Vacuum insulation module, refrigerator and method for manufacturing the refrigerator

Abstract

A vacuum insulator is provided. The vacuum insulator includes: a first plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for a first space; a second plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for a second space, the temperature of the second space being different from the temperature of the first space; a sealing portion configured to seal the first plate and the second plate to provide a third space, the temperature of the third space being between the temperature of the first space and the temperature of the second space, and the third space being in a vacuum state; and a support member configured to maintain the third space. Therefore, a vacuum insulation module can be realized: the module is thermally insulated by means of vacuum, is independently applied in different positions, and is easy to use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vacuum insulation module, a refrigerator, and a method of manufacturing the refrigerator. Background Art

[0002] Vacuum insulation is a product that suppresses heat transfer by vacuuming the interior of its body. Vacuum insulation can reduce heat transfer (heat transfer) by convection and conduction, and is therefore used in heating and refrigeration equipment. In a typical insulation method applied to refrigerators, although it is used differently in refrigeration and freezing, a foam polyurethane insulation wall with a thickness of about 30 cm or more is generally provided. However, the internal volume of the refrigerator is thereby reduced.

[0003] In order to increase the internal volume of a refrigerator, attempts have been made to apply vacuum insulation to the refrigerator.

[0004] First, the Korean Patent No. 10-0343719 (Reference 1) of the present applicant has been disclosed. According to Reference 1, a method of preparing a vacuum insulation panel and building it into the wall of a refrigerator is disclosed, and the exterior of the vacuum insulation panel is finished by molding foam polystyrene alone. According to this method, additional foaming is not required, and the insulation performance of the refrigerator is improved. However, the manufacturing cost increases, and the manufacturing method is complicated.

[0005] As another example, a technique of providing a wall using a vacuum insulation material and additionally providing an insulating wall using a foam filling material has been disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2015-0012712 (Reference 2). Likewise, the manufacturing cost increases and the manufacturing method is complicated.

[0006] As another example, an attempt is made to use a vacuum insulator in the form of a single product to manufacture all the walls of a refrigerator. For example, a technology for setting the insulation structure of a refrigerator to be in a vacuum state has been disclosed in U.S. Patent Pending Publication US2040226956A1 (Reference 3). However, it is difficult to obtain a use-level insulation effect by setting the wall of the refrigerator to have a sufficient vacuum degree. In detail, there are the following limitations (limitations, problems): it is difficult to prevent heat transfer at the contact portion between the outer shell and the inner shell with different temperatures, it is difficult to maintain a stable vacuum state, and it is difficult to prevent deformation of the shell due to the negative pressure of the vacuum state. Due to these limitations, the technology disclosed in Reference 3 is limited to a low-temperature refrigerator, and does not provide a technical level suitable for general households.

[0007] Alternatively, a vacuum insulator and a refrigerator are disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0016187 (Reference 4). This technology proposes a refrigerator in which both the main body and the door are provided with a vacuum insulator. The vacuum insulator itself performs only an insulation function, and necessary components must be installed in a product (such as a refrigerator) to which the vacuum insulator is applied, but this point is not considered.

[0008] As another method, the U.S. patent publication US2013 / 0257256A1 (reference 5) discloses a technology of fixing a plurality of vacuum insulation panels to a frame to provide a vacuum insulator and a refrigerator. The above technology has the following limitations. One limitation is that the connection between the vacuum insulation panel and the frame is difficult. A great risk is that the gap between the vacuum insulation panel and the frame caused by the poor connection causes insulation loss. Because the frame is used as a part connecting the inside of the refrigerator to the outside, the insulation efficiency of the internal space may be deteriorated. Summary of the invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] The embodiment provides a vacuum insulation module, a refrigerator, and a method of manufacturing the refrigerator, in which a component is applied to enable modular processing so that it can be applied to various places.

[0011] The embodiment also provides a vacuum insulation module, a refrigerator, and a method of manufacturing the refrigerator, in which cold air rarely leaks through an insulated wall, thereby improving insulation efficiency.

[0012] Embodiments also provide a vacuum insulation module in which heat transferred between the inside and the outside of a refrigerator is reduced in manufacturing the refrigerator, a refrigerator, and a method of manufacturing the refrigerator.

[0013] Technical Solution

[0014] In one embodiment, a vacuum insulator includes: a first plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for a first space; a second plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for a second space, the temperature of the second space being different from the temperature of the first space; a sealing portion configured to seal the first plate and the second plate to provide a third space, the temperature of the third space being between the temperature of the first space and the temperature of the second space, and the third space being in a vacuum state; and a support member configured to maintain the third space. Therefore, a vacuum insulation module can be realized: the module is thermally insulated by vacuum, is independently applied to various places, and is easy to use.

[0015] The first plate may include: an inner plate, at least a portion of which is flat, the inner plate being configured to define at least a portion of a wall for the first space; a first bent extension bent from an edge of the inner plate, the first bent extension extending in a first direction directed toward the second space; and a second bent extension bent from an edge of the first bent extension, at least a portion of the second bent extension extending in a second direction in which the second plate extends. The first plate may be conveniently processed and manufactured in various sizes for ease of use. The strength of the vacuum insulation module may be improved.

[0016] The second plate may include an outer plate, at least a portion of which is flat, the outer plate being configured to define at least a portion of a wall for the second space. The second plate may be broadly configured to conveniently provide a vacuum space.

[0017] The first plate may be thinner than the second plate, so that the first plate can be effectively used to reduce the amount of heat conduction, and the second plate can reinforce the insufficient strength of the first plate, so that the vacuum insulation module can be used for various purposes.

[0018] The sealing portion may be provided on the contact surface between the second bent extension and the outer flat plate. Therefore, the coupling process of the two parts can be conveniently performed, and there may be an advantage that a tool (such as a clamp) for contact between the parts is no longer required.

[0019] The sealing portion may be provided as a weld, where the second bent extension portion and the corresponding portion of the outer plate are welded to each other, so that the vacuum can be maintained more reliably.

[0020] The welds can be individually set to precisely prevent the vacuum from being broken.

[0021] The second plate may further include an edge bending extension portion bent from the edge of the outer plate to extend toward the first space. Therefore, the strength of the second plate can be further improved, and the connection between multiple vacuum insulation modules or the connection of multiple peripheral portions can be conveniently performed.

[0022] In another embodiment, a refrigerator includes: a main body having an accommodating space and an opening configured to allow access to the accommodating space; and a door configured to open and close the accommodating space, wherein the main body includes: at least two vacuum insulation modules connected to each other; and an insulating material provided on a portion where the at least two vacuum insulation modules are connected to each other. Therefore, standardization of components can be performed to reduce inventory costs of products, and refrigerators can be manufactured through a convenient process.

[0023] Each of these vacuum insulation modules may include: a first plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for a housing space; a second plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for an external space, the temperature of the external space being different from the temperature of the housing space; a sealing portion configured to seal the first plate and the second plate to provide a vacuum space, the temperature of the vacuum space being between the temperature of the housing space and the temperature of the external space, and the vacuum space being in a vacuum state; and a support member configured to maintain the vacuum space. With the vacuum insulation module, the number of components required for manufacturing the vacuum insulation module can be reduced, and the vacuum insulation module can be conveniently implemented.

[0024] The first plate may include: an inner plate, at least a portion of which is flat; a first bent extension portion extending from the inner plate along a first direction pointing to the external space; and a second bent extension portion extending from the first bent extension portion along a second direction extending from the second plate. Therefore, the strength of the first plate can be improved, and the connection between the plates can be strengthened.

[0025] The second plate may include: an outer bending extension, at least a portion of which is flat; and an edge bending extension extending from the outer flat plate toward the accommodation space. Therefore, the strength of the second plate can be improved, and the connection of necessary components can be conveniently performed.

[0026] The insulation material may include: an insert insulation material disposed in the external space; and an edge insulation frame disposed in the accommodation space to reduce heat conduction through the first plate. Therefore, the insulation material may be disposed at exposed positions of the vacuum insulation module, that is, inside and outside the refrigerator, thereby reducing insulation loss through the connection parts of the vacuum insulation modules.

[0027] A base frame may be provided below the main body. According to the base frame, the space in the refrigerator can be set larger, and the space at the lower end of the refrigerator which is difficult for the user's hand to reach can be used as a machine room as a whole.

[0028] A machine room drawer is provided in the base frame, which can accommodate components for building a refrigeration system and can freely enter the base frame. Therefore, the components of the refrigeration system can have the advantages of being easy to reach and convenient for maintenance.

[0029] The refrigerator may further include a front frame configured to cover the edge of the opening so as to cover the front end of the edge insulation frame. Due to the presence of the front frame, the appearance of the refrigerator may be more elegant and insulation loss may be further reduced.

[0030] The edge insulation frame may be configured to cover a connection portion to which the vacuum insulation module is connected. Therefore, the side portion of the vacuum insulation module that is susceptible to impact may be safely protected.

[0031] The refrigerator may further include: a thicker portion provided by folding the edge of one vacuum insulation module and bending the end of the extension portion; and a protrusion provided on the outer plate of another vacuum insulation module to correspond to one end of the thicker portion. Therefore, the vacuum insulation module can be more conveniently connected.

[0032] The refrigerator may further include: a recessed portion provided in an outer plate of one vacuum insulation module; another recessed portion provided in an edge bending extension of another vacuum insulation module and corresponding to the one recessed portion; and a main body frame in which a hole for the coupling portion to be inserted is processed, the main body frame being configured to provide a frame of the main body. Therefore, permanent coupling between the vacuum insulation modules can be stably performed, and a strong coupling force can be ensured.

