KR20240046989A - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

This disclosure relates to refrigerators. A refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a cabinet having a storage space therein; a first pipe disposed outside the cabinet and connected to an external water source; a second pipe disposed outside the cabinet; and a clamp fixed to the cabinet, wherein the clamp includes: a clamp body fixed to the cabinet and surrounding the second pipe; and a holder extending from the clamp body, having a first space into which the first pipe is inserted, and being spaced apart from the cabinet to provide an entrance through which the first pipe is inserted into the first space.

Description

Refrigerator {REFRIGERATOR}

The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more specifically, to a refrigerator equipped with a clamp for fixing pipes.

A refrigerator is a device that supplies cold air to the interior of the refrigerator to keep food stored in the refrigerator fresh.

In addition to the function of storing food, refrigerators can provide the function of supplying cold water or ice to users. This type of refrigerator is equipped with a port for discharging water or ice outside the refrigerator and an ice maker for producing ice.

At this time, the above-mentioned type of refrigerator can receive water from an external water source and is connected to the external water source through a pipe. In addition, the refrigerator is equipped with a valve, a filter, and a tank for supplying water supplied from an external water source to a port and an ice maker, and has a plurality of pipes connecting the above-mentioned structures.

Each of the above-mentioned pipes can be fixed to the refrigerator by a clamp, and the clamp has a space into which the pipe is inserted and a screw for fixing the pipe inserted into the space.

Korean Patent Document 10-1122077B1 discloses a clamp for fixing pipes. The clamp secures the pipe inserted into the clamp by tightening the screw on the body surrounding the pipe. However, this type of clamp has a problem in that it requires a separate tool to fix the pipe. Additionally, this type of fixing clamp cannot fix multiple pipes at the same time, and there is a problem in that a corresponding number of clamps are needed for each pipe.

Korean Patent Document 20-2008-002740 discloses a clamp for fixing pipes. The clamp forms a plurality of holes into which pipes are inserted by combining a first body with a folded portion and a second body. However, this fixing type clamp has a problem of reduced work efficiency because the clamp coupled to the refrigerator must be separated from the refrigerator in order to separate or fix the pipe.

Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1122077 Public Utility Model Publication No. 20-2008-002740

The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to facilitate fixation of pipes.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to fix pipes without using separate tools.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to secure the pipe to the clamp without removing the clamp from the refrigerator.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to simplify the work process of fixing pipes to clamps.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to simultaneously fix a plurality of pipes with a single clamp.

Another object of the present disclosure may be to provide a refrigerator in which a pipe can be coupled to a clamp while the clamp is fixed to the refrigerator.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to separate some of the plurality of pipes from the clamp while the clamp is fixed to the refrigerator.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to provide a clamp that can secure various types of pipes, regardless of the outer diameter of the pipes.

Another purpose of the present disclosure may be to provide a refrigerator that does not cause problems such as noise due to collision between pipes and cabinets even when vibration occurs due to the operation of a compressor.

The problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

A refrigerator according to an aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object includes a cabinet having a storage space therein. The storage space may be open toward the front. The cabinet may include a rear plate disposed at the rear.

The storage space may include a freezer. The storage space may include a refrigerating room. The refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment may be partitioned from each other.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a door that opens and closes a storage space. The door may be rotatably provided in the cabinet.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a dispenser that filters water supplied from an external water source and provides it to the outside. The dispenser may be provided on the door.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a filter assembly that filters water supplied from the external water source. The filter assembly may store filtered water. The filter assembly may be provided on the door. Alternatively, the filter assembly may be placed in a storage space. The filter assembly may be placed in a refrigerator.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator includes a first pipe disposed outside the cabinet. At least a portion of the first pipe may be disposed outside the cabinet. At least a portion of the first pipe may be disposed inside the cabinet. The first pipe may be connected to an external water source.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator includes a second pipe disposed outside the cabinet. The second pipe may be connected to the first pipe. The second pipe may be connected to the first pipe through a valve.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator includes a clamp fixed to the cabinet. The clamp may be placed outside the cabinet. The clamp may be coupled to the rear plate.

The clamp may include a clamp body fixed to the cabinet.

The clamp body may surround the second pipe. The clamp body may fix the second pipe to the first cabinet. The clamp body may support the second pipe.

The clamp includes a holder having a first space into which the first pipe is inserted. The holder may support the first pipe. The holder may fix the first pipe to the cabinet.

The holder may extend from the clamp body. The holder may be connected to the clamp by. The holder may extend from the clamp body to provide the first space.

The holder may be spaced apart from the cabinet. The holder may provide an entrance through which the first pipe is inserted into the first space. The first space may be open toward the cabinet.

The holder may include an edge that provides an edge of the entrance.

The distance between the edge and the cabinet may be smaller than the diameter of the first pipe.

The holder may include a pipe insertion portion forming the first space. The pipe insertion portion may extend from the first body. The pipe insertion portion may extend to the edge.

The inner circumference of the pipe insertion portion facing the first space may include an arc-shaped curved section and a straight section connecting the first section and the edge.

The edge may be spaced apart from the cabinet without external force being applied to the holder. Alternatively, the edge may contact the cabinet without external force being applied to the holder.

The holder may be configured to be deformable. The holder may be flexible compared to the clamp body. The holder may have a smaller elastic field than the clamp body.

When an external force is applied to the holder, the edge moves away from the cabinet, and when the external force applied to the holder is removed, the edge moves closer to the cabinet.

The holder may further include a guide extending from the edge toward the outside of the first space. The guide may be a handle.

The guide may be inclined in a direction away from the cabinet as it moves away from the edge. The angle of inclination of the guide with respect to the cabinet may be 45 degrees or less.

