REFRIGERATOR

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 document, since the sub-water tank and the branch valve are provided at a rear 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.

Even in the case of the prior document, if an additional space is formed at the rear of the dispenser, a thickness of the door becomes thicker, so there is a disadvantage that a volume of the refrigerating chamber decreases by the thickness of the thickened door.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

One embodiment provides a refrigerator having a slim dispenser.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator having a reduced radius of rotation of a cap duct, thereby minimizing cold air leakage.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator having ice chips prevented from accumulating in an ice guide forming an ice path during an ice discharge process.

Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of forming an ice storage chamber or storage space at a rear side of a slim dispenser.

Technical Solution

In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may include a door for opening and closing the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided on the door for discharging water or ice to an external space.

The refrigerator may further include a first space formed on the door and having at least a portion disposed at an upper side of the dispenser, where ice is stored.

The refrigerator may further include a second space formed on the door and separated from the first space. The second space may have at least a portion disposed at a lower side of the first space, where ice is stored.

The dispenser may include a path configured to form a passage through which the ice stored in the first space is discharged to an outside. The dispenser may include a cap duct configured to open and close the path.

The path may include a first path disposed between the first space and the cap duct.

In a state in which the cap duct is opened, ice in the first space may pass through the first path and then be discharged to an outside after passed the cap duct.

A first ice maker for generating ice may be disposed in the first space.

A second ice maker that generates a different type of ice from ice generated by the first ice maker may be disposed in the second space.

The first path may include a first through hole disposed at an upper portion in the first path and fluidly connected to the first space. The first path may further include a second through hole disposed at a lower portion in the first path and that is opened and closed by the cap duct.

A rotation center of the cap duct may be disposed so as not to overlap the first through hole in a vertical direction. The rotation center of the cap duct may be disposed in front of the first through hole.

The first path may include a first part disposed to face a front surface of the door. The first path may include a second part disposed to face the second space.

A path formed by the second part may extend from the first through hole in a direction toward the front surface of the door.

The path may include a second path provided between the cap duct and the external space.

In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space; a door configured to open and close the storage space; and a dispenser provided on the door for discharging water or ice to an external space.

The refrigerator may include a first space formed on the door and at least a portion of which is disposed at an upper side of the dispenser to store ice; and a second space formed on the door and separated from the first space and at least a portion of which is disposed at a lower side of the first space to store ice.

The dispenser may include a path configured to form a passage through which ice stored in the first space is discharged to an outside. The dispenser may include a cap duct configured to open and close the path.

The path may include a second path provided between the cap duct and the external space. In a state in which the cap duct is opened, ice in the first space may be discharged to an outside through the second path after passed an opened portion of the cap duct.

A first ice maker that generates ice may be disposed in the first space.

A second ice maker that generates a different type of ice from the ice generated by the first ice maker may be disposed in the second space.

The second path may include a first portion disposed adjacent to a front surface of the door and provided at an upper portion in the second path. The second path may include a third portion disposed further away from the front surface of the door than the first portion and provided at a lower portion in the second path. The second path may further include a second portion provided between the first portion and the third portion.

An imaginary square connecting edges formed at both ends of the second portion may be provided so that a height is smaller than a width.

In a state in which the cap duct is opened, the cap duct may be in contact an upper surface of the second portion. An electrical component may be provided at a lower side of the second portion. The electrical component may include at least one of a display or a printed circuit board.

In further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a door including a first space and a second space, and a dispenser.

The dispenser may include a path configured to form a passage through which ice stored in the first space is discharged to an outside, and a cap duct configured to open and close the path.

The path may include a first path disposed between the first space and the cap duct. The path may include a second path provided between the cap duct and an external space.

In a state in which the cap duct is opened, the ice in the first space may pass the first path and the cap duct, and then be discharged to the outside through the second path.

A first ice maker that generates ice may be disposed in the first space. A second ice maker that generates a different type of ice from the ice generated by the first ice maker may be disposed in the second space.

In a state in which the cap duct is opened, an edge of the cap duct may be disposed rearward of a second portion of the second path.

The second path may include a first portion that is disposed adjacent to a rear surface of the door and provided at an upper portion in the second path. The second path may include a third portion disposed further from the rear surface of the door than the first portion and provided at a lower portion in the second path.

The first path may include a first through hole positioned at an upper portion in the first path and fluidly connected to the first space, and a second through hole positioned at a lower portion in the first path and fluidly connected to the cap duct.

The third portion may be positioned in front of the first through hole in a vertical direction.

In still further another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a door configured to open and close the storage space.

The refrigerator may further include an ice maker provided in the door or cabinet and generating ice. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser provided in the door and for discharging ice generated by the ice maker.

The dispenser may include a dispenser housing configured to form a receiving space. The dispenser may further include an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing and through which the ice passes. The dispenser may further include a cap duct configured to open and close the ice slot.

