The peripheral body may include a first body. The peripheral body may further include a second body spaced apart from the first body. The barrier may be disposed between the first body and the second body. The first rib may extend from the barrier toward the first body. The second rib may extend from the first body toward the barrier. The peripheral body may include a recessed body formed by a portion being recessed. The lower body may include an extension body extending from the recessed body. The extension body may cover a water passage connected to the inlet and the outlet.
The water tank may include a fixing protrusion. The tank receiving portion may include a protrusion groove in which the fixing protrusion is received. The water tank may include an extension. The refrigerator door may include a tank connecting portion that is coupled by a coupling member while the extension is seated.
The tank receiving portion may include a first wall facing the space door. The refrigerator door may include a contact surface with which a gasket provided on the space door makes contact. A reinforcing rib may be disposed between the first wall and the contact surface. A vacuum insulator may be disposed between the space and the water tank in the refrigerator door.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice making chamber disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in a refrigerator door. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker received in the ice making chamber and to form an ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include an ice bin received in the ice making room and to store ice generated by the ice maker. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber door to cover the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a tank receiving portion disposed at a lower side of the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a water tank mounted in the tank receiving portion.
At least a portion of the water tank may overlap the ice making cell in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the water tank may overlap the ice bin in a vertical direction. The refrigerator door may further include a basket disposed at an upper side of the ice room. At least a portion of the water tank may overlap the basket in a vertical direction.
In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a refrigerator door to open and close a storage space and including an outer case and a door liner connected to the outer case.
The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber formed by the door liner and disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in a refrigerator door.
The refrigerator may further include an ice maker received in the ice making chamber and to form an ice making cell, which is a space where ice is generated. The refrigerator may further include an ice bin received in the ice making chamber and to store ice generated by the ice maker. The refrigerator may further include an ice making chamber door to cover the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a receiving portion disposed at one side of the ice making chamber. The refrigerator may further include a component mounted to the receiving portion.
The door liner forming the ice making chamber may include an inclined wall. The receiving portion may be disposed adjacent to the inclined wall. The component may include an inclined portion corresponding to the inclined wall. The ice bin may include an inclined surface corresponding to the inclined wall. The component may include at least one of a filter, a valve, or a water tank.

[Advantageous Effects]

According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that a space for a specific purpose may be formed at a rear side of a dispenser.
According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that ice may be generated in a space at a rear side of the dispenser.
According to one embodiment, when a filter is mounted on one side of a refrigerator door, there is an advantage in that a user can easily access the filter and replace the filter.
According to one embodiment, when a water tank is mounted on a lower surface of a refrigerator door, the water tank is minimized from being visible when a refrigerator door is opened, while a user who is aware of a location of the water tank can easily access the water tank.
According to one embodiment, when a left-right length and a front-back length of the water tank are greater than a height, a size of a space of the refrigerator door can be maximized. In addition, a dead zone in the tank receiving portion where the water tank is mounted may be reduced.
According to one embodiment, when the water tank includes a barrier and a rib, a length of a flow passage within the water tank may be increased, and the water tank may be prevented from being deformed by water pressure applied to the water tank.

[Description of Drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a present embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 is separated.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment as viewed from a front side.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment as viewed from a rear side.
FIG. 5 is a lateral side view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3.
FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a water passage for water to flow toward the first refrigerating chamber door according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a position of a water passage and a valve inside a first refrigerating chamber door.
FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a filter receiving portion provided at one side of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a valve receiving portion provided at a lower side of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a state in which a water tank is separated from a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a bottom view of a first refrigerating chamber door with a water tank separated from a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a tank receiving portion provided at a lower side of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a guide aligned with an opening of a tank receiving portion according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a water tank according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a drawing showing water flow inside a water tank according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 16.
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 16.
FIG. 19 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a state in which a water tank is mounted on a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a drawing showing an arrangement of a water passage in a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a drawing showing an opening provided in a valve receiving portion according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a drawing showing an arrangement of first and second branch passages inside a filter receiving portion according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a drawing showing a second passage connected to an outlet of a filter inside a filter receiving portion according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 24 is a drawing showing a second passage of FIG. 23 being guided by a guide.
FIG. 25 is a drawing showing a second passage and a third passage connected to an outlet of the water tank inside a guide.
FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which second and third passages are connected to a water tank.
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 3.
FIG. 28 is a drawing showing a water tank mounted on a first refrigerating chamber door according to another embodiment.
FIG. 29 is a drawing showing a water tank and a tank receiving portion according to another embodiment.

