Refrigerator

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a refrigerator including a cabinet formed with a storage space, and a door opening and closing the cabinet, the door including a door liner forming a rear aspect of the door, a front plate spaced apart forward of the door liner, a first cap trim coupled with one end of the door liner and the front plate, a second cap trim coupled with the other end of the door liner and the front plate at a position facing the first cap trim, a thermal insulation member filling a space formed by the door liner, the front plate, the first cap trim, and the second cap trim, and a panel assembly detachably disposed forward of the front plate, the panel assembly including a panel in the form of a plate and forming a front aspect appearance of the door, a first bracket protruding from a rear aspect of the panel and inserted into the first cap trim to be restrained, and a second bracket provided at the rear aspect of the panel and supported at the second cap trim.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application number CN2021106721348, filed on June 17, 2021, entitled "Refrigerator". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to refrigerators. Background Technology

[0003] Generally speaking, a refrigerator is a household appliance that can store food at low temperatures in the internal storage space covered by the refrigerator door. It is configured to use cold air generated by heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the freezing cycle to cool the interior of the storage space, thereby preserving the stored food in the best condition.

[0004] As mentioned above, with changes in dietary habits and the trend towards higher-end products, refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and more multifunctional. Refrigerators with diverse structures and convenient features that take user convenience into consideration are now available on the market.

[0005] In addition, in order to coordinate with the environment where the refrigerator is located or the surrounding furniture or home appliances, structures have been developed to diversify the appearance of the front of the refrigerator.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 8,789,900 discloses a structure for mounting a decorative panel that forms the appearance on the front side of a refrigerator door. Furthermore, it discloses a structure in which a plurality of bridges for constraint are arranged on both sides of the back surface of the decorative panel, and the decorative panel can be mounted by engaging brackets inserted from both sides of the door with the bridges.

[0007] However, in the prior art described above, multiple brackets need to be installed externally for panel mounting, which reduces production efficiency and makes it difficult to maintain the correct installation position depending on the operator's workmanship. In particular, the structure of the brackets used for joining protrudes to both sides of the door, affecting the appearance.

[0008] Japanese Patent No. 6460832 discloses a structure for mounting a glass panel that forms the appearance on the front of a refrigerator door. Furthermore, it discloses a structure in which a plurality of recessed grooves are formed on the front surface of the door body, and a multi-segmented mounting portion is formed on the back surface of the glass panel, allowing the glass panel to be mounted by inserting the mounting portion into the recessed grooves.

[0009] However, in the prior art as described above, it is not easy to accurately attach the multiple mounting parts of the back surface of the glass panel to the groove of the door body, and there are problems with reduced workability and production efficiency as a result.

[0010] Furthermore, the groove may deform during the foaming process of the door, which could lead to problems with the accurate installation of the glass panel.

[0011] Furthermore, when the panel is heavy, the structure of the support groove and mounting part for the panel needs to be larger or more numerous, which may lead to an increase in the size of the door or an increase in manufacturing costs. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator that prevents the structure for mounting panel assemblies from being exposed to the outside, thereby improving the appearance.

[0013] The purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator that can maintain a securely installed panel assembly.

[0014] The purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator that allows for easy installation and detachment of panel components.

[0015] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a cabinet having a storage space; and a door for opening and closing the cabinet, the door including: a door liner forming the rear side of the door; a front panel spaced forward of the door liner; a first decorative cap joined to one end of the door liner and the front panel; a second decorative cap joined to the other end of the door liner and the front panel at a position facing the first decorative cap; a heat insulation member filling the space formed by the door liner, the front panel, and the decorative cap; and a panel assembly detachably disposed in front of the front panel, the panel assembly including: a panel, plate-shaped and forming the front appearance of the door; a first bracket protruding from the rear side of the panel and inserted into and constrained by the first decorative cap; and a second bracket disposed on the rear side of the panel and supported on the second decorative cap.

[0016] The first bracket may include: an adhesive portion extending along the end of the panel; and an insertion protrusion formed at predetermined intervals along the adhesive portion, protruding toward the front of the first cap decoration.