[0033] The one vacuum insulation module may be a rear surface vacuum insulation module configured to provide a side surface of the main body, and the other vacuum insulation module may be a side surface vacuum insulation module configured to provide a side surface of the main body. Therefore, since no parts are exposed to the outside, the gap between the left and right sides of the refrigerator can be reduced, and the left and right spaces of the refrigerator can be ensured.

[0034] The refrigerator may further include: an insertion pocket having a narrow entrance, the insertion pocket being provided at a connection between an outer plate of one vacuum insulation module and an edge bending extension of another vacuum insulation module; and another vacuum insulation module including another edge bending extension, the other vacuum insulation module having a coupling protrusion inserted into the insertion pocket. Therefore, coupling of the vacuum insulation modules may be more convenient, and temporary assembly of the vacuum insulation modules may be easily performed.

[0035] The edge bent extension of one vacuum insulation module and the outer flat plate of another vacuum insulation module can be connected to each other. Since a strong connection force is ensured, the connection of the vacuum insulation modules can be firmly maintained.

[0036] In yet another embodiment, a method for manufacturing a refrigerator includes: temporarily assembling at least two vacuum insulation modules; coupling the at least two vacuum insulation modules to provide a main body of the refrigerator; and coupling a base frame to a bottom surface of the main body. Therefore, the assembly of the refrigerator can be easily performed.

[0037] Each vacuum insulation module may include: a first plate; a second plate welded to the first plate at its edge; and a support configured to maintain a distance between the first plate and the second plate, wherein at least one of the first plate or the second plate is provided by bending a two-dimensional flat plate. Therefore, a vacuum insulation part, which is used to provide a part of a refrigerator, can be manufactured more simply and conveniently.

[0038] The two-dimensional flat plate may include: a rectangular outer flat plate; and a wing portion provided at each of four edges of the outer flat plate. Therefore, the flat plate of the vacuum insulation module can be easily manufactured.

[0039] The coupling of at least two vacuum insulation modules may include aligning a main body frame disposed along an edge of the refrigerator main body with at least a portion of each of the at least two vacuum insulation modules so as to be coupled to each other through a coupling portion. Thus, the weight of a heavier refrigerator may be supported by using a coupling force between these rigid parts.

[0040] The coupling of at least two vacuum insulation modules may include aligning at least a portion of the at least two vacuum insulation modules to overlap each other so as to be coupled to each other through a coupling portion. Since the parts of the modular vacuum insulation modules are directly coupled to manufacture the refrigerator, the manufacturing can be simplified and the quality of the finished product can be consistently maintained.

[0041] Beneficial Effects

[0042] According to an embodiment, the vacuum insulation body may be modularized into a vacuum insulation module to reduce inventory cost, facilitate manufacturing, improve productivity, and reduce cost.

[0043] According to the embodiment, since the vacuum insulation modules themselves are coupled to each other and there is no cold air leakage at the coupling interval, it is possible to prevent cold air from leaking through the insulation wall to improve energy efficiency of the refrigerator.

[0044] According to the embodiment, deformation of components due to a high vacuum when manufacturing standardized components can be prevented to improve the reliability of finished products.

[0045] Therefore, the support member can be easily manufactured. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 2 is a view schematically showing a vacuum insulator used in a body and a door of a refrigerator.

[0048] Figure 3 is a view showing an internal configuration of a vacuum space according to various embodiments.

[0049] Figure 4 2 are views illustrating an anti-conduction sheet and its peripheral portion according to various embodiments.

[0050] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the change of the thermal insulation performance and the change of the gas conductivity according to the vacuum pressure by applying the simulation.

[0051] Figure 6 is a graph showing results obtained by observing time and pressure during exhaustion inside a vacuum insulator when a support member is used.

[0052] Figure 7 is a graph showing the results obtained by comparing the vacuum pressure and the gas conductivity.

[0053] Figures 8 to 10 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment, wherein Figure 8 is a stereogram when viewed from the left side, Fig. 9 is a stereogram when viewed from the right, and Fig.10 It is a perspective view showing a state where the drawer of the machine room is opened.

[0054] Fig.11 is a view showing the layout of an edge insulation frame and a front panel.

[0055] Fig.12 It is along Fig.11 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA.

[0056] Fig.13 It is along Fig.11 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB.

[0057] Fig.14 is a view showing a connection relationship between an edge insulation frame and a front panel.

[0058] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment.

[0059] Fig.16 is an exploded perspective view of a vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment.

[0060] Fig.17 is a schematic diagram showing the process of manufacturing a board.

[0061] Figures 18 to 20 is a view showing a connection process of a vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment, wherein Fig.18 is a view showing the entire process of connecting a plurality of vacuum insulation modules to each other, Fig.19is a cross-sectional view showing that adjacent vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other, and Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 An enlarged view of the main part of the

[0062] Figure 21 to Figure 24 is a view showing a coupling process of a vacuum insulation module according to another embodiment, wherein Fig.21 is a view showing the entire process of coupling a plurality of vacuum insulation modules to each other, Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a process in which adjacent vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other, Fig.23 is a cross-sectional view showing a process in which adjacent vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other, and Fig.24 It is an enlarged view of the main part of the connection.

[0063] Fig.25 is a view for explaining assembly of components of a refrigeration system of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.

[0064] Fig.26 and Fig. 27 are views of the front and rear sides for explaining a passage guide that guides cool air to a space within a refrigerator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Hereinafter, a plurality of exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention can easily implement other embodiments included in the same conceptual scope by adding, changing, deleting and adding components; and it should be understood that they are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0066] In the following, in order to describe the embodiments, the drawings shown below may be shown to be different from the actual product, or exaggerated or simplified, but this is intended to facilitate understanding of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. It should not be interpreted as limiting. However, it will try to show the actual shape as much as possible.

[0067] The following embodiments can be applied to the description of another embodiment unless the other embodiment conflicts with each other, and some configurations of any one embodiment can be modified in a state where only specific parts are modified and can be applied to another configuration.

[0068] In the following description, vacuum pressure means any pressure state lower than atmospheric pressure. In addition, the expression that the vacuum degree of A is higher than the vacuum degree of B means that the vacuum pressure of A is lower than the vacuum pressure of B.

[0069] In the following embodiments, an insulation module in which a vacuum space is defined may be referred to as a vacuum insulation module.

[0070] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 The refrigerator 1 includes a main body 2 having a chamber 9 capable of storing items, and a door 3 configured to open / close the main body 2. The door 3 may be configured to be rotatable or slidable to open / close the chamber 9. The chamber 9 may provide at least one of a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber.

[0072] A refrigeration cycle is formed by a plurality of components, in which cold air is supplied to the chamber 9. Specifically, these components include a compressor 4 for compressing a refrigerant, a condenser 5 for condensing the compressed refrigerant, an expander 6 for expanding the condensed refrigerant, and an evaporator 7 for evaporating the expanded refrigerant to remove heat. As a typical structure, a fan may be installed at a position adjacent to the evaporator 7, and the fluid blown from the fan may pass through the evaporator 7 and then be blown into the chamber 9. The refrigeration load is controlled by adjusting the blowing amount and blowing direction by the fan, adjusting the amount of circulating refrigerant, or adjusting the compression rate of the compressor, thereby enabling control of the refrigerated space or the frozen space.

[0073] Figure 2 Schematically shows a vacuum insulator used in a main body and a door of a refrigerator. Figure 2 , the main body side vacuum insulation is shown in a state where the walls of the top surface and the side surface are removed, and the door side vacuum insulation is shown in a state where a portion of the wall of the front surface is removed. In addition, for ease of understanding, multiple sections of the portion provided at the anti-conduction sheet are schematically shown.

[0074] Reference Figure 2 , vacuum insulator The vacuum insulator includes: a first plate 10 for providing a wall of a low temperature space; a second plate 20 for providing a wall of a high temperature space; and a vacuum space 50, which is defined as a gap between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. Moreover, the vacuum insulator includes anti-conduction sheets 60 and 63 for preventing heat conduction between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. A sealing portion 61 for sealing the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 is provided so that the vacuum space 50 is in a sealed state. When the vacuum insulator is applied to a refrigerator or a heating cabinet, the first plate 10 can be referred to as an inner shell installed in a control space for controlling temperature, and the second plate 20 can be referred to as an outer shell installed outside the control space. The machine room 8 (in which a plurality of components providing a refrigeration cycle are accommodated) is placed on the rear lower side of the main body side vacuum insulator, and the exhaust port 40 (which is used to form a vacuum state by exhausting air in the vacuum space 50) is provided on either side of the vacuum insulator. In addition, a pipeline 64 passing through the vacuum space 50 can be further installed to install a defrost water pipeline and an electric wire.

[0075] The first plate 10 may define at least a portion of a wall for the first space (the first space is set to the first plate). The second plate 20 may define at least a portion of a wall for the second space (the second space is set to the second plate). The first space and the second space may be defined as spaces with different temperatures. Here, the wall of each space can be used not only as a wall directly contacting the space, but also as a wall not contacting the space. For example, the vacuum insulator of this embodiment can also be applied to such a product: the product also has a separate wall in contact with each space.

[0076] The various heat transfer factors that lead to the loss of the insulation effect of the vacuum insulation body are: heat conduction between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 , heat radiation between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 , and gas conduction in the vacuum space 50 .

[0077] Hereinafter, a heat resistance unit will be described, which is provided to reduce the insulation loss associated with the above-mentioned heat transfer factor. Meanwhile, the vacuum insulator and the refrigerator of the present embodiment do not exclude the case where another insulation device is further provided at at least one side of the vacuum insulator. Therefore, an insulation device such as a foaming material may also be provided to the other side of the vacuum insulator.

[0078] Figure 3 2 are views showing an internal configuration of a vacuum space according to various embodiments.