[Mode for Invention]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which one door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 is separated.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment as viewed from a front side. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment as viewed from a rear side.
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a refrigerator 1 of the present embodiment may include a cabinet 2 having a storage space. The refrigerator 1 may further include a refrigerator door configured to open and close the storage space.
The storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 18. The storage space may optionally or additionally include a freezing chamber 19. As an example, FIG. 2 illustrates that the storage space includes a refrigerating chamber 18 and a freezing chamber 19.
The refrigerating chamber 18 may be opened and closed by one or more refrigerating chamber doors 5. The freezing chamber 19 may be opened and closed by one or more freezing chamber doors 30.
Hereinafter, the refrigerating chamber 18 is described as being 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 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.
Hereinafter, an example of an ice maker being 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.
Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the first refrigerating chamber door 20 includes a plurality of ice makers. It is not limited thereto, and the second refrigerating chamber door 20 may also include a plurality of ice makers.
In FIG. 2, the refrigerator 1 is exemplarily illustrated as a bottom freezer type refrigerator, but it is to 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 the case of a side-by-side type or top-mount type refrigerator, the freezing chamber door may include a plurality of ice makers or the refrigerating chamber door may include a plurality of ice makers.
The dispenser 11 is disposed at a front side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, and a portion of the dispensers may be recessed toward rearward to provide a space where a container can be disposed.
The plurality of ice makers may be arranged in a vertical direction. For example, the plurality of ice makers may include a first ice maker 200. The plurality of ice makers may further include a second ice maker 500. At least a portion of the second ice maker 500 may be disposed at a lower side of the first ice maker 200. Of course, the present embodiment does not exclude the plurality of ice makers 200, 500 being arranged in a left-right direction.
The dispenser 11 may discharge at least ice generated in the first ice maker 200. To this end, at least a portion of the first ice maker 200 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11. If the dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the second ice maker 500, at least a portion of the second ice maker 500 may be positioned higher than the dispenser 11.
Or, even if the second ice maker 500 is positioned the same as or lower than the dispenser 11, ice generated in the second ice maker 500 can be transferred to the dispenser 11 by a separate transfer mechanism.
As another example, the dispenser 11 may include a first dispenser to discharge ice generated in the first ice maker 200, and a second dispenser to discharge ice generated in the second ice maker.
The second ice maker 500 may be disposed at a rear side of the dispenser 11.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include an outer case 101 configured to form a front exterior. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a door liner 102 coupled 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 is coupled to the door liner 102, an insulating space may be formed in a space between the outer case 101 and the door liner 102. An insulator may be provided in the insulating space.
The door liner 102 may include a first space 122 in which the first ice maker 200 is disposed. The first space 122 may also be referred to as a first ice making chamber. The door liner 102 may further include a second space 124 in which the second ice maker 500 is disposed. The second space 124 may also be referred to as a second ice making chamber.
In the present embodiment, the second ice maker 500 may be omitted, and in this case, the second space 124 may exist. In this case, the second space 124 may function as a door storage space used for a specific purpose.
The first space 122 may be formed as one side of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101. The second space 124 may be formed as one side of the door liner 102 is recessed toward the outer case 101. For example, the second space 124 may be recessed toward the dispenser 11.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may include a first ice bin 280 in which ice generated in the first ice maker 200 is stored. The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a second ice bin 600 in which ice generated in the second ice maker 500 is stored. Of course, if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second ice bin 600 may also be omitted.
The first ice bin 280 may be received in the first space 122 together with the first ice maker 200. The second ice bin 600 may be received in the second space 124 together with the second ice maker 500.
The first space 122 may be supplied with cold generated from a cooler. The cooler may be defined as a means for cooling the storage space, 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 first space 122.
The second space 124 may be supplied with cold generated from a cooler. For example, cold air for cooling the freezing chamber 19 may be supplied to the second space 124.
The refrigerator 1 may 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 the 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.
A shape of the ice generated from the first ice maker 200 may be the same as or different from a shape of the ice generated from the second ice maker 500. For example, the second ice maker 500 may form spherical ice. The "spherical shape" mentioned in this specification means not only a geometrically spherical shape but also a shape similar to a spherical shape.
A transparency of ice generated from the first ice maker200 may be the same as or different from a transparency of ice generated from the second ice maker 500. For example, a transparency of the ice generated from the second ice maker 500 may be greater than a transparency of the ice formed from the first ice maker 200.
A size or volume of ice generated from the first ice maker 200 may be different from a size or volume of ice generated from the second ice maker 500. For example, a size or volume of ice generated from the second ice maker 500 may be greater than a size or volume of ice formed from the first ice maker 200.
A structure of the first ice maker 200 for generating ice and a method for separation the generated ice may be the same as or different from a structure of the second ice maker 500 and a method for separation the ice generated from the second ice maker 500 is separated.
If the structure and/or the method of the ice makers are different, a shape of the first space 122 where the first ice maker 200 is disposed may be different from a shape of the second space 124 where the second ice maker 500 is disposed. For example, a depth of the second space 124 may be greater than a depth of the first space 122.
Due to a difference in depth between the first space 122 and the second space 124, 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 a 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. Due to a difference in width between the first side portion 102a and the second side portion 102b, a front-back thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 at a portion where the second ice maker 500 is positioned may be greater than a front-back thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 at a portion where the first ice maker 200 is positioned.
