REFRIGERATOR

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119 of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0037553, filed on Mar. 19, 2024, in the Republic of Korea, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

BACKGROUND

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that can store food at low temperatures in an internal storage space that is shielded by a door. To this end, the refrigerator is configured to cool the inside of the storage space by using cold air generated through heat exchange with a refrigerant that circulates a refrigeration cycle, thereby allowing the stored food to be stored in an optimal condition.

Recently, refrigerators are becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the changing eating habits and the trend toward higher quality products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices for the convenience of users and efficient use of internal space are being released.

Typically, a refrigerator may be equipped with an ice maker that automatically makes and stores ice. In addition, an automatic ice maker that automatically supplies water to make ice is widely used.

To supply water to an automatic ice maker, a piping for the water supply is essential, and a heater is required to prevent freezing in the piping directed toward the ice maker placed inside the freezing compartment.

If the length of such pipes becomes longer, there is a problem that residual water is more likely to occur, which can cause freezing, and there is also a problem that the pipe assembly is not good.

In addition, as the length of the pipe increases, the area required for the heater to prevent freezing also increases, which leads to an increase in power consumption.

SUMMARY

An object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that reduces the length of a pipe supplying water from a water supply device to an ice maker.

An object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that improves power consumption by minimizing the capacity of a heater that heats a water supply pipe.

An object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that improves the assembly workability of components for supplying water to an ice maker.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet divided into a refrigerating compartment on the upper side and a freezing compartment on the lower side by a barrier; a refrigerating compartment door and a freezing compartment door for opening and closing the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment; a water supply device provided in the refrigerating compartment and mounted on a lower surface of the barrier; an ice maker provided in the freezing compartment and mounted on an upper surface of the barrier; and a water supply pipe provided in the barrier and guiding water from the water supply device to the ice maker, in which the water supply device and the ice maker may be disposed so that at least a part overlaps each other, and the water supply pipe may pass through the barrier between the water supply device and the ice maker in a vertical direction.

The barrier may include an inner case filled with insulation material therein; an upper bracket mounted on the inner case and forming the upper surface of the barrier, to which the water supply device is connected; and a lower bracket mounted on the inner case and forming the lower surface of the barrier, to which the ice maker is mounted, and the water supply pipe may be connected to the upper bracket and the lower bracket inside the inner case.

The refrigerator may further include a support part connecting the upper bracket and the lower bracket and maintaining a gap between the upper bracket and the lower bracket.

The water supply device may include a connection pipe extending from the water supply device to the upper bracket to supply water; and a connector provided at an end part of the connection pipe and mounted on the upper bracket to communicate with the water supply pipe.

An inner diameter of the water supply pipe may be formed larger than an inner diameter of the connection pipe.

The water supply pipe may include an upper part connected to the upper bracket and extending downward; a lower part disposed in a staggered position from the upper part and extending to be connected to the lower bracket; and a connection part connecting the upper part and the lower part, and both ends of the connection part may be formed in a round shape.

The lower part may further extend toward the water supply part of the ice maker by penetrating the upper bracket, and an end part of the lower part may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

A connector mounting part may be formed on the upper bracket, which communicates with an upper end of the water supply pipe and is coupled with the connector.

The connector may include a connector body communicating with the water supply pipe; a connector coupling part formed on the connector body and fastened to the connector mounting part; and a fitting part communicating with the connector body and into which the connection pipe is inserted.

A plurality of coupling holes may be formed along a circumference of the connector body in the connector mounting part, and the connector coupling part may be formed in a hook shape that is inserted into the coupling hole at a position corresponding to the coupling hole.

The connector body may be opened downward and the fitting part is opened to a side intersecting the connector body.

The connection pipe may be disposed along the upper surface of the barrier, and the barrier may be equipped with the upper bracket exposed upward and a connector cover shielding the connection pipe and the water supply pipe.

A pair of ice makers may be disposed on the lower bracket, and a pair of water supply pipes, a pair of connection pipes, and a pair of connectors may be provided to correspond to the ice maker, so that water is capable of being supplied independently to each ice maker.

The water supply device may include a case placed in the refrigerator; and a filter placed inside the case to purify the supplied water; and the connection pipe may be connected to the filter.

The ice maker may be is provided with a pair of different ice makers, a water supply valve may be provided inside the case, the water supply valve may be connected to an input side of the ice maker output pipe connected to the filter, and a pair of connection pipes supplying water to the pair of ice makers may be connected to an output side.

The refrigerator may further include a machine compartment provided at a lower part of the freezing compartment, in which a compressor and a condenser are disposed; a water valve provided in the machine compartment, which opens and closes a water flow path supplied from an external water source; and a dispenser provided in the door, which extracts purified water, in which a pipe on the dispenser side connected to the dispenser may be branched inside the case.

A connection pipe holder for guiding the connection pipe may be provided at a lower end of the case.

The case may extend from a front to a rear of the refrigerating compartment and may be disposed on one side wall of both left and right sides of the refrigerating compartment, the connection pipe holder may be formed on a lower end of the side of the case, and the connection pipe may be guided from a position spaced from the rear to the front of the refrigerating compartment.

The ice maker may include a water supply cup that guides water to the ice tray, the water supply cup may be disposed in the middle of the ice tray in a front and rear direction, and the water supply pipe may be disposed above the water supply cup.

The water supply device may include a tank body in which water is stored; and a tank cover opening and closing the tank body and in which water is injected.

The following effects can be expected from the refrigerator according to the proposed embodiment.

In a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the length of the water supply pipe from the water supply device to the ice maker can be minimized by vertically supplying water to the water supply device and the ice maker through a water supply pipe penetrating the barrier, which shortens the overall length of the water path and simplifies the water path disposition.

In addition, since the length of the flow path is shortened, the size and capacity of the heater to prevent freezing of the flow path can be reduced. Therefore, there is an advantage of reducing the overall power consumption.

In addition, the water supply device includes a connection pipe and a connector, and since the connector has a detachable structure to the upper bracket connected to the water supply pipe, the overall pipe assembly workability is improved, thereby enhancing productivity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a state where the door of the refrigerator opens.

FIG. 3 is a rear view illustrating the refrigerator.

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state where a water supply device is installed in the refrigerating compartment of the refrigerator.

FIG. 5 is a view illustrating the pipe connection state of a water supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a water supply structure to an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view from above illustrating the coupling relationship between an upper bracket, a lower bracket, a water supply pipe, a connection pipe, and a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view from below illustrating the coupling relationship between an upper bracket, a lower bracket, a water supply pipe, a connection pipe, and a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 11 is a drawing of the disposition of the water supply device and ice maker as seen from above.

FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state where the upper bracket is mounted in place.

FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view illustrating a state where the lower bracket is coupled.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the Flow path connection of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a water supply structure from a water supply device of a refrigerator to an ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state where a water supply device is installed in a refrigerating compartment according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the water supply structure from the water supply device to the ice maker.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments in which the idea of the present disclosure is presented, and other regressive disclosures or other embodiments included within the scope of the idea of the present disclosure can be easily proposed by adding, changing, deleting, or the like other components.

Also, in describing components of embodiments of the present disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), or the like may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is “connected,” “coupled,” or “accessed” to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or accessed to the other component, but another component may also be “connected,” “coupled,” or “accessed” between each component.

Before the explanation, the direction is defined. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the direction toward the front surface of the door as illustrated in FIG. 2 can be defined as a front direction, the direction toward the cabinet based on the front surface of the door can be defined as a rear direction, the direction toward the floor surface on which the refrigerator is installed can be defined as a lower surface, and the direction away from the floor surface can be defined as a upper direction. In addition, when talking about a direction that is not defined, the direction can be defined and explained based on each drawing.

In addition, below, a number of embodiments of the present disclosure are described, and the configurations of each embodiment may be combined or substituted in whole or in part.

FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a state where the door of the refrigerator opens.

As illustrated, a refrigerator 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet 10 in which a storage space is formed and a door 20 for opening and closing the storage space.

The cabinet 10 may include an outer case 101 forming an outer surface, and an inner case 102 forming the storage space on the inside of the outer case 101. In addition, an insulation material 103 may be filled between the outer case 101 and the inner case 102.

The storage space can be divided by a barrier 13 in the vertical direction. The barrier 13 can form an outer appearance including an upper surface and a lower surface by an inner case 102, and the inside thereof can be filled with an insulation material 103. Of course, the barrier 13 can also be installed in the storage space in a separately molded state.

A refrigerating compartment 11 may be formed at the upper part and a freezing compartment 12 may be formed at the lower part, by the barrier 13. The refrigerating compartment 11 and the freezing compartment 12 may maintain a set temperature by supplying cold air generated from the evaporator 141, 142. For example, the evaporators 141, 142 may be provided in the refrigerating compartment 11 and the freezing compartment 12, respectively, and by driving the blower fan, cold air may be supplied to the refrigerating compartment 11 and the freezing compartment 12, thereby enabling independent cooling, respectively. Of course, the evaporator 141 may be provided only in the freezing compartment 12.

A plurality of storage members 111 for storing food may be placed in the refrigerating compartment 11 and freezing compartment 12. For example, the storage members 111 may be drawers and shelves.

A water supply device 30 may be provided on the lower surface of the refrigerating compartment 11, that is, the upper surface of the barrier 13. The water supply device 30 may be configured to supply water to an ice maker 70 or a dispenser 23 and purify the water supplied. The water supply device 30 may be in contact with one of the left and right walls of the refrigerating compartment 11. For example, a drawer-shaped storage member 111 may be provided on the lower part of the refrigerating compartment 11, and the water supply device 30 may be disposed to fill the space between the storage member 111 and the wall. In addition, the front surface of the water supply device 30, that is, the case cover 32, may be exposed forward. Therefore, a user can easily access the inside of the case 31 through the case cover 32.

In addition, an ice maker 70 may be provided on the upper surface of the freezing compartment 12, that is, the lower surface of the barrier 13. The ice maker 70 may be configured to make ice with water supplied from the water supply device 30. The ice maker 70 may be located on one side corresponding to the position of the water supply device 30 among the left and right sides. For example, the water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70 may be located on the right side of the cabinet 10 (as viewed in FIG. 2). In other words, the water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70 may be disposed in the vertical direction based on the barrier 13, and may be disposed so as to overlap at least a part thereof. Therefore, the water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70 may be disposed close to each other in a short path, and the water supply flow path may be configured to be shortened.

Meanwhile, the ice maker 70 may have various structures and configurations. In addition, a plurality of ice makers 70 may be disposed in parallel. For example, the ice maker 70 may include a first ice maker 50 that makes small cube-shaped ice and a second ice maker 60 that makes large spherical ice.

In addition, a first ice bin 121 may be provided below the first ice maker 50 in which ice separated from the first ice maker 50 is stored. In addition, a second ice bin 122 may be provided below the second ice maker 60 in which ice separated from the second ice maker 60 is stored.

Meanwhile, the cabinet 10 may be provided with a machine compartment 16 equipped with a compressor, a condenser, and a condenser fan at the lower part. The machine compartment 16 may be disposed at the edges of the lower surface and the rear surface of the cabinet 10 and may be opened toward the rear. The opened rear surface of the cabinet 10 may be shielded by a machine compartment cover 161. A number of holes are formed in the machine compartment cover 161 so that air for heat dissipation of the internal structure of the machine compartment 16 may enter and exit.

A water valve 162 may be provided inside the machine compartment 16. The water valve 162 may be connected to an external water supply source 2, such as a tap. By opening and closing the water valve 162, water from the water supply source 2 may be selectively supplied to the refrigerator 1. Among the entire water supply flow path 17, a pipe connecting the water supply source 2 and the water valve 162 may be referred to as a first flow path 171.

In addition, a second flow path 172 connecting the water supply device 30 may be disposed at the rear surface of the cabinet 10. The second flow path 172 may extend past the back cover 15 to the rear of the water supply device 30. A first pipe connection part 151 may be formed at the back cover 15. The first pipe connection part 151 may be formed at the rear of a position corresponding to the water supply device 30. Through the first pipe connection part 151, the second flow path 172 may be connected to the water supply device 30 and supply water to the water supply device 30.

In addition, a third flow path 173 connecting the water supply device 30 and the dispenser 23 may be disposed on the rear surface of the cabinet 10. The third flow path 173 may extend through the back cover 15 to the second pipe connection part 152. The second pipe connection part 152 may be formed at a position corresponding to the upper edge of the rear surface of the cabinet 10. The third flow path 173 may extend through the hinge for rotation of the door 20 to the dispenser 23.

In this way, water supplied from the water supply source 2 passes through the water valve 162 of the machine compartment 16 and is supplied to the water supply device 30, and water from the water supply device 30 can be supplied to the ice maker 70 or the dispenser 23. To this end, the second flow path 172 and the third flow path 173 can extend to the back cover 15 in the vertical direction.