[0079] First, refer to Figure 3 (a), the vacuum space 50 may be provided in a third space, the pressure of which is different from the respective pressures of the first space and the second space, preferably in a vacuum state, thereby reducing the insulation loss. The temperature of the third space may be set between the temperature of the first space and the temperature of the second space. Since the third space is provided as a space in a vacuum state, the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 are subjected to a force that contracts in a direction that brings them closer to each other due to a force corresponding to the pressure difference between the first space and the second space. Therefore, the vacuum space 50 may be deformed in a direction in which the volume of the vacuum space 50 is reduced. In this case, the insulation loss may be caused by the following reasons: an increase in the amount of heat radiation caused by the contraction of the vacuum space 50, and an increase in the amount of heat conduction caused by the contact between the plate 10 and the plate 20.

[0080] A support member 30 may be provided to reduce deformation of the vacuum space 50. The support member 30 includes a rod 31. The rod 31 may extend in a substantially vertical direction relative to the plate to support the distance between the first plate and the second plate. A support plate 35 may be additionally provided on at least either end of the rod 31. The support plate 35 may connect at least two or more rods 31 to each other to extend in a horizontal direction relative to the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. The support plate 35 may be provided in a plate shape, or may be provided in a lattice shape to reduce the area of ​​contact between the support plate and the first plate 10 or the second plate 20, thereby reducing heat transfer. The rod 31 and the support plate 35 are fixed to each other at at least one portion so as to be inserted between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 together. The support plate 35 contacts at least one of the first plate 10 and the second plate 20, thereby preventing the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 from deforming. Furthermore, based on the extending direction of the rod 31 , the total cross-sectional area of ​​the support plate 35 is set to be larger than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the rod 31 so that the heat transferred through the rod 31 can be diffused through the support plate 35 .

[0081] The support member 30 may be made of a resin selected from PC, glass fiber PC, low outgassing PC, PPS, and LCP to obtain high compressive strength, low outgassing and water absorption, low thermal conductivity, high compressive strength at high temperatures, and excellent processability.

[0082] The radiation resistance sheet 32 ​​will now be described, which is used to reduce the heat radiation between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 through the vacuum space 50. The first plate 10 and the second plate 20 can be made of a stainless steel material that can prevent corrosion and provide sufficient strength. Since the stainless steel material has a relatively high emissivity of 0.16, a large amount of radiation heat can be transferred. In addition, the emissivity of the support member 30 made of resin is lower than the emissivity of the above-mentioned plate, and the support member is not completely set to the inner surface of the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. In this way, the support member 30 has no great effect on the radiation heat. Therefore, the radiation resistance sheet 32 ​​can be set to a plate-shaped covering most of the vacuum space 50 so as to concentrate on reducing the radiation heat transferred between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. A product with a low emissivity can be used as the material of the radiation resistance sheet 32. In one embodiment, an aluminum foil with an emissivity of 0.02 can be used as the radiation resistance sheet 32. Furthermore, since the use of one anti-radiation sheet may not be able to sufficiently prevent the transfer of thermal radiation, at least two anti-radiation sheets 32 may be arranged at a certain distance so as not to contact each other. Furthermore, at least one anti-radiation sheet may be arranged in a state of contacting the inner surface of the first plate 10 or the second plate 20.

[0083] Refer again Figure 3(b), the distance between the plates is maintained by the support 30, and the porous material 33 may be filled in the vacuum space 50. The porous material 33 may have a higher emissivity than the stainless steel material of the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. However, since the porous material 33 is filled in the vacuum space 50, the porous material 33 can resist radiation heat transfer with high efficiency.

[0084] In this embodiment, the vacuum insulation body may be manufactured without the anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​.

[0085] Reference Figure 3 (c), the support member 30 for maintaining the vacuum space 50 may not be provided. The porous material 333 may be provided to be surrounded by the film 34 instead of the support member 30. Here, the porous material 33 may be provided in a compressed state to maintain the gap of the vacuum space. The film 34 is made of, for example, a PE material, and may be provided in a state where holes are punched in the film 34.

[0086] In this embodiment, the vacuum insulator may be manufactured without the support member 30. That is, the porous material 33 may perform the function of the anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​and the function of the support member 30 together.

[0087] Figure 4 2 are views illustrating an anti-conduction sheet and its peripheral portion according to various embodiments. Figure 2 Although the structure of each anti-conduction sheet is simply shown in the figure, it should be understood in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] first, Figure 4 The anti-conduction sheet proposed in (a) can be applied to the main body side vacuum insulation. In particular, the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 are to be sealed so as to evacuate the interior of the vacuum insulation. In this case, since the temperatures of the two plates are different from each other, heat transfer may occur between the two plates. The anti-conduction sheet 60 is provided to prevent heat conduction between the two different plates.

[0089] The anti-conduction sheet 60 may be provided with a sealing portion 61, at which both ends of the anti-conduction sheet 60 are sealed to at least define a portion of the wall for the third space and maintain a vacuum state. The anti-conduction sheet 60 may be provided as a thin foil in micrometers to reduce the heat conducted along the wall for the third space. The sealing portion 610 may be provided as a welding portion. That is, the anti-conduction sheet 60 and the plate 10 and the plate 20 may be fused to each other. In order to cause a fusion operation between the anti-conduction sheet 60 and the plates 10 and 20, the anti-conduction sheet 60 and the plates 10 and 20 may be made of the same material, and a stainless steel material may be used as the material. The sealing portion 610 is not limited to a welding portion, and may be provided by a process such as cocking (warping). The anti-conduction sheet 60 may be provided in a curved shape. Therefore, the heat conduction distance of the anti-conduction sheet 60 is provided to be longer than the linear distance of each plate, thereby further reducing the amount of heat conduction.

[0090] A change in temperature occurs along the anti-conduction sheet 60. Therefore, in order to prevent heat from being transferred to the outside of the anti-conduction sheet 60, a shielding member 62 may be provided on the outside of the anti-conduction sheet 60 to produce an adiabatic operation. In other words, in the case of a refrigerator, the second plate 20 has a high temperature, and the first plate 10 has a low temperature. In addition, heat conduction from a high temperature to a low temperature occurs in the anti-conduction sheet 60, so the temperature of the anti-conduction sheet 60 changes dramatically. Therefore, when the anti-conduction sheet 60 is opened relative to the outside thereof, heat transfer through this open position may occur seriously. In order to reduce heat loss, a shielding member 62 is provided on the outside of the anti-conduction sheet 60. For example, when the anti-conduction sheet 60 is exposed to any one of a low temperature space and a high temperature space, the anti-conduction sheet 60 and its exposed portion do not act as a conductive resistor, but this is not preferred.

[0091] The shielding member 62 may be provided as a porous material in contact with the outer surface of the anti-conduction sheet 60. The shielding member 62 may be provided as an insulating structure, such as a separate gasket, which is arranged outside the anti-conduction sheet 60. The shielding member 62 may be provided as a part of the vacuum insulation body, and when the main body side vacuum insulation body is closed with respect to the door side vacuum insulation body, the shielding member is provided at a position facing the corresponding anti-conduction sheet 60. In order to reduce heat loss even when the main body and the door are opened, the shielding member 62 may be provided as a porous material or a separate insulating structure.

[0092] Here, the inner surface of the anti-conduction sheet 60 refers to the surface of the anti-conduction sheet 60 facing the vacuum space. The outer surface of the anti-conduction sheet 60 may refer to the surface not facing the vacuum space. The definitions of the outer surface and the inner surface may be applied to other parts forming the vacuum space.

[0093] Figure 4 The anti-conduction sheet proposed in (b) can be applied to the door side vacuum insulation. Figure 4 b, describes in detail the Figure 4 The same description is applied to the parts different from those in part (a) of Figure 4 The same part as part (a) of the embodiment. A side frame 70 is further provided on the outer side of the anti-conduction sheet 60. Components for sealing between the door and the main body, exhaust ports required for the exhaust process, getter ports for maintaining vacuum, etc. can be placed on the side frame 70. This is because, although it is convenient to install these components in the main body side vacuum insulation body, the installation positions of these components in the door side vacuum insulation body are limited.

[0094] In the door-side vacuum insulation body, it is difficult to place the anti-conduction sheet 60 at the front end of the vacuum space (i.e., the edge side surface of the vacuum space). This is because, unlike the main body, the corner edge of the door is exposed to the outside. More specifically, if the anti-conduction sheet 60 is placed at the front end of the vacuum space, the corner edge of the door will be exposed to the outside, so there is a disadvantage that a separate insulation part must be configured to thermally insulate the anti-conduction sheet 60.

[0095] Figure 4 The anti-conduction sheet proposed in (c) can be installed in a pipeline passing through a vacuum space. Figure 4 In (c), the following is described in detail: Figure 4 (a) and Figure 4 The same description is applied to the parts different from those in part (b) of Figure 4 (a) and Figure 4 A portion similar to the portion (b) of FIG. 64 may be provided at the peripheral portion of the pipeline 64. Figure 4 (a) The anti-conduction sheet of the same shape, preferably a wrinkled anti-conduction sheet 63. Therefore, the heat transfer path can be extended and deformation caused by pressure difference can be prevented. In addition, a separate shielding member can be provided to improve the thermal insulation performance of the anti-conduction sheet.

[0096] Now return to reference Figure 4(a) describes the heat transfer path between the first plate 10 and the second plate 20. The heat passing through the vacuum insulator can be divided into: surface conduction heat ①, which is conducted along the vacuum insulator, more specifically, along the surface of the anti-conduction sheet 60; supporter conduction heat ②, which is conducted along the support 30 provided in the vacuum insulator; gas conduction heat ③, which is conducted through the internal gas in the vacuum space; and radiation transfer heat ④, which is transferred through the vacuum space.