At least one of the cold air inlet 123a or the cold air outlet 123b may be formed on the second side portion 102b of the door liner 102. T
he second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber18 than the first side portion 102a.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a first door130 or a first space door that opens and closes the first space 122. The first door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulator provided therein.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a second door 132 or a second space door that opens and closes the second space 124. The second door 130 may be an insulated door having an insulator provided therein. Even if the second ice maker 500 is omitted, the second door 132 may exist.
Accordingly, a heat transfer between the refrigerating chamber 18 and the first and second spaces 122, 124 may be minimized by the first and second doors 130, 132.
The first door 130 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge.
The second door 132 may be rotatably provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10 by a hinge. A rotation direction of the first door 130 and a rotation direction of the second door 132 may be the same or different.
Meanwhile, a basket 136 capable of storing food may be connected to the first door 130 by varying a thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second space 124 in a vertical direction.
In a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second ice maker 500 in the vertical direction.
In a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130 and the second door 132 is closed, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second ice bin 600 in the vertical direction.
In a state in which the basket 136 is installed in the first door 130 and the second door 132 is closed, at least a portion of the basket 136 may overlap the second door 132 in the vertical direction.
Meanwhile, a filter 320 to be described later may be mounted on one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, and the filter 320 may be covered by a filter cover 142.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3.
Referring to FIG. 6, the first ice maker 200 may include an ice tray 210 configured to form an ice making cell.
The first ice maker 200 may further include a driver that provides power to automatically rotate the ice tray 210 to separate ice from the ice tray 210. The first ice maker 200 may further include a power transmission unit that transmits a power of the driver to the ice tray 210.
The ice tray 210 may include a plurality of ice making cells. Water discharged from a water supply portion and dropped onto the ice tray 210 may be distributed to the plurality of ice making cells.
When the ice generation in the ice tray 210 is completed, the ice may be separated from the ice tray 210 as the ice tray 210 is rotated (or twisted) by the driver. An ice separated from the ice tray 210 may be stored in the first ice bin 280.
The second ice maker 500 may include the first tray 510. The second ice maker 500 may further include a second tray 550. The first tray 510 and the second tray 550 may form an ice making cell 501. The second tray 550 may be moved with respect to the first tray 510. For example, the second tray 550 may be rotated with respect to the first tray 510, or may move linearly with respect to the first tray 510, or may move linearly and rotationally.
If the second tray 550 is a rotation type tray, water supply may be performed at a water supply position of the second tray 550. After the water supply is completed, the second tray550 may be rotated to an ice making position. If the second tray 550 is a linear movement type tray, water supply may be performed at the ice making position of the second tray 550.
At least a portion of the second tray 550 may be spaced apart from at least a portion of the first tray 510 at the water supply position. A portion of the second tray 550 spaced apart from the first tray 510 at the water supply position may come into contact with the first tray 510 at the ice making position to form the ice making cell 501.
The dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space. A container such as a cup may be positioned in the receiving space. Water or ice may be discharged into the receiving space.
At least a portion of the dispenser housing 11a may be disposed to overlap the second space 124 in a front-back direction.
A minimum horizontal distance between a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and the second space 124 is greater than a minimum horizontal distance between the front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and the first space 122 by the dispenser housing 11a.
A vertical length of the first space 122 may be greater than a vertical length of the second space 124. At least a portion of the second space 124 may overlap the first space 122 in the vertical direction.
The ice making cell 501 of the second ice maker 500 may overlap the dispenser housing 11a in the front-back direction.
An ice chute 700 may be disposed at a lower side of the first space 122. The ice chute 700 may be opened and closed by a cap duct 900.
An ice guide 800 may be disposed at a lower side of the ice chute 700.
The ice chute700 may guide ice discharged from the first ice bin 280 to the ice guide 800.
The ice guide 800 may guide ice to the dispenser 11.
The ice chute 700 may overlap at least a portion of the first space122 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the ice chute700 may overlap at least a portion of the second space124 in the vertical direction.
A water tank 340 may be detachably mounted on the first refrigerating chamber door 10. At least a portion of the ice chute 700 may overlap the water tank 340 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the water tank 340 may overlap the ice making cell 501 in a vertical direction. At least a portion of the water tank 340 may overlap the second ice bin 600 in a vertical direction.
At least a portion of the water tank 340 may overlap the basket 136 in a vertical direction.
The ice guide 800 may overlap at least a portion of the second space 124 in a horizontal direction.
FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a water passage for water to flow toward the first refrigerating chamber door according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a position of a water passage and a valve inside a first refrigerating chamber door.
Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the refrigerator 1 may include a water passage to guide water supplied from a water source.
The water passage may include a common passage 300. The common passage 300 may be extended within the cabinet 2 and then may pass through a hinge 12 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and be introduced into the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
A main valve 311 may be disposed on the common passage 300. A flow sensor 312 may be disposed on the common passage 300. The main valve 311 and the flow sensor 312 may be disposed, for example, in the cabinet 2.
The common passage 300 may be connected to a filter 320. The filter 320 purifies water. The common passage 300 may be connected to a water tank 340. Water passing through the filter 320 may flow into the water tank 340.
The common passage 300 may be branched into a plurality of branch passages. For example, the water passage may include a first branch passage 302. The first branch passage 302 may be connected to the dispenser 11. Water flowing through the first branch passage 302 may be discharged through the dispenser 11. Therefore, a user may obtain purified water through the dispenser 11.
The water passage may further include a second branch passage 304. The second branch passage 304 may guide water to the second ice maker 500.
