Refrigerator

Abstract

Provided is a refrigerator capable of achieving an improvement in sterilization function. The refrigerator of an embodiment has a cabinet and a light irradiation section. The cabinet has a refrigerating chamber. The light irradiation section irradiates light having an effect of suppressing the proliferation of bacteria into the refrigerating chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to refrigerators. Background Technology

[0002] Refrigerators with photocatalysts and lighting units located in the cold air passage behind the refrigerator compartment are known. These refrigerators are expected to further enhance their sterilization capabilities.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-219130 Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a refrigerator with improved sterilization function.

[0005] The refrigerator of this embodiment includes a cabinet and a light irradiation unit. The cabinet has a refrigerator compartment. The light irradiation unit irradiates light into the refrigerator compartment, which has the effect of inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

[0006] Invention Effects

[0007] It can provide refrigerators with improved sterilization functions. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a front view of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of refrigerator 1 along line F2-F2 is shown in the figure.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment in the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment in the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a partial disassembly of the refrigeration compartment piping components of the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the refrigeration compartment piping components along line F6-F6.

[0014] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the refrigeration compartment piping components along line F7-F7.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the structure related to the control device of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the basic operations related to the light source module in the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment in the first variation of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment in the second variation of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to the third embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator, representing a modified example of the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to the fourth embodiment.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0024] 1: Refrigerator; 10: Cabinet; 11A: Refrigerator compartment; 12: Lighting unit; 20A: Refrigerator compartment door; 41A: First shelf; 41B: Second shelf; 70: Light irradiation unit; 70A: First light source module (first light irradiation unit); 70B: Second light source module (second light irradiation unit); 71: Circuit board; 72: Ultraviolet LED (first light source); 73: Visible light LED (second light source); S1: Top section; S2: Left side wall section; S3: Right side wall section. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The refrigerator of the following embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, structures having the same or similar functions will be labeled with the same reference numerals. Furthermore, repeated descriptions of these structures will sometimes be omitted. In this specification, left and right are defined based on the direction from which the refrigerator is viewed from the front of the user. Furthermore, the side closest to the user standing in front of the refrigerator is defined as "front," and the side furthest from the user is defined as "rear." In this specification, "the width direction of the refrigerator" refers to the left-right direction of the refrigerator. In this specification, "the depth direction of the refrigerator" refers to the front-back direction of the refrigerator.

[0026] (First Embodiment)

[0027] [1. Overall Structure of the Refrigerator]

[0028] Reference Figures 1 to 9The refrigerator 1 of the first embodiment will be described. First, the overall structure of the refrigerator 1 will be described.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a front view of refrigerator 1. Refrigerator 1 includes, for example, a cabinet 10, multiple doors 20, and an operation panel 30.

[0030] The housing 10 has an upper wall 10a, a lower wall 10b, left and right side walls 10c and 10d, and a rear wall 10e (see reference). Figure 2 The upper wall 10a and the lower wall 10b extend generally horizontally. The upper wall 10a includes a ceiling portion S1 that exposes into the refrigerator compartment 11A as described later to form the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment 11A. An illumination portion 12 for illuminating the interior of the refrigerator compartment 11A is provided in the ceiling portion S1.

[0031] The left and right side walls 10c and 10d rise upwards from the left and right ends of the lower wall 10b and connect to the left and right ends of the upper wall 10a. The left side wall 10c includes a left side wall portion S2 that exposes into the refrigerator compartment 11A to form the left side surface of the refrigerator compartment 11A. The right side wall 10d includes a right side wall portion S3 that exposes into the refrigerator compartment 11A to form the right side surface of the refrigerator compartment 11A. The aforementioned lighting unit 12 is provided in place of the ceiling portion S1, or is provided in both the ceiling portion S1 and the left side wall portion S2 and the right side wall portion S3.

[0032] The rear wall 10e rises upward from the rear end of the lower wall 10b and connects to the rear end of the upper wall 10a. The enclosure 10 includes an inner box 10i forming the inner surface of the enclosure 10, an outer box 10j located outside the inner box 10i and forming the outer surface of the enclosure 10, and a foamed thermal insulation material 10k (see reference) such as polyurethane foam disposed between the inner box 10i and the outer box 10j. Figure 2 It has heat insulation properties.

[0033] The interior of the cabinet 10 contains multiple storage compartments 11. These compartments 11 include, for example, a refrigerator compartment 11A, a chiller compartment 11Aa, a vegetable compartment 11B, an ice-making compartment 11C, a small freezer compartment 11D, and a main freezer compartment 11E. The refrigerator compartment 11A is, for example, cooled to a refrigerator temperature range of approximately 2°C to 6°C. The chiller compartment 11Aa is, for example, cooled to a chiller temperature range of approximately -1°C to +1°C. The vegetable compartment 11B is, for example, cooled to a vegetable temperature range of approximately 3°C to 7°C. The ice-making compartment 11C, the small freezer compartment 11D, and the main freezer compartment 11E are, for example, cooled to a freezing temperature range of approximately -20°C to -18°C.

[0034] In this embodiment, a refrigerator compartment 11A is arranged at the top, a vegetable compartment 11B is arranged below the refrigerator compartment 11A, an ice-making compartment 11C and a small freezer compartment 11D are arranged below the vegetable compartment 11B, and a main freezer compartment 11E is arranged below the ice-making compartment 11C and the small freezer compartment 11D. However, the arrangement of the storage compartments 11 is not limited to the above example. The cabinet 10 has an opening on the front side of each storage compartment 11 for taking out or putting in food relative to each storage compartment 11.

[0035] The housing 10 has first and second partitions 15 and 16 (see reference). Figure 2 The first and second partitions 15 and 16 are, for example, partition walls that run approximately horizontally. The first partition 15 is located between the refrigerator compartment 11A and the vegetable compartment 11B, separating the two compartments. On the other hand, the second partition 16 is located between the vegetable compartment 11B and the ice-making compartment 11C and the small freezer compartment 11D, separating the vegetable compartment 11B from the ice-making compartment 11C and the small freezer compartment 11D.