[0097] The transferred heat can be changed according to various different design dimensions. For example, the support can be changed so that the first plate 10 and the second plate 20 can withstand the vacuum pressure without deformation, the vacuum pressure can be changed, the distance between the plates can be changed, and the length of the anti-conduction sheet can be changed. The heat transfer can be changed according to the temperature difference between the spaces (the first space and the second space) provided by the plates respectively. In this embodiment, the preferred configuration of the vacuum insulation has been found by considering that the total heat transfer of the vacuum insulation is less than the total heat transfer of a typical insulation structure formed by foaming polyurethane. In a typical refrigerator including an insulation structure formed by foaming polyurethane, the effective heat transfer coefficient can be suggested to be 19.6mW / mK.

[0098] By comparative analysis of the heat transfer of the vacuum insulation body of this embodiment, the heat transfer of gas conduction heat ③ may become the smallest. For example, the heat transfer of gas conduction heat ③ can be controlled to be equal to or less than 4% of the total heat transfer. The heat transfer of solid conduction heat, which is defined as the sum of surface conduction heat ① and support member conduction heat ②, is the largest. For example, the heat transfer of solid conduction heat can reach 75% of the total heat transfer. The heat transfer of radiation transfer heat ③ is less than that of solid conduction heat, but greater than that of gas conduction heat. For example, the heat transfer of radiation heat transfer ③ can account for about 20% of the total heat transfer.

[0099] According to this heat transfer distribution, when heat transfer ①, ②, ③ and ④ are compared, the effective heat transfer coefficients (eK: effective K) (W / mK) of surface conduction heat ①, support member conduction heat ②, gas conduction heat ③ and radiation heat transfer ④ can have the order of mathematical formula 1.

[0100] [Formula 1]

[0101] E 固体传导热 >eK 辐射递热 >eK 气体传导热

[0102] Here, the effective heat transfer coefficient (eK) is a value that can be measured using the shape and temperature difference of the target product. The effective heat transfer coefficient (eK) is a value that can be obtained by measuring the total heat transfer amount and the temperature at at least one portion where the heat is transferred. For example, the calorific value (W) is measured using a heat source that can be quantitatively measured in a refrigerator, the temperature distribution (K) of the door is measured using the heat transferred through the body and the edge of the door of the refrigerator, respectively, and the path through which the heat is transferred is calculated as a conversion value (m), thereby evaluating the effective heat transfer coefficient.

[0103] The effective heat transfer coefficient (eK) of the entire vacuum insulation body is a value given by k = QL / AΔT. Here, Q represents the calorific value (W) and can be obtained using the calorific value of the heater. A represents the cross-sectional area (m 2 ), L represents the thickness of the vacuum insulation (m), and △T represents the temperature difference.

[0104] For surface conduction heat, the conduction heat value can be obtained by the temperature difference ΔT between the inlet and outlet of the anti-conduction sheet 60 or 63, the cross-sectional area A of the anti-conduction sheet, the length L of the anti-conduction sheet, and the thermal conductivity (k) of the anti-conduction sheet (the thermal conductivity of the anti-conduction sheet is a material property of the material and can be obtained in advance). For support member conduction heat, the conduction heat value can be obtained by the temperature difference ΔT between the inlet and outlet of the support member 30, the cross-sectional area A of the support member, the length L of the support member, and the thermal conductivity (k) of the support member. Here, the thermal conductivity of the support member can be a material property of the material and can be obtained in advance. The sum of gas conduction heat ③ and radiation heat transfer ④ can be obtained by subtracting the surface conduction heat and the support member conduction heat from the heat transfer of the entire vacuum insulation body. By significantly reducing the vacuum degree of the vacuum space 50, when there is no gas conduction heat, the ratio of gas conduction heat ③ and radiation heat transfer ④ can be obtained by evaluating the radiation transfer heat.

[0105] When a porous material is disposed in the vacuum space 50, the porous material conduction heat ③ may be the sum of the support member conduction heat ② and the radiation heat transfer ④. The porous material conduction heat may vary according to various variables (including the type and amount of the porous material, etc.).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the temperature difference ΔT1 between the geometric center formed by adjacent rods 31 and the point (point, position) at which each rod 31 is located can be set to be less than 0.5°C. Moreover, the temperature difference ΔT2 between the geometric center formed by adjacent rods 31 and the edge of the vacuum insulation body can be set to be less than 0.5°C. In the second plate 20, the temperature difference between the average temperature of the second plate and the temperature at the point where the heat transfer path through the anti-conduction sheet 60 or 63 intersects with the second plate can be the largest. For example, when the second space is a hotter area than the first space, the temperature at the point where the heat transfer path through the anti-conduction sheet intersects with the second plate becomes the lowest. Similarly, when the second space is a colder area than the first space, the temperature at the point where the heat transfer path through the anti-conduction sheet intersects with the second plate becomes the highest.

[0107] This means that the heat transferred through other points other than the surface conduction heat through the anti-conduction sheet should be controlled, and the total heat transfer of the vacuum insulation body can be achieved only when the surface conduction heat occupies the maximum heat transfer. To this end, the temperature change of the anti-conduction sheet can be controlled to be greater than the temperature change of the plate.

[0108] The physical properties of the various components that make up the vacuum insulator will be described. In the vacuum insulator, the force generated by the vacuum pressure is applied to all components. Therefore, a certain strength (N / m 2 ) materials.

[0109] In such a case, the plates 10 and 20 and the side frame 70 can be made of a material having sufficient strength, with which the plates 10 and 20 will not be damaged even by the vacuum pressure. For example, when the number of rods 31 is reduced to limit the heat conduction of the support, deformation of each plate occurs due to the vacuum pressure, which may have an adverse effect on the appearance of the refrigerator. The anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​can be made of a material having a low emissivity and can be easily processed into a thin film. Moreover, the anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​must ensure sufficient strength so as not to be deformed by external impact. The support member 30 is configured to have sufficient strength to support the force generated by the vacuum pressure and withstand external impact, and to have processability. The anti-conduction sheet 60 can be made of a material having a thin plate shape and can withstand vacuum pressure.

[0110] In one embodiment, the plate, the side frame and the anti-conduction sheet may be made of stainless steel materials having the same strength. The anti-radiation sheet may be made of aluminum which is weaker than the strength of the stainless steel materials. The support may be made of resin which is weaker than the strength of aluminum.

[0111] Different from the strength from the material point of view, it is necessary to analyze from the perspective of rigidity. Rigidity (N / m) is a property that is not easily deformed. For this reason, although the same material is used, its rigidity may vary according to its shape. The anti-conduction sheet 60 or 63 may be made of a material having a certain strength, but the rigidity of the material may be lower in order to increase the heat resistance (heat resistance) and minimize the radiant heat, because the anti-conduction sheet is stretched uniformly without any roughness when the vacuum pressure is applied. The anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​requires a certain level of rigidity to avoid contact with another component due to deformation. In particular, the edge of the anti-radiation sheet may generate conductive heat due to the sagging caused by the self-load of the anti-radiation sheet. Therefore, it is necessary to have a certain level of rigidity. The support member 30 needs to have a rigidity sufficient to withstand the compressive stress from the plate and external impact.

[0112] In one embodiment, the plate and the side frame may have the highest rigidity to prevent deformation caused by vacuum pressure. The support member (particularly the rod) may have the second highest rigidity. The anti-radiation sheet may have a lower rigidity than the support member but higher rigidity than the anti-conduction sheet. Finally, the anti-conduction sheet may be made of a material that is easily deformed by vacuum pressure and has the lowest rigidity.

[0113] Even when the porous material 33 is filled in the vacuum space 50 , the anti-conduction sheet may have the lowest rigidity, and both the board and the side frame may have the highest rigidity.

[0114] Hereinafter, the vacuum pressure may be determined according to the internal state of the vacuum insulator. As already described above, the vacuum pressure is maintained in the vacuum insulator in order to reduce heat transfer. Here, it is easily expected that the vacuum pressure is maintained as low as possible in order to reduce heat transfer.

[0115] The vacuum space may resist heat transfer only by the support 30. Here, the porous material 33 may be filled in the vacuum space 50 together with the support to resist heat transfer. Heat transfer to the porous material may be resisted without applying the support.

[0116] A case where only the support member is applied will be described.

[0117] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the change of the thermal insulation performance and the change of the gas conductivity according to the vacuum pressure by applying the simulation.

[0118] Reference Figure 5It can be seen that as the vacuum pressure decreases, that is, as the vacuum degree increases, in the case of only the main body (curve 1) or in the case of the main body and the door combined together (curve 2), the heat load is reduced compared with the case of a typical product formed by foaming polyurethane, thereby improving the thermal insulation performance. However, it can be seen that the degree of improvement in the thermal insulation performance gradually decreases. Moreover, it can be seen that as the vacuum pressure decreases, the gas conductivity (curve 3) decreases. However, it can be seen that although the vacuum pressure decreases, the ratio of the improvement in thermal insulation performance and gas conductivity gradually decreases. Therefore, it is preferred that the vacuum pressure is reduced as low as possible. However, this requires a long time to obtain an excessively high vacuum pressure, and consumes a lot of expenses due to excessive use of getters. In this embodiment, the optimal vacuum pressure is proposed from the above viewpoints.

[0119] Figure 6 is a graph showing results obtained by observing time and pressure during exhaustion inside a vacuum insulator when a support member is used.