The door 20 may include a refrigerating compartment door 21 for opening and closing the refrigerating compartment 11 and a freezing compartment door 22 for opening and closing the freezing compartment 12. A pair of refrigerating compartment door 21 and a pair of freezing compartment door 22 may be provided respectively on the left and right sides and may open and close the refrigerating compartment 11 or the freezing compartment 12.

The refrigerating compartment door 20 and the freezing compartment door 20 are rotatably mounted to the cabinet 10 by the hinge, and the refrigerating compartment 11 and the freezing compartment 12 can be opened and closed by the rotation of the refrigerating compartment door 20 and the freezing compartment door 20. In addition, the refrigerating compartment door 20 can be equipped with a dispenser 23. The dispenser 23 can be configured to extract water supplied through the water supply device 30 to the outside.

Below, the structure of the water supply device 30 for supplying water to the ice maker 70 and dispenser 23 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state where a water supply device is installed in the refrigerating compartment of the refrigerator, FIG. 5 is a view illustrating the pipe connection state of a water supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a water supply structure to an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, the water supply device 30 may be placed at the corners of the lower surface and the right side of the refrigerating compartment 11. The water supply device 30 may extend in the front and rear direction and may be placed further forward than the evaporator 141. The evaporator 141 may be placed at the rear of the refrigerating compartment 11 and may be shielded by a grille fan assembly that forms a rear wall of the refrigerating compartment 11 and forms a flow path for supplying cold air.

The water supply device 30 may include a filter 332 that purifies water supplied from the water supply source 2 and a case 31 in which the filter 332 is accommodated. The water supply device 30 is disposed further to the side than the evaporator 141 and in front of the evaporator 141 so as to prevent freezing by cold air from the evaporator 141.

The case 31 can form a space in which the filter 332 as well as a plurality of pipes and a water supply valve connected to the filter 332 are accommodated. A filter assembly 33 can be provided inside the case 31. The filter assembly 33 can include a plurality of filters 332 and a filter holder 331 in which the plurality of filters 332 are mounted.

The filter holder 331 may be detachably mounted with the filter 332. In addition, the filter holder 331 may form a flow path connecting a space between the filters 332. In addition, the filter holder 331 may be connected to a second flow path 172 through which water is supplied toward the filter 332, and a third flow path 173 through which purified water from the filter 332 is discharged. Accordingly, water flowing in through the second flow path 172 may pass through the filter holder 331, pass through a plurality of the filters 332, and then be disposed through the third flow path 173.

Meanwhile, a fourth flow path 174 may be further connected to the outlet side of the filter holder 331. The third flow path 173 and the fourth flow path 174 may be branched from the outlet of the filter holder 331. The fourth flow path 174 may be connected to the water supply valve 34.

The water supply valve 34 can selectively supply purified water from the filter 332 to the ice maker 70. In addition, the water supply valve 34 can be equipped with a connection pipe 170 and a connector 44.

When a plurality of ice maker 70 are provided, including a first ice maker 50 and a second ice maker 60, the connection pipe 170 may be composed of a first connection pipe 175 and a second connection pipe 176. In addition, the first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 may each be connected to the output side of the water supply valve 34.

In addition, the first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 may be provided with a first connector 44a and a second connector 44b, respectively. The first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 may be connected to the first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b while being connected to the upper bracket 41, thereby enabling selective water supply to the first ice maker 50 and the second ice maker 60.

The filter 332 may be provided at the front inside of the case 31. The case cover 32 may be opened to access the filter 332. In addition, the water supply valve 34 and the second flow path 172, the third flow path 173, and the fourth flow path 174 may be provided at the rear inside of the case 31.

A case cover 32 is provided on the open front surface of the case 31 so that the open front surface of the case 31 can be opened and closed. When the case cover 32 is opened, the filter 332 inside the case 31 can be accessed, and the filter 332 can be replaced and mounted. If necessary, a side cover 132 may be provided on the side of the case 31 so that the inside of the case can be selectively opened and closed to access the filter 332.

One side of the case 31 may be in contact with the right wall of the refrigerating compartment 11, and the rear side of the case 31 may be in contact with the rear wall of the refrigerating compartment 11. One side and the rear side of the case 31 may be open and may be shielded by the right wall and the rear wall of the refrigerating compartment 11.

In addition, a second flow path 172 from the water valve 162 to the filter 332 and a third flow path 173 from the filter 332 to the dispenser 23 can be entered and exited through the opened rear side of the case 31.

A draw-in/out guide 311 for drawing in/out the storage member 111 may be provided on the lower part of the side of the case 31. The draw-in/out guide 311 may extend in the front and rear direction and may guide the drawing in/out of the storage member 111 by supporting the side of the storage member 111.

A case leg 315 protruding laterally may be formed at the lower side of the case 31. The case leg 315 may be firmly fixed to the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11, that is, the upper surface of the barrier 13, by a screw. In addition, a pair of case legs 315 may be spaced apart.

A side opening 313 may be formed at the lower end of the side of the case 31. The connection pipe 170 may be entered and exited through the side opening 313. In addition, a connection pipe holder 314 may be formed in the side opening 313.

The connection pipe holder 314 can guide and fix the connection pipe 170 toward the mounting position of the connector 44. The connection pipe holder 314 is formed at the lower end of the case 31 and can be formed as a ring formation that surrounds the connection pipe 170. In addition, the connection pipe holder 314 can be formed to have elasticity. Accordingly, the connection pipe holder 314 can press the outer perimeter surface of the connection pipe 170 to maintain the disposition position of the connection pipe 170 and ensure that it is disposed at an accurate position.

The connection pipe holders 314 may be formed in a number corresponding to the number of connection pipes 170. In other words, the connection pipe holders 314 may be formed at each position from which the first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 extend. Accordingly, the first connection pipe 175 may be positioned further forward than the second connection pipe 176 and may extend parallel to the upper bracket 41.

The connection pipe 170 can extend to the position of the upper bracket 41. In addition, a connector 44 connected to the end part of the connection pipe 170 can be mounted on the upper surface of the upper bracket 41. By mounting the connector 44, the connection pipe 170 and the water supply pipe 43 inside the barrier 13 can be communicated with each other, thereby enabling water to be supplied to the ice maker 70.

The upper bracket 41 may be exposed through an opening 112a formed in the inner case 102 forming the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11, that is, the upper surface of the barrier 13. In addition, the first connector 44a connected to the first connection pipe 175 and the second connector 44b connected to the second connection pipe 176 may be mounted so as to be spaced apart from each other. The first connector 44a may be positioned further from the case 31 than the second connector 44b.