The water path may further include a third branch passage 306. The third branch passage 306 may guide water to the first ice maker 200.
In another aspect, it may be described that one of the first to third branch passages is a portion of a common passage, and remaining two branch passages may be branched from the common passage. In another aspect, it is also possible for the second branch passage 304 to guide water to the first ice maker 200. It is also possible for the third branch passage 306 to guide water to the second ice maker 500.
Water passing through the water tank 340 may flow into one or more of the branch passages 302, 304, and 306.
The common passage 300 may be connected to a connector 313. The third branch passage 306 may be connected to the connector 313. The third branch passage 306 may be provided with a second valve 316. The second valve 316 may control a flow of water flowing to the first ice maker 200.
The common passage 300 may be connected to a first valve 314. The first branch passage 302 and the second branch passage 304 may be connected to the first valve 314. As another example, it is also possible for each of the first branch passage 302 and the second branch passage 304 to have a valve.
Although not limited, the first valve 314 may be disposed a downstream of the connector 313.
The first valve 314 may selectively allow water to flow into the first branch passage 302 and the second branch passage 304, or may allow water to flow into both branch passages simultaneously. The first valve 314 may be, for example, a three-way valve.
Meanwhile, the dispenser 11 may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space. A container such as a cup may be positioned in the receiving space. Water or ice may be discharged into the receiving space.
A filter receiving portion 140 for receiving the filter 320 may be disposed at one side of the dispenser housing 11a. A portion of the common passage 300 may extend in a vertical direction at another side of the dispenser housing 11a.
A valve receiving portion 150 may be disposed at a lower side of the dispenser housing 11a. At least one of the first valve 314 or the second valve 316 may be received in the valve receiving portion 150. At least a portion of the first valve 314 received in the valve receiving portion 150 may overlap the filter 320 in a vertical direction.
The valve receiving portion 150 may overlap the dispenser 11 in a vertical direction.
Another portion of the common passage 300 may be disposed in the valve receiving portion 150. A portion of the first branch passage 302 may be disposed in the valve receiving portion 150. A portion of the second branch passage 304 may be disposed in the valve receiving portion 150. Another portion of the second branch passage 304 may be extended upward from the filter receiving portion 140 to be connected to the second ice maker 500.
A portion of the third branch passage 306 may be disposed in the valve receiving portion 150. Another portion of the third branch passage 306 may be extended upward from the filter receiving portion 140 to be connected to the first ice maker 200.
In the present embodiment, the filter receiving portion 140 is disposed at one side of the dispenser housing 11a, and the valve receiving portion 150 is disposed at a lower side of the dispenser housing 11a, so that the second space 124 may be formed at a rear side of the dispenser housing 11a.
At least a portion of the filter receiving portion 140 may be disposed to overlap the valve receiving portion 150 in a vertical direction.
In the present embodiment, the valve 314, 316 and the filter 140 are disposed in front of the second space 124, so that they can be accessed even when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is closed.
FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a filter receiving portion provided at one side of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a valve receiving portion provided at a lower side of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a state in which a water tank is separated from a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 9 to FIG. 11, a filter receiving portion 140 may be disposed at one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
A filter holder 147 may be disposed on the filter receiving portion 140. The filter holder 147 may be rotatably installed on the filter receiving portion 140. The filter 320 may be detachably connected to the filter holder 147.
A hinge of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may be disposed closer to another side among one side and another side. The one side 103 is an opposite side of the other side. The one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is a side adjacent to the second refrigerating chamber door 20.
When the user opens the first refrigerating chamber door 10, the user can easily access the filter 320 disposed at one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
A filter opening 103a may be formed at one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The filter receiving portion 140 may be formed in a rectangular hexahedron shape with an opened surface, but is not limited thereto. The filter receiving portion 140 may contact or be connected to the one side 103 from an inside of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 in a state in which the opened surface is aligned with the filter opening 103a.
For example, the filter 320 may be mounted in an upright state in the filter receiving portion 140. Therefore, a user can easily mount or remove the filter 320. The filter opening 103a may be opened and closed by the filter cover 142. The filter cover 142 may be detachably connected to the one side 103 or the filter receiving portion 140.
A through hole 143 through which a water passage passes may be formed on one side of the filter receiving portion 140. Although not limited, the through hole 143 may be formed on a bottom surface 141 of the filter receiving portion 140. The water passage may pass through a bottom surface 141 of the filter receiving portion 140 in a vertical direction.
The valve receiving portion 150 may be disposed on a lower surface 104 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The valve receiving portion 150 may be a separate component from the lower surface 104 and may be coupled to the lower surface 104. Alternatively, the valve receiving portion 150 may be formed by a portion of a lower surface 104 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 being recessed upward.
The first valve 314 and the second valve 316 may be received in the valve receiving portion 150 at a lower side of the valve receiving portion 150. The valve receiving portion 150 may be covered by a valve cover 152. The valve cover 152 may form a portion of an outer surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
A handle 13 for a user's grip may be formed in front of the valve receiving portion 150 on a lower surface 104 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The handle 13 may be formed by a portion of the lower surface 104 being recessed upward.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a tank receiving portion 160 in which the water tank 340 is received.
The tank receiving portion 160 may be formed, for example, on the door liner 102. The tank receiving portion 160 may be disposed at a lower side of the second space 124.
The tank receiving portion 160 may be formed by a portion of a lower surface 107 of the door liner 102 being recessed upward. The tank receiving portion 160 may be disposed in front of the second door 132. The tank receiving portion 160 may be disposed at a rear side of the valve receiving portion 150. The tank receiving portion 160 may be disposed higher than the valve receiving portion 150.
The tank receiving portion 160 may be disposed to overlap the dispenser housing 11a in a horizontal direction.