[0120] Reference Figure 6 In order to make the vacuum space 50 in a vacuum state, the gas in the vacuum space 50 is exhausted by a vacuum pump, and at the same time, the latent gas held in the components of the vacuum space 50 is evaporated by baking. However, if the vacuum pressure reaches a certain level or higher, there is a point (△t1) at which the level of the vacuum pressure can no longer be increased. Thereafter, the vacuum space 50 is disconnected from the vacuum pump and heat is supplied to the vacuum space 50 to activate the getter (△t2). If the getter is activated, the pressure in the vacuum space 50 decreases for a while, but then normalizes to maintain a certain level of vacuum pressure. The time required to maintain the certain level of vacuum pressure after the activation of the getter is approximately 1.8×10 -6 Torr (Torr).

[0121] In this embodiment, the point at which the vacuum pressure does not substantially decrease even by operating the vacuum pump to exhaust the gas is set as the lower limit of the vacuum pressure used in the vacuum insulator, and thus the minimum internal pressure of the vacuum space 50 is set to 1.8×10 -6 Torr.

[0122] Figure 7 is a graph showing the results obtained by comparing the vacuum pressure and the gas conductivity.

[0123] Reference Figure 7, a graph showing the gas conductivity according to the gap size in the vacuum space 50 relative to the vacuum pressure is expressed as an effective heat transfer coefficient (eK). The effective heat transfer coefficient (eK) is measured when the gap in the vacuum space 50 has three sizes of 2.76 mm, 6.5 mm and 12.5 mm. The gap in the vacuum space 50 is defined as follows. When the anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​exists on the inner surface of the vacuum space 50, the gap is the distance between the anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​and the plate adjacent thereto. When the anti-radiation sheet 32 ​​does not exist on the inner surface of the vacuum space 50, the gap is the distance between the first plate and the second plate.

[0124] It can be seen that since the size of the gap is small at a point corresponding to a typical effective heat transfer coefficient of 0.0196 W / mK (which is provided to the thermal insulation material formed of foamed polyurethane), even if the size of the gap is 2.76 mm, the vacuum pressure is 2.65×10 -1 Torr. At the same time, it can be seen that even if the vacuum pressure decreases, the insulation effect caused by gas conduction heat decreases and the saturation point is about 4.5×10 -3 Torr's point. 4.5×10 -3 The vacuum pressure of 1.2×10 Torr can be defined as the point at which the reduction in the insulation effect caused by gas conduction heat is saturated. Moreover, when the effective heat transfer coefficient is 0.1 W / mK, the vacuum pressure is 1.2×10 -2 Torr.

[0125] When the vacuum space 50 is provided with a porous material instead of a support, the size of the gap ranges from several micrometers to several hundred micrometers. In this case, even if the vacuum pressure is relatively high, that is, when the vacuum degree is low, the radiation heat transfer amount is small due to the porous material. Therefore, a suitable vacuum pump is used to adjust the vacuum pressure. The vacuum pressure suitable for the corresponding vacuum pump is about 2.0×10 -4 Torr. Moreover, at the point where the reduction in the insulation effect caused by gas conduction heat is saturated, the vacuum pressure is about 4.7×10 -2 Furthermore, the pressure at which the insulation effect caused by gas conduction decreases to a typical effective heat transfer coefficient of 0.0196 W / mK is 730 Torr.

[0126] When the support and the porous material are disposed together in the vacuum space, a vacuum pressure between the vacuum pressure when only the support is used and the vacuum pressure when only the porous material is used can be generated and used. When only the porous material is used, the lowest vacuum pressure can be used.

[0127] The vacuum insulation body includes: a first plate defining at least a portion of a wall for a first space; and a second plate defining at least a portion of a wall for a second space having a temperature different from that of the first space. The first plate may include a plurality of layers. The second plate may include a plurality of layers.

[0128] The vacuum insulation body may further include a sealing portion configured to seal the first plate and the second plate to provide a third space that is in a vacuum state and has a temperature between the temperature of the first space and the temperature of the second space.

[0129] When one of the first plate and the second plate is disposed in the inner space of the third space, the plate may be referred to as an inner plate. When the other of the first plate and the second plate is disposed in the outer space of the third space, the plate may be referred to as an outer plate. For example, the inner space of the third space may be a storage room of a refrigerator. The outer space of the third space may be an outer space of a refrigerator.

[0130] The vacuum insulator may further include a support member for maintaining the third space.

[0131] The vacuum insulation may further include an anti-conduction sheet connecting the first plate to the second plate to reduce heat transferred between the first plate and the second plate.

[0132] At least a portion of the anti-conduction sheet may be arranged to face the third space. The anti-conduction sheet may be arranged between an edge of the first plate and an edge of the second plate. The anti-conduction sheet may be arranged between a surface of the first plate facing the first space and a surface of the second plate facing the second space. The anti-conduction sheet may be arranged between a side surface of the first plate and a side surface of the second plate.

[0133] At least a portion of the anti-conduction sheet may extend in substantially the same direction as an extending direction of the first plate.

[0134] The thickness of the anti-conduction sheet may be thinner than at least one of the first plate or the second plate. The more the thickness of the anti-conduction sheet is reduced, the more heat transfer between the first plate and the second plate is reduced.

[0135] The more the thickness of the anti-conduction sheet decreases, the more difficult it may be to couple the anti-conduction sheet between the first board and the second board.

[0136] One end of the anti-conduction sheet may be arranged to overlap at least a portion of the first plate. This is to provide a space for coupling one end of the anti-conduction sheet to the first plate. Here, the coupling method may include welding.

[0137] The other end of the anti-conduction sheet may be arranged to overlap at least a portion of the second plate. This is to provide a space for coupling the other end of the anti-conduction sheet to the second plate. Here, the coupling method may include welding.

[0138] As another embodiment of replacing the anti-conduction sheet, the anti-conduction sheet can be removed and one of the first plate and the second plate can be made thinner than the other. In this case, the thickness of one plate can be greater than the thickness of the anti-conduction sheet. In this case, the length of one plate can be greater than the length of the anti-conduction sheet. With this configuration, the increase in heat transfer caused by removing the anti-conduction sheet can be reduced. Moreover, this configuration can reduce the difficulty of coupling the first plate to the second plate.

[0139] At least a portion of the first plate and at least a portion of the second plate may be arranged to overlap each other. This is to provide a space for coupling the first plate to the second plate. An additional cover having a thin thickness may be provided on either of the first plate and the second plate. This is to protect the thin plate.

[0140] The vacuum insulation body may further include an exhaust port for exhausting gas in the vacuum space.

[0141] Hereinafter, according to an embodiment, as a product that may be widely used in insulation products such as refrigerators, a vacuum insulation module to which a technology of a vacuum insulator is applied will be described.

[0142] The vacuum insulation module is a modular component that can achieve high insulation performance due to low vacuum pressure, and is used in a variety of insulation products. The vacuum insulation module can be applied as a component in insulation products such as vacuum insulators and refrigerators. The vacuum insulator and the vacuum insulation module can be used similarly, but the vacuum insulation module can be more versatile than the vacuum insulator, and is different from the vacuum insulator in that the vacuum insulation effect can be achieved simply by being assembled into various other applications.

[0143] In the description of the following embodiment, it is explained that a refrigerator is set up using a vacuum insulation module. The application of the vacuum insulation module is not limited to the refrigerator, but can be applied to various vacuum insulation products. In the following description, in the following description, a description of a preferred use position may be added as the name of the door and the main body, but this is only for understanding the content and should not be interpreted as being limited to the name. Moreover, expressions such as first and second may be used to indicate the meaning of distinguishing from each other, rather than indicating order or importance.

[0144] In the description of the following embodiments, the vacuum insulation module may be provided as having a wall portion as a modular portion as a whole, having a vacuum space inside the wall portion, but is not limited thereto, and additional components or additional processing may be performed on edges, etc. However, since the vacuum insulation body is a portion characterized by having a two-dimensionally extended structure so as to provide an insulation wall, a cross-sectional view will be mainly described, and the characteristic portion in the cross section will be described more intensively.

[0145] A refrigerator to which a vacuum insulation module is applied according to an embodiment will be described below.

[0146] Figures 8 to 10 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment, wherein Figure 8 This is a stereogram viewed from the left side. Fig. 9 is a stereogram viewed from the right, and Fig.10 It is a perspective view showing a state where the drawer of the machine room is opened.

[0147] Reference Figures 8 to 10 In the refrigerator according to this embodiment, each vacuum insulation module can thermally insulate the wall surface of the refrigerator. The connection parts provided at each edge of each vacuum insulation module can be connected to each other to provide an insulating space in the refrigerator. The vacuum insulation module can provide walls for each side of the refrigerator body.

[0148] The top surface insulation module 102, the bottom surface vacuum insulation module 103, the side surface vacuum insulation modules 101 and 105, and the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 may be coupled and provided to the wall surface of the body of the refrigerator 100. Although not shown, a door may be provided in front of the body. The door may be provided as a vacuum insulation module.

[0149] The vacuum insulation modules 101, 102, 103, 104, and 105 may be provided in different sizes. The connection parts of the vacuum insulation modules may be coupled to each other. The connection part of the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 may cover the connection part of the top surface vacuum insulation module 102 and the connection part of the bottom surface vacuum insulation module 103. The connection parts of the side surface vacuum insulation modules 101 and 105 may cover the connection part of the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104, the connection part of the top surface vacuum insulation module 102, and the connection part of the bottom surface vacuum insulation module 103.

[0150] Therefore, the side surface of the refrigerator can be set in a flat form. In other words, since the structure of the connection part is not exposed to the side surface of the refrigerator and the overlapping part of the connection part, the thickness of the side surface of the refrigerator can be kept constant. Therefore, the refrigerator can be conveniently installed in a narrow space on the left and right sides, and the size of the refrigerator in the left and right directions can be set larger, so that the space inside the refrigerator for storing items is larger.

[0151] The vacuum insulation module will be described in detail later.