The cap duct may include a duct body. The cap duct may further include a bracket configured to transmit power to the duct body.

The bracket may include a first portion connected to a duct driver. The bracket may further include a second portion bent and extended from the first portion and coupled to the duct body.

A length of the first portion in a front-back direction of the door may be greater than a length of the second portion in an up-down direction of the door.

The duct body may include a first body that opens and closes the ice slot. The first body may include a first part. The first body may further include a second part spaced apart from the first part in a vertical direction. The first body may further include a third part that connects one end of the first part to one end of the second part. The first body may further include a fourth part that connects another end of the first part to another end of the second part.

A portion or all of each of the first part and the second part may extend in a straight line. A portion or all of each of the third and fourth parts may be extended in a curved shape.

When the third part and the fourth part are divided into three regions in a vertical direction, a central region, an upper region connected to the first part, and a lower region connected to the second part can be provided.

A curvature of the central region can be the same as or different from a curvature of the upper region or the lower region. A radius of curvature of a portion of the central region can be the same as or less than a radius of curvature of the upper region or the lower region.

At least one of a length of the third part or a length of the fourth part can be greater than a distance between the first part and the second part.

The duct body may further include a second body coupled to the first body and to which the bracket is connected,

The cap duct may further include a first elastic member and a second elastic member that connect the first portion and the duct body and are horizontally spaced apart from each other. A horizontal distance between the first elastic member and the second elastic member may be greater than a height of the second body.

A left-right length of the duct body may be greater than an up-down length of the duct body. A value obtained by dividing the left-right length of the duct body by the up-down length may be 1.3 or more and 1.45 or less.

The duct body may include a first coupling protrusion to which the first elastic member is coupled, and a second coupling protrusion to which the second elastic member is coupled. A lower end of the second portion may be positioned higher than a lower end portion of each of the first and second coupling protrusions.

The duct body may include a first coupling portion coupled to the second portion, and a second coupling portion positioned at a lower side of the first coupling portion.

Each of the first and second elastic members may include a coupling end for coupling with the first and second coupling protrusions. A lower end of the second coupling portion may be positioned higher than the coupling end.

A vertical distance from an upper surface of the duct body to an upper surface of the first coupling portion may be equal to or greater than a vertical distance from an upper surface of the first coupling portion to an upper end of each coupling protrusion.

Each of the first and second elastic members may include a body portion around which a wire is wound multiple times. Each elastic member may further include a first extension extending from one end of the body portion. Each the elastic member may further include a second extension extending from another end of the body portion and configured to be coupled with each of the first and second coupling protrusions.

The second extension may include a first section extending along the first portion. The second extension may further include a second section bent from the first section and extending downward and coupled to the duct body. A distance between the first elastic member and the second elastic member may be greater than a vertical length of the second section.

The first portion may include a guide portion that accommodates the first section. A portion of the guide portion may be positioned lower than an upper end of the duct body.

The dispenser may further include an ice chute that guides ice generated in the ice maker to the ice slot and has an ice inlet and an ice outlet.

A horizontal distance between a rotation center of the cap duct and a front surface of the door may be less than a horizontal distance between the ice inlet of the ice chute and the front surface of the door.

The dispenser may further include an ice guide that guides ice passed through the ice slot. The ice guide may include a first body configured to form an ice inlet. The ice guide may further include a second body extending downward from the first body. The ice guide may further include a third body extending downward from the second body and having a path width less than that of the second body and forming an ice outlet. In a state in which the cap duct opens the ice slot, a lowermost portion of the cap duct may overlap with the third body in a vertical direction.

In another embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage space and a door configured to open and closer the storage space. The refrigerator may further include an ice maker provided in the door and generating ice. The refrigerator may further include a dispenser housing provided in the door and configured to form a receiving space.

The refrigerator may further include an ice slot formed in the dispenser housing and through which the ice passes. The refrigerator may further include an ice chute configured to guide the ice generated in the ice maker to the ice slot.

The refrigerator may further include a cap duct configured to open and close the ice slot.

The ice chute may include an ice inlet and an ice outlet.

A horizontal distance between a rotation center of the cap duct and a front surface of the door may be less than a horizontal distance between the ice inlet and the front surface of the door.

The cap duct may include a duct body and a bracket configured to transmit power to the duct body.

The duct body may include a first part and a second part spaced apart from the first part in a vertical direction. The duct body may further include a third part connecting one end of the first part and one end of the second part, and a fourth part connecting another end of the first part and another end of the second part.

A portion or all of each of the first part and the second part may extend in a straight line. A portion or all of each of the third part and the fourth part may extend in a curved line.

At least one of a length of the third part or a length of the fourth part may be greater than a distance between the first part and the second part.