The tank receiving portion 160 (or the water tank 340) may be disposed between the second door 132 and the dispenser housing 11a.
The water tank 340 may be detachably coupled to the tank receiving portion 160. In a state in which the water tank 340 is coupled to the tank receiving portion 160, the water tank 340 may form an exterior of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. Of course, it is also possible for a separate tank cover to be coupled to the door liner 102 to prevent external exposure of the water tank 340.
Since the water tank 340 is disposed at a lower side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, the water tank 340 may not be visible even if the user opens the first refrigerating chamber door 10. Meanwhile, a user who is aware of a location of the water tank 340 has an advantage of being able to easily access the water tank 340 when the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is opened.
FIG. 12 is a bottom view of a first refrigerating chamber door with a water tank separated from a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a tank receiving portion provided at a lower side of a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a guide aligned with an opening of a tank receiving portion according to the present embodiment.
Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, the tank receiving portion 160 may include a first recessed portion 162a. The water tank 340 may be received in the first recessed portion 162a. The tank receiving portion 160 may further include a second recessed portion 162b recessed upward from the first recessed portion 162a. A recessed depth of the second recessed portion 162b may be greater than a recessed depth of the first recessed portion 162a based on a lower surface 107 of the door liner 102.
A water passage connected to the water tank 340 may be disposed in the second recessed portion 162b.
Among walls forming the tank receiving portion 160, a first wall 165a adjacent to the second door 132 may be provided with a reinforcing rib 166. For example, a plurality of reinforcing ribs 166 may extend from the first wall 165a toward the second door 132. The reinforcing rib 166 may be connected to a contact surface (see 102d of FIG. 19) in the door liner 102 that contacts a gasket (see 139 of FIG. 19) installed in the second door 132. That is, the reinforcing rib 166 may be disposed between the contact surface and the first wall 165a.
A strength of the first wall 165a may be improved by the reinforcing rib 166. In addition, a strength of the contact surface (see 102d of FIG. 19) may be improved by the reinforcing rib 166. When a strength of the first wall 165a is improved by the reinforcing rib 166, deformation of the first wall 165a may be prevented during a process of hardening after foaming agent for insulation is injected into the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
The water tank 340 may include an extension 348 to be coupled to the tank receiving portion 160. The tank receiving portion 160 may be provided with a tank coupling portion 163 on which the extension 348 is mounted. A coupling member may be coupled to the extension 348 and the tank coupling portion 163 in a state in which the extension 348 is seated on the tank coupling portion 163. The tank coupling portion 163 may be formed on, for example, the first wall 165a. A second wall 165b, which is disposed opposite the first wall 165a among walls forming the tank receiving portion 160, may be provided with a protrusion groove 162 for receiving a fixing protrusion 347 of the water tank 340, which will be described later.
The tank receiving portion 160 may be provided with an opening 161. The opening 161 may provide a path for water passage. The opening 161 may be formed, for example, in the second wall 165b.
The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a guide 170 that guides water passage through the opening 161. The guide 170 may be disposed inside the first refrigerating chamber door 10. An internal space of the guide 170 may be communicated with the opening 161. The guide 170 may be in contact with the second wall 165b while being disposed inside the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
The guide 170 may include a first hole 171. The first hole 171 may pass through a passage portion connected to an inlet of the water tank 340 in the water passage.
The guide 170 may include a second hole 172. The second hole 172 may pass through a passage portion connected to an outlet of the water tank 340 in the water passage.
For example, the first hole 171 and the second hole 172 may be arranged in a vertical direction, but are not limited thereto.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a water tank according to the present embodiment. FIG. 16 is a drawing showing water flow inside a water tank according to the present embodiment. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 16.
Referring to FIGS. 15 to 18, the water tank 340 may be formed in a non-circular shape. The water tank 340 may be formed in a polyhedral shape, for example. If the water tank 340 is formed in a polyhedral shape, when the water tank 340 is received in the tank receiving portion 160, a dead zone (a space where the water tank 340 is not located) within the tank receiving portion 160 may be minimized.
The water tank 340 may include a tank body 341 forming a storage space 344 therein. The tank body 341 may include an inlet 342 through which water flows in. The tank body 341 may further include an outlet 346 through which water flows out. The inlet 342 and the outlet 346 may be disposed adjacent to each other so that a length of the common passage 300 may be reduced.
The tank body 341 may include a first body 341a. The tank body 341 may further include a second body 341b facing the first body 341a and spaced apart from the first body 341a. The tank body 341 may further include a third body 341c connecting one side of the first body 341a and one side of the second body 341b. The tank body 341 may further include a fourth body 341d connecting another side of the first body 341a and another side of the second body 341b. The fourth body 341d may further include a recessed body 341e formed by recessing a portion of the fourth body 341d toward the third body 341c.
The inlet 342 and outlet 346 may be disposed closer to the fourth body 341d than the third body 341c. The inlet 342 and outlet 346 may be formed, for example, in the fourth body 341d. The inlet 342 and outlet 346 may be disposed closer to the sunken body 341e.
In this specification, the first to fourth bodies may be referred to as peripheral bodies.
The tank body 341 may further include an upper body 348b. The tank body 341 may further include a lower body 348a. The lower body 348a may form the storage space 344. The peripheral body may connect the upper body 348b and the lower body 348a.
In a state in which the water tank 340 is mounted in the tank receiving portion 160, the lower body 348a may form an exterior of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.
The lower body 348a may further include an extension body 348c extending from the sunken body 341a. At least a portion of the extension body 348c may overlap the inlet 342 and the outlet 346 in a vertical direction.
The upper body 348b and the lower body 348a may extend in parallel. Alternatively, the lower body 348a may be disposed to be inclined with respect to the upper body 348b. Although not limited, the upper body 348b may extend in a horizontal direction. The lower body 348a may be disposed to be inclined. At least a portion of the upper body 348b may be flat. At least a portion of the upper body 348b may extend in a horizontal direction.