[0152] A base frame 140 may be provided below the refrigerator. The base frame 140 may be provided at a lower portion to support the refrigerator. Components providing a refrigeration system may be accommodated inside the base frame 140. Exhaust holes 142 may be provided on each side or both sides of the base frame. Air required for heat exchange of the refrigeration system may be introduced in one direction and then discharged in another direction through the exhaust holes 142.

[0153] The base frame 140 is provided with a machine room drawer 141 on which components of a refrigeration system are arranged. The machine room drawer 141 can be conveniently pulled into and out of the base frame 140. The machine room drawer 141 can slide relative to the base frame 140 and be taken out or inserted into the refrigerator.

[0154] The edge insulation frame 120 is provided at each edge of the inner space of the refrigerator body. The edge insulation frame 120 can reduce the insulation loss occurring at each connection portion of the vacuum insulation module.

[0155] The front panel 130 may cover exposed portions of front ends of the side surface vacuum insulation modules 101 and 105, the bottom surface vacuum insulation module 103, and the top surface vacuum insulation module 102. The front panel 130 may reduce insulation loss through edges of the vacuum insulation modules.

[0156] A front panel 130 may be provided to cover the front end of the edge insulation frame 120. The front panel 130 may cover four spaced apart points of the edge insulation frame 120. The front panel 130 may reinforce the strength of points (points, positions) of the edge insulation frame 120 having weak rigidity that are susceptible to shear stress and reduce insulation loss through the edge insulation frame.

[0157] Fig.11 is a view showing the arrangement of an edge insulation frame and a front panel.

[0158] Reference Fig.11 The edge insulation frame 120 includes extensions that block the inner edge of the refrigerator body. The edge insulation frame 120 may have front and rear extensions 125, vertical extensions 126, and left and right extensions 127 that extend along the front and rear edges, upper and lower edges, and left and right edges of the inner surface of the refrigerator body, respectively.

[0159] The insulation material may be provided in the front and rear extensions 125, the vertical extensions 126, and the left and right extensions 127. This may reduce insulation loss through the connection portion to which the vacuum insulation module is connected through the insulation material.

[0160] Fig.12 It is along Fig.11 A cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A'. Fig.12 The edge insulation frame 120 includes: an edge insulation material 122 having an internal shape corresponding to the shape of each edge of the refrigerator body; and an edge frame 121 for protecting the outer side of the edge insulation material 122 (i.e., other surfaces exposed to the internal space of the refrigerator).

[0161] One surface of the edge insulation material 122 may be bent at an angle of about 90 degrees so that a pair of vacuum insulation modules cover corners that intersect each other at an angle of about 90 degrees. The other surfaces of the edge insulation material 122 may have shapes that are symmetrical to each other relative to the center line 1-1' of one surface of the edge insulation material. Therefore, the insulation loss can be further reduced.

[0162] The other surface of the edge insulation material may include an insulation expansion portion 123, which is protrudingly arranged on the outside of the connection line 2-2' connecting the ends of one surface of the edge insulation material to quickly increase the insulation effect. An insulation contraction portion 124 may be arranged inside the insulation expansion portion 123, which is protrudingly arranged on the inside of the connection line compared to the connection line.

[0163] The distance from the edge insulation material 122 to the vacuum insulation module from the inner space of the refrigerator body is greater than the distance from the insulation contraction part 124 to the vacuum insulation module, and the distance from the insulation contraction part 124 to the vacuum insulation module is greater than the distance from the insulation expansion part 123 to the vacuum insulation module. Therefore, for the insulation performance determined according to the insulation thickness, the insulation contraction part 124 is larger than the insulation expansion part 123.

[0164] The heat-insulating expansion part 123 can quickly expand the heat-insulating thickness, so that the heat-insulating performance of the edge of the edge heat-insulating material 122 is quickly increased. Since the heat-insulating contraction part 124 has a greater heat-insulating thickness than the heat-insulating expansion part 123, there is no difficulty in heat-insulating performance. The heat-insulating contraction part 124 can be set to protrude inwardly relative to the connection line 2-2' to strengthen the overall strength of the edge heat-insulating frame 120, thereby increasing the internal space of the refrigerator body.

[0165] The edge insulation material 122 may be a part made of light polyurethane, and a part having many holes may be processed and provided. The edge frame 121 is provided on the other surface of the edge insulation material 122. The edge frame 121 may be reinforced with ABS resin or the like. The entire strength of the edge insulation frame may be reinforced by the edge frame 121, and since external impact is not applied to the edge insulation material, the performance degradation of the edge insulation material may be prevented.

[0166] The edge frame 121 can wrap the edge insulation material 122 as a whole to increase the strength of the edge insulation frame. In this case, the edge frame 121 can prevent moisture in the refrigerator from penetrating into the edge insulation material 122, thereby preventing the insulation performance of the edge insulation material from deteriorating.

[0167] Refer to Fig.11The front frame 130 is provided with a left-right extension part 133 extending in the left-right direction and a vertical extension part 134 extending in the vertical direction. The left-right extension part 133 and the vertical extension part 134 can cover the front end of the vacuum insulation module to protect the end of the vacuum insulation module and prevent the insulation loss of the vacuum insulation module.

[0168] The left and right extending portions 133 and the vertical extending portion 134 may be connected to each other by a corner connecting portion 135 .

[0169] The front end of the front and rear extensions 125 may be covered by the corner connection 135 of the front frame 130. The corner connection 135 may be provided in a shape corresponding to the front end of the front and rear extensions 125. The corner connection 135 may protect the exposed ends of the front and rear extensions 125 by contacting, connecting, or coupling to the front and rear extensions 125.

[0170] Fig.13 It is along Fig.11 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB'. Fig.13 The front frame 130 may be provided with a shield 131 that covers the edge insulation frame and the front end of the vacuum insulation module to protect the insulation shield and internal components. An inner guide 132 may be provided that further extends from the inner end of the shield 131 to the inner space of the refrigerator body.

[0171] The inner guide 132 may further extend rearward along the inner surface of the vacuum insulation module. The inner guide 132 is coupled to the vacuum insulation module, and the front panel may be fixed.

[0172] Fig.14 is a view showing a connection relationship between an edge insulation frame and a front panel.

[0173] Reference Fig.14 , the inner guide 132 of the corner connection part 135 can be set in the same manner as the shear shape of the edge insulation frame 120. Therefore, the core connection part 135 can be set in the same shape as the insulation expansion part 123 and the insulation contraction part 124. Therefore, the front frame 130 and the edge insulation frame 120 increase the sense of integrity. In addition, when taking out and moving items from the internal space of the refrigerator body, the items can be handled without interfering with the step part.

[0174] Hereinafter, the vacuum insulation module according to the embodiment will be described in more detail.The vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment may be applied to each of the vacuum insulation modules 101, 102, 103, 104 and 105 provided on the wall surface of the refrigerator according to the embodiment.

[0175] Fig.15is a cross-sectional view of a vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment, and Fig.16 is an exploded perspective view of a vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment.

[0176] Reference Fig.15 and Fig.16 According to an embodiment, a vacuum insulation module 200 may include a first plate 210 defining at least a portion of an inner space of a refrigerator body, a second plate 220 defining at least a portion of an outer space, and a support member 230 maintaining a vacuum space.

[0177] The first plate 210 and the second plate 220 may be directly coupled to each other. Here, the direct coupling of the plates 210 and 220 may mean that a pair of plates 210 and 220 facing each other are coupled to each other by a method such as welding. As the coupling method, in order to maintain vacuum, for example, the two plates 210 and 220 may be directly welded to each other by the welding portion 223.

[0178] The first plate 210 may be a portion having a thickness that is a fraction of the thickness of the second plate 220. The first plate may be a portion having a thickness that is one-fifth the thickness of the second plate 220. The first plate may be made of a stainless steel material having a thickness of about 0.1 mm. The second plate may be made of a stainless steel material having a thickness of about 0.5 mm.

[0179] Since the first plate 210 has a small thickness, the amount of heat conduction through the first plate is small. The second plate 220 is set to have a large thickness in order to prevent deformation of the vacuum insulation module itself from occurring by utilizing the large rigidity of the portion itself.

[0180] The first plate 210 may include an inner plate 211, which defines at least a portion of the internal space of the refrigerator body. The first plate 210 may also include a first bending extension 212, which is bent from the edge of the inner plate 211 toward the second plate 220. The first bending extension 212 may provide a thickness portion of the heat-insulating space defining the vacuum space. A second bending extension 213 is also provided in the first plate 210, which is bent from the end of the first bending extension 212 in a direction different from the extension direction of the first bending extension 212. The second bending extension 213 may extend along the extension direction of the second plate 220. The first bending extension 212 and the second bending extension 213 may strengthen the insufficient strength of the thin first plate 210. The bending extensions 212 and 213 increase the moment of inertia of the first plate 210 to strongly resist the bending force applied to the first plate.

[0181] The second bending extension 212 may be coupled to the second plate 220 to provide a vacuum space. The second bending extension 212 and the second plate 220 may be welded to provide a welded portion 223.

[0182] The second plate 220 may include an outer plate 221 that defines at least a portion of the outer space of the refrigerator body. The second plate 220 may also include an edge bending extension 222 that is bent from an edge of the outer plate 221 toward the first plate 210. The edge bending extension 222 increases the moment of inertia of the second plate 220 so as to more strongly resist the bending force applied to the second plate.

[0183] The peripheral portion coupled to the second plate 220 may be coupled to the edge bending extension 222. Here, the peripheral portion may include other adjacent vacuum insulation modules. The peripheral member may be coupled together with the outer flat plate 221 adjacent to the edge bending extension 222 or independently thereof.

[0184] Fig.17 is a schematic diagram showing a process of manufacturing a board.