The holder may include a first section that extends from the first body and moves away from the cabinet as the inner surface providing the first space moves away from the holder.

The holder may include a second section that extends from the first section and becomes closer to the cabinet as the inner surface providing the first space moves away from the first section. The thickness of the second section may be thinner than the thickness of the first section.

It may further include a rib that protrudes from the clamp body and extends toward the holder and is connected to the holder.

The edge may have a gradually gentle chamfer in a direction from the outside of the holder toward the first space.

The holder may be rotatable relative to the clamp body. The clamp body may include a first body connected to the holder. The clamp body may include a second body facing the first body. The first body and the second body may provide a space into which the second pipe is inserted.

The clamp may include a latch protruding from the first body toward the cabinet, and a hole disposed on the second body into which the latch is inserted.

The latch may contact the cabinet. Alternatively, the distance between the latch and the cabinet may be smaller than the distance between the edge and the cabinet.

The clamp is,

It may include a hinge portion rotatably connecting the first body and the second body to each other.

The clamp may be fixed to the cabinet by a fastening part penetrating the first and second bodies, with the first and second bodies facing each other and the second pipe inserted between the first and second bodies. there is.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a first valve connecting the first pipe and the second pipe.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may include a filter assembly connected to the second pipe.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may include a dispenser that supplies water that has passed through the filter assembly to the outside.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may further include an ice maker disposed in the freezer.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may further include a third pipe disposed outside the cabinet.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The refrigerator may further include a third pipe that supplies water that has passed through the filter assembly to the ice maker.

The clamp body may include a second space into which the second pipe is inserted and a third space into which the third pipe is inserted and has a diameter larger than the diameter of the second space.

The first space, the second space, and the third space may be arranged sequentially.

The holder is connected to the first body to be movable in a direction away from the cabinet, so that the pipe can be easily fixed to the clamp simply by moving the holder.

The holder may be spaced apart from the cabinet with a gap smaller than the diameter of the first pipe.

The holder may include a pipe insertion portion extending from the first body and forming a space into which the first pipe is inserted.

The holder may include a guide that is connected to the pipe insertion portion and extends in a direction away from the space into which the first pipe is inserted.

The holder connects the pipe insertion portion and the guide and may include an edge facing the cabinet.

The holder may include an edge facing the cabinet.

The edge may include an inner edge portion facing a space into which the first pipe is inserted.

The edge may include an outer edge portion extending in a direction away from the space into which the first pipe is inserted.

The edge may include a lower edge portion connecting the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion.

The guide and the edge may be inclined in a direction away from the cabinet.

The angle at which the guide is inclined may be greater than the angle at which the edge is inclined.

The radius of curvature of the edge may be larger than the radius of curvature of the pipe insertion portion.

The clamp may include a third body that is coupled to the first body and forms a space between the first body and the second pipe into which the second pipe is inserted.

The second body may be disposed between the first body and the cabinet and may be located closer to the cabinet than the holder.

The first body may include a protrusion protruding toward the cabinet.

The second body may include a protrusion insertion hole into which the protrusion is inserted.

The protrusion may be located closer to the cabinet than the holder, and the holder may be spaced apart from the cabinet.

The clamp may include an inner insertion hole formed between the first body and the second body.

The clamp may include an outer insertion hole formed between the first body and the second body and spaced apart from the inner insertion hole.

The clamp may connect the inner insertion hole and the outer insertion hole and include a gap formed between the first body and the second body.

The clamp may include a first through hole that is open in the first body and faces the gap.

The clamp may include a second through hole that is open in the third body and faces the gap.

The clamp may include a fastening member passing through the first through hole and the second through hole.

The clamp may include a first inner insertion portion that forms a space into which the second pipe is inserted into the first body.

The clamp may include a rib connecting the pipe insertion portion and the first inner insertion portion.

The refrigerator may include a valve disposed at the bottom of the cabinet.

The first pipe may extend downward and be connected to the valve, and the second pipe may extend upward from the valve.

The refrigerator may include a filter assembly connected to the second pipe.

The refrigerator may include a first ice maker connected to the filter assembly.

The refrigerator may include a second ice maker connected to the filter assembly and located lower than the first ice maker.

The refrigerator may include a third pipe that connects the filter assembly and the second ice maker and is fixed to the clamp.

The spaces into which each of the first, second, and third pipes are inserted may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the clamp.

The refrigerator may include a rear plate disposed at the rear of the interior space of the cabinet.

The clamp may be coupled to the rear plate from the outside of the cabinet.

A clamp according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a first body coupled to an object; a first hole that is open in the first body and into which a first pipe through which water flows is inserted; and a holder forming a second hole into which a second pipe through which water flows is inserted between the object and the holder, the holder being connected to the first body so as to be movable in a direction away from the object, Multiple pipes can be easily fixed.

Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the pipe can be fixed to the refrigerator by inserting the pipe into a clamp coupled to the refrigerator.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the pipe is moved into the insertion groove along the guide of the clamp, so that the pipe can be fixed to the clamp without using a separate tool.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a part of the clamp is made of a flexible material, so that the pipe can be fixed to the clamp without removing the clamp from the refrigerator.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the clamp has a plurality of pipe insertion grooves, so that a plurality of pipes can be simultaneously fixed with a single clamp.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a pipe can be coupled to the clamp while the clamp is fixed to the refrigerator through a holder.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the pipe can be fixed to the clamp simply by bending a part of the clamp, thereby simplifying the work process.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, even when vibration occurs in the refrigerator, the holder and the cabinet are spaced apart, so that problems due to collision between the cabinet and the holder or pipes may not occur.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an open state of the door of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4 is a block diagram explaining the flow path structure of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in a separated state.
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of a clamp in a separated state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 9 is a front view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 10 is a front view of the clamp in a separated state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 11 is a diagram explaining the assembly process of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the work process of fixing a pipe to a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the work process of fixing a pipe to a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The suffixes “module” and “part” for components used in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the ease of preparing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

Additionally, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that detailed descriptions of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed descriptions will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings, and all changes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure are not limited. , should be understood to include equivalents or substitutes.

Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When a component is said to be “connected” or “connected” to another component, it is understood that it may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but that other components may exist in between. It should be. On the other hand, when a component is said to be “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Referring to FIG. 1, the refrigerator 1 will be described.

Figure 1 shows the refrigerator 1 viewed from the front.

The refrigerator 1 includes a cabinet 10. The cabinet 10 may have a space inside.

The cabinet 10 may have a plurality of storage compartments (R1, R2, F). The plurality of storage compartments (R1, R2, F) may be partitioned from each other. Alternatively, the plurality of storage rooms may be in communication with each other. For example, the refrigerating compartments (R1, R2) and the freezing compartment (F) may be partitioned from each other, and the refrigerating compartments (R1, R2) may be one refrigerating compartment.

The storage compartments (R1, R2, F) may include a first refrigerating compartment (R1). The first refrigerating compartment (R1) may be formed in the upper part of the cabinet (10).

The storage compartments (R1, R2, F) may include a second refrigerating compartment (R2). The second refrigerating compartment (R2) may be formed in the upper part of the cabinet 10.

The first refrigerating compartment (R1) and the second refrigerating compartment (R2) may be in communication with each other. However, the first refrigerating compartment (R1) and the second refrigerating compartment (R2) may be partitioned from each other. The first refrigerating compartment (R1) may be a space formed behind the first door (21). The second refrigerating compartment (R2) may be a space formed behind the second door 22.

Alternatively, R1 shown in FIG. 1 may be a freezer. R1 can also be set to the freezer. In this case, the storage compartments R1 and R2 may not be divided into upper and lower sections. That is, the freezing compartment and the refrigerating compartment are arranged on the left and right, and can extend in the vertical direction to the space occupied by the lower storage compartment in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the widths of the first and second refrigerating chambers R1 and R2 may be different. The widths of the first and second doors 21 and 22 may also be different.

Unlike shown in FIG. 1, the widths of the first and second refrigerating chambers R1 and R2 may be the same. The widths of the first and second doors 21 and 22 may also be the same.

The storage compartments (R1, R2, F) may include a freezer compartment (F). The freezer compartment (F) may be formed in the lower part of the cabinet (10). The freezer compartment (F) may be located below the refrigerator compartments (R1, R2).

The refrigerator 1 may include doors 21 and 22. The doors 21 and 22 may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet 10. The doors 21 and 22 can open and close the refrigerator compartments (R1 and R2).

The doors 21 and 22 may include a first door 21 . The first door 21 may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet 10 . The first door 21 can open and close the refrigerating compartment (R1).

The doors 21 and 22 may include a second door 22. The second door 22 may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet 10 . The second door 22 can open and close the refrigerating compartment (R2).

The refrigerator 1 may include a freezer door 23. The freezer door 23 can open and close the freezer (F).

The freezer door 23 may be movably coupled to the cabinet 10.

Alternatively, the freezer door 23 may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet. Additionally, the freezer compartment F may include first and second freezer compartments arranged to the left and right. In this case, the first and second freezer compartments may be partitioned from each other. The freezer door 23 may include a first freezer door that opens and closes the first freezer compartment, and a second freezer door that opens and closes the second freezer compartment.

The refrigerator 1 may include a partition 24. The partition 24 may be located between the first door 21 and the lower door 23. The partition 24 may be located between the second door 22 and the lower door 23.

The refrigerator 1 may include a dispenser 30. Dispenser 30 may be placed on the door 21. The dispenser 30 may be placed on either the first door 21 or the second door 22.

The dispenser 30 may include a dispenser body 31. The dispenser body 31 may be collapsed backward from the front surface of the door 21. A space capable of accommodating a cup may be formed inside the dispenser body 31.

Dispenser 30 may include port 32. Port 32 may extend in the vertical direction. The port 32 may protrude toward the space formed inside the dispenser body 31. Water or ice may be discharged through port 32.

The dispenser 30 may include a control panel 33. The control panel 33 may be placed above the port 32. Alternatively, the control panel 33 may be provided on the peripheral surface of the port 32. The user can operate the control panel 33 to receive water or ice through the port 32.

Referring to FIG. 2, the refrigerator 1 will be described.

Figure 2 shows a state in which the doors 21, 22, and 23 of the refrigerator 1 are opened.

The refrigerator 1 may include a refrigerator compartment (R) and a freezer compartment (F). The refrigerator compartment (R) may be located above the freezer compartment (F).

The first door 21 and the second door 22 can open and close the refrigerating compartment (R). The freezer door 23 can be pulled out from the cabinet 10 to open the freezer compartment (F). Alternatively, as described above, the door 23 of the freezer compartment F may be rotatably provided in the cabinet 10.

The refrigerator 1 may include a filter assembly 40. The filter assembly 40 may be placed on the door 21. The filter assembly 40 can receive water.

The filter assembly 40 may include a filter 41. The filter 41 can remove foreign substances contained in the introduced water.

The filter assembly 40 may include a water tank 42. The water tank 42 may be connected to the filter 41. Water that has passed through the filter 41 may flow into the water tank 42.

The filter assembly 40 may include a second three-way valve 44. Water inside the water tank 42 may flow into the second three-way valve 44. The second three-way valve 44 may be connected to the port 32 (see FIG. 1) and the first ice maker 50.