[0036] Multiple storage compartments 11 are closable by multiple doors 20. These doors 20 include, for example, left and right refrigerator doors 20Aa and 20Ab that close the opening of refrigerator compartment 11A, vegetable compartment door 20B that closes the opening of vegetable compartment 11B, ice maker door 20C that closes the opening of ice maker compartment 11C, small freezer door 20D that closes the opening of small freezer compartment 11D, and main freezer door 20E that closes the opening of main freezer compartment 11E. The left and right refrigerator doors 20Aa and 20Ab, for example, constitute French doors (double doors). Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the left and right refrigerator doors 20Aa and 20Ab, they will be referred to as "refrigerator door 20A".

[0037] The control panel 30 is, for example, located on the refrigerator door 20A. The control panel 30 includes multiple capacitive operating sections 31 (e.g., multiple buttons) capable of receiving user input to the refrigerator 1. By operating the control panel 30, the user can change the set temperature and control mode of the refrigerator 1. In this embodiment, the user can switch the "sterilization mode" for sterilizing the refrigerator compartment 11A on / off by operating the control panel 30. The "sterilization mode" will be described later. The control panel 30 is an example of an "operation receiving section." The "operation receiving section" is not limited to the example described above and may also be a display device integrated with a touch sensor, a mechanical button, etc.

[0038] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The refrigerator 1 shown is a cross-sectional view along line F2-F2. The refrigerator 1 includes, for example, multiple shelves 41, multiple containers 45, flow path forming components 50, cooling unit 60, light irradiation unit 70, and control device 80.

[0039] Multiple shelves 41 are arranged in the refrigerator compartment 11A. These shelves 41 include, for example, a first shelf 41A, a second shelf 41B, and a third shelf 41C. The first shelf 41A, the second shelf 41B, and the third shelf 41C are arranged vertically. Details regarding the multiple shelves 41 will be provided later. Multiple containers 45 are arranged to form a chiller compartment 11Aa, a vegetable compartment 11B, an ice-making compartment 11C, a small freezer compartment 11D, and a main freezer compartment 11E.

[0040] The flow path forming component 50 includes a refrigerator compartment duct component 51 and a freezer compartment duct component 52. The refrigerator compartment duct component 51 is disposed within the housing 10 and extends vertically along the rear wall 10e. The refrigerator compartment duct component 51 forms a passage, i.e., a duct space D1, for the flow of cold air (air) near the rear wall 10e of the housing 10. In this specification, "duct component" is not limited to a cylindrical component, but broadly means a component that defines at least a portion of the passage for cold air by cooperating with other components (e.g., the rear wall 10e of the housing 10). For example, in this embodiment, the refrigerator compartment duct component 51 is mounted on the rear wall 10e of the housing 10 and forms a cover between itself and the rear wall 10e of the housing 10 to form the duct space D1.

[0041] The refrigerator compartment piping component 51 has multiple cold air outlets 51a and 51b and a cold air return outlet 51c. Cold air outlet 51a opens into the refrigerator compartment 11A, supplying cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 62 (described later) to the refrigerator compartment 11A. Cold air outlet 51b opens into the chiller compartment 11Aa, supplying cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 62 (described later) to the chiller compartment 11Aa. Cold air return outlet 51c opens into the vegetable compartment 11B, guiding cold air heated by passing through one or more of the refrigerator compartment 11A, chiller compartment 11Aa, and vegetable compartment 11B to the piping space D1. The refrigerator compartment piping component 51 will be described in detail later.

[0042] Similarly, the freezer compartment piping component 52 is disposed within the housing 10 and extends vertically along the rear wall 10e. The freezer compartment piping component 52 forms a passageway, i.e., a piping space D2, for the flow of cold air (air) near the rear wall 10e of the housing 10. The freezer compartment piping component 52 has a cold air outlet 52a and a cold air return outlet 52b. The cold air outlet 52a opens in the ice-making chamber 11C, the small freezer chamber 11D, or the main freezer chamber 11E, supplying cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 64 (described later) to the ice-making chamber 11C, the small freezer chamber 11D, or the main freezer chamber 11E. The cold air return outlet 52b opens at the lower part of the main freezer chamber 11E, guiding cold air heated by passing through one or more of the ice-making chamber 11C, the small freezer chamber 11D, and the main freezer chamber 11E to the piping space D2.

[0043] The cooling unit 60 includes, for example, a compressor 61, a refrigeration cooler 62, a refrigerator compartment fan 63, a freezer cooler 64, and a freezer compartment fan 65. The refrigeration cooler 62 and the refrigerator compartment fan 63 are disposed in the duct space D1. The refrigeration cooler 62 is supplied with refrigerant compressed by the compressor 61 to cool the cold air flowing in the duct space D1. When the refrigerator compartment fan 63 is driven, the cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 62 is supplied from the cold air outlets 51a and 51b to the refrigerator compartment 11A, the chiller compartment 11Aa, and the vegetable compartment 11B, and the cold air heated by one or more of the refrigerator compartment 11A, the chiller compartment 11Aa, and the vegetable compartment 11B is returned to the duct space D1 from the cold air return port 51c.

[0044] A refrigeration cooler 64 and a freezer compartment fan 65 are disposed in the duct space D2. The refrigeration cooler 64 is supplied with refrigerant compressed by the compressor 61 to cool the cold air flowing in the duct space D2. When the freezer compartment fan 65 is driven, the cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 64 is supplied from the cold air outlet 52a to the freezer compartments (ice-making compartment, small freezer compartment 11D, main freezer compartment 11E), and the air heated in the freezer compartments returns to the duct space D2 from the cold air return outlet 52b.

[0045] A light irradiation unit 70 is installed in the refrigerator compartment 11A. The light irradiation unit 70 includes first to third light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C. The first to third light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C respectively irradiate ultraviolet light and visible light into the refrigerator compartment 11A. The light irradiation unit 70 will be described in detail later.

[0046] The control device 80 is, for example, installed on the upper wall 10a of the cabinet 10. The control device 80 controls the entire refrigerator 1. For example, the control device 80 controls the operation of the compressor 61, fan 63, fan 65, and light irradiation unit 70. The control device 80 will be described in detail later.