Meanwhile, a connector cover 35 may be provided on the bottom of the refrigerating compartment 11. The connector cover 35 may be mounted on the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11 to shield the connector 44 and the upper bracket 41 on which the connector 44 is mounted. In addition, the connector cover 35 may extend to the side of the case 31 to further shield the connection pipe 170. The connector 44 may be exposed when the connector cover 35 is separated and may be detached from the upper bracket 41. In addition, the flow path between the water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70 may be selectively separated by detaching the connector 44.

A lower bracket 42 may be provided on the upper surface of the freezing compartment 12 and the lower surface of the barrier 13. The lower bracket 42 is provided below the upper bracket 41 and may be coupled to the inner case 102 forming the freezing compartment 12. The lower bracket 42 may be exposed toward the freezing compartment 12 through an open side of the inner case 102.

A bracket assembly 40 including the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 may be provided. In addition, a water supply pipe 43 may be provided in the bracket assembly 40. For example, a water supply pipe 43 may be provided between the upper case 31 and the lower case 31. The upper end of the water supply pipe 43 may be connected to the connector mounting part 415, and thus, when the connector 44 is mounted, the water supply pipe 43 may be communicated with the connection pipe 170. In addition, the lower end of the water supply pipe 43 may extend toward the ice maker 70 by penetrating the lower bracket 42.

The water supply pipe 43 can pass through the barrier 13 to connect the water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70, and can form a short flow path through which water is supplied in a direction perpendicular to the barrier 13. Accordingly, the disposition area of the heater 46 that heats the water supply pipe 43 is reduced, thereby improving power consumption. In addition, the capacity of the heater 46 can be made smaller to improve power consumption.

The lower bracket 42 may be equipped with an ice maker 70. The ice maker 70 may include a first ice maker 50 and a second ice maker 60. In addition, the water supply pipe 43 may include a first water supply pipe 43a that supplies water to the first ice maker 50 and a second water supply pipe 43b that supplies water to the second ice maker 60.

The first ice maker 50 may include a first case 31 mounted on the lower bracket 42, a first ice tray 52 provided inside the first case 31 and in which cube-shaped ice is made, and a first water supply cup 54 provided above the first ice tray 52.

The first ice tray 52 is formed with a plurality of cube-shaped cells 520, and the plurality of cells 520 can be opened upward. In addition, the first ice tray 52 is rotatably mounted on the first case 51 and can be rotated by the first driving part 53. By the rotation of the first ice tray 52, ice can be separated to the first ice bin 121.

The first water supply cup 54 is provided below the first water supply pipe 43a to receive water supplied from the first water supply pipe 43a and guide water to the first ice tray 52. The first water supply cup 54 is disposed on one of the left and right sides of the first ice tray 52, and is disposed at a midpoint in the front and rear direction of the first ice tray 52 to evenly supply water to a plurality of cells 520.

The second ice maker 60 may include a second case 61 mounted on the lower bracket 42, an upper tray 62 and a lower tray 63 provided inside the second case 61 to create spherical ice, and a second water supply cup 67 provided above the upper tray 62.

The upper tray 62 is fixed to the second case 61, and the lower tray 63 can be coupled to the upper tray 62 by a rotation shaft 621. When the upper tray 62 and the lower tray 63 are closed, a spherical cell 620 can be formed to create spherical ice. Then, the lower tray 63 is rotated around the rotation shaft 621 to open the cell 620 and discharge the spherical ice into the second ice bin 122. For example, an upper ejector 64 is provided above the upper tray 62, and the upper ejector 64 can push and separate the ice inside the cell 620 when the lower tray 63 is rotated. Additionally, the lower tray 63 and upper ejector 64 can be operated by the second driving part 68.

The second water supply cup 67 is provided above the upper tray 62 and can supply water into the interior of the cell 620. In addition, the second water supply cup 67 can be provided below the second water supply pipe 43b.

In addition, the second ice maker 60 may include a detection lever 65 that detects the full state of ice stored in the second ice bin 122. In addition, the second ice maker 60 may further include a lower ejector 66 that is provided in the second case 61 and presses the lower tray 63 when the lower tray 63 rotates to separate ice.

Meanwhile, the ice maker 70 is not limited to the structure described above, and ice makers with different structures that automatically supply water and make ice can be used.

Below, the structure of the connector 44 and the upper bracket 41 and lower bracket 42 of the water supply pipe 43 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view from above illustrating the coupling relationship between an upper bracket, a lower bracket, a water supply pipe, a connection pipe, and a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view from below illustrating the coupling relationship between an upper bracket, a lower bracket, a water supply pipe, a connection pipe, and a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 10 is a perspective view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 4, and FIG. 11 is a drawing of the disposition of the water supply device and ice maker as seen from above.

As illustrated, the water supply device 30 may further include the connection pipe 170 and the connector 44. The connection pipe 170 may be formed in a tube shape. In addition, the connector 44 may be connected to an end part of the connection pipe 170. When two ice makers 70 are provided, the connection pipe 170 may be composed of a first connection pipe 175 and a second connection pipe 176. In addition, the connector 44 may be composed of a first connector 44a connected to the first connection pipe 175 and a second connector 44b connected to the second connection pipe 176. In this case, the first connector 44a and the second connector 44b may have the same structure and shape.

The connector 44 may include a connector body 441 mounted on the upper bracket 41 and a fitting part 442 protruding laterally from the connector body 441. The connection pipe 170 is inserted into the fitting part 442 and may be communicated with a flow path inside the connector body 441. The flow path of the connector body 441 is opened downward, and therefore, water supplied laterally through the connection pipe 170 may be discharged downward by the flow path inside the connector body 441. In other words, the opening of the connector body 441 and the opening of the fitting part 442 may be formed in a direction intersecting each other.

A connector lower 443 formed in a circular shape and in contact with the connector mounting part 415 of the upper bracket 41 may be formed at the lower part of the connector body 441. The connector lower 443 may be coupled to the upper surface of the upper bracket 41. In addition, a connector coupling part 444 may be formed at the connector lower 443. The connector coupling part 444 may be inserted into the coupling hole 416 of the upper bracket 41. For example, the connector coupling part 444 may be formed in a hook shape. A plurality of the connector coupling parts 444 may be formed along the perimeter of the connector lower 443. For example, four connector coupling parts 444 may be formed at a 90-degree angle.