A distance between the first body 341a and the second body 341b or a front-back length of the water tank 340 may be greater than a height of the water tank 340. A distance between the third body 341c and the fourth body 341d or a left-right length of the water tank 340 may be greater than a height of the water tank 340. A left-right length and a front-back length of the water tank 340 may be greater than a height. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, since the water tank is formed as a wide plate structure, it is possible to increase a size of the second space 124.
The extension body 348c may prevent a water passage connected to the inlet 342 and the outlet 346 from being exposed to an outside. That is, the extension body 348c may cover a water passage connected to the inlet 342 and the outlet 346.
The inlet 342 and the outlet 346 may be spaced apart in a horizontal direction. The inlet 342 and the outlet 346 may be spaced apart in a vertical direction. Although not limited, the outlet 346 may be positioned higher than the inlet 342. When the outlet 346 is positioned higher than the inlet 342, air bubbles introduced together with water into the water tank 340 may be easily discharged through the outlet 346.
In order to prevent water flowing in through the inlet 342 from being discharged directly to the outlet 346, the tank body 341 may include a barrier 345.
The barrier 345 may partition an inlet passage 342b and an outlet passage 346b within the storage space 344.
The barrier 345 may partition the inlet passage 342b and the outlet passage 346b in a horizontal direction.
An upper surface of the barrier 345 may partition the inlet passage 342b and the outlet passage 346b in a vertical direction.
The barrier 345 may be disposed between the first body 341a and the second body 341b.
The barrier 345 may extend from the fourth body 341d toward the third body 341c, but is not limited thereto. One end of the barrier 345 may be spaced apart from the third body 341c.
The water tank 340 may further include a plurality of ribs. The plurality of ribs may form a passage through which water flows. A passage for a flow of water in the storage space 344 may be increased by the plurality of ribs. When a passage inside the water tank 340 is increased, a heat exchange time between the water flowing in the passage and cold air inside the second space 124 may be increased, so that water temperature inside the water tank 340 may be lowered.
The plurality of ribs may serve as reinforcing ribs that prevent the water tank 340 from being deformed by water pressure applied to the water tank 340.
The plurality of ribs may include a first rib 343. The first rib 343 may, for example, extend from the barrier 345. The first rib 343 may extend in a direction (Y-axis direction) crossing an extension direction (X-axis direction) of the barrier (345). For example, the first rib 343 may extend from the barrier 345 toward the first body 341a. Although not limited, a plurality of first ribs 343 may be disposed spaced apart from each other in an extension direction of the barrier 345.
The plurality of ribs may further include a second rib 343a. The second rib 343a may be spaced apart from the first rib 343. The second rib 343a may extend in a direction crossing the barrier 345. The second rib 343a may extend in a direction crossing the first body 341a. The first rib 343 and the second rib 343a may overlap in a X-axis direction. The second rib 343a may be disposed between two adjacent first ribs 343. Although not limited, a plurality of second ribs 343a may be disposed to be spaced apart in an extending direction of the barrier 345. The second rib 343a may, for example, extend from the first body 341a toward the barrier 345. Of course, it is also possible that some of the plurality of ribs are formed in the third body 341c and/or the fourth body 341d.
Water introduced through the inlet 342 may flow between the barrier 345 and the first body 341a. Then, the water may flow between the barrier 345 and the second body 341b and be discharged to an outside through the outlet 346.
The water tank 340 may further include a protruding body 346a that protrudes upward from the upper body 348. The outlet 346 may extend from the protruding body 346a. For example, the outlet 346 may extend horizontally from the protruding body 346a. At least a portion of the outlet 346a may be disposed higher than the upper body 348b. The outlet 346 may be disposed higher than the inlet 342 by the protruding body 346a.
FIG. 19 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a state in which a water tank is mounted on a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment.
Referring to FIG. 19, when the fixing protrusion 347 of the water tank 340 is received in the protrusion groove 162, the extension 348 may be aligned with the tank coupling portion 163. In this state, a coupling member may be coupled to the extension 348 and the tank coupling portion 163.
Meanwhile, an insulator 132b may be provided inside the second door 132. An insulator 390 may also be provided between a bottom of the second space 124 and the water tank 340. At this time, a thickness of an insulator 390 between the second space 124 and the water tank 340 may be equal to or less than a thickness of a insulator 132b of the second door 132.
The upper body 348b of the water tank 340 may be disposed to face a bottom of the second space 124. In the present embodiment, the upper body 348b is formed in a thin plate shape, so that a heat exchange area with cold air of the second space 124 may be increased.
A vacuum insulator 392 may be provided between the water tank 340 and a bottom of the second space 124. The vacuum insulator 392 may also be disposed between the dispenser housing 11a and the second space 124.
FIG. 20 is a drawing showing an arrangement of a water passage in a first refrigerating chamber door according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21 is a drawing showing an opening provided in a valve receiving portion according to the present embodiment. FIG. 22 is a drawing showing an arrangement of first and second branch passages inside a filter receiving portion according to the present embodiment. FIG. 23 is a drawing showing a second passage connected to an outlet of a filter inside a filter receiving portion according to the present embodiment. FIG. 24 is a drawing showing a second passage of FIG. 23 being guided by a guide. FIG. 25 is a drawing showing a second passage and a third passage connected to an outlet of the water tank inside a guide. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which second and third passages are connected to a water tank.
Referring to FIG. 7, FIG. 20 to FIG. 26, a common passage 300 introduced into the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may extend from an upper side toward a lower side.
For example, the common passage 300 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the other side 103b among the one side 103 and the other side 103b of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. That is, the common passage 300 may be located on opposite side of the filter 320 with respect to the dispenser housing 11a. A guide tube 330 receiving the common passage 300 may be provided inside the first refrigerating chamber door 10. The guide tube 330 may limit contact between an insulation provided on the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and the common passage 300.
The valve receiving portion 150 may be provided with a first opening 153. The common passage 300 may be guided into the valve receiving portion 150 through the first opening 153. The first opening 153 may be formed on a side surface or an upper surface of the valve receiving portion 150.
The valve receiving portion 150 may further include a second opening 155 through which the common passage 300 passes. The second opening 155 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the first opening 153. The second opening 155 may be aligned with a through hole 143 of the filter receiving portion 140. The common passage 300 may be guided to the filter receiving portion 140 by the second opening 155 and the through hole 143.