[0047] [2. Shelf Configuration and Construction]

[0048] Next, the configuration of the multiple shelves 41 will be described.

[0049] Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment 11A. As described above, the refrigerator compartment 11A is provided with multiple shelves 41 (first shelf 41A, second shelf 41B, and third shelf 41C). The first shelf 41A is located at the top among the multiple shelves 41. The second shelf 41B is located below the first shelf 41A. The third shelf 41C is located below the second shelf 41B.

[0050] The first shelf 41A is positioned above the second shelf 41B and can be selectively installed at the first height position P1 (see reference). Figure 3 ) and the second altitude position P2, which is lower than the first altitude position P1 (refer to) Figure 4 For example, the left and right sidewalls S2 and S3 of the housing 10 and the refrigerator compartment pipe component 51 each have a first support portion 43Aa that supports the first shelf 41A at a first height position P1 and a second support portion 43Ab that supports the first shelf 41A at a second height position P2. The first support portion 43Aa and the second support portion 43Ab protrude from the left and right sidewalls S2 and S3 and the refrigerator compartment pipe component 51 toward the inside of the refrigerator compartment 11A.

[0051] The first shelf 41A is mounted on the first support portion 43Aa, thereby being installed at a first height position P1. On the other hand, the first shelf 41A is mounted on the second support portion 43Ab, thereby being installed at a second height position P2. In this embodiment, the second support portion 43Ab is located closer to the first support portion 43Aa than the third support portion 43Ba (described later) that supports the second shelf 41B. That is, the second support portion 43Ab is positioned slightly above the center between the first support portion 43Aa and the third support portion 43Ba.

[0052] Similarly, the second shelf 41B, positioned below the first shelf 41A and above the third shelf 41C, can be selectively installed at a third height position P3 (see reference). Figure 3 ) and the fourth altitude position P4, which is lower than the third altitude position P3 (refer to Figure 4 For example, the left and right sidewalls S2 and S3 of the housing 10 and the refrigerator compartment pipe component 51 each have a third support portion 43Ba that supports the second shelf 41B at a third height position P3 and a fourth support portion 43Bb that supports the second shelf 41B at a fourth height position P4. The third support portion 43Ba and the fourth support portion 43Bb protrude from the left and right sidewalls S2 and S3 and the refrigerator compartment pipe component 51 toward the inside of the refrigerator compartment 11A.

[0053] The second shelf 41B is mounted on the third support portion 43Ba, thereby being installed at the third height position P3. On the other hand, the second shelf 41B is mounted on the fourth support portion 43Bb, thereby being installed at the fourth height position P4. In this embodiment, the fourth support portion 43Bb is located closer to the third support portion 43Ba than the fifth support portion 43Ca (described later) that supports the third shelf 41C. That is, the fourth support portion 43Bb is positioned slightly above the center between the third support portion 43Ba and the fifth support portion 43Ca.

[0054] The third shelf 41C is positioned below the second shelf 41B and can be selectively installed at the fifth height position P5 (see reference). Figure 3 ) and the sixth altitude position P6, which is lower than the fifth altitude position P5 (refer to Figure 4 For example, the left and right side walls S2 and S3 of the cabinet 10 and the refrigerator compartment pipe component 51 each have a fifth support portion 43Ca that supports the third shelf 41C at a fifth height position P5, and a sixth support portion 43Cb that supports the third shelf 41C at a sixth height position P6. The fifth support portion 43Ca and the sixth support portion 43Cb protrude from the left and right side walls S2 and S3 and the refrigerator compartment pipe component 51 toward the inside of the refrigerator compartment 11A. The third shelf 41C is placed on the fifth support portion 43Ca, thereby being installed at the fifth height position P5. On the other hand, the third shelf 41C is placed on the sixth support portion 43Cb, thereby being installed at the sixth height position P6.

[0055] [3. Configuration and structure of the light irradiation section]

[0056] Next, the light irradiation unit 70 will be described. In this embodiment, the light irradiation unit 70 has first to third light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C. Furthermore, the light irradiation unit 70 may also have a fourth light source module 70D. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between these light source modules 70A, 70B, 70C, and 70D, they will be simply referred to as "light source module 70S". The first light source module 70A is an example of the "first light irradiation unit". The second light source module 70B is an example of the "second light irradiation unit".

[0057] Each light source module 70S includes a circuit board 71, an ultraviolet LED (ultraviolet light source, first light source) 72, and a visible light LED (visible light source, second light source) 73. The ultraviolet LED 72 is mounted on the circuit board 71 and irradiates ultraviolet light. The visible light LED 73 is mounted on the circuit board 71 and irradiates visible light. Furthermore, the ultraviolet light source is not limited to the ultraviolet LED 72; it can also be an ultraviolet lamp, etc. The visible light source is not limited to the visible light LED 73; it can also be a visible light lamp, etc.

[0058] Ultraviolet light is an example of "light that has the effect of inhibiting bacterial growth." In this specification, "ultraviolet light" refers to electromagnetic waves with a center wavelength in the range of 10 nm to 400 nm. That is, "ultraviolet light" can be electromagnetic waves with a center wavelength of UVA (wavelength 320 nm to 400 nm), UVB (wavelength 280 nm to 320 nm), or UVC (wavelength 100 nm to 280 nm). Furthermore, "ultraviolet light" only needs to have a center wavelength in the range of 10 nm to 400 nm, and the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave irradiated by the ultraviolet LED 72 can be 400 nm or more (i.e., it can also be a wavelength in the visible light region). The ultraviolet light irradiated by the ultraviolet LED 72 can include light visible to humans or light not visible to humans. According to one viewpoint, the ultraviolet LED 72 is a light source that irradiates electromagnetic waves with shorter wavelengths compared to the visible light LED 73. Additionally, "light that has the effect of inhibiting bacterial growth" is not limited to ultraviolet light and can also be light of other wavelengths.

[0059] In this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 72 irradiates electromagnetic waves with a center wavelength of UVA. Electromagnetic waves of this wavelength, for example, compared to UVC electromagnetic waves, can suppress the deterioration of plastic components within the refrigerator compartment 11A and inhibit bacterial growth.