Advantageous Effects

According to one embodiment, since a radius of rotation of the cap duct can be reduced, sealing force by the cap duct can be improved, so that a phenomenon of cold air leakage through the ice chute can be minimized, and a phenomenon of dew forming around the ice guide can be prevented.

According to one embodiment, during an ice discharge process, ice chips can be prevented from accumulating in an ice guide forming an ice path.

According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that an ice chamber or a storage space can be formed at a rear side of the dispenser without increasing a thickness of the door or while minimizing an increase in the thickness of the door by a slim dispenser.

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 cold air passage in a first refrigerating chamber door of the present embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a dispenser according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an ice chute according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a view of an ice chute according to the present embodiment as viewed from a lower side.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an ice guide according to the present embodiment as viewed from one side.

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of an ice guide according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a front view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a lateral side view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first refrigerating chamber door showing an arrangement of a cap duct, an ice chute, and an ice guide when an ice slot is closed according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerating chamber door showing an arrangement of a cap duct, an ice chute, and an ice guide when an ice slot is opened according to the present 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 10 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. Or, it is also possible for each refrigerating chamber door to include an ice maker.

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. 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 ice generated in the first ice maker 200. To this end, the first ice maker 200 may include a portion positioned higher than the dispenser 11. If the dispenser 11 may discharge ice generated in the second ice maker 500, the second ice maker 500 may also include a portion positioned higher than the dispenser 11.

Or, even if at least one of the first ice maker 200 or the second ice maker 500 is positioned the same as or lower than the dispenser 11, ice generated in at least one of the first ice maker 200 or 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.

Alternatively, a position of the second ice maker 500 in the present embodiment may vary. Depending on the type of refrigerator, the second ice maker 500 may be positioned in the storage space. In this case, the second space 124 may be present or may be omitted.

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 further 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. For example, the cold air inlet 123a may be disposed to overlap the second space 124 in a horizontal direction.

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. For example, the cold air outlet 123b may be disposed to overlap the second space 124 in a horizontal direction.

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 200. 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 maker 200 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. The second side portion 102b may protrude further toward the refrigerating chamber 18 than the first side portion 102a.

The first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include 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 132 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 (not shown) may be mounted on one side 103 of the first refrigerating chamber door 10, and the filter may be covered by a filter cover 142.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing cold air passage in a first refrigerating chamber door of the present embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may further include a cold air passage for cold air flow. The cold air passage may be formed by a cold air duct, not shown. The cold air duct may be installed, for example, in the door liner 102.

The cold air passage may guide cold air to at least one of the first space 122 or the second space 124.

The cold air passage may include a first cold air passage P1.

The first cold air passage P1 may guide cold air supplied from the cabinet 2 to the first space 122.

At least a portion of the first cold air passage P1 may extend in a vertical direction. Cold air may rise in the first cold air passage P1 and be supplied to an upper portion of the first space 122. For example, cold air guided by the first cold air passage P1 may flow toward the first ice maker 200.

The cold air passage may further include a second cold air passage P2.

The second cold air passage P2 may guide cold air of the first space 122 to the second space 124.

Cold air from a lower portion of the first space 122 may be discharged to the second cold air passage P2. At least a part of the second cold air passage P2 may extend in the vertical direction.

Cold air may descend in the second cold air passage P2 and be supplied to the second space 124. For example, cold air guided by the second cold air passage P2 may flow toward the second ice maker 500.

The cold air passage may further include a third cold air passage P3.

The third cold air passage P3 may guide cold air of the second space 124 to an outside of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.

Cold air from a lower portion of the second space 124 may flow through the third cold air passage P3. At least a portion of the third cold air passage P3 may extend in a horizontal direction or may be inclined downward.

Meanwhile, 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 tray 550 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.

If the second tray 550 is a rotation type tray, 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 (or X-axis 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. The ice chute 700 may be referred to as a first path forming a passage through which ice moves or is discharged. An ice guide 800 may be disposed at a lower side of the ice chute 700.

The ice chute 700 may guide ice discharged from the first ice bin 280 to the ice guide 800.

The ice guide 800 may guide ice and finally discharge the ice. The ice guide 800 may be referred to as a second path forming a passage through which ice moves or is discharged.

The ice chute 700 may overlap at least a portion of the first space 122 in a vertical direction (or Z-axis direction). At least a portion of the ice chute 700 may overlap at least a portion of the second space 124 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. Of course, in the present embodiment, a position of the water tank 340 is not limited, and it is disclosed that it may be placed in various positions as long as a thickness of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 is not increased or an increase in thickness is minimized.

The ice guide 800 may overlap at least a portion of the second space 124 in a horizontal direction.

In this embodiment, the second space 124 may be disposed at a rear side of the dispenser housing 11a because the dispenser housing 11a is slim. In order to slim the dispenser housing 11a, a shape of the ice guide 800, which forms a portion of the ice path, may be important. A structure of the ice guide 800 will be described later with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a dispenser according to the present embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 8, the dispenser 11 of the present embodiment may include a dispenser housing 11a. The dispenser housing 11a may form a receiving space 11c.