The common passage 300 may include a first passage 300a connected to an inlet of the filter 320. The common passage 300 may further include a second passage 300b connected to an outlet of the filter 330. The second passage 300b may pass through the filter receiving portion 140 and be guided toward the guide 170. The first passage 300a may pass through the through hole 143.
The filter receiving portion 140 may include a port 145 to which the second passage 300b is connected or through which the second passage 300b passes.
A second passage 300b guided by the guide 170 may be extended to the tank receiving portion 160. That is, the second passage 300b may be introduced into the tank receiving portion 160 after being withdrawn from the filter receiving portion 140. The second passage 300b may be connected to an inlet 342 of the water tank 340.
The common passage 300 may further include a third passage 300c connected to an outlet portion 342 of the water tank 340. The third passage 300c may be extended toward the valve receiving portion 150 by being guided by the guide 170.
The third passage 300c may be connected to the connector 313.
The first branch passage 302 connected to the first valve 314 in the valve receiving portion 150 may be guided upward through the second opening 155 and the filter receiving portion 140. Alternatively, the first branch passage 302 may be guided upward while bypassing the filter receiving portion 140.
In the valve receiving portion 150, the second branch passage 304 connected to the first valve 314 may be guided upward through the second opening 155 and the filter receiving portion 140. Alternatively, the second branch passage 304 may be guided upward while bypassing the filter receiving portion 140.
In the valve receiving portion 150, the third branch passage 306 connected to the connector 313 may be extended upward after passing through the first opening 153. The third branch passage 306 may be received inside the guide tube 300.
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 3.
Referring to FIG. 27, the filter receiving portion 140 may be disposed at one side of the dispenser housing 11a. A portion of the guide tube 330 may be disposed at another side of the dispenser housing 11a. According to this arrangement, there is an advantage in that the filter 320 may be mounted and detached without interference with the water passage.
The dispenser housing 11a and the filter receiving portion 140 may overlap in a horizontal direction. An insulator 390 may be disposed between the dispenser housing 11a and the filter receiving portion 140.
The guide tube 330 and the dispenser housing 11a may overlap in a horizontal direction. Since the guide tube 330 and the filter receiving portion 140 are disposed at a lateral side of the dispenser housing 11a, a second space 124 may be formed at a rear side of the dispenser housing 11a.
Food or goods may be stored in the second space 124, or a second ice maker 500 may be installed in the above second space 124.
In the present embodiment, the water tank 340 is described as being disposed at a lower side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, but it may be disposed at a lateral side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. For example, the filter may be disposed at one lateral side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, and the water tank may be disposed at another lateral side of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. That is, the filter may be disposed at one side of left and right sides of the dispenser, and the water tank may be disposed at another side of left and right sides of the dispenser. For example, the water tank may be disposed in front of the second space. Therefore, a user can access the water tank even when the second door is closed.
As another example, it is also possible that the water tank is disposed at an upper side of the second space. In this case, in order to reduce a length of the water passage, the valve mounting portion and the valve may also be disposed at an upper side of the second space.
As another example, it is also possible that the valve mounting portion is not disposed at a lower side of the first refrigerating chamber door, but at an upper side or a lower side of the filter. That is, the valves may be disposed at an upper side or a lower side of the filter.
To summarize contents of this specification, the door may include a first surface forming a front surface of an outer side of the door and on which the dispenser is disposed, a second surface forming a side surface of the outer side of the door and disposed at both left and right sides of the dispenser, a third surface forming a lower surface of the outer side of the door and disposed at a lower side of the dispenser, and a fourth surface forming an upper surface of the outer side of the door and disposed at an upper side of the dispenser.
At least two or more of the filter, valve, and water tank may be disposed at at least two or more surfaces of the first surface to the fourth surface of the door so as to be accessible when the door is closed.
FIG. 28 is a drawing showing a water tank mounted on a first refrigerating chamber door according to another embodiment. FIG. 29 is a drawing showing a water tank and a tank receiving portion according to another embodiment.
This embodiment is the same as the previous embodiment in other parts, but has differences in a shape and a mounting position of the water tank. Therefore, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.
Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, in order for cold air to flow to the second ice maker 500 disposed in the second space 124, the first refrigerating chamber door may include an inlet 125. Cold air may be introduced into the second space 124 through the inlet 125.
The first refrigerating chamber door may further include an outlet 126. Cold air in the second space 124 may be discharged through the outlet 126.
The inlet 125 and the outlet 126 may be arranged in a vertical direction. For example, the inlet 125 may be disposed higher than the outlet 126. Accordingly, cold air introduced through the inlet 125 may flow toward the second wall 124b disposed opposite the first wall 124a where the inlet 125 is disposed. In a process of cold air flowing toward the first wall 124b, water supplied to the second ice maker 500 may be cooled.
Cold air flowing toward the second wall 124b may be diverted by the second wall 124b. Diverted cold air flows toward the outlet 126. In a process of cold air flowing toward the outlet 126, cold air may cool ice stored in the second ice bin 600.
An inclined wall 124c may be disposed at a lower side of the second wall 124b. That is, the inclined wall 124c may facilitate a diversion of cold air. The second ice bin 600 may include an inclined surface corresponding to the inclined wall 124c.
A receiving portion 127 for mounting a water tank 340a may be disposed at a position adjacent to the inclined wall 124c at an outside of the second space 124. The receiving portion 127 may be covered by a receiving portion cover 128.
The receiving portion 127 may include an inclined portion 127a disposed at a position corresponding to the inclined wall 124c. The water tank 340a may include an inclined surface 340b that contacts the inclined portion 127a. An inlet passage 342a and an outlet passage 342b connected to the water tank 340a may pass through one surface of the receiving portion 127 and be introduced into an inside of the first refrigerating chamber door.
In this embodiment, it is described that the water tank 340a is received in the receiving portion 127, but, alternatively, various components including an inclined surface may be received in the receiving portion 127. For example, a valve, a filter, etc. including an inclined surface may be received in the receiving portion.