[0060] On the other hand, in this specification, "visible light" broadly refers to electromagnetic waves with a center wavelength in the range of 360 nm to 830 nm. In this embodiment, the visible light LED 73 illuminates white light. However, the visible light LED 73 can also illuminate cool-toned visible light that evokes a clean blue or pale blue hue. "Cool-toned light" is, for example, light with a center wavelength in the range of 400 nm to 500 nm. On the other hand, the visible light LED 73 can also illuminate warm-toned visible light, such as appetite-stimulating colors like orange. "Warm-toned light" is, for example, light with a center wavelength in the range of 550 nm to 800 nm.

[0061] Each light source module 70S is mounted, for example, on the refrigeration compartment duct component 51, located at the rear end of the refrigeration compartment 11A. Each light source module 70S irradiates ultraviolet and visible light from the refrigeration compartment duct component 51 toward the front of the refrigeration compartment 11A. The ultraviolet LED 72 and visible light LED 73 of each light source module 70S have an extended irradiation angle. Therefore, for example, at least a portion of the upper surface of each of the plurality of shelves 41 is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet and visible light based on the light source module 70S.

[0062] The following describes the detailed configuration of each light source module 70S. The positions described below are based on the view from the front side of the refrigerator 1. Furthermore, "the height of the light source module 70S between positions Y1 and Y2" refers to the height of the ultraviolet LED 72 included in the light source module 70S between positions Y1 and Y2, and may also include a position where a portion of the circuit board 71 included in the light source module 70S protrudes beyond the height range between positions Y1 and Y2.

[0063] The first light source module 70A is located at a height between the first shelf 41A and the second shelf 41B. In this embodiment, the first light source module 70A is positioned at a height between the lower surface of the first shelf 41A at a second height position P2 (i.e., the lower shelf side height position) and the upper surface of the second shelf 41B at a third height position P3 (i.e., the upper shelf side height position). Therefore, even if the first shelf 41A is positioned at either the first height position P1 or the second height position P2, and the second shelf 41B is positioned at either the third height position P3 or the fourth height position P4, the ultraviolet light emitted by the first light source module 70A irradiates the food and containers placed on the lower surface of the first shelf 41A, the upper surface of the second shelf 41B, and the upper surface of the second shelf 41B. In other words, at least a portion of the upper surface of the second shelf 41B is within the irradiation range of both ultraviolet and visible light emitted by the first light source module 70A.

[0064] In this embodiment, the first light source module 70A is located below the first shelf 41A, and at a central position CA (refer to) between the lower surface of the first shelf 41A at the second height position P2 (i.e., the lower layer height position) and the upper surface of the second shelf 41B at the third height position P3 (i.e., the upper layer height position). Figure 4 The position is located at the top. Therefore, even when the second shelf 41B is at the third height position P3, the first light source module 70A can still irradiate the upper surface of the second shelf 41B with ultraviolet and visible light from a relatively high position.

[0065] Similarly, the second light source module 70B is located at a height between the second shelf 41B and the third shelf 41C. In this embodiment, the second light source module 70B is positioned at a height between the lower surface of the second shelf 41B at a fourth height position P4 (i.e., the lower shelf side height position) and the upper surface of the third shelf 41C at a fifth height position P5 (i.e., the upper shelf side height position). Therefore, even if the second shelf 41B is positioned at either the third height position P3 or the fourth height position P4, and the third shelf 41C is positioned at either the fifth height position P5 or the sixth height position P6, the ultraviolet light emitted by the second light source module 70B irradiates the food and containers placed on the lower surface of the second shelf 41B, the upper surface of the third shelf 41C, and the upper surface of the third shelf 41C. In other words, at least a portion of the upper surface of the third shelf 41C is within the irradiation range of both ultraviolet and visible light emitted by the second light source module 70B.

[0066] In this embodiment, the second light source module 70B is located below the second shelf 41B, and at a central position CB between the lower surface of the second shelf 41B at the fourth height position P4 (i.e., the lower layer height position) and the upper surface of the third shelf 41C at the fifth height position P5 (i.e., the upper layer height position). Figure 4 The second light source module 70B is positioned at the upper part of the shelf. Therefore, even when the third shelf 41C is at the fifth height position P5, it can still irradiate the upper surface of the third shelf 41C with ultraviolet and visible light from a relatively high position.

[0067] The third light source module 70C is located at a height between the third shelf 41C and the upper wall 44 of the chiller chamber. In this embodiment, the third light source module 70C is positioned at a height between the lower surface of the third shelf 41C (located at a sixth height position P6, i.e., the lower side height position) and the upper surface of the upper wall 44 of the chiller chamber (the wall separating the refrigerator chamber 11Aa and the chiller chamber 11Aa). Thus, even if the third shelf 41C is positioned at either the fifth height position P5 or the sixth height position P6, the ultraviolet light emitted by the third light source module 70C irradiates the food and containers placed on the lower surface of the third shelf 41C, the upper surface of the upper wall 44 of the chiller chamber, and the upper surface of the chiller chamber upper wall 44.

[0068] In this embodiment, the third light source module 70C is located below the third shelf 41C, and at a central position CC between the lower surface of the third shelf 41C (located at the sixth height position P6, i.e., the lower layer height position) and the upper surface of the upper wall 44 of the quench chamber (refer to...). Figure 4 The third light source module 70C is positioned at a relatively high position, thus enabling it to irradiate the upper surface of the upper wall 44 of the quench chamber with ultraviolet and visible light.

[0069] The fourth light source module 70D is located above the first shelf 41A. In this embodiment, the fourth light source module 70D is positioned above the upper surface of the first shelf 41A, which is located at the first height position P1 (i.e., the height position on the upper side).

[0070] In this embodiment, the circuit board 71 included in the first light source module 70A, the circuit board 71 included in the second light source module 70B, the circuit board 71 included in the third light source module 70C, and the circuit board 71 included in the fourth light source module 70D are formed separately and arranged separately from each other.