The upper bracket 41 may be provided on the barrier 13. The upper bracket 41 is provided on the inner side of the barrier 13, and the inner case 102 forming the upper surface of the barrier 13 may be cut and exposed upward to form a part of the upper surface of the barrier 13.

The upper bracket 41 may be injection-molded from a plastic material. The upper bracket 41 may be exposed to the refrigerating compartment 11 when the connector cover 35 is opened. The upper bracket 41 may include a plate part 411 that provides a surface on which the connector 44 is mounted. The plate part 411 may be formed in a square shape, and the connector mounting part 415 may be formed.

The connector mounting part 415 may include a first mounting part 415a on which a first connector 44a is mounted and a second mounting part 415b on which a second connector 44b is mounted. The first mounting part 415a and the second mounting part 415b may have the same structure. The connector mounting part 415 may be recessed into a corresponding shape so that the perimeter of the connector lower 443 is inserted.

A plate hole 414 may be formed on the inside of the connector mounting part 415 to communicate with the flow path inside the connector body 441 and the upper surface of the water supply pipe 43. In addition, an insertion part 417 extending downward along the perimeter of the plate hole 414 may be formed. The insertion part 417 is formed in a shape corresponding to the upper end of the water supply pipe 43, and may have a shape corresponding to the upper part of the water supply pipe 43 so as to be in close contact with it. Accordingly, when the connector 44 is mounted on the upper bracket 41, the connection pipe, the connector 44, and the water supply pipe 43 may communicate with each other.

In addition, a coupling hole 416 may be formed in the connector mounting part 415. The coupling hole 416 may be formed in a shape corresponding to a position corresponding to the connector coupling part 444. In other words, the connector lower 443 may be inserted into the connector mounting part 415, and the connector coupling part 444 may be inserted into the coupling hole 416, so that the connector 44 may be completely mounted on the upper bracket 41.

An upper support part 412, 413 may be formed on the plate part 411. The upper support part 412, 413 may extend from the plate part 411 to the lower bracket 42 to support the upper bracket 41. A plurality of upper support part 412, 413 may be provided, and may be provided at a corner of the plate part 411. The upper support part 412, 413 may be formed so that the heights of the upper support parts 412, 413 disposed on the left and right sides are different, so that the upper bracket 41 is not installed incorrectly and is installed with directionality when installed. For example, a first upper support part 412 having a low height may be formed on the left front and right rear of the plate part 411, and a second upper support part 413 having a high height may be formed on the left rear and right front of the plate part 411.

The lower bracket 42 may be provided on the lower surface of the barrier 13. The lower bracket 42 is provided inside the barrier 13 and may be exposed through a cut-out side of the inner case 102 forming the lower surface of the barrier 13. The lower bracket 42 may form at least a part of the lower surface of the barrier 13 and may form a part of the upper surface of the freezing compartment 12.

The lower bracket 42 may be injection-molded from a plastic material. In addition, the lower bracket 42 may include a bracket body 421 that is recessed upward so that the ice maker 70 is mounted, and a flange 422 formed along the perimeter of the bracket body 421. The flange 422 can be coupled with the inner case 102.

A plurality of reinforcing ribs 421a may be protruded on the bracket body 421, and the reinforcing ribs 421a may be formed in horizontal and vertical directions to intersect each other and may be spaced apart at a certain gap. The reinforcing ribs 421a may be formed entirely on the bracket body 421.

The bracket body 421 may be formed with a first ice maker mounting part 423 that is recessed so that the first ice maker 50 is mounted thereon. The first ice maker mounting part 423 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the first case 31 and may be formed so as to accommodate the upper end of the first case 31.

The bracket body 421 may be formed with a through-hole 425, 426 through which the lower end of the water supply pipe 43 passes. The through-hole 425, 426 may include a first through-hole 425 formed in the first ice maker mounting part 423 into which the first water supply pipe 43a is inserted, and a second through-hole 426 formed in the second ice maker mounting part 424 into which the second water supply pipe 43b is inserted. The first through-hole 425 and the second through-hole 426 may have the same structure with only a difference in the formation position.

An upwardly extending through-hole extension part 425a may be formed around the through-hole 425, 426, and a support end 434 of the water supply pipe 43 may be seated therein. Accordingly, the water supply pipe 43 may be inserted into the through-hole 425, 426 to a certain depth. In addition, an extension part groove 425b may be formed in the through-hole extension part 425a, and a downwardly extending support rnf protrusion 434a may be formed in the support end 434. When the water supply pipe 43 is mounted, the support end protrusion 434a may be inserted into the extension part groove 425b and may be coupled with each other. Accordingly, the water supply pipe 43 may be mounted on the lower bracket 42 in an accurate position and direction, and incorrect mounting may be prevented. In addition, the water supply pipe 43 can maintain an accurate installation position without flowing or separating even if insulation material is injected into the barrier 13.

The water supply pipe 43 protrudes further downward through the through-hole 425, 426, and the end part of the water supply pipe 43 can be positioned above the water supply cup 54, 67.

The bracket body 421 may be formed with a lower support part 427, 428 that extends upward and supports the upper bracket 41. The lower support part 427, 428 may be formed at a position facing the upper support part 412, 413.

The lower support parts 427, 428 are formed in a number corresponding to the upper support parts 412, 413, and heights thereof may be formed differently. For example, the lower support parts 427, 428 may include a first lower support part 428 coupled with the first upper support part 412, and a second lower support part 427 coupled with the second upper support part 413. The first lower support part 428 and the second lower support part 427 may have different heights. For example, the height difference between the first lower support part 428 and the second lower support part 427 may be the same as the height difference between the first upper support part 412 and the second upper support part 413. In a state where the first upper support part 412 and the first lower support part 428 are coupled to each other, and the second upper support part 413 and the second lower support part 427 are coupled to each other, the upper bracket 41 can be disposed parallel to the lower bracket 42. In addition, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 can maintain a constant gap from each other by the upper support parts 412, 413 and the lower support parts 427, 428.

Meanwhile, a screw 419 may be fastened to the first upper support part 412 and the second upper support part 413 so that the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 may be firmly coupled to each other. For example, a screw hole 412a may be formed in the first upper support part 412. The screw hole 412a may penetrate the first upper support part 412 in the vertical direction. Then, the screw 419 may be fastened so as to pass through the screw hole 412a. The screw 419 may be fastened to the first lower support part 428 by penetrating the first upper support part 412. Then, by fastening the screw 419, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 may be firmly coupled to each other.