[0185] Reference Fig.17 The plates 210 and 220 may be arranged by bending a flat plate having a predetermined two-dimensional shape using an external force.

[0186] For example, in the case of the second plate 220 , wings that will provide the edge bending extensions 222 may also be provided at the four edges of the rectangular two-dimensional plate that constructs the outer flat plate 221 .

[0187] The edge bending extension 222 may be bent from the outer flat plate 221 by a pressing device. When the edge bending extension 222 is bent, the joints 2221 and 2222 of the two short ends of the edge bending extension 222 may contact each other. The joints 2221 and 2222 may be sealed to each other by a method such as welding.

[0188] In the case of the first plate 210, similar to the second plate 220, a plurality of wings may be further provided, which provide bent extensions 212 and 213 at four edges of the inner flat plate 211. Thereafter, after the wings are bent twice, adjacent joints may be sealed to each other by a method such as welding.

[0189] After each of the plates 210 and 220 is manufactured, the second bent extension 213 and the outer flat plate 221 may be sealed to each other to provide a sealing portion. As the sealing portion, a welding portion 223 to which the corresponding portion is welded may be provided.

[0190] The welding part 223 may be implemented by laser welding. The welding part 223 may be quickly provided by traveling once around the corresponding parts in a state where the second bent extension part 213 and the outer flat plate part 221 are in contact with each other.

[0191] For example, it is easier to weld than in the case of performing two processes using a separate anti-conduction sheet inserted between the plates. Since a single seal is sufficient by one welding operation, this may be more preferable because vacuum destruction due to welding failure can be reduced by half.

[0192] In addition to the sealing method of the joint, the plates 210 and 220 may be provided with bent extensions 212, 213, and 222 by a deep drawing method. However, it may occur in the bent portion, which may be bent by force at the vertex portion of the portion during the deep drawing process. In the welding process for providing the welding portion 223, the bent portion may cause poor contact between the welding portions. Poor contact between multiple parts may cause welding failure and vacuum destruction. In order to prevent this phenomenon, careful control of the welding process may be required during laser welding.

[0193] Refer to Fig.15 The first bending extension portion 212 extends toward the external space of the refrigerator, and the second bending extension portion 213 extends toward the edge bending extension portion 222. In this way, a vacuum space having a predetermined thickness and width can be provided as a vacuum supported by the support member 230.

[0194] In a state where the support member 230 is accommodated, when the plates 210 and 220 are aligned, the surfaces of the second bent extension 213 and the outer flat plate 221 may contact each other. The contact surfaces of the second bent extension 213 and the outer flat plate 221 are welded to each other to provide a welded portion 223, and the vacuum space may be sealed. Thereafter, an exhaust process and an intake process may be additionally performed.

[0195] The peripheral part may be coupled between the welding portion 223 and the edge bending extension portion 222. Here, the peripheral part may include adjacent vacuum insulation modules.

[0196] The edge bending extension 222 may extend toward the inner space of the refrigerator body, and may be used as a portion where adjacent peripheral parts are coupled to each other and for reinforcing the strength of the second plate 220 .

[0197] Hereinafter, a specific method of manufacturing a refrigerator using the vacuum insulation module will be described.

[0198] Figures 18 to 20 is a view showing a connection process of a vacuum insulation module according to an embodiment, wherein Fig.18 is a view showing the entire process of connecting the vacuum insulation modules to each other, Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view showing a process of coupling adjacent vacuum insulation modules to each other, and Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 An enlarged view of the main part.

[0199] Reference Fig.18 In this embodiment, the vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other by using the main frame 240 to maintain and increase the strength of the main body of the refrigerator. In the cross section of the main frame 240, two plane parts having different extension directions may be integrated to increase the strength. In order to increase the structural strength of the refrigerator, the main frame 240 may have a thickness greater than that of the plates 210 and 220. For example, a stainless steel material having a thickness of about 1.2 mm may be used.

[0200] In particular, the top surface vacuum insulation module 102 and the bottom surface vacuum insulation module 103 are coupled to the main body frame 240. Next, the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 may be coupled, and then the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 and the side surface vacuum insulation module 105 may be coupled. Finally, the base frame 140 may be coupled to the lower end portion of the refrigerator body.

[0201] Reference Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 and the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 are coupled to each other. As described above, after the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 is seated on the main body frame 240, the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 may be seated.

[0202] The rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 and the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 may be applied to the vacuum insulation module according to the aforementioned embodiments.

[0203] The rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 may include a rear support 4230 and a plate. The second plate may include a rear outer plate 4221 and a rear edge bending extension 4222. The first plate may include a rear surface inner plate 4211, a rear surface first bending extension 4212, and a rear surface second bending extension 4213.

[0204] The side surface vacuum insulation module 101 may include a side support 1230 and a plate. The second plate may include a side surface outer flat portion 1221 and a side surface edge bending extension 1222. The first plate may include a side surface inner flat plate 1211, a side surface first bending extension 1212, and a side surface second bending extension 1213.

[0205] The coupling portion 301 may be coupled to the portion where the thick second plate is aligned with the main frame. In particular, at least a portion of the rear surface edge bending extension 4222, the side surface outer plate 1221, and the main frame 240 may be aligned, and the coupling portion 301 may be inserted at the aligned position to couple these portions to each other.

[0206] In order to prevent the coupling portion 301 from being exposed to the outside, a side surface concave portion 303 may be processed in the side surface outer flat portion 1221, and a rear surface concave portion 302 may be processed in the rear surface edge bent extension portion 4222. A rivet may be used as a coupling portion, and the head of the rivet may be inserted into the inner space of the concave portions 302 and 303. To this end, the concave portion may be recessed toward the inside of the refrigerator. A hole for inserting the head of the rivet may be processed in the main frame 240.

[0207] The thicker portion 310 may be provided at the end of the side surface edge bent extension 1222. According to the thicker portion 310, the strength may be increased. The thicker portion 310 may be provided by folding the end of the side surface edge bent extension 1222.

[0208] A rear surface protrusion 311 may be provided at a position aligned with an inner end of the thicker portion 310. When the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 is inserted into the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104, the thicker portion 310 may pass over the rear surface protrusion 311.

[0209] The position where the thicker portion 310 passes over the rear surface protrusion 311, that is, the position where the inner end of the thicker portion 310 meets the outer end of the rear surface protrusion 311, can be set at a position where the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 and the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 are completely aligned before being coupled to each other. According to this configuration, the vacuum insulation modules can be temporarily assembled to each other to determine the connection position even before the vacuum insulation modules are completely coupled using the coupling portion 301. Workers can easily find the coupling position between the vacuum insulation modules.

[0210] The welding part 4223 may be closer to the vacuum space than the rear surface protrusion 311, so there is no worry about vacuum damage. Although not shown, the welding part provided on the side surface vacuum insulation module may be closer to the vacuum space than the coupling part 301 and the recesses 301 and 302, so there is no worry about vacuum damage. In other words, it is desirable to eliminate as much as possible the impact applied to the welding part due to interference between components during processing or during coupling.

[0211] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 The coupling between the vacuum insulation modules and the coupling between the vacuum insulation modules and the main frame described in the figure can also be applied to the coupling of other vacuum insulation modules. For example, when the top surface vacuum insulation module is coupled to the main frame, the top surface recess can be implemented by inserting the coupling part into the top surface recess when the main frame is aligned.

[0212] The first plate of the vacuum insulation module can at least define a part of the low-temperature internal space of the refrigerator body. To this end, the side surface inner flat plate 1211, the side surface first bending extension 1212, the side surface second bending extension 1213, the rear surface inner flat plate 4211, the rear surface first bending extension 4212, the rear surface second bending extension 4213 and other adjacent parts in contact therewith can guide the cold air in the low-temperature space to the outside. The insulation material can be used to block the conductive heat conducted by the first plate. Since the first plate is thinner than the second plate, it can have a relatively low thermal conductivity. For this reason, it can be seen that the first plate is used as an anti-conduction sheet.

[0213] The insulation material may include an insert insulation material 129 disposed in an outer space of the refrigerator body, and an edge insulation frame 120 disposed in an inner space of the refrigerator body.

[0214] Lightweight polyurethane with multiple pores can be used together with insert insulation and edge insulation frames to perform insulation functions as well as strength reinforcement functions.

[0215] The insert insulation material 129 may be fixed to a position coupled to the body frame 240 , or may be coupled by a coupling portion 301 .

[0216] Insertion insulation material 129 may be inserted into the inner space defined as the edge portion of the side surface inner flat plate 1211, the side surface first bending extension portion 1212, the side surface second bending extension portion 1213, the edge portion of the rear surface inner flat plate 4211, the rear surface first bending extension portion 4212, the rear surface second bending extension portion 4213, the side surface edge bending extension portion 1222, and the rear surface edge bending extension portion 4222. The insertion insulation material 129 may reduce the amount of cold air discharged to the outside of the refrigerator body by passing over the first plate.

[0217] The edge insulation frame 120 can prevent the low temperature atmosphere of the internal space of the refrigerator body from directly contacting the edge of the side surface inner plate 1221 and the edge of the rear surface inner plate 4211. Therefore, the heat transmitted from the outside to the inside of the refrigerator can be reduced as much as possible by crossing the first plate. In other words, the heat conduction transmitted to the inside of the refrigerator along the thin first plate can be increased in length to reduce the heat transmitted to the inside of the refrigerator. Since the first plate is set thinner than the second plate, the effect of reducing thermal conductivity can be relatively increased.

[0218] The edge insulation frame 120 can be constructed as described above by Fig.12 etc. are applied as described.

[0219] Hereinafter, another specific embodiment of a method of manufacturing a refrigerator using a vacuum insulation module will be described.