[0017] The first cap decoration may include a decorative recess that is recessed from the outer side of the door to communicate with an insertion port that is open on the front of the first cap decoration. The insertion protrusion passes through the insertion port and is inserted into the inner side of the decorative recess.

[0018] The first cap decoration may be provided with a decorative cover that covers the recessed portion of the decoration, and a constraint protrusion is formed on the decorative cover. The constraint protrusion extends into the recessed portion to constrain the insertion protrusion.

[0019] The insertion protrusion may have a through-hole extending vertically, and the constraint protrusion extends to allow the constraint protrusion to pass through the through-hole when the decorative cover is installed on the first cap decorative piece.

[0020] The constraint protrusion may have a raised inclined surface, the width of which becomes narrower in the extending direction of the constraint protrusion. When the constraint protrusion is inserted, the panel assembly is pressed tightly against the front panel side by the contact between the raised inclined surface and the through-hole.

[0021] A fastening part for the decorative element may also be formed on the inner side of the recessed portion of the decorative element. The fastening part for the decorative element supports the cover from below and allows for fastening of screws that pass through the cover.

[0022] The inner side of the recessed portion of the decorative element can be provided with a divided space to prevent the insulation element from penetrating.

[0023] The first cap ornament may have a first support end formed along the end of the first cap ornament and protruding forward to support the end of the panel.

[0024] A plate joint portion that engages with the upper end of the front plate may be formed on the front side of the first cap decoration, and the insertion port is formed above the plate joint portion.

[0025] The second cap decoration may have a second support end formed along the end of the second cap decoration, protruding forward and supporting the end of the panel, and a plurality of constraint portions protruding along the second support end and engaging with the second bracket.

[0026] A bracket insertion portion may be formed at the lower end of the second bracket, the bracket insertion portion being open downward for the restraining portion to be inserted, and when the lower end of the panel is installed in contact with the second support end, the restraining portion is located inside the bracket insertion portion.

[0027] The front panel can be made of steel, and magnets are provided on the left and right sides of the rear of the panel and attached to the front panel.

[0028] The panel may be formed of a metal material and has a rearwardly bent portion formed along the periphery of the panel.

[0029] A recessed panel mounting portion for mounting the first bracket and the second bracket may be formed at the periphery of the panel.

[0030] The panel can be formed of glass or FENIX material.

[0031] The first cap decoration can form the upper side of the door, the second cap decoration forms the lower side of the door, the lower end of the panel assembly is constrained by a lower protrusion protruding upward from the second cap decoration and inserted into the second bracket, and in the upper end of the panel assembly, an upper fastening member through the first cap decoration is fastened to the first bracket.

[0032] The first bracket may include: an upper adhesive portion that contacts the rear of the panel; and an upper fastening protrusion that protrudes rearward from the upper adhesive portion and is fastened to the upper fastening protrusion through the upper fastening member fastened to the first cap decoration.

[0033] An upper fastening portion may be formed on the front side of the first cap ornament that faces the upper fastening protrusion, through which the upper fastening member passes. The first cap ornament has a recessed space with an opening on its upper side, and the upper fastening portion protrudes into the recessed space to fasten the upper fastening member through the recessed space.

[0034] The upper fastening portion can be recessed rearward to accommodate the upper fastening protrusion, and can protrude inward into the recessed space.

[0035] According to another embodiment of the invention, a refrigerator may include: a cabinet having a storage space; and a door for opening and closing the storage space, the door including: a door body having an internally filled heat insulation member, the upper and lower surfaces of the door body being formed by an upper cap trim and a lower cap trim; and a panel assembly disposed on the front surface of the door body, forming the front surface appearance of the door, the lower end of the panel assembly being inserted and constrained by a lower protrusion protruding upward from the lower cap trim, and the upper end of the panel assembly being fastened to the door body by an upper fastening member fastened through the upper cap trim.

