Patent ID: 8322158
Filing Date: 2012-12-04
Classification: F25C

Abstract:
1. A refrigerator comprising: an ice storage bin; an opening provided in the ice storage bin through which ice is discharged; and a plurality of blades provided in the ice storage bin, such that the plurality of blades can rotate in a forward direction or in a reverse direction, to selectively discharge ice through the opening as whole ice or crushed ice, wherein gravity and the plurality of blades are the only forces exerted on the ice collected in the ice storage bin, wherein the plurality of blades comprises at least two rotary blades, the rotary blades being spaced apart from each other, and wherein each of the rotary blades comprises: a central part to which a rotary shaft is fixedly coupled; at least two extensions radially extending from the central part; catching protrusions provided at opposite ends of each of the extensions to catch ice; and a saw-toothed crushing part provided at one side of each of the extensions to contact and crush ice.