Claims

A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet having a storage space;

a door to open and close the storage space;

a dispenser provided on the door and configured to discharge water or ice,

a first space formed in the door and at least a portion of the first space being disposed at an upper side of the door to store ice;

a second space formed in the door and at least a portion of the second space being disposed at a lower side of the first space to store ice; and

a space door to open and close the second space,

wherein ice stored in the first space is discharged through the dispenser, and

ice stored in the second space is discharged by opening the space door.
The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the door includes a water passage to guide water supplied from a water source, and
wherein at least two of a filter, a valve, or a water tank may be provided on the water passage.
The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein at least two of the filter, valve, or water tank are provided at a front side of the second space and are accessible when the door is closed.
The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein at least two of the filter, valve, or water tank are provided at a lower side or an upper side of the second space and are accessible when the door is closed.
The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the space door is provided at an inner side of the door and is accessible when the door is opened.
The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the door includes a first surface to form a front surface of an outer side of the door and on which the dispenser is disposed, a second surface to form a side surface of an outer side of the door and disposed at both left and right sides of the dispenser, a third surface to form a lower surface of an outer side of the door and disposed at a lower side of the dispenser, and a fourth surface to form an upper surface of an outer side of the door and disposed at an upper side of the dispenser.
The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein at least two of the filter, valve, or water tank are disposed at at least two surfaces among the first surface to the fourth surface of the door and are accessible when the door is closed.
The refrigerator of claim 6, further comprising a filter receiving portion disposed on one of second and third surfaces of the door;
a filter mounted on the filter receiving portion and configured to purify water;

a water tank provided around the dispenser on the door;

a valve receiving portion disposed on another of the second and third surfaces of the door; and

a valve disposed in the valve receiving portion and configured to control a flow of water.
A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet having a storage space;

a door to open and close the storage space;

a dispenser provided on the door to discharge water or ice, the door including a front surface where the dispenser is disposed, side surfaces disposed at left and right sides of the dispenser, and a lower surface disposed at a lower side of the dispenser;

a filter receiving portion disposed on one of side surfaces of the door and a lower surface of the door;

a filter mounted on the filter receiving portion and to purify water;

a water tank provided around the dispenser in the door;

a valve receiving portion disposed on another of side surfaces of the door and a lower surface of the door; and

a valve disposed in the valve receiving portion to control a flow of water.
The refrigerator of claim 9, further comprising a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the door; and a space door to open and close the space.
The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein a tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank is disposed at a lower side of the space in the door.
The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the tank receiving portion is disposed higher than the valve receiving portion, or
the tank receiving portion overlaps the dispenser in a horizontal direction.
A refrigerator comprising:
a cabinet having a storage space;

a refrigerator door to open and close the storage space;

a dispenser provided on the refrigerator door to discharge water or ice;

a filter receiving portion disposed at one of left and right sides of the dispenser in the refrigerator door;

a filter mounted to the filter receiving portion and to purify water;

a water tank provided around the dispenser in the refrigerator door;

a space disposed at a rear side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door; and

a space door to open and close the space.
The refrigerator of claim 13, further comprising a valve receiving portion disposed at a lower side of the dispenser in the refrigerator door,
a valve received in the valve receiving portion, and

a valve cover to cover the valve receiving portion.
The refrigerator of claim 14, wherein at least a portion of the filter receiving portion is disposed to overlap the valve receiving portion in a vertical direction.
The refrigerator of claim 14, further comprising a first passage connected to an inlet of the filter, wherein a through hole through which the first passage passes is formed on a bottom surface of the filter receiving portion.
The refrigerator of claim 14, further comprising a first branch passage connected to the valve and for supplying water to the dispenser, and
a second branch passage connected to the valve and for supplying water to the space.
The refrigerator of claim 14, wherein a tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank is disposed at a rear side of the valve receiving portion in the refrigerator door, or
the tank receiving portion for receiving the water tank is disposed at a lower side of the space in the refrigerator door.
The refrigerator of claim 13, wherein the water tank is disposed at another side of left and right sides of the dispenser or at an upper side of the space.
The refrigerator of claim 13, further comprising a guide tube to guide a water passage through which water flows inside the refrigerator door,
wherein at least a portion of the guide tube is disposed at another of left and right sides of the dispenser.