Accordingly, even while the foaming liquid for forming the insulation material 103 is filled inside the barrier 13, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 can maintain a coupled state and maintain a certain gap.

The water supply pipe 43 may be provided inside the barrier 13. The water supply pipe 43 may connect between the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42. The upper end of the water supply pipe 43 may be connected to the upper bracket 41, and the lower end of the water supply pipe 43 may be connected to the lower bracket 42. The water supply pipe 43 may include a first water supply pipe 43a that supplies water to the first ice maker 50, and a second water supply pipe 43b that supplies water to the second ice maker 60. The first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b may have the same structure and shape, with only a difference in the disposition position.

The water supply pipe 43 can supply water guided from the connection pipe 170 to the ice maker 70. The water supply pipe 43 vertically connects the water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70 and can supply water at the shortest distance. Accordingly, the possibility of residual water occurring in the water supply pipe 43 can be reduced, and the area of the heater 46 disposed around the water supply pipe 43 can be minimized by minimizing the path of the water supply pipe 43.

In addition, the inner diameter of the water supply pipe 43 can be formed larger than the inner diameter of the connection pipe 170. Therefore, the water supplied can smoothly pass through the water supply pipe 43, and residual water may not be generated in the water supply pipe 43.

In addition, the water supply pipe 43 can be formed in a bent or rounded shape at least in one part to reduce the flow rate of water passing through the water supply pipe 43. Accordingly, the flow rate of water supplied to the ice maker 70 can be reduced, and the supplied water can be prevented from splashing or overflowing from the ice maker 70.

In detail, the water supply pipe 43 may include an upper part 431 connected to the upper bracket 41, a lower part 433 connected to the lower bracket 42, and a connection part 432 connecting the upper part 431 and the lower part 433. The water supply pipe 43 may be injection-molded from a plastic material, and may be formed from a harder material than the connection pipe 170 made of a soft material. Accordingly, it does not deform even when a high-temperature, high-pressure foaming liquid is injected for forming the insulation material 103 inside the barrier 13.

In detail, when the water supply pipe 43 is mounted, the upper part 431 can extend downward from the upper bracket 41. The upper end of the upper part 431 can include an expansion pipe part 425 that comes into contact with the insertion part 417 of the upper bracket 41. The expansion pipe part 425 can be formed so that the inner diameter thereof becomes wider as it extends upward. The inner surface of the expansion pipe part 425 can be in close contact with the outer surface of the insertion part 417. In addition, a sealing member is provided between the expansion pipe part 425 and the insertion part 417 to seal the space between the water supply pipe 43 and the upper bracket 41. In addition, the upper part 431 extends downward from the expansion part 425 and can extend vertically downward based on the upper bracket 41.

The lower part 433 may extend downwardly through the through-hole 425, 426 of the lower bracket 42. The lower part 433 may extend vertically downwardly based on the lower bracket 42. In addition, the lower part of the lower part 433, that is, the lower part of the water supply pipe 43, may be formed to be inclined or rounded. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent water from forming and freezing on the lower part of the water supply pipe 43 due to surface tension.

The support end 434 may be formed at the upper end of the lower part 433. The support end 434 may be seated in the through-hole extension part 425a. The support end 434 may extend outward along the perimeter of the lower part 433, and the support end protrusion 434a may be inserted into the extension part groove 425b to maintain the water supply pipe 43 inserted in the correct position.

The connection part 432 can connect the upper part 431 and the lower part 433. The connection part 432 can connect a space between the upper part 431 and the lower part 433 that are spaced apart from each other in opposite directions. The connection part 432 can connect the lower end of the upper part 431 and the upper end of the lower part 433, and can extend in a direction intersecting the upper part 431 and the lower part 433.

The left and right ends of the connection part 432 may be formed to be round or inclined. For example, one end of the connection part 432 connected to the upper part 431 and the other end of the connection part 432 connected to the lower part 433 may have opposite inclined and round shapes. Accordingly, water falling from the upper part 431 may have its flow rate reduced and stabilized as it passes through the connection part 432 and then fall through the lower part 433 to be supplied to the water supply cup 54, 67.

The water supply pipe 43 may be equipped with a heater 46. The heater 46 may be disposed to be in contact with the outer surface of the water supply pipe 43. For example, the heater 46 may be formed in a coil shape and disposed along the perimeter of the heater 46. As another example, the heater 46 may be formed in a shape such as a film or sheet and attached to the outer surface of the heater 46. The operation of the heater 46 may prevent freezing of water inside the water supply pipe 43.

The heater 46 may be provided on the inside of the barrier 13. For example, the heater 46 may be provided on the connection part 432. Of course, if necessary, at least a part of the heater 46 may be positioned on the lower part 433 to effectively prevent freezing at the end part of the water supply pipe 43.

Meanwhile, the second water supply pipe 43b is formed in the same shape as the first water supply pipe 43a, and may have a structure disposed symmetrically with the first water supply pipe 43a. In addition, the second water supply pipe 43b may be disposed somewhat behind the first water supply pipe 43a. It may have a structure that communicates with the second connection pipe 176 and the first connector 44a.

Accordingly, the connecting tube 170 extending from the case 31 can extend without overlapping or interfering with each other, and the mounting position of the connector 44 can also be disposed so as not to interfere.

The lower end of the first water supply pipe 43a may be placed in the middle of the front and rear direction of the first ice tray 52 of the first ice maker 50. In addition, the water supply cup 54 may also be placed in the middle of the front and rear direction of the first ice tray 52 corresponding to the first water supply pipe 43a. Accordingly, uniform water supply can be achieved throughout the first ice tray 52.

The lower end of the second water supply pipe 43b may be placed in the middle of the front and rear direction of the upper tray 62 of the second ice maker 60. In addition, the water supply cup 67 may also be placed in the middle of the front and rear direction of the upper tray 62 corresponding to the second water supply pipe 43b. Accordingly, water may be supplied uniformly to the entire upper tray 62 and lower tray 63.

Below, with reference to the drawings, the assembly structure of the upper bracket 41 and lower bracket 42 will be examined.

FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state where the upper bracket is mounted in place, and FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view illustrating a state where the lower bracket is coupled.

As illustrated, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 can be mounted on the barrier 13. In addition, in a state where the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 are mounted on the barrier 13, the upper bracket 41 can be exposed through an opening 112a in the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11, and the lower bracket 42 can be exposed through an opening 123a in the upper surface 123 of the freezing compartment 12.

In detail, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 can be mounted on the barrier 13 while being coupled to each other. At this time, the inside of the barrier 13 may be in a state before the insulation material 103 is formed.

The upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 may be in a state where the first upper support part 412 and the first lower support part 428 and the second upper support part 413 and the second lower support part 427 are coupled to each other, respectively. In this state, the upper bracket 41 may be placed in an opening 112a of the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11, and the lower bracket 42 may be placed in an opening 123a of the upper surface 123 of the freezing compartment.

In particular, the flange 422 of the lower bracket 42 may be coupled to a stepped part 123b formed around an opening 123a of an upper surface 123 of the freezing compartment 12. For example, the flange 422 may be bonded to the stepped part 123b by an adhesive. As another example, the flange 422 may be coupled to the stepped part 123b by a coupling member such as a screw, or may be coupled to each other by a protrusion and groove structure that are restrained to each other.

When the lower bracket 42 is mounted to block the opening 123a of the upper surface 123 of the freezing compartment 12, the upper bracket 41 can naturally be positioned to block the opening 112a of the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11. Then, the screw 419 can be fastened to the upper bracket 41 exposed through the opening 112a of the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11. By fastening the screw 419, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 can be more firmly coupled. Of course, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 can also be mounted to the barrier 13 in a state where the screw 419 is fastened and they are completely coupled to each other. Additionally, the edge of the upper bracket 41 may be bonded to the inner surface of the inner case 102 forming the barrier 13 using an adhesive.

In a state where the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 block the openings 112a, 123a formed in the barrier 13, a foaming liquid can be injected for forming the insulation material 103. Then, the foaming liquid can fill the space between the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42. Then, in a state where the foaming liquid is hardened to form the insulation material 103, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 are more firmly mounted to the barrier 13.

Below, the overall water flow path of a refrigerator 1 having the above structure is described with reference to the drawing.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the Flow path connection of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, water from the water supply source 2 can be purified while passing through the water supply device 30 through the entire water supply flow path 17 of the refrigerator 1 and then supplied to the ice maker 70 and the dispenser 23.

In detail, water from the water supply source 2 flows through the first flow path 171 to the water valve 162 inside the machine compartment 16. According to the opening and closing of the water valve 162, water from the water supply source 2 can be selectively supplied to the refrigerator 1.

The water valve 162 may be connected to the filter 332 of the water supply device 30 through the second flow path 172. In addition, water supplied to the filter 332 through the second flow path 172 may be purified while passing through the filter 332. The water valve 162 may be provided inside the case 31 of the water supply device 30 as needed. In this case, the first flow path 171 may be connected to the water valve 162 inside the case 31 by penetrating the back cover 15.

The filter 332 can be connected to the dispenser 23 by a third flow path 173. The third flow path 173 can connect the outlet side of the filter 332 and the water discharge valve 231 provided in the dispenser 23 of the door 20. In addition, the third flow path 173 can pass through a hinge connecting the cabinet 10 and the door 20 and be guided from the cabinet 10 to the door 20. When the dispenser 23 is operated, the water discharge valve 231 is opened so that selective water extraction can be possible through the dispenser 23.

The filter 332 can be connected to the water supply valve 34 by the fourth flow path 174. The fourth flow path 174 can connect the outlet side of the filter 332 and the water supply valve 34 of the water supply device 30. The fourth flow path 174 can be branched from the third flow path 173, and can supply purified water from the filter 332 to the ice maker 70.

The first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 can be connected to the water supply valve 34. The water purified in the filter 332 through the first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 can be supplied to the first ice maker 50 and the second ice maker 60 provided in the freezing compartment 12, respectively.

At this time, the first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176 are communicated to the first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b respectively disposed vertically downward, and can supply water to the first ice maker 50 and the second ice maker 60 through a shortened distance by penetrating the barrier 13.

Meanwhile, the present disclosure may have various other embodiments in addition to the above-described embodiments. Hereinafter, other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

Other embodiments of the present disclosure may have the same configurations as the above-described embodiments except for some of the configurations. Therefore, among the configurations of other embodiments of the present disclosure, the configurations that are the same as the above-described embodiments may be omitted from detailed description and illustration, and may be described using the same drawing reference numerals.

Hereinafter, another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, and differences from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a water supply structure from a water supply device of a refrigerator to an ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, the refrigerator 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure has a storage space inside the cabinet 10 divided vertically by the barrier 13, and a refrigerating compartment 11 located above and a freezing compartment 12 located below can be provided.

The refrigerating compartment 11 may be equipped with the water supply device 30. The water supply device 30 is disposed on the bottom surface of the refrigerating compartment 11 and may be disposed on the right wall of the refrigerating compartment 11. In other words, the water supply device 30 may be located between the storage member 111 inside the refrigerating compartment 11 and the wall of the refrigerating compartment 11.

The water supply device 30 can be connected to an external water supply source 2 and can include a filter 332 for purifying the supplied water. In addition, the water supply device 30 can include a connection pipe 170′ connected to the filter 332. The connection pipe 170′ can be connected to a water supply pipe 43′ inside the barrier 13. In addition, a connector 44 can be provided at an end part of the connection pipe 170′.

The freezing compartment 12 may be equipped with an ice maker 70. The ice maker 70 is disposed on the upper surface of the freezing compartment 12, and may be disposed on the right wall of the freezing compartment 12. In other words, the water supply device 30 may be disposed on the upper surface of the barrier 13 based on the barrier 13, and the ice maker 70 may be disposed on the lower surface of the barrier 13. The water supply device 30 and the ice maker 70 may be disposed at positions facing each other.

In addition, inside the barrier 13, an upper bracket 41′ connected to the connection pipe 170′ of the water supply device 30 and a lower bracket 42′ on which the ice maker 70 is mounted may be provided.

The upper bracket 41′ may form at least a part of the upper surface of the barrier 13 and may be exposed to the refrigerating compartment 11. In addition, a connection pipe 170′ connected to the filter 332 may be connected to the upper bracket 41′. For example, the connection pipe 170′ may be detachably mounted to the upper bracket 41′ by a connector 44 at an end part of the connection pipe 170′. In addition, the connection pipe 170′ and the water supply pipe 43′ may be connected by mounting the connector 44.

A water supply pipe 43′ may be provided between the lower bracket 42′ and the upper bracket 41′. The upper end of the water supply pipe 43′ may be connected to the upper bracket 41′ and communicate with the connection pipe 170′. In addition, the lower end of the water supply pipe 43′ may extend through the lower bracket 42′ toward the ice maker 70. The lower end of the water supply pipe 43′ may be disposed above the water supply cup 54, 67 to supply water to the ice maker 70.