[0071] [3. Construction of Refrigeration Compartment Piping Components]

[0072] Next, the structure of the refrigeration compartment piping component 51 will be described.

[0073] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a partially exploded view of the refrigeration compartment piping component 51. The refrigeration compartment piping component 51 includes, for example, a cover component (cover body) 91 and a shield (front cover) 92.

[0074] The cover component 91 is a component located in front of the refrigeration cooler 62 and the refrigeration compartment fan 63, and in front of a designated duct space D1. The cover component 91 has a front portion (surface portion) 91a and a recessed portion 91b. The front portion 91a is exposed in the refrigeration compartment 11A. A plurality of cold air outlets 51a and first to sixth support portions 43Aa, 43Ab, 43Ba, 43Bb, 43Ca, and 43Cb are provided on the front portion 91a.

[0075] A recessed portion 91b is provided in the center of the cover member 91 in the width direction of the refrigerator 1. Viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1, the recessed portion 91b is recessed rearward relative to the front portion 91a. The recessed portion 91b is recessed more than the thickness of the light source modules 70S relative to the front portion 91a. A fixing portion 91c (e.g., a claw portion) for fixing the circuit board 71 of each light source module 70S is provided in the recessed portion 91b. Each light source module 70S is disposed in the recessed portion 91b and housed within it. Therefore, viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1, it is located rearward than the cold air outlet 51a.

[0076] The shield 92 is mounted on the recess 91b, covering the interior of the recess 91b (i.e., each light source module 70S) from the front. When the shield 92 is mounted on the cover member 91, its front surface is on the same plane as the front surface 91a of the cover member 91. The shield 92 is formed of a material capable of transmitting ultraviolet and visible light. The shield 92 can also be a colored transparent component within the range of ultraviolet and visible light transmission. For example, if the shield 92 has a blue tint, it can enhance the design of the refrigerator 1 and more strongly convey the sense of cleanliness brought by sterilization to the user.

[0077] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the refrigeration compartment piping component along line F6-F6. In this embodiment, the recess 91b has a back wall 91ba, left and right side walls 91bb and 91bc, and an upper wall 91bd (see reference). Figure 7 ) and the lower wall 91be (refer to) Figure 7 The back wall 91ba is located between the light source module 70S and the conduit space D1. The left and right side walls 91bb and 91bc connect the left and right ends of the back wall 91ba to the front part 91a, respectively. The upper wall 91bd connects the upper end of the back wall 91ba to the front part 91a. The lower wall 91be connects the lower end of the back wall 91ba to the front part 91a.

[0078] Therefore, the light source module 70S is disposed in a space sealed by the back wall 91ba of the recess 91b, the left and right side walls 91bb and 91bc, the upper wall 91bd, the lower wall 91be, and the shield 92. Thus, even when the light source module 70S is installed in the ductwork component 51 of the refrigerator compartment, the light source module 70S is unlikely to be exposed to the cold air passing through the refrigerator compartment duct D1. As a result, condensation on the light source module 70S can be suppressed.

[0079] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the refrigeration compartment piping components along line F7-F7. In this embodiment, in each light source module 70S, the ultraviolet LED 72 and the visible light LED 73 are disposed slightly below the center of the circuit board 71 in the vertical direction. In other words, the arrangement positions of the ultraviolet LED 72 and the visible light LED 73 relative to the multiple shelves 41 are restricted, and the circuit board 71 is disposed near the first and second support portions 43Aa, 43Ab, the third and fourth support portions 43Ba, 43Bb, or the fifth and sixth support portions 43Ca, 43Cb.

[0080] Therefore, a reinforcement structure similar to the beam structure based on the circuit board 71 and the fixing part 91c is realized near the first and second support parts 43Aa, 43Ab, the third and fourth support parts 43Ba, 43Bb, or the fifth and sixth support parts 43Ca, 43Cb, which are easily subjected to external forces, thereby improving rigidity.

[0081] [4. Light source module illumination control]

[0082] [4.1 Circuit Structure]

[0083] Next, the lighting control related to the light source module 70S will be explained.

[0084] Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the structure related to the control device 80. The control device 80 includes a control board (circuit board) 81, an MPU (Micro processing unit) 82, a storage unit 83, a power supply IC (Integrated Circuit) component 84, and multiple transistors 85.

[0085] MPU82 is a hardware processor installed on the control board 81. MPU82 reads and executes programs stored in the storage unit 83 to implement the functions of the control unit 100, which will be described later. The control unit 100 controls the light irradiation unit 70. For example, the control unit 100 irradiates ultraviolet light through the light irradiation unit 70 when a certain condition is met, and stops irradiating ultraviolet light through the light irradiation unit 70 when another certain condition is met. The detection result of the refrigerator door switch SW is sent to the control unit 100. The refrigerator door switch SW is located between the cabinet 10 and the refrigerator door 20A, and detects the open / closed state of the refrigerator door 20A relative to the cabinet 10.

[0086] The power supply IC component 84 supplies power to the refrigerator 1 from an external power source PS (e.g., a commercial AC 100V power supply) and converts the supplied power into DC power with a voltage suitable for the operation of the light source modules 70S. The power supply IC component 84 then supplies the converted DC power to the lighting unit 12 and each of the light source modules 70S (light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C) via transistors 85. The power supply IC component 84 is an example of a "power supply unit".

[0087] In this embodiment, the illumination unit 12 and the three light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C are electrically connected in parallel with respect to the power supply IC component 84. Each transistor 85 is electrically connected in series between the power supply IC component 84 and the illumination unit 12 or the light source module 70S. For example, the drain of each transistor 85 is connected to the power supply IC component 84. The source of each transistor 85 is connected to the illumination unit 12 or the light source module 70S. The gate of each transistor 85 is connected to the MPU 82.

[0088] For example, the control unit 100 implemented by the MPU82 switches the on / off state of the control signal supplied to the gate of each transistor 85, thereby switching the power supply state from the power IC component 84 to the ultraviolet LED 72 of each light source module 70S, and switching the ultraviolet LED 72 on / off.