The receiving space 11c may be formed by a front surface of the dispenser housing 11a being recessed toward rearward.

The dispenser 11 may further include a pad 1010. The pad 1010 may be movably installed in the dispenser housing 11a. A user may manipulate the pad 1010 to discharge ice and/or water. For example, the user may push or press the pad 1010.

A lever 1070 that operates by the pad 1010 may be installed on the dispenser housing 11a. A switch 1050 that is selectively turned on or off by the lever 1070 may be installed on the dispenser housing 11a.

For example, when the pad 1010 is not operated, the switch 1050 may be turned off. When the pad 1010 is operated, an operating force of the pad 1010 is transmitted to the lever 1070, so that the lever 1070 may turn on the switch 1050.

The dispenser housing 11a may further include an ice slot 111 through which ice guided by the ice chute 700 passes.

The ice slot 111 may be formed, for example, in an inclined wall 111a of the dispenser housing 11a. The inclined wall 111a may be inclined in a direction away from a front surface of the dispenser housing 11a from an upper side to a lower side.

The ice chute 700 may be disposed at an outer side of the dispenser housing 11a. For example, the ice chute 700 may be disposed at an upper side of the inclined wall 111a of the dispenser housing 11a.

The ice guide 800 may be disposed in the receiving space 11c. The ice guide 800 may guide ice passed through the ice slot 111.

The ice guide 800 may be disposed at a lower side of the inclined wall 111a.

The ice slot 111 may be opened and closed by the cap duct 900. The cap duct 900 may open and close the ice slot 111 in the receiving space 11c.

The cap duct 900 may be driven by a duct driver 990 to open and close the ice slot 111. For example, the duct driver 990 may include a motor. The cap duct 900 may be rotated by a driving of the motor to open the ice slot 111.

The dispenser 11 may further include a water discharge port 870 through which water is discharged. The water discharge port 870 may be disposed in the receiving space 11c. The water discharge port 870 may be disposed adjacent to the ice guide 800.

The dispenser 11 may further include a supporter 890 that supports the water discharge port 870.

The dispenser 11 may further include a sterilizing device 880 for sterilizing the water discharge port 870. The sterilizing device 880 may sterilize a water path formed by the water discharge port 870 by irradiating ultraviolet rays, for example. Of course, the sterilizing device 880 may be omitted.

The dispenser 11 may further include a display device.

The display device may include a display 1100. The display 1100 may display an operating status of the refrigerator. The display 1100 may perform an input function that may receive a user's command. The user may select or change a temperature or various functions by manipulating or touching a button displayed on the display 1100.

The display device may further include a display frame 1120 that supports the display 1100. The display frame 1120 may be received in the receiving space 11c.

The display frame 1120 may include an opening 1122 through which a portion of the display 1100 may pass.

An input module 1160 may be installed in the display frame 1120. A type of ice may be selected through the input module 1160. Or, a state of the ice to be discharged may be selected through the input module 1160. For example, transparent ice or opaque ice may be selected through the input module 1160. Or, ices of different sizes may be distinguished and selected through the input module 1160.

The input module 1160 may include, for example, a button. A portion of the input module 1160 may be exposed to an outside while installed in the display frame 1120.

It is also possible for the input module 1160 to be installed or supported in a configuration other than the display frame 1120. Of course, it is also possible for the display 1100 to additionally perform a function of the input module without a separate input module 1160.

The display device may further include a display supporter 1140 disposed at a rear side of the display frame 1120. The display supporter 1140 may support the display 1100 penetrating the opening 1122. Of course, the display supporter 1140 may be omitted.

Meanwhile, the dispenser housing 11a may be coupled to the door liner 102. The door liner 102 may include a space forming wall 124g forming the second space 124. The dispenser housing 11 a may be disposed in front of the space forming wall 124g. A mounting bracket 480 for guiding water to the second space 124 may be installed in the space forming wall 124g. The mounting bracket 480 may be disposed at a rear of the ice guide 800. That is, the mounting bracket 480 may be disposed to overlap the ice guide 800 in a front-back direction.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an ice chute according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 10 is a drawing of an ice chute according to the present embodiment viewed from a lower side.

Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the ice chute 700 may include a first through hole 711 fluidically connected to the first space 122. The first through hole 710 may be disposed at an upper side of the first path.

The ice chute 700 may further include a second through hole 712 disposed at a lower portion in the ice chute 700. The second through hole 712 may be opened and closed by the cap duct 900.

The ice chute 700 may include a chute body 710 having the first through hole 711 and the second through hole 712.

The chute body 710 may include a first body 720 in which the first through hole 711 is formed. The first through hole 711 may be formed at an upper side of the first body 720.