[0220] Figure 21 to Figure 24 is a view showing a coupling process of a vacuum insulation module according to another embodiment, wherein Fig.21 is a view showing the entire process of coupling vacuum insulation modules to each other, Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a process in which adjacent vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other, Fig.23 is a cross-sectional view showing a process in which adjacent vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other, and Fig.24 It is an enlarged view of the main part of the connection.

[0221] Different from Figures 18 to 20 , the connection of the vacuum insulation module according to another embodiment is different from the connection of the vacuum insulation module thereof in that the main frame 240 is not provided. Therefore, in addition to the description related to the main frame 240, Figures 18 to 20 The description may be applied to coupling of a vacuum insulation module according to another embodiment.

[0222] Reference Fig.21 and Fig. 22 , a vacuum insulation module provided at each wall of the refrigerator may be directly coupled to another vacuum insulation module adjacent to an edge of the vacuum insulation module.

[0223] In this embodiment, the rear surface vacuum insulation module 104 can be temporarily assembled by fitting into the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 and the side surface vacuum insulation module 105. The top surface vacuum insulation module 102 and the rear surface vacuum insulation module 103 can be fitted into the side surface vacuum insulation module 101 and the side surface vacuum insulation module 105 in a similar manner for temporary assembly.

[0224] The temporary assembly may be performed by the insertion pocket 330 and the coupling protrusion 334. In particular, the coupling protrusion 334 may be inserted into the insertion pocket 330 and then fixed in place, so as to perform the temporary assembly.

[0225] After temporary assembly, the connection between the vacuum insulation modules can be completed by the side surface edge bending extension 1222 and the rear surface outer plate 4221 connected via the connecting portion 336. Here, various methods (such as welding parts, rivets and screws) can be applied as the connecting part. Here, the connection position of the side surface edge bending extension 1222 and the rear surface outer plate 4221 can correspond to the rear surface of the refrigerator. Similarly, the side surface edge bending extension 1222 and the top surface vacuum insulation module can be connected on the top surface of the refrigerator, and the side surface edge bending extension 1222 and the bottom surface vacuum insulation module can be connected on the bottom surface of the refrigerator.

[0226] The outer plates of the side surface vacuum insulation modules 101 and 105 may not be provided with a connection portion, exemplified by a welding portion. Therefore, the side surface of the refrigerator can provide a clean flat structure, and an increase in thickness due to the additional use of a decorative panel can be suppressed, so as to ensure a wider installation space of the refrigerator.

[0227] The construction and operation for temporary assembly will be described in more detail.

[0228] The insertion pocket 330 provided by bending the second plate may be provided at a connection portion where the side surface outer flat portion 1221 and the edge bending extension portion 1222 are connected to each other. The insertion pocket 330 may have a narrow opening at the rear side and a spacious internal space. In order to provide a connection portion, one end of the side surface outer flat plate 1221 may be provided with a thicker portion 332 by bending the second plate. The side surface vacuum insulation modules 101 and 105 may increase strength by the thicker portion.

[0229] The rear surface edge bending extension 4222 may be inserted into the insertion pocket 330. A coupling protrusion 334 may be provided to the rear surface edge bending extension 4222 to prevent the rear surface edge bending extension 4222 from being easily separated due to external impact after being inserted. The coupling protrusion 334 may be provided as an uneven portion on the rear edge bending extension 4222. The coupling protrusion 334 may be inserted by expanding the narrow opening of the insertion pocket 330. After the coupling protrusion 334 is fully inserted into the interior of the insertion pocket 330, the entrance of the insertion pocket 330 may be restored to its original shape. The coupling protrusion 334 is hooked on the inner side of the insertion pocket 330 so that the rear surface edge bending extension 4222 is fixed in the set position without being separated from the inner side of the insertion pocket 330.

[0230] In case of this embodiment, the insertion insulation material 129 may be provided in a state of being coupled to the side surface vacuum insulation module 101. The edge insulation frame 120 may be coupled to the side surface inner plate 1211 and the rear surface inner plate 4211 by a method such as adhesion.

[0231] The functions of inserting insulation material and edge insulation frame can be applied as described above.

[0232] According to this embodiment, the vacuum insulation modules may be coupled to each other without providing a separate body frame.

[0233] The vacuum insulation module 200 may be provided in various shapes corresponding to the size of each wall surface defining the refrigerator. However, since the vacuum insulation module manufactured in a predetermined size may be applied to one side of each wall of the refrigerator as a standardized component, inventory management of the components may be facilitated and the components may be shared to reduce the manufacturing cost of the product.

[0234] Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the refrigeration system of the refrigerator according to this embodiment will be described.

[0235] Fig.25 is a view for explaining components for assembling a refrigeration system of a refrigerator according to an embodiment, and Fig.26 and Fig. 27 are views of the front and rear sides for explaining a passage guide that guides cool air to a space within a refrigerator.

[0236] Reference Figure 25 to Figure 27 , the compressor 4, the condenser 5, etc. may be accommodated in the base frame 140. Components of the refrigeration system such as the compressor may be accommodated in the machine room drawer 141, and may be withdrawn or inserted as needed.

[0237] The refrigerant condensed and expanded in the base frame 140 is guided to the evaporator 7 provided in the freezing chamber (F chamber) through the refrigerant pipe 9. The refrigerant may evaporate in the evaporator 7 to supply cool air into the freezing chamber.

[0238] The cold air inside the freezing chamber may be uniformly supplied to the inner space of the freezing chamber through the freezing chamber passage guide 301 .

[0239] A portion of the cold air of the evaporator 7 may pass through the mullion 300 and be guided to the refrigerating chamber passage guide 302. Here, the mullion 300 may be provided as an independent object that partitions the inner space of the refrigerator. The refrigerating chamber passage guide 302 may uniformly supply cold air to the inner space of the refrigerating chamber (R chamber). The cold air that completely performs the refrigerating operation in the refrigerating chamber may be reintroduced to the evaporator 7 through the mullion.

[0240] Industrial Applicability

[0241] The present invention proposes a vacuum insulation module that can be applied as a module in the case where various insulation products are arranged in various sizes, structures and shapes.

[0242] Since a vacuum insulation module in which a vacuum insulation body is modularized can be provided, the number of insulation products (particularly, a plurality of components used in a refrigerator) can be greatly reduced. A refrigerator can be manufactured more conveniently using the vacuum insulation module.

[0243] Due to the proposed scheme, the effect of getting closer to industrial application of vacuum insulation can be expected.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, comprising: a body having a housing space and an opening, the opening being configured to allow access to the housing space; as well as a door configured to open and close the accommodation space, The subjects include: At least two vacuum insulation modules connected to each other, the at least two vacuum insulation modules comprising a first vacuum insulation module and a second vacuum insulation module; a main body frame coupled to the first vacuum insulation module and the second vacuum insulation module to increase the strength of the main body; and an insulating material disposed on a portion where the at least two vacuum insulation modules are coupled to each other, wherein each of the first vacuum insulation module and the second vacuum insulation module has: a first plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for the accommodation space; a second plate configured to define at least a portion of a wall for an external space having a temperature different from a temperature of the housing space, wherein the first plate is thinner than the second plate; a sealing portion configured to seal the first plate and the second plate to provide a vacuum space, wherein a temperature of the vacuum space is between a temperature of the accommodating space and a temperature of the external space; and a support member configured to maintain the vacuum space, The first plate comprises: an inner plate, at least a portion of which is flat; A first bent extension portion extending from an edge of the inner plate along a first direction pointing to the external space; and a second bent extension portion extending from an end of the first bent extension portion along a second direction in which the second plate extends; The second plate comprises: an outer plate, at least a portion of which is planar; and The edge bending extension portion extends from the outer plate toward the accommodating space, The thermal insulation material comprises: an insert insulation material disposed in the external space, the insert insulation material being inserted into a region defined as an edge portion of an inner plate of the first vacuum insulation module, a first extension portion and a second extension portion of the first vacuum insulation module, an edge portion of an inner plate of the second vacuum insulation module, a first extension portion and a second extension portion of the second vacuum insulation module, an edge bent extension portion of the first vacuum insulation module, and an edge bent extension portion of the second vacuum insulation module; and an edge insulation frame, disposed in the accommodation space and comprising an extension portion blocking an inner edge of the body so as to reduce heat conduction through the first plate, The first vacuum insulation module further comprises a thicker portion disposed at an end of the edge bending extension, wherein the thicker portion is formed by folding the end of the edge bending extension to increase the strength of the first vacuum insulation module. wherein the second vacuum insulation module further comprises a protrusion disposed at a position aligned with an inner end of the thicker portion, so that when the first vacuum insulation module is inserted into the second vacuum insulation module, the thicker portion passes over the protrusion, and The edge bending extension of the second vacuum insulation module, the outer plate of the first vacuum insulation module and the main frame are aligned, and a coupling portion is inserted at the aligned position to couple these parts to each other. 2 . The refrigerator according to claim 1 , wherein a base frame is provided below the main body.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein a machine room drawer is provided in the base frame, a plurality of components constituting a refrigeration system are accommodated in the machine room drawer, and the machine room drawer is conveniently pulled into and out of the base frame. 4 . The refrigerator according to claim 1 , further comprising a front frame configured to cover an edge of the opening so as to cover a front end portion of the edge insulation frame.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising: a recess provided in the outer plate of the first vacuum insulation module; another recessed portion, disposed in the edge bending extension portion of the second vacuum insulation module and corresponding to the one recessed portion; The main body frame has a hole into which the coupling portion is inserted, and the main body frame is configured to provide a frame for the main body.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the first vacuum insulation module is a side surface vacuum insulation module configured to provide a side surface of the main body, and The second vacuum insulation module is a rear surface vacuum insulation module configured to provide a rear surface of the main body.

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