[0089] [4.2 Basic Controls]

[0090] Based on user input received from the operation panel 30, the control unit 100 switches the "sterilization mode" for sterilizing the refrigerator compartment 11A on / off. When the "sterilization mode" is set to off, the control unit 100 keeps the ultraviolet LED 72 off regardless of whether the refrigerator compartment door 20A is open or closed. On the other hand, when the "sterilization mode" is set to on, the control unit 100 controls the lighting / shielding of the ultraviolet LED 72 and the visible light LED 73 according to the opening / closing state of the refrigerator compartment door 20A, as described below.

[0091] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the basic operations related to the light source module 70S. As a basic operation, when the refrigerator door 20A is detected to be open via the refrigerator door switch SW, the control unit 100 turns off the ultraviolet LED 72 and illuminates the visible light LED 73 and the illumination unit 12 of the ceiling S1 of the cabinet 10. Conversely, when the refrigerator door 20A is detected to be open via the refrigerator door switch SW, the control unit 100 illuminates the ultraviolet LED 72 and turns off the visible light LED 73 and the illumination unit 12 of the ceiling S1 of the cabinet 10.

[0092] [5. Advantages]

[0093] In this embodiment, the refrigerator 1 includes a cabinet 10 having a refrigerator compartment 11A and a light irradiation unit 70 that irradiates light into the refrigerator compartment 11A to inhibit bacterial growth. With this structure, the growth of bacteria adhering to the surface of food and containers stored in the refrigerator compartment 11A can be suppressed. Therefore, the sterilization function of the refrigerator 1 can be improved.

[0094] In this embodiment, the light irradiation unit 70, when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1, is located at a height between the first shelf 41A and the second shelf 41B. With this structure, even when multiple shelves 41 are arranged in the refrigerator compartment 11A, it will not obstruct the multiple shelves 41, and can effectively sterilize the food and containers stored in the refrigerator compartment 11A. Therefore, the sterilization function of the refrigerator 1 can be further improved.

[0095] In this embodiment, the first shelf 41A can be selectively installed at a first height position P1 and a second height position P2, which is lower than the first height position P1, above the second shelf 41B. When the first shelf 41A is installed at the second height position P2, the light irradiation unit 70 is located at a height between the first shelf 41A and the second shelf 41B when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1. With this structure, even when the height of the first shelf 41A is variable, it will not obstruct the first shelf 41A, and food and containers placed on the second shelf 41B can be effectively sterilized. Therefore, the sterilization function of the refrigerator 1 can be further improved.

[0096] In this embodiment, when the first shelf 41A is installed at the second height position P2, the light irradiation unit 70 is located below the first shelf 41A and above the center position between the first shelf 41A and the second shelf 41B when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1. With this structure, regardless of the installation position of the first shelf 41A, sterilization light can be irradiated onto the food and containers placed on the second shelf 41B from a relatively high position. Therefore, even when several food items or containers are placed on the second shelf 41B, the light irradiation unit 70 is unlikely to be blocked by these items, allowing for the irradiation of multiple food items and containers with sterilization light. Thus, the sterilization function of the refrigerator 1 can be further improved.

[0097] In this embodiment, the refrigerator 1 includes a refrigerator door 20A capable of opening and closing the refrigerator compartment 11A, and an illumination unit 12 provided on the top section S1, left side wall section S2, or right side wall section S3 of the cabinet 10. The light irradiation unit 70 includes an ultraviolet LED 72 for irradiating sterilization light and a visible light LED 73 for irradiating visible light. When the refrigerator door 20A is open, the control unit 100 turns off the ultraviolet LED 72 and illuminates the illumination unit 12 and the visible light LED 73. With this structure, ultraviolet radiation to the user can be suppressed, and by using the visible light LED 73 installed together with the ultraviolet LED 72, the aesthetic design of the refrigerator compartment 11A can be improved (e.g., conveying a sense of cleanliness based on blue light) and / or the brightness of the refrigerator compartment 11A can be improved by irradiating the refrigerator compartment 11A from a direction different from the illumination unit 12.

[0098] In this embodiment, the refrigerator 1 includes a refrigerator compartment duct component 51, which is disposed inside the refrigerator body 10 and extends vertically. The refrigerator compartment duct component 51 has a front portion 91a with a cold air outlet 51a for supplying cold air to the refrigerator compartment 11A, and a recessed portion 91b that is recessed rearward relative to the front portion 91a when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1. A light irradiation portion 70 is disposed in the recessed portion 91b, and is located rearward than the cold air outlet 51a when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 1. With this structure, the light irradiation portion 70 is provided in the recessed portion 91b of the refrigerator compartment duct component 51, so that even when the light irradiation portion 70 is provided, the reduction of the internal volume of the refrigerator compartment 11A can be suppressed.

[0099] In this embodiment, the light irradiation unit 70 includes a first light source module 70A and a second light source module 70B. The circuit board 71 included in the first light source module 70A, the circuit board 71 included in the second light source module 70B, and the circuit board 71 included in the second light irradiation unit are formed separately. With this structure, the first light source module 70A and the second light source module 70B can be freely configured for various types of refrigerators 1 with different sizes.

[0100] (First variation of the first embodiment)

[0101] Figure 10 This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment 11A in the first modification of the first embodiment. In the first modification, the circuit board 71 included in the first light source module 70A, the circuit board 71 included in the second light source module 70B, and the circuit board 71 included in the third light source module 70C are integrally formed separately. That is, the circuit board 71 included in the first light source module 70A, the circuit board 71 included in the second light source module 70B, and the circuit board 71 included in the third light source module 70C are constituted by a single circuit board B.

[0102] With this structure, the manufacturing time of the circuit board and the number of electrical wires used to connect the circuit board to the control device 80 can be reduced. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the refrigerator 1 can be reduced. In addition, the elongated circuit board B functions as a beam relative to the refrigerator compartment piping component 51, increasing its rigidity, thus enabling the refrigerator compartment piping component 51 to be made thinner.