The refrigerator 1 may include a first ice maker 50. The first ice maker 50 may be placed on the door 21 . The first ice maker 50 can create ice using supplied water. The first ice maker 50 may be disposed above the filter assembly 40 .

The refrigerator 1 may include an ice storage compartment 51. The ice storage 51 may be placed inside the refrigerating compartment (R) when the door 21 is closed. The ice storage 51 may be placed in the door 21. Ice produced in the first ice maker 50 may be stored in the ice storage 51.

The refrigerator 1 may include a second ice maker 60. The second ice maker 60 may be placed in the freezer compartment (F). The second ice maker 60 can create ice using supplied water. The second ice maker 60 may be placed at the top of the freezer compartment (F).

The refrigerator 1 may include an ice container 61. The ice container 61 may be placed in the freezer (F). Ice produced in the second ice maker 60 may be stored in the ice container 61.

Referring to FIG. 3, the refrigerator 1 will be described.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the refrigerator 1 viewed from the rear.

The cabinet 10 may include a top plate 11. The top plate 11 may form the upper surface of the cabinet 10.

The cabinet 10 may include a lower plate 12. The lower plate 12 may form the lower surface of the cabinet 10.

The cabinet 10 may include a rear plate 13. The rear plate 13 may form the rear surface of the cabinet 10. The rear plate 13 may face the indoor wall when the refrigerator 1 is installed.

The cabinet 10 may include a side plate 14. The side plate 14 may form the side of the cabinet 10.

The refrigerator 1 may include a machine room 70. The machine room 70 may be placed in the lower part of the cabinet 10. A space may be formed inside the machine room 70.

The refrigerator 1 may include a pipe 80. The pipe 80 may be connected to an external water source (WS) (see FIG. 4). Water supplied from an external water source (WS) may flow within the pipe 80.

The pipe 80 may include a first pipe 81. The first pipe 81 may be connected to an external water source (WS) (see FIG. 4). Water supplied from the external water source WS may flow through the first pipe 81.

The pipe 80 may include a second pipe 82. The second pipe 82 may be connected to the filter assembly 40 (see FIG. 2). Water flowing in through the first pipe 81 may flow into the filter assembly 40 through the second pipe 82.

The pipe 80 may include a third pipe 83. The third pipe 83 may be connected to the second ice maker 60 (see FIG. 2). Water flowing into the filter assembly 40 through the second pipe 82 may flow into the second ice maker 60 through the third pipe 83.

The first pipe 81, the second pipe 82, and the third pipe 83 may extend in the vertical direction.

The water in the first pipe 81 may flow downward and flow into the valve 71 (see FIG. 4) inside the machine room 70.

The second pipe 82 may be connected to the valve 71 (see FIG. 4) inside the machine room 70 and may extend upward from the valve 71. The second pipe 82 may be connected to the filter assembly 40 (see FIG. 2) located at the top of the cabinet 10.

The third pipe 83 may be connected to the filter assembly 40 (see FIG. 2) located at the top of the cabinet 10. The third pipe 83 extends downward from the filter assembly 40 and may be connected to the second valve 72 (see FIG. 4) disposed inside the machine room 70.

The clamp 100 may be combined with the refrigerator 1. The clamp 100 can be separated from the refrigerator 1. The clamp 100 may be included in the refrigerator 1 or may be a separate component from the refrigerator 1.

The clamp 100 can secure the pipe 80. Clamp 100 may be coupled to the rear plate 13. The clamp 100 can secure the pipe 80 to the rear plate 13.

The clamp 100 can fix the first pipe 81, the second pipe 82, and the third pipe 83. The first pipe 81, the second pipe 82, and the third pipe 83 may be inserted into and fixed to the clamp 100.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the refrigerator 1 will be described.

Figure 4 is a block diagram conceptually showing the flow path structure in which water supplied from the water source (WS) is circulated.

The refrigerator 1 can receive water from an external water source (WS). Water supplied from the external water source (WS) may flow into the valve 71 inside the machine room 70 through the first pipe 81. Valve 71 may be named “first valve”. Water flowing into the valve 71 may be extruded by a pump (not shown) and flowed into the filter 41 of the filter assembly 40 through the second pipe 82. The filter 41 can remove foreign substances contained in the introduced water.

The water that has passed through the filter 41 flows into the water tank 42 and can be stored inside the water tank 42. The water tank 42 may be connected to the first three-way valve 43. The first three-way valve 43 may be connected to the second three-way valve 44 and the third pipe 83.

Water flowing into the third pipe 83 through the first three-way valve 43 may flow into the second valve 72 inside the machine room 70 through the third pipe 83. The water flowing into the second valve 72 may be extruded by a pump (not shown) and supplied to the second ice maker 60.

Water flowing into the second three-way valve 44 through the first three-way valve 43 may be supplied to the port 32 or the first ice maker 50. The second three-way valve 44 may be connected to the port 32. The second three-way valve 44 may be connected to the first ice maker 50.

Water flowing into the port 32 from the water tank 42 through the second three-way valve 44 may be discharged to the outside of the dispenser 30 through the port 32.

Water flowing from the water tank 42 through the second three-way valve 44 into the first ice maker 50 may be frozen by the first ice maker 50 .

With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 , the clamp 100 will be described.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of the clamp 100 viewed from above. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the first body 110 and the second body 120 of the clamp 100 in a separated state.

Clamp 100 may include clamp bodies 110 and 120. Clamp 100 may include a first body 110. The first body 110 may form a space into which the pipe 80 (see FIG. 3) is inserted.

Clamp 100 may include a second body 120. The second body 120 may form a space into which the pipe 80 (see FIG. 3) is inserted.