[0036] The refrigerator according to the proposed embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0037] In the refrigerator of an embodiment of the present invention, the front appearance of the refrigerator can be formed by installing the panel assembly. Furthermore, the panel assembly can be replaced as needed. Therefore, in the case of built-in installation, a panel assembly that adapts to surrounding furniture or walls can be installed. Moreover, even when multiple refrigerators are arranged consecutively, a harmonious appearance can be achieved.

[0038] Furthermore, the panel assembly may have a structure in which its upper and lower ends are fixed and constrained by a first cap decoration (upper cap decoration) and a second cap decoration (lower cap decoration), thereby preventing the joint structure from being exposed to the outside when viewed from the front, thus improving the appearance.

[0039] Furthermore, by having the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly constrained by the first and second brackets, and the left and right ends magnetically attached, the entire periphery of the panel assembly can be firmly fixed.

[0040] In particular, the lower end of the panel assembly can be positioned on the second support end by its own weight, and the constraint portion can be kept inserted inside the lower insertion portion, thereby preventing the panel assembly from separating unintentionally.

[0041] Furthermore, the upper end of the panel assembly is inserted through the insertion protrusion of the first bracket into the first cap decoration, and the constraint protrusion of the decoration cover installed on the first cap decoration passes through the insertion protrusion, thus maintaining a firm installation state.

[0042] Furthermore, the panel assembly inserts its lower end into the lower protrusion and, while temporarily secured by a magnet, can maintain a state where the fastening member can be tightened. Therefore, it is easier to install the decorative cover and constrain the upper end of the panel assembly.

[0043] Furthermore, the panel assembly has a structure in which a lower protrusion is first inserted into the insertion slot of the second bracket. With the lower end of the panel assembly initially fixed, the panel assembly can be installed by simply rotating the upper end of the panel assembly and then constraining the upper end of the panel assembly. The panel assembly can also be easily separated by following the reverse order of the same process.

[0044] Using the simple detachable installation structure of the panel assembly described above, users can achieve the desired installation and detachment of the panel assembly themselves.

[0045] In particular, the lower end of the panel assembly may have a structure that is constrained by its own weight, and the upper end of the panel assembly may have a structure that allows the insertion protrusion and the constraint protrusion to engage with each other by installing the decorative cover. Thus, a simple installation and disassembly structure can be provided without the use of additional props or tools, and the separation and installation of the panel assembly can be achieved more easily.

[0046] Furthermore, magnets can be disposed on the rear side of the panel assembly, allowing the left and right ends of the panel assembly to be attached to the door body. This avoids exposing structural elements used for joining the panel assembly and ensures a stable connection around the entire perimeter of the panel assembly.

[0047] Furthermore, the lower end of the panel assembly has a structure in which the lower protrusion is first inserted into the insertion slot of the lower bracket. When the lower end of the panel assembly is first fixed, the panel assembly can be firmly fixed to the upper cap decoration and the lower cap decoration by fastening the fastening members at the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly.

[0048] That is, not only is the lower protrusion used for connection, but the upper and lower fastening members are also used to secure the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly to the upper and lower cap decorative parts, thereby maintaining the installed state of the panel assembly.

[0049] Furthermore, by utilizing the adhesion force between the panel and the front of the door body based on the magnet, the panel assembly can maintain a more secure bond with the door body.

[0050] Furthermore, the panel assembly inserts its lower end into the lower protrusion and, while temporarily fixed by a magnet, can maintain a state in which the fastening member can be tightened, thus making it easier to tighten the fastening member.

[0051] In particular, with the lower end of the panel assembly fixed, the upper fastening protrusion and the upper fastening portion naturally align at the upper end of the panel assembly, thereby enabling easy fastening of the upper fastening member.

[0052] Furthermore, by having a structure that allows the upper fastening protrusion and upper fastening portion, which are formed at an angle, to fasten the upper fastening member in an inclined direction, the upper fastening member can be fastened even when the panel assembly is in a horizontal position. Therefore, space for fastening operations is ensured, and fastening operations are performed more easily.

[0053] Furthermore, the upper fastening part is disposed within the recessed space of the upper cap decorative piece, and the decorative cover is installed after the upper fastening member is fastened, thereby concealing the interior of the recessed space. Therefore, the structure used to secure the upper fastening member and the panel assembly is prevented from being exposed, thus further improving the appearance.