[0103] (Second variation of the first embodiment)

[0104] Figure 11This is a front view showing the interior of the refrigerator compartment 11A in a second variation of the first embodiment. In the second variation, the shield 92 is made of an opaque material and has a window W at a position corresponding to the ultraviolet LED 72 and the visible light LED 73. The window W is formed of a light-transmitting component, allowing light emitted by the ultraviolet LED 72 and the visible light LED 73 to pass through the refrigerator compartment 11A. With this structure, the circuit board 71 can be effectively shielded, and the light emitted by the ultraviolet LED 72 and the visible light LED 73 can be guided into the refrigerator compartment 11A. This can improve the design flexibility of the refrigerator compartment 11A.

[0105] (Second Implementation)

[0106] Next, the second embodiment will be described. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that the light irradiation unit 70 has light source modules 111A and 111B provided in the top portion S1 of the housing 10. The structure, except for the following description, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0107] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator 1 according to the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the light irradiation unit 70 replaces the first to fourth light source modules 70A, 70B, 70C, and 70D described above, or, based on this, has light source modules 111A and 111B. Light source modules 111A and 111B are the same as light source module 70S, having a circuit board 71, an ultraviolet LED 72, and a visible light LED 73. Alternatively, the visible light LED 73 may be omitted.

[0108] The light source module 111A is provided, for example, as part of the lighting unit 12 provided in the top portion S1 of the housing 10. For example, the circuit board 71 included in the light source module 111A is integrally provided with the circuit board included in the lighting unit 12. The light source module 111A is located, for example, above the first shelf 41A. The light source module 111A irradiates ultraviolet light and visible light downward from the top portion S1 of the housing 10. At least a portion of the upper surface of the first shelf 41A is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light irradiated from the light source module 111A. That is, the light source module 111A irradiates ultraviolet light on the food and containers placed on the first shelf 41A from above.

[0109] The light source module 111B is separate from the lighting unit 12. Here, a recessed bag PK for storing beverages, condiments, etc., is provided on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A. The light source module 111B is located above the recessed bag PK on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A. The light source module 111B irradiates ultraviolet and visible light downwards from the top S1 of the cabinet 10. At least a portion of the interior of the uppermost recessed bag PK is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light irradiated by the light source module 111B. That is, the light source module 111B irradiates ultraviolet light from above onto the food and containers stored in the uppermost recessed bag PK.

[0110] Based on this structure, even when multiple food items or containers are placed on the first shelf 41A and the concave bag PK, ultraviolet light can still be irradiated from above, where it is difficult for the food items or containers to block the light. Therefore, even when multiple food items or containers are placed on the first shelf 41A and the concave bag PK, ultraviolet light can be effectively irradiated onto these multiple food items or containers. This further enhances the sterilization function.

[0111] (Third Implementation)

[0112] Next, the third embodiment will be described. The difference between the third embodiment and the first embodiment is that the light irradiation unit 70 has light source modules 121A, 121B, 121C, and 121D provided on the left side wall S2 or the right side wall S3 of the housing 10. The structure, except for the following description, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0113] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator 1 according to the third embodiment. In this embodiment, the light irradiation unit 70 replaces the first to fourth light source modules 70A, 70B, 70C, and 70D described above, or, based on these, has light source modules 121A, 121B, 121C, and 121D. The light source modules 121A, 121B, 121C, and 121D are the same as the light source module 70S, each having a circuit board 71, an ultraviolet LED 72, and a visible light LED 73. Alternatively, the visible light LED 73 may be omitted.

[0114] Light source module 121A is disposed on the left side wall S2 of the housing 10. Light source module 121B is disposed on the right side wall S3 of the housing 10. Light source modules 121A and 121B are disposed, for example, at the same height as any one of the first to third light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C in the first embodiment (i.e., the height corresponding to the plurality of shelves 41). Light source modules 121A and 121B irradiate ultraviolet light and visible light from the left side wall S2 or the right side wall S3 of the housing 10 toward the inside of the refrigerator compartment 11A. At least a portion of the upper surface of any one of the second shelf 41B, the third shelf 41C, or the upper wall 44 of the chiller compartment is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light irradiated by light source modules 121A and 121B. That is, light source modules 121A and 121B irradiate ultraviolet light on the food and containers placed on the second shelf 41B, the third shelf 41C, or the upper wall 44 of the chiller compartment from the side.

[0115] Light source module 121C is disposed on the left side wall S2 of the cabinet 10. Light source module 121D is disposed on the right side wall S3 of the cabinet 10. Light source modules 121C and 121D are positioned at heights corresponding to the recessed bag PK located at any height on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A. Light source modules 121C and 121D irradiate ultraviolet light and visible light onto the recessed bag PK from the left side wall S2 or the right side wall S3 of the cabinet 10. At least a portion of the interior of the recessed bag PK is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light irradiated by light source modules 121C and 121D. That is, light source modules 121C and 121D irradiate ultraviolet light onto the food or container stored in the recessed bag PK from above.

[0116] Based on this structure, even when food or containers are placed on the shelves 41 and the concave bags PK, ultraviolet light can still be irradiated from the sides where it is difficult for the food or containers to block it. Therefore, even when food or containers are placed on the shelves 41 and the concave bags PK, ultraviolet light can still be effectively irradiated onto them. This further enhances the sterilization function.

[0117] (A variation of the third embodiment)

[0118] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator 1 showing a modified example of the third embodiment. In this modified example, the light source modules 121C and 121D are arranged obliquely relative to the width direction of the refrigerator 1, such that they face the recessed pocket PK from the left side wall S2 or the right side wall S3 of the cabinet 10 toward the inner surface of the refrigerator compartment door 20A. With this structure, ultraviolet light can be more effectively irradiated onto the food or containers stored in the recessed pocket PK.

[0119] (Fourth implementation)

[0120] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The difference between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment is that the light irradiation unit 70 has light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C provided on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A. The structure, except for the following description, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0121] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator 1 according to the fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the light irradiation unit 70 replaces the light source modules 70A, 70B, 70C, and 70D described above, or, based on these, has light source modules 121A, 121B, and 121C. The light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C are the same as the light source module 70S, and have a circuit board 71, an ultraviolet LED 72, and a visible light LED 73. Alternatively, the visible light LED 73 may be omitted.