The first body 110 and the second body 120 may be combined. The first body 110 and the second body 120 may be separated. By combining the first body 110 and the second body 120, a space into which the pipe 80 (see FIG. 3) is inserted can be formed.

The first body 110 may include a first plate 111. The first plate 111 may be plate-shaped.

The first body 110 may include a first inner insertion portion 112. The first inner insertion portion 112 may be formed to be convex toward one side of the first plate 111. The first inner insertion portion 112 may be formed to be convex between the first plate 111 and the first coupling body 114.

The first body 110 may include a first outer insertion portion 113. The first outer insertion portion 113 may be formed to be convex toward one side of the first plate 111. The first outer insertion portion 113 may be formed to be convex between the first plate 111 and the first hinge portion 116.

The first plate 111 may be located between the first inner insertion part 112 and the first outer insertion part 113. The first inner insertion portion 112 and the first outer insertion portion 113 may be spaced apart from each other with the first plate 111 interposed therebetween.

The first inner insertion portion 112 and the first outer insertion portion 113 may be formed to be convex toward one side of the first plate 111, and the convex directions may be the same.

The first body 110 may include a first coupling body 114. The first coupling body 114 may extend to one side of the first inner insertion portion 112.

The first body 110 may include a first through hole 115. The first through hole 115 may be open in the first plate 111 in the vertical direction.

The first body 110 may include a first hinge portion 116. The first hinge portion 116 may extend to one side of the first outer insertion portion 113. The first hinge portion 116 may be connected to the second body 120.

The first body 110 may include a first inner insertion hole 117. The first inner insertion hole 117 may be a space formed inside the first inner insertion portion 112. The first inner insertion hole 117 may be semi-cylindrical.

The first inner insertion hole 117 may be named “first hole.” Alternatively, the inner insertion hole 140 may be named “first hole.”

The first body 110 may include a first outer insertion hole 118. The first outer insertion hole 118 may be a space formed inside the first outer insertion portion 113. The first outer insertion hole 118 may be semi-cylindrical.

The second body 120 may include a second plate 121. The second plate 121 may be plate-shaped.

The second body 120 may include a second inner insertion portion 122. The second inner insertion portion 122 may be formed to be convex toward one side of the second plate 121. The second inner insertion portion 122 may be formed convexly between the second plate 121 and the second coupling body 124.

The second body 120 may include a second outer insertion portion 123. The second outer insertion portion 123 may be formed to be convex toward one side of the second plate 121. The second outer insertion portion 123 may be formed to be convex between the second plate 121 and the second hinge portion 126.

The second plate 121 may be located between the second inner insertion part 122 and the second outer insertion part 123. The second inner insertion portion 122 and the second outer insertion portion 123 may be spaced apart from each other with the second plate 121 therebetween.

The second inner insertion portion 122 and the second outer insertion portion 123 may be formed to be convex toward one side of the second plate 121, and the convex directions may be the same.

The second body 120 may include a second coupling body 124. The second coupling body 124 may extend to one side of the second inner insertion portion 122.

The second body 120 may include a second through hole 125. The second through hole 125 may be open in the second plate 121 in the vertical direction.

The second body 120 may include a second hinge portion 126. The second hinge portion 126 may extend to one side of the second outer insertion portion 123. The second hinge portion 126 may be connected to the first body 110.

The second body 120 may include a second inner insertion hole 127. The second inner insertion hole 127 may be a space formed inside the second inner insertion portion 122. The second inner insertion hole 127 may be semi-cylindrical.

The second body 120 may include a second outer insertion hole 128. The second outer insertion hole 128 may be a space formed inside the second outer insertion portion 123. The second outer insertion hole 128 may be semi-cylindrical.

The first body 110 may rotate around the first hinge portion 116. The second body 120 may rotate around the second hinge portion 126. The first body 110 and the second body 120 may be rotated around the hinge portions 116 and 126 and coupled to each other.

The first plate 111 may face the second plate 121. The first plate 111 and the second plate 121 may be spaced apart from each other.

The first inner insertion part 112 may face the second inner insertion part 122. The first inner insertion portion 112 and the second inner insertion portion 122 may be spaced apart from each other. An inner insertion hole 140 may be formed between the first inner insertion part 112 and the second inner insertion part 122. The inner insertion hole 140 may be cylindrical.

The first outer insertion part 113 may face the second outer insertion part 123. The first outer insertion portion 113 and the second outer insertion portion 123 may be spaced apart from each other. An outer insertion hole 150 may be formed between the first outer insertion part 113 and the second outer insertion part 123. The outer insertion hole 150 may be cylindrical.

A gap 160 may be formed between the first plate 111 and the second plate 121. The gap 160 may connect the inner insertion hole 140 and the outer insertion hole 150. The gap 160 may be formed between the inner insertion hole 140 and the outer insertion hole 150. A gap 160 may be formed between the first through hole 115 and the second through hole 125.

The first coupling body 114 may face the second coupling body 124. The first coupling body 114 may be coupled to the second coupling body 124.

The first through hole 115 may face the second through hole 125 vertically. A gap 160 may be formed between the first through hole 115 and the second through hole 125.

The first hinge portion 116 may be rotatably connected to the second hinge portion 126. The first hinge portion 116 may be rotated relative to the second hinge portion 126. The second hinge portion 126 may be rotated relative to the first hinge portion 116.

When the first body 110 and the second body 120 are combined, an inner insertion hole 140 and an outer insertion hole 150 may be formed between the first body 110 and the second body 120. there is.

Clamp 100 may include a holder 130. The holder 130 may be connected to the first body 110. The holder 130 may extend from the first body 110 to one side.

The holder 130 may be made of a flexible material. The holder 130 may be moved relative to the first body 110 . The holder 130 may be bent with respect to the first body 110 .