The first body 720 may include a flange 740 that is bent at an upper end of the first body 720. The flange 740 may be in contact with a wall forming the first space 122.

The chute body 710 may further include a second body 730 that is inclined from the first body 720. The second through hole 712 may be formed on a lower side of the second body 730.

The ice chute 700 may include a first part 710a disposed to face a front surface of the refrigerator door and a second part 710b disposed to face the second space 124.

A passage formed by the second part 710b may extend from the first through hole 711 in a direction toward the front surface of the refrigerator door.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an ice guide according to the present embodiment from one side, and FIG. 12 is a bottom view of an ice guide according to the present embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the ice guide 800 may include a first portion 810.

The first portion 810 may be disposed adjacent to a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 and may be provided at an upper portion of the ice guide 800.

The ice guide 800 may further include a third portion 850.

The third portion 850 may be disposed further apart from a front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 than the first portion 810 and may be provided at a lower portion in the ice guide 800.

The ice guide 800 may further include a second portion 830 provided between the first portion 810 and the third portion 850.

An imaginary square connecting edges formed at both ends of the second portion may be provided so that a height is smaller than a width.

The first portion 810 may include an ice inlet 813. The third portion 850 may include an ice outlet 851.

The ice guide 800 may further include a first fixing portion 814 for fixing the ice guide 800. The ice guide 800 may further include a second fixing portion 838 for fixing the ice guide 800. The second fixing portion 838 may be spaced apart from the first fixing portion 814 in a vertical direction.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a front view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a lateral side view of a cap duct according to the present embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 13 to 16, the cap duct 900 of the present embodiment may include a duct body 901.

The duct body 901 may include a first body 910. The first body 910 may open and close the ice slot 111.

The first body 910 may include a receiving portion 912 forming a space 913 therein. An opening 912a is formed in the receiving portion 912, and a first foamed insulation 930 may be received through the opening 912a.

A thickness (length of X-axis direction) of the first foamed insulation 930 may be less than a depth (length of X-axis direction) of a space 913 of the first receiving portion 912.

In the present specification, the X-axis direction may be a front-rear direction of the refrigerator or a thickness direction of the first refrigerating chamber door.

The first body 910 may further include a flange 914 extending from a periphery of the receiving portion 912. For example, the flange 914 may extend in a direction intersecting with a direction in which the first foamed insulation 930 is inserted into the receiving portion 912.

The flange 914 may serve to reduce ice chips from accumulating on the ice guide 700 during the ice discharge process.

The receiving portion 912 may be formed in a non-circular shape, for example. Although not limited, the receiving portion 912 may be formed in an oval or oval-like shape.

The first body 910 may include a first part 921. At least a portion of the first part 921 may be formed in a straight shape.

The first body 910 may include a second part 922 spaced apart from the first part 921. The second part 922 may be spaced apart from the first part 921 in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction). At least a portion of the second part 922 may be formed in a straight shape.

At least a portion of the first part 921 may face the second part 922. At least a portion of the first part 921 may be parallel to the second part 922.

The first body 910 may further include a third part 923 connecting one end of the first part 921 and one end of the second part 922. At least a part of the third part 923 may be rounded.

The first body 910 may further include a fourth part 924 connecting another end of the first part 921 and another end of the second part 922. At least a part of the fourth part 924 may be rounded.

When the third part 923 and the fourth part 924 are divided into three regions in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), When the third part and the fourth part are divided into three regions in a vertical direction, a central region, an upper region connected to the first part, and a lower region connected to the second part can be provided. At this time, a curvature of the central region may be the same as or different from a curvature of the upper region and/or the lower region.

A radius of curvature of at least a portion of the central region may be equal to or less than a radius of curvature of the upper region and/or the lower region.

A center of curvature of the third part 923 may be disposed between the third part 923 and the fourth part 924. A center of curvature of the fourth part 924 may be disposed between the third part 923 and the fourth part 924.

A length of the third part 923 may be greater than a length of each of the first part 921 and the second part 922. A length of the third part 923 may be greater than a distance between the first part 921 and the second part 922.

A length of the fourth part 924 may be greater than a length of each of the first part 921 and the second part 922. A length of the fourth part 924 may be greater than a distance between the first part 921 and the second part 922.

A maximum horizontal distance between the third part 923 and the fourth part 924 may be greater than a maximum vertical distance between the first part 921 and the second part 922.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, a length of the first body 910 in a Y-axis direction may be greater than a length in a Z-axis direction. That is, a length of the duct body 901 in a left-right direction of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may be greater than a length of the duct body 901 in an up-down direction of the first refrigerating chamber door 10. At this time, a value of the left-right length of the duct body 901 divided by the up-down length may be 1.3 or more and 1.45 or less.