[0122] Light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C are disposed at multiple heights on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A. For example, light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C are positioned at heights corresponding to the recessed bags PK disposed on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A. Light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C irradiate ultraviolet and visible light from the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A toward the interior of the recessed bags PK. At least a portion of the interior of each recessed bag PK is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light irradiated by any one of the light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C. That is, light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C irradiate ultraviolet light onto the food or containers stored in the recessed bags PK from the front.

[0123] With this structure, even when multiple food items or containers are placed on each shelf 41, ultraviolet light can still be irradiated from the front, where it is difficult for the food items or containers to block the light. This allows for more effective irradiation of the food items and containers stored in the concave bag PK, thereby further enhancing the sterilization function.

[0124] Alternatively, light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C can be installed at a height corresponding to the recessed bag PK on the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A, or, based on this, at the same height as any one of the first to third light source modules 70A, 70B, and 70C in the first embodiment (i.e., the height corresponding to the plurality of shelves 41). In this case, light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C effectively irradiate ultraviolet light from the inner surface of the refrigerator door 20A toward the interior of the refrigerator compartment 11A. At least a portion of the upper surface of any one of the plurality of shelves 41 or the upper wall 44 of the chiller compartment is within the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light irradiated by light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C. Light source modules 131A, 131B, and 131C irradiate ultraviolet light from the side onto food or containers placed on any one of the shelves 41 or the upper wall 44 of the chiller compartment.

[0125] The above describes several implementation methods and variations. However, the implementation methods and variations are not limited to the examples described above. Several implementation methods and variations can also be combined with each other to achieve the desired result.

[0126] For example, instead of all light source modules 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, 111A, 111B, 121A, 121B, 121C, 121D, 131A, 131B, and 131C being simultaneously lit / extinguished, the control unit 100 can control several light source modules within these light source modules to be lit / extinguished at different times. For example, the control unit 100 can also cause light source modules 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, 111A, 111B, 121A, 121B, 121C, 121D, 131A, 131B, and 131C to be lit sequentially, such that light source module 70A is lit first for a certain period of time, then light source module 70B is lit for a certain period of time, and so on.

[0127] Based on this structure, the power supply unit (power IC component 84) that supplies power to multiple light source modules can be a low-cost power IC component 84 with low rated current that suppresses simultaneous current flow, and the heat generated by the power IC component 84 can be reduced. Furthermore, in the example above, the illumination times of all the light source modules are staggered, but alternatively, the multiple light source modules can be divided into several groups, and the illumination times of each group can be staggered.

[0128] The above describes several embodiments and modifications, but the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, instead of arranging one ultraviolet LED 72 at each height in the refrigerator compartment 11A, two or more ultraviolet LEDs 72 may be arranged at each height. In this case, the two or more ultraviolet LEDs 72 may also be arranged in the width direction of the refrigerator 1.

[0129] According to at least one embodiment described above, the refrigerator includes a cabinet with a refrigerator compartment and a light irradiation unit that irradiates light into the refrigerator compartment to inhibit the growth of bacteria. With this structure, the sterilization function can be improved.

[0130] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the invention described in the technical solution and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, comprising: The container has a refrigerator compartment; Shelves, arranged vertically in the aforementioned cold storage compartment; and The light irradiation section irradiates the aforementioned cold storage compartment with light that has the effect of inhibiting bacterial growth. The aforementioned shelf is supported by a support portion located on the side of the aforementioned housing. The aforementioned light irradiation unit is fixed to a fixing part provided on the side of the aforementioned housing. Viewed from the front side of the refrigerator, the aforementioned fixing part and the aforementioned supporting part are arranged in the width direction of the refrigerator. Viewed from the side of the shelf, the light-irradiating part is positioned at a position offset from the support part in the vertical direction.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned shelf also includes a first shelf and a second shelf, wherein the first shelf and the second shelf are arranged in a vertical direction. The light-irradiating part is located at the height between the first shelf and the second shelf when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The first shelf, positioned above the second shelf, can be selectively installed at either a first height position or a second height position, which is lower than the first height position. When the first shelf is installed at the second height position, the light irradiation part is located at the height between the first shelf and the second shelf when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, When the first shelf is installed at the second height position, the light irradiation unit, viewed from the front side of the refrigerator, is located below the first shelf and above the center position between the first shelf and the second shelf.

5. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aforementioned light irradiation unit has a first light source that irradiates the aforementioned light and a second light source that irradiates visible light. The first light source is located above the second light source.

6. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The refrigerator mentioned above also has: The door is capable of opening and closing to shut off the aforementioned cold storage compartment; and The lighting unit is located on the top or side wall of the aforementioned enclosure. The aforementioned light irradiation unit has a first light source that irradiates the aforementioned light and a second light source that irradiates visible light. When the aforementioned door is open, the first light source is turned off, and the aforementioned lighting unit and the aforementioned second light source are turned on.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The refrigerator also includes a piping component, which is disposed within the refrigerator body and extends vertically. The aforementioned pipe component has a front portion with a cold air outlet for supplying cold air to the refrigerator compartment, and a recessed portion that is recessed rearward relative to the front portion when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator. The light irradiation part is disposed in the recessed part and, when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator, is located behind the air outlet.

8. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The refrigerator also includes a first shelf, a second shelf, and a third shelf, which are arranged in the refrigerator compartment along a vertical direction. The second shelf is located below the first shelf. The third shelf is located below the second shelf. The aforementioned light irradiation unit includes a first light irradiation unit located at a height between the first shelf and the second shelf when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator, and a second light irradiation unit located at a height between the second shelf and the third shelf. The circuit board included in the first light irradiation section and the circuit board included in the second light irradiation section are integrally formed.

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The refrigerator also includes a first shelf, a second shelf, and a third shelf, which are arranged in the refrigerator compartment along a vertical direction. The second shelf is located below the first shelf. The third shelf is located below the second shelf. The aforementioned light irradiation unit includes a first light irradiation unit located at a height between the first shelf and the second shelf when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator, and a second light irradiation unit located at a height between the first shelf and the second shelf. The circuit board included in the first light irradiation section and the circuit board included in the second light irradiation section are formed separately.

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