The clamp 100 may be integrated. The first body 110, the second body 120, and the holder 130 may be integrated. The first body 110, the second body 120, and the holder 130 may be made of the same material.

The first and second bodies 110 and 120 are only used to distinguish components of the clamp 100, and the expressions “first and second” are not limited to the above.

The holder 130 may include a pipe insertion portion 131. The pipe insertion portion 131 may be formed convexly. The pipe insertion portion 131 may be formed to be convex in the direction in which the first inner insertion portion 112 and the first outer insertion portion 113 protrude. The pipe insertion portion 131 may extend convexly from the first coupling body 114 to the outside of the first body 110.

Holder 130 may include an edge 132. Edge 132 may form one end of the pipe insertion portion 131. Edge 132 may be spaced apart from the first and second bodies 110 and 120.

The holder 130 may include a guide 133. Guide 133 may be connected to edge 132. Guide 133 may extend obliquely from edge 132.

Holder 130 may include ribs 134. The rib 134 may connect the pipe insertion portion 131 and the first inner insertion portion 112. A plurality of ribs 134 may be formed to be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the pipe insertion portion 131. The ribs 134 may protrude from the first coupling body 114.

The clamp 100 may include a pipe insertion hole 170. The pipe insertion hole 170 may be a space formed inside the pipe insertion portion 131. The pipe insertion hole 170 may be semi-cylindrical.

The pipe insertion hole 170 may be named “second hole.”

With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the clamp 100 will be described.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the clamp 100 viewed from below. Figure 8 shows the first body 110 and the second body 120 of the clamp 100 separated and viewed from below.

Edge 132 may include an inner edge portion 1321. The inner edge portion 1321 may be connected to the pipe insertion portion 131. The inner edge portion 1321 may face the coupling bodies 114 and 124.

Edge 132 may include an outer edge portion 1322. The outer edge portion 1322 may be connected to the guide 133. The outer edge portion 1322 may be located outside the pipe insertion hole 170.

Edge 132 may include a lower edge portion 1323. The lower edge portion 1323 may connect the inner edge portion 1321 and the outer edge portion 1322.

The first body 110 may include a latch 1141. Hereinafter, the latch 1141 is also referred to as a protrusion 1141. The protrusion 1141 may protrude from the first coupling body 114. The protrusion 1141 may be a hook.

The second body 120 may include a hole 1241 into which the latch is inserted. Hereinafter, the hole 1241 into which the latch is inserted is also referred to as the protrusion insertion hole 1241. It may include a protrusion insertion hole 1241. The protrusion insertion hole 1241 may be formed in the second coupling body 124.

When the first body 110 and the second body 120 are coupled, the protrusion 1141 may be inserted into the protrusion insertion hole 1241. The protrusion 1141 may be caught by the second coupling body 124.

The first body 110 and the second body 120 may be coupled to each other by inserting the protrusion 1141 into the protrusion insertion hole 1241 and engaging the second coupling body 124.

The protrusion 1141 may include a protrusion body 1141a. The protruding body 1141a may protrude from the first coupling body 114.

The protrusion 1141 may include a locking portion 1141b. The locking portion 1141b may protrude from the protruding body 1141a. The catching portion 1141b may protrude from the protruding body 1141a toward the edge 132.

The second body 120 may include body ribs 129. A plurality of body ribs 129 may be formed to be spaced apart from each other. The body rib 129 may protrude from the second plate 121. The body rib 129 may connect the second inner insertion portion 122 and the second outer insertion portion 123. The second through hole 125 may be formed between the plurality of body ribs 129.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 , the clamp 100 will be described.

Figure 9 is a view of the clamp 100 from the front. Figure 10 shows the first body 110 and the second body 120 of the clamp 100 separated and viewed from the front.

Edge 132 can connect the pipe insertion part 131 and the guide 133. Edge 132 may face protrusion 1141. Edge 132 may face the second coupling body 124.

The lower surface of the lower edge portion 1323 may be located lower than the second coupling body 124. The lower surface of the lower edge portion 1323 and the second coupling body 124 may have a height difference D1.

The lower surface of the lower edge portion 1323 may be located above the lower surface of the protrusion 1141. The lower surface of the lower edge portion 1323 and the protrusion 1141 may have a height difference D2.

The protrusion 1141 may be located farther from the pipe insertion portion 131 than the edge 132. The locking portion 1141b may be disposed to face the edge 132, and the protruding body 1141a may protrude lower than the locking portion 1141b.

The lower surface of the lower edge portion 1323 may be located lower than the first coupling body 114. The lower surface of the lower edge portion 1323 and the first coupling body 114 may have a height difference D3.

The pipe insertion portion 131 may have a first radius of curvature (RA). The cross section of the pipe insertion portion 131 may have an arc shape, and the inner surface of the pipe insertion portion 131 may have a first radius of curvature (RA).

The inner edge portion 1321 may have a second radius of curvature (RB). The inner edge portion 1321 may extend from the pipe insertion portion 131 with a second radius of curvature (RB).

The first radius of curvature (RA) may be smaller than the second radius of curvature (RB). The pipe insertion portion 131 may be more curved than the inner edge portion 1321. Alternatively, the inner surface of the pipe insertion portion 131 may be extended in a curved manner, and the inner surface of the inner edge portion 1321 may be extended in a straight line. Accordingly, during the injection manufacturing process of the clamp 100, injection molding of the holder 130 can be facilitated.

The outer edge portion 1322 may be connected to the guide 133. The outer edge portion 1322 may extend obliquely.

The outer edge portion 1322 may have an inclination angle θ1 with respect to the longitudinal direction of the clamp 100. At this time, the longitudinal direction of the clamp 100 may be defined as the direction in which the insertion holes 140, 150, and 170 are spaced apart from each other. The outer edge portion 1322 may be inclined in a direction away from the pipe insertion portion 131.