[0054] Furthermore, after separating the fastening member, the panel assembly can be easily separated by lifting the panel assembly and separating the lower end of the panel assembly from the lower protrusion. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 This is a front view showing a refrigerator with an embodiment of the present invention installed.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the refrigerators arranged in a continuous manner.

[0057] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the door of an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front.

[0058] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the door as seen from the rear.

[0059] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the door body, which is part of the door's arrangement structure, as seen from the front.

[0060] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the first cap decoration and the decoration cover as part of the arrangement structure of the door.

[0061] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the decorative cover.

[0062] Figure 8 This is a partial perspective view showing the structure at the upper end of the main body of the door.

[0063] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the second cap decoration as part of the arrangement structure of the door.

[0064] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a panel assembly that forms part of the arrangement structure of the door.

[0065] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the first bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly.

[0066] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the connection structure at the upper end of the door.

[0067] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the second bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly.

[0068] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the connection structure at the lower end of the door.

[0069] Figure 15 This diagram shows the state in which the panel assembly is installed before the door body.

[0070] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the constraint process at the lower end of the panel assembly.

[0071] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the constraint process at the upper end of the panel assembly.

[0072] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the state of the panel assembly after installation.

[0073] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the rear of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the back of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 21 This is a perspective view showing a refrigerator with another embodiment of the present invention installed.

[0076] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the refrigerator.

[0077] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view of the refrigerator door.

[0078] Figure 24 This is an exploded perspective view of the door body, which is part of the door's arrangement structure, as seen from the front.

[0079] Figure 25 This is an exploded perspective view showing the disassembled main body of the door as seen from the rear.

[0080] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of the upper cap decorative element, which is part of the arrangement structure of the main body of the door.

[0081] Figure 27 It is along Figure 26 A three-dimensional view cut along the XXVII-XXVII' line.

[0082] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the lower cap decorative element, which is part of the arrangement structure of the main body of the door.

[0083] Figure 29 This is a perspective view of the side frame, which is part of the arrangement structure of the main body of the door.

[0084] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the panel assembly, which is part of the arrangement structure of the door, viewed from the rear.

[0085] Figure 31 This is an exploded perspective view of the panel assembly.

[0086] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the upper bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly.

[0087] Figure 33 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along line XXXIII-XXXIII'.

[0088] Figure 34 It is along Figure 22A three-dimensional view cut along the XXXIV-XXXIV' line.

[0089] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the lower bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly.

[0090] Figure 36 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along the XXXVI-XXXVI' line.

[0091] Figure 37 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along line XXXVII-XXXVII'.

[0092] Figure 38 It is along Figure 22 A sectional view taken along line XXXVIII-XXXVIII'.

[0093] Figure 39 This is a diagram that schematically shows the state in which the panel assembly is installed in front of the door body.

[0094] Figures 40 to 42 This is a diagram showing the change in position of the upper end of the panel assembly during installation.

[0095] Figure 43 This is a diagram that schematically shows the panel assembly installed on the door body.

[0096] Figure 44 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the upper and lower fastening members of the panel assembly installed on the door body.

[0097] Figure 45 This diagram shows the upper end of the panel mounting portion being fixed in place.

[0098] Figure 46 It is installed in Figure 21 Rear view of the refrigerator's panel components.

[0099] Figure 47 This is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Figure 48 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the state in which the panel assembly is installed.

[0101] Figure 49 This is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0102] The following and appendix Figure 1The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments suggested by the concept of the present invention, and other backward inventions or other embodiments included within the scope of the concept of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, changing, or deleting other structural elements.

[0103] Before proceeding, the direction involved in this invention is defined. In embodiments of the invention, the direction can be... Figure 2 The direction facing the front of the door is defined as front, the direction towards the cabinet with the front of the door as a reference is defined as rear, the direction towards the floor where the refrigerator is installed is defined as down, and the direction away from the floor is defined as up.