The shape of the water supply pipe 43′ may be the same as in the above-described embodiment. In other words, the water supply pipe 43′ may have a larger diameter than the connection pipe 170′. In addition, the water supply pipe 43′ is disposed so that the upper part 431 and the lower part 433 are misaligned with each other, and the connection part 432 connecting the upper part 431 and the lower part 433 is formed to be inclined or rounded, so that the flow rate of water falling downward through the water supply pipe 43′ can be controlled.

An insulation material 103 may be filled between the upper bracket 41′ and the lower bracket 42′, and the upper and lower ends of the water supply pipe 43′ may be fixed to the upper bracket 41′ and the lower bracket 42′ so as not to move even when the insulation material 103 is formed. In addition, the upper bracket 41′ and the lower bracket 42′ may be connected to each other by support parts 412, 413, 127, 428 so that the position of the water supply pipe 43′ may be maintained more stably.

The purified water from the water supply device 30 is supplied to the water supply pipe 43′ through the connection pipe 170′ and can be supplied to the ice maker 70 vertically downward through the water supply pipe 43′. Meanwhile, a heater 46 can be provided around the water supply pipe 43′, and can prevent the inside of the water supply pipe 43′ from being blocked by freezing or the flow path from being narrowed.

FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state where a water supply device is installed in a refrigerating compartment according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the water supply structure from the water supply device to the ice maker.

As illustrated, a refrigerator 1 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure may have a storage space inside a cabinet 10 partitioned vertically by the barrier 13, and may have a refrigerating compartment 11 located above and a freezing compartment 12 located below.

The refrigerating compartment 11 may be equipped with the water supply device 80. The water supply device 80 is disposed on the bottom surface 112 of the refrigerating compartment 11 and may be disposed on the right wall of the refrigerating compartment 11. In other words, the water supply device 80 may be located between the storage member 111 inside the refrigerating compartment 11 and the wall of the refrigerating compartment 11.

The water supply device 80 may include a water tank 81 in which supplied water is stored, and a tank cover 82 that opens and closes the water tank 81 to supply water. Therefore, the water supply device 80 does not require a separate pipe to be connected to a water supply source 2 such as a tap, and water can be stored in the water supply device 80. At least a part of the water tank 81 may be formed so that the inside is transparent. Therefore, the user can check the water level of the water stored in the water tank 81 with their eyes.

In addition, the user can open the tank cover 82 and directly fill it with water to store the water W supplied to the ice maker 70 and dispenser 23. The tank cover 82 can open and close the opened upper surface of the water tank 81. In addition, the tank cover 82 can further be formed with an injection port 821 for supplying water into the interior of the water tank 81.

If necessary, the water supply device 80 may include a filter 332 connected to the water tank 81, and water discharged from the water tank 81 may be purified while passing through the filter 332.

In addition, a guide member 18 for drawing in/out of a storage member 111 placed in the refrigerating compartment 11 may be further provided on the side of the water tank 81. The water tank 81 and the guide member 18 may be separately molded and assembled, and the water tank 81 may be seated on the guide member 18. In addition, the water tank 81 may be detachably mounted on the guide member 18 and may be separated from the refrigerator 1.

The freezing compartment 12 may be equipped with an ice maker 70. The ice maker 70 is disposed on the upper surface of the freezing compartment 12, and may be disposed on the right wall of the freezing compartment 12. In other words, the water supply device 80 may be disposed on the upper surface of the barrier 13 based on the barrier 13, and the ice maker 70 may be disposed on the lower surface of the barrier 13. The water supply device 80 and the ice maker 70 may be disposed at positions facing each other.

A pair of ice makers 70 may be provided on the left and right sides. The ice maker 70 may be composed of a first ice maker 50 and a second ice maker 60 that make ice of different sizes. The structure and disposition of the ice maker 70 may be the same as the first embodiment or the second embodiment described above.

Inside the barrier 13, an upper bracket 41 connected to the connection pipe 175, 176 of the water supply device 80 and a lower bracket 42 on which the ice maker 70 is mounted may be provided.

The upper bracket 41 may form at least a part of the upper surface of the barrier 13 and may be exposed to the refrigerating compartment 11. In addition, a connection pipe 175, 176 connected to the filter 332 may be mounted. For example, a connector 44 may be provided at an end part of the connection pipe 175, 176, and the connector 44 may be detachably mounted to the upper bracket 41.

The connection pipes 175, 176 may include a first connection pipe 175 for supplying water to the first ice maker 50 and a second connection pipe 176 for supplying water to the second ice maker 60. In addition, the first connection pipe 175 may be provided with a first connector 44a, and the second connection pipe 176 may be provided with a second connector 44b.

A water supply pipe 43 may be provided between the lower bracket 42 and the upper bracket 41. The upper end of the water supply pipe 43 may be connected to the upper bracket 41 and communicate with the connection pipe 175, 176. In addition, the lower end of the water supply pipe 43 may extend through the lower bracket 42 toward the ice maker 70. The lower end of the water supply pipe 43 may be disposed above the water supply cup 54, 67 to supply water to the ice maker 70.

The water supply pipe 43 may include a first water supply pipe 43a connected to the first connection pipe 175 to supply water to the first ice maker 50, and a second water supply pipe 43b connected to the second connection pipe 176 to supply water to the second ice maker 60.

The shape of the water supply pipe 43 may be the same as in the above-described embodiment. In other words, the water supply pipe 43 may have a larger diameter than the connection pipe 175, 176. In addition, the water supply pipe 43 is disposed with the upper part 431 and the lower part 433 misaligned from each other, and the connection part 432 connecting the upper part 431 and the lower part 433 is formed to be inclined or rounded, so that the flow rate of water falling downward through the water supply pipe 43 can be controlled.

An insulation material 103 may be filled between the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42, and the upper and lower ends of the water supply pipe 43 may be fixed to the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 so as not to flow even when the insulation material 103 is formed. In addition, the upper bracket 41 and the lower bracket 42 may be connected to each other by support parts 412, 413, 427, 428 so that the position of the water supply pipe 43 may be maintained more stably.

The water stored in the water supply device 80 is supplied to the first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b through the first connection pipe 175 and the second connection pipe 176, and can be supplied to the first ice maker 50 and the second ice maker 60 vertically downward through the first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b, respectively. Meanwhile, a heater 46 may be provided around the first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b, and can prevent the inside of the first water supply pipe 43a and the second water supply pipe 43b from being blocked by freezing or the flow path from being narrowed.