The duct body 901 may further include a second body 950 coupled to the first body 910. The second body 950 may be inserted into the receiving portion 912, for example. That is, the second body 950 may be inserted into a remaining area of the space 913 of the receiving portion 912 in which the first foamed insulation 930 is received. The second foamed insulation 940 may be received in the second body 950. Accordingly, the second foamed insulation 940 may also be received in the receiving portion 912. A thickness of the second foamed insulation 940 may be greater than a thickness of the first foamed insulation 930.

In the present embodiment, an insulation performance of the cap duct 900 can be improved by the first foamed insulation 930 and the second foamed insulation 940.

The second body 950 may include a base 951. An elastic member 980, which will be described later, may be coupled to the second body 950.

The second body 950 may further include a peripheral wall 952 extending from a perimeter of the base 951. The second foamed insulation 940 may be received within the peripheral wall 952.

The peripheral wall 952 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the receiving portion 912. The peripheral wall 952 may also include first to fourth parts corresponding to the receiving portion 912.

The cap duct 900 may further include a bracket 970 coupled to the duct body 901.

The bracket 970 may be connected to the duct driver 990 and may transmit the power of the duct driver 990 to the duct body 901. For example, the bracket 970 may be coupled to the second body 950.

The bracket 970 may include a first part 971. The first part 971 may be connected to the duct driver 990.

The first part 971 may be disposed on an upper side of the first body 910 at a position spaced apart from the first body 910.

The first part 971 may be disposed to be inclined with respect to the first part 921 of the first body 910. For example, the first part 971 may be inclined downward from the flange 914 to the base 951.

The bracket 970 may further include a second portion 975 extending from the first portion 971. The second portion 975 may extend downward from one end portion of the first portion 971. A left-right width of the second portion 975 (a length of Y-axis direction) may be less than a left-right width of the first portion 975.

The first portion 971 may include a slot 971a. The slot 971a may be formed on an opposite side of a portion where the second portion 975 is positioned in the first portion 971.

The first part 971 may further include a coupling shaft 972 to which the elastic member 980 is coupled. The coupling shaft 972 may protrude into the slot 971a. Although not limited, a plurality of elastic members 980 may be coupled to the first part 971. For example, a plurality of elastic members 980 may be coupled to the first part 971 in a state of being spaced apart in the left and right horizontal direction. The plurality of elastic members 980 may include a first elastic member and a second elastic member. Accordingly, the first part 971 may also include a plurality of coupling shafts 972.

The first part 971 may further include an extension arm 973a. The extension arm 973a may be connected to the duct driver 990. The extension arm 973a may provide a rotation center RC of the cap duct 900.

In the first portion 971, a shaft 973b may be provided on an opposite side of the extension arm 973a. The shaft 973b may be connected to the dispenser housing 11a. The rotation center RC may pass through the shaft 973b.

The duct body 901 may further include a first coupling portion 958, 959 for coupling the second portion 975. The first coupling portion 958, 959 may protrude from the base 951, for example. For example, a plurality of first coupling portions 958, 959 may be disposed to be spaced apart in a horizontal direction. The plurality of first coupling portions 958, 959 may be extended from the base 951 to be elastically deformable.

Based on the drawing, the first coupling portion 958 on the left side may include a first inner rib 958a and a first outer rib 958b that is horizontally spaced from the first inner rib 958a. An end of the first inner rib 958a may be bent toward the first outer rib 958b. An end of the first outer rib 958b may be bent toward the first inner rib 958a.

Based on the drawing, the first coupling portion 959 on the right side may include a second inner rib 959a and a second outer rib 959b that is horizontally spaced from the second inner rib 959a. An end of the second inner rib 959a may be bent toward the second outer rib 959b. An end of the second outer rib 959b may be bent toward the second inner rib 959a.

The first inner rib 958a and the second inner rib 959a may be disposed between the first outer rib 958b and the second outer rib 959b. The first inner rib 958a and the second inner rib 959a may be spaced apart from each other in a horizontal direction.

The second portion 975 may include a first rib hole 976 through which the first inner rib 958a passes. The second portion 975 may further include a second rib hole 977 through which the second inner rib 959a passes. When the first inner rib 958a is inserted into the first rib hole 976 and the second inner rib 959a is inserted into the second rib hole 977, the second portion 975 may be positioned between the first outer rib 958b and the second inner rib 959b.

One side of the second portion 975 may contact or adjacent to the first outer rib 958b. Another side of the second portion 976 may contact or adjacent to the second outer rib 959b.

In a process in which a power of the duct driver 990 is transmitted to the duct body 901, a relative rotation of the duct body 901 with respect to the second portion 975 may be limited by the first and second outer ribs 958b, 959b.

The duct body 901 may further include a second coupling portion to which the second portion 975 is coupled. The second coupling portion may be disposed at a lower side of the first coupling portion 958, 959.