Guide 133 may extend obliquely. The guide 133 may be inclined in a direction away from the pipe insertion portion 131.

The guide 133 may have an inclination angle θ2 with respect to the longitudinal direction of the clamp 100. At this time, the longitudinal direction of the clamp 100 may be defined as the direction in which the insertion holes 140, 150, and 170 are spaced apart from each other.

The angle θ1 at which the outer edge portion 1322 is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the clamp 100 may be smaller than the angle θ2 at which the guide 133 is inclined. Accordingly, since the slope becomes gentler toward the pipe insertion hole 170, insertion of the pipe can become easier.

The second body 120 may have an inclined surface 120a. The inclined surface 120a of the second body 120 may have an inclined angle θ with respect to the longitudinal direction of the clamp 100. The inclined surface 120a may be one surface of the body rib 129 (see FIG. 7).

Referring to FIG. 11, the process of fixing the pipe 80 using the clamp 100 will be described.

Figure 11 shows the process of fixing the clamp 100 to the refrigerator 1 after fixing the second and third pipes 82 and 83 to the clamp 100.

The second pipe 82 is inserted into the first inner insertion hole 117, and the third pipe 83 is inserted into the first outer insertion hole 118. However, the second pipe 82 may be inserted into the second inner insertion hole 127 and the third pipe 83 may be inserted into the second outer insertion hole 128.

Thereafter, the second body 120 is rotated toward the first body 110. The second coupling body 124 may be rotated in the first direction (P) and coupled to the protrusion 1141. At this time, the second body 120 rotates around the hinge portions 116 and 126.

After the protrusion 1141 is inserted into the second coupling body 124 and the first body 110 and the second body 120 are coupled, the inner insertion hole 140 and the outer insertion hole 150 are formed. The second pipe 82 is located in the inner insertion hole 140, and the third pipe 83 is located in the outer insertion hole 150.

Separation of the first body 110 and the second body 120 may be accomplished through the reverse order of the above-described process. By rotating the second body 120 in the second direction (Q) opposite to the first direction (P), the second body 120 can be separated from the first body 110.

Afterwards, the clamp 100 is fixed to the rear plate 13. The clamp 100 may include a fastening member 180 that penetrates the first and second bodies 110 and 120. The fastening member 180 may penetrate the first plate 111 and the second plate 121. The fastening member 180 may pass through the first through hole 115 (see FIG. 6) and the second through hole 125 (see FIG. 6). The fastening member 180 may pass through the clamp 100 and be fixed to the rear plate 13. The fastening member 180 may be a screw, and a screw groove (not shown) to which the fastening member 180 is fixed may be formed in the rear plate 13. The fastening member 180 may secure the clamp 100 to the rear plate 13.

After the clamp 100 is fixed to the case 10 of the refrigerator 1, the holder 130 may be spaced apart from the rear plate 13. At this time, the protrusion 1141 can couple the first body 110 and the second body 120 and maintain the spacing between the holders 130. That is, as the protrusion 1141 comes into contact with the rear plate 13, the holder 130 can maintain a distance from the rear plate 13.

The edge 132 may be spaced apart from the rear plate 13 by a first distance H1. The first gap H1 may range from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm.

The pipe insertion portion 131 may be spaced apart from the rear plate 13 by a second distance H2. The second gap H2 may range from 6.3 mm to 6.4 mm.

Due to the gap between the holder 130 and the rear plate 13 described above, various types of pipes with different diameter sizes can be easily inserted into the clamp 100. For example, all 1/4-inch or 5/16-inch diameter pipes commonly used in the refrigerator 1 can be easily inserted into the clamp 100.

Referring to FIG. 12, the process of fixing the pipe 80 using the clamp 100 will be described.

Figure 12 shows the process of fixing the first pipe 81 to the holder 130 of the clamp 100.

The holder 130 may be made of a flexible material. The holder 130 may be bent or curved.

When the user pulls the holder 130 in the direction M away from the rear plate 13, the gap between the edge 132 and the rear plate 13 may increase. The user can increase the gap between the edge 132 and the rear plate 13 by pulling the guide 133. Hereinafter, the guide 133 is also referred to as a handle.

The gap between the edge 132 and the rear plate 13 before the holder 130 is deformed is defined as the first gap G1. The gap between the edge of the holder 130' in the deformed state and the rear plate 13 is defined as the second gap G2. The second gap G2 may be larger than the first gap G1.

The user can insert the first pipe 81 into the pipe insertion hole 170 while deforming the holder 130'. At this time, the first pipe 81 can be inserted into the pipe insertion hole 170 by an interference fit method, and the guide 133 and edge 132 can guide the insertion of the first pipe 81. .

After the first pipe 81 is inserted into the pipe insertion hole 170, the user releases the deformation of the deformed holder 130' and returns the holder 130 to its original state. At this time, the user moves the holder 130' in the direction N toward the rear plate 13 and fixes the first pipe 81 to the clamp 100.

The outer diameter D of the first pipe 81 may be 1/4 inch or 5/16 inch.

With reference to FIG. 13 , fixing of the pipe 80 using the clamp 100 will be described.

Figure 13 shows the process of fixing the first pipe 81 to the holder 130 of the clamp 100.

The fixing method of the first pipe 81 described in FIG. 13 may be the same as the fixing method of the first pipe 81 described in FIG. 12 . That is, the method of fixing the first pipe 81 by modifying the holder 130 is the same in both FIGS. 12 and 13.

However, in the fixing method of the first pipe 81 according to FIG. 13, the first pipe 81 is inserted at an angle toward the pipe insertion hole 170. That is, unlike FIG. 12 in which the first pipe 81 is inserted along the longitudinal direction (X) of the clamp 100, FIG. 13 shows the first pipe 81 intersecting the longitudinal direction (X) of the clamp 100. It is inserted in the direction (Y). Accordingly, the first pipe 81 is inserted obliquely toward the pipe insertion hole 170, so that the first pipe 81 is guided by the guide 133 and the edge 132 and is easily inserted into the pipe insertion hole 170. It can be inserted easily.

In the above, preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, but the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and can be used in the technical field to which the invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the patent claims. Of course, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art, and these modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or perspective of the present invention.

The present disclosure may be modified and implemented in various forms, and its scope is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Therefore, if the modified embodiment includes elements of the claims of the present disclosure, it should be regarded as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

Any or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct from each other. Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or combined (Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of the disclosure described above may be combined with another or combined with each other in configuration or function).

For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and/or drawing may be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and/or drawings. In other words, even if the combination between configurations is not directly explained, this means that the combination is possible except in cases where the combination is described as impossible (For example, a configuration “A” described in one embodiment of the disclosure and the drawings and a configuration "B" described in another embodiment of the disclosure and the drawings may be combined with each other. Namely, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except in the case where it is described that the combination is impossible).

The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in any respect and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included within the scope of the present invention (Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments Thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure.More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art).

1: Refrigerator 10: Case
30: Dispenser 40: Filter assembly
50: first ice maker 60: second ice maker
80: Piping 100: Clamp
110: first body 120: second body
130: Holder

Claims (20)

A cabinet with storage space inside;
a first pipe disposed outside the cabinet and connected to an external water source;
a second pipe disposed outside the cabinet; and
Includes a clamp fixed to the cabinet,
The clamp is,
a clamp body fixed to the cabinet and surrounding the second pipe; and
A refrigerator including a holder extending from the clamp body, having a first space into which the first pipe is inserted, and being spaced apart from the cabinet to provide an entrance through which the first pipe is inserted into the first space.
According to claim 1,
the holder includes an edge providing an edge of the entrance,
A refrigerator where the distance between the edge and the cabinet is smaller than the diameter of the first pipe.
According to clause 2,
The holder further includes a pipe insertion portion extending from the clamp body to the edge and forming the first space,
A refrigerator wherein an inner circumference of the pipe insertion portion facing the first space includes an arc-shaped curved section and a straight section connecting the first section and the edge.
According to clause 2,
A refrigerator in which the edge is spaced apart from the cabinet without external force being applied to the holder.
According to clause 4,
The clamp body is,
a first body connected to the holder;
a second body facing the first body and providing a space into which the second pipe is inserted together with the first body;
a latch protruding from the first body toward the cabinet;
It is disposed in the second body and includes a hole into which the latch is inserted,
The latch contacts the cabinet, or the distance between the latch and the cabinet is smaller than the distance between the edge and the cabinet.
According to claim 1,
the holder includes an edge providing an edge of the entrance,
The holder is configured to be deformable, so that when an external force is applied to the holder, the edge moves away from the cabinet, and when the external force applied to the holder is removed, the edge moves closer to the cabinet.
According to clause 6,
The holder further includes a guide extending from the edge in an outward direction of the first space.
According to clause 7,
The guide is inclined in a direction away from the cabinet as it moves away from the edge,
A refrigerator wherein the angle of inclination of the guide with respect to the cabinet is 45 degrees or less.
According to clause 6,
The holder is,
a first section extending from the clamp body and moving further away from the cabinet as the inner surface providing the first space becomes farther away from the holder; and
A second section extending from the first section, wherein the inner surface providing the first space becomes closer to the cabinet as it moves away from the first section,
A refrigerator in which the thickness of the second section is thinner than the thickness of the first section.
According to clause 6,
The refrigerator further includes a rib that protrudes from the clamp body, extends toward the holder, and is connected to the holder.
According to clause 6,
The edge is a refrigerator having a gradually gentle chamfer in a direction from the outside of the holder toward the first space.
According to clause 6,
A refrigerator in which the edge contacts the cabinet without external force being applied to the holder.
According to claim 1,
A refrigerator wherein the holder is rotatable with respect to the clamp body.

According to claim 1,
The clamp body is,
a first body connected to the holder;
A refrigerator comprising a second body facing the first body and providing a space into which the second pipe is inserted together with the first body. According to claim 14,
The clamp is,
A hinge portion rotatably connecting the first body and the second body to each other;
a latch protruding from the first body toward the cabinet; and
A refrigerator disposed in the second body and including a hole into which the latch is inserted.
According to claim 15,
The clamp is a refrigerator that is fixed to the cabinet by a fastening part penetrating the first and second bodies, with the first and second bodies facing each other and the second pipe inserted between the first and second bodies. .
According to claim 1,
a first valve connecting the first pipe and the second pipe;
a filter assembly connected to the second pipe; and
A refrigerator further comprising a dispenser that supplies water that has passed through the filter assembly to the outside.
According to claim 17,
It further includes an ice maker disposed in a freezer of the storage space,
The refrigerator further includes a third pipe supplying water that has passed through the filter assembly to the ice maker.
According to claim 1,
Further comprising a third pipe disposed outside the cabinet,
The clamp body includes a second space into which the second pipe is inserted and a third space into which the third pipe is inserted and has a diameter larger than the diameter of the second space,
The first space, the second space, and the third space are arranged sequentially.
According to claim 1,
It further includes a door rotatably coupled to the cabinet to open and close the front of the storage space,
The cabinet includes a rear plate disposed at the rear,
A refrigerator in which the clamp is coupled to the rear plate from the outside of the cabinet.

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