The second coupling portion may include a plurality of hook portions protruding from the base 951. The plurality of hook portions may include a first hook portion 956 and a second hook portion 957 horizontally spaced from the first hook portion 956. The first and second hook portions 956, 957 may protrude horizontally from the base 951 and a portion of the first hook portion 956 and a second hook portion 957 may be bent downward.

The second portion 975 may further include a coupling slot 978 for coupling the second coupling portion. The first coupling portion 958, 959 may be coupled to the second portion 975 in a state in which the first and second hook portions 956, 957 pass through the coupling slot 978.

The second coupling portion substantially serves to transmit a power of the duct driver 990 to the duct body 901. That is, when the bracket970 is rotated by the duct driver 990, the bracket 970 can pull the duct body 901 to rotate the duct body 901.

The elastic member 980 may accumulate elastic force in a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111 and provide elastic force to the cap duct 900 in a direction where the cap duct 900 closes the ice slot 111.

The elastic member 980 may be, for example, a torsion spring. The elastic member 980 may include a body portion 981 formed by winding a wire multiple times. The coupling shaft 972 may be positioned inside the body portion 981.

The elastic member 980 may include a first extension 982 extending from one end of the body portion 981. Although not limited, the first extension 982 may be supported by the dispenser housing 11a or supported by a component received in the dispenser housing 11a.

The elastic member 980 may further include a second extension 983 extending from another end of the body portion 981. The second extension 983 may be coupled to the duct body 901.

The second extension 983 may be bent one or more times. The first part 971 may be provided with a guide portion 974 in which the second extension 983 is received. The second extension 983 may be guided toward the second part 975 within the guide portion 974. In a state in which the second extension 983 is received in the guide portion 974, a Y-axis movement of the guide portion 974 may be restricted.

A portion of the guide portion 974 may be positioned lower than an upper end of the duct body 901. Or, a portion of the first part 921 may be disposed between two spaced guide portions 974.

The second extension 983 may include a first section 983a received in the guide portion 974. The second extension 983 may include a second section 983b bent from the first section 983a. The second section 983b may be bent from the first section 983a and extend downward.

The duct body 901 may further include an elastic member coupling portion to which the elastic member 980 is coupled.

The elastic member coupling portion may include a first coupling protrusion 953 and a second coupling protrusion 954 horizontally spaced apart from the first coupling protrusion 953.

A first elastic member may be coupled to the first coupling protrusion 953, and a second elastic member may be coupled to the second coupling protrusion 954. The first and second coupling protrusions 953, 954 may protrude from the base 951. The second coupling portion 956, 957 may be disposed between the first coupling protrusion 953 and the second coupling protrusion 954.

The second extension 983 may further include a coupling end 984. The coupling end 984 may extend from the second section 983b. The coupling end 984 may be received in each of the coupling protrusions 956, 957, and a portion of the coupling protrusion 956, 957 may pass through the coupling protrusions 956, 957.

A length L1 of the first portion 971 (X-axis direction) may be greater than a length L2 of the second portion 975 (X-axis direction). When the length L2 of the second portion 975 is reduced, a distance from the rotation center RC of the cap duct 900 to a point where power is transmitted to the cap duct 900, for example, the second coupling portion, may be reduced. In this case, a rotation radius of the cap duct 900 may be reduced. Accordingly, when a certain size of torque is generated in the duct driver 990, a force with which the cap duct 900 presses the wall where the ice slot 111 is formed may be increased, so that a sealing force by the cap duct 900 may be increased. Then, a phenomenon of cold air leakage through the ice chute 700 may be minimized. Additionally, a phenomenon of dew forming on the ice guide 800 due to leaked cold air can be prevented.

A lower end 956a of the second coupling portion may be positioned higher than each of the coupling protrusions 953, 954. A lower end 975a of the second part 975 may be positioned higher than each of the coupling protrusions 953, 954. A lower end 975a of the second part 975 may be positioned higher than a lower end 956a of the second coupling portion. A lower end 956a of the second coupling portion may be positioned higher than a coupling end 984 of the elastic member 980.

A distance (for example, a horizontal distance or Y-axis distance) between the first coupling protrusion 953 and the second coupling protrusion 954 may be greater than a distance (for example, a vertical distance or a Z-axis distance) between the first part 921 and the second part 922 or a height of the second body 950.

A distance between the two elastic members 980 or a distance between the first coupling protrusion 953 and the second coupling protrusion 954 may be greater than a vertical length of the second section 983b.

With reference to FIG. 16, a distance L3 (a distance of Z-axis direction) from an upper surface 921a of the first part 921 or an upper surface of the duct body 901 to an upper surface 959c of the first coupling portion, for example, an upper surface of the rib, may be equal to or greater than a distance L4 from an upper surface 959c of the first coupling portion to an upper end 953b of the coupling protrusion 953, 954.

FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first refrigerating chamber door showing an arrangement of a cap duct, an ice chute, and an ice guide when an ice slot is closed according to the present embodiment. FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first refrigerating chamber door showing an arrangement of a cap duct, an ice chute, and an ice guide when an ice slot is opened according to the present embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 10, 17 and 18, the dispenser housing 11a may include a cover wall 110 surrounding the ice guide 800. The cover wall 110 may include the inclined wall 111a.

A coupling wall 112 may be extended around the ice slot 111 from the cover wall 110a. The ice chute 700 may be coupled to the coupling wall 112. For example, a portion of the ice chute 700 may be inserted into the coupling wall 112.

In a state in which the second body 730 of the ice chute 700 is inserted into the coupling wall 112, the second through hole 712 may be spaced apart from the ice slot 111. Therefore, the coupling wall 112 may provide a path for ice to move.

Based on FIG. 17, the first part 810 of the ice guide 800 may include a first extension wall 812. The first extension wall 812 may be disposed on an opposite side of the ice slot 111.

The second portion 830 may include a second extension wall 832 positioned at a lower side of the first extension wall 812.

The second portion 830 may further include a third extension wall 834 positioned at a lower side of the ice inlet 813. The third extension wall 834 may be positioned on an opposite side of the second extension wall 832.

A distance between the second extension wall 832 and the third extension wall 834 may decrease as it goes downward. The second extension wall 832 and the third extension wall 834 may be inclined walls.

An inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 with respect to a horizontal plane may be different from an inclination angle of the third extension wall 834. For example, the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 with respect to the horizontal plane may be greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832.

The third extension wall 834 may also be referred to as a guide wall. If the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834 is greater, ice discharge may be facilitated.

The third portion 850 may further include a fourth extension wall 852 extending from the second extension wall 832. The third portion 850 may further include a fifth extension wall 853 extending from the third extension wall 834. At least a portion of the third extension wall 834 may be a round wall. At least a portion of the fifth extension wall 853 may be a round wall.

If the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 is less than the inclination angle of the third extension wall 834, a horizontal distance between a vertical extension line of the second extension wall 832 and the fourth extension wall 852 can be increased. In this case, a space can be secured where an electrical component can be positioned at a lower side of the second extension wall 832. For example, the electrical component may include at least one of a display or a PCB printed circuit board.

An inclination angle of the fourth extension wall 852 with respect to the horizontal plane may be greater than the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832.

A rotation center RC of the cap duct 900 may be positioned in front of the ice inlet 711 of the ice chute 700. That is, a horizontal distance between the rotation center RC of the cap duct 900 and the front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10 may be less than a horizontal distance between the ice inlet 711 of the ice chute 700 and the front surface of the first refrigerating chamber door 10.

The rotation center of the cap duct 900 may be disposed so as not to overlap with the first through hole 711 in the vertical direction.

In a state in which the cap duct 900 closes the ice slot 111 of the dispenser housing 11a, a portion of the cap duct 900 may overlap with the fourth extension wall 852 in the vertical direction.

In a state in which the cap duct 900 closes the ice slot 111 of the dispenser housing 11a, a portion of the cap duct 900 may be disposed inside the ice guide 800.

In order to open the ice slot 111, the cap duct 900 may be rotated in a direction closer to the first extension wall 812.

Even in a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111, a portion of the cap duct 900 may be disposed inside the ice guide 800.

In a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111, a lowermost portion 901a (edge) of the cap duct 900 may overlap with the fourth extension wall 852 in a vertical direction. For example, the lowermost portion 901a of the cap duct 900 may be a portion of the flange 914.

Since the inclination angle of the second extension wall 832 with respect to the horizontal plane is less than the inclination angle of the fourth extension wall 852, there is a possibility that ice chips may accumulate on an upper side of the second extension wall 832 during the ice discharge process. However, according to the present invention, when the lowermost portion 901 of the cap duct 900 overlaps the fourth extension wall 852 in a vertical direction, the ice chips may be restricted from moving to the upper side of the second extension wall 832.

Alternatively, in a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111, the lowermost portion 901 of the cap duct 900 may overlap the ice outlet 851 in a vertical direction.

In a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111, the cap duct 900 may contact the first extension wall 812. Alternatively, in a state in which the cap duct 900 opens the ice slot 111, the cap duct 900 may be spaced apart from the first extension wall 812.

Alternatively, the cap duct 900 may contact the second extension wall 832 while the ice slot 111 is opened.

According to this embodiment, since the rotation radius of the cap duct can be reduced, the sealing force by the cap duct can be improved, so that the phenomenon of cold air leakage through the ice chute can be minimized, and the phenomenon of dew forming around the ice guide can be prevented.

According to this embodiment, during the ice discharge process, ice chips can be prevented from accumulating on the ice guide forming the path for ice.

According to the present embodiment, there is an advantage in that an ice making chamber or storage space can be formed at the rear side of the dispenser without increasing the thickness of the door or while minimizing the increase in the thickness of the door due to the slim dispenser.