[0104] Figure 1 This is a front view showing a refrigerator installed according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the refrigerators arranged in a continuous manner.

[0105] As shown in the figure, the refrigerator 1 of the present invention can be formed by a cabinet 10 that forms a storage space with an opening at the front and doors 20 and 30 for opening and closing the storage space to form an overall appearance.

[0106] Furthermore, the refrigerator 1 can be installed in a way that harmonizes with the furniture or wall O in the interior space. As shown in the figure, the refrigerators 1 and 1' can be placed in an interior space such as a kitchen and can be arranged in a way that is adjacent to and harmonious with the furniture or wall O. That is, space corresponding to the size of the refrigerators 1 and 1' can be provided in the furniture or wall O, and the refrigerator 1 can be accommodated or arranged in a built-in manner.

[0107] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, other refrigerators 1' can also be arranged side by side continuously on the side of the refrigerator 1. That is, furniture or walls O can also be used to provide space for arranging a plurality of refrigerators 1, 1'.

[0108] Multiple refrigerators 1 and 1' can also have the same structure, and refrigerators with diverse structures can be combined and arranged as needed. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the doors 20 of the refrigerator 1 on the right side can be arranged vertically. That is, the refrigerator 1 on the right side can be configured with a door 20 that opens and closes by rotation at the top and a door 30 that opens and closes by sliding at the bottom. Furthermore, the refrigerator 1' arranged side-by-side on the left side can be configured such that its upper storage space is opened and closed using a pair of doors 20', and its lower storage space is also opened and closed using a pair of doors 30'. Additionally, the doors 20' and 30' can also be configured to open and close by rotation; these doors 20' and 30' can be referred to as French doors.

[0109] Additionally, panel assemblies 50 may be installed on the doors 20, 30, 20', and 30' of the refrigerators 1 and 1'. The panel assemblies 50 form the front of the doors 20, 30, 20', and 30', thus forming the appearance of the refrigerators 1 and 1' when viewed from the front.

[0110] Panel assemblies 50, which have the same structure but differ only in size, can be installed on the doors 20, 30, 20', and 30' of the refrigerators 1 and 1'. Thus, even if multiple refrigerators 1 are arranged, they can form an appearance with the same color and texture. Of course, the panel assemblies 50 can also be made of materials with different colors or textures as needed.

[0111] In addition, the panel assembly 50 may also have a detachable structure, so that a panel assembly with an appropriate appearance can be selected and installed according to the environment in which the refrigerators 1 and 1' are installed.

[0112] When the refrigerator 1 is installed on furniture or wall O, the appearance of the refrigerator 1 can also be formed of a material with the same material or texture as the furniture or wall O, so that the appearance of the adjacent furniture or wall O and the refrigerator have a sense of unity. Of course, even if the appearance of the refrigerator 1 and the furniture or wall O do not have a sense of unity, it is preferably formed of a material that can be coordinated with it.

[0113] Furthermore, the refrigerator 1 is arranged adjacent to the neighboring refrigerator 1', furniture or wall O, and is arranged close to the neighboring refrigerator 1', furniture or wall O within a range that does not interfere with the opening and closing of the doors 20, 30.

[0114] The structure and mounting structure of the panel assembly 50 of the present invention can be the same in both the left refrigerator 1' and the right refrigerator 1. Therefore, to avoid repetition in the description, Figure 2 Based on refrigerator 1 on the right in refrigerator 1 and 1', its structure will be described in more detail.

[0115] Furthermore, for ease of explanation and understanding, the panel assembly 50 and its mounting structure will be described using the upper part 20 as a reference. The upper part 20 may be referred to as door 20 below.

[0116] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the door of an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front. Furthermore, Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the door as seen from the rear. Furthermore, Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the door body, which is part of the door's arrangement structure, as seen from the front.

[0117] As shown in the figure, the door 20 may include: a door body 40, filled with a heat insulation component ( Figure 12 (49) and substantially open and close the storage space; panel assembly 50, installed on the door body 40.

[0118] The door body 40 may have a specified thickness and be internally filled with a heat insulation element 49 to insulate the storage space. Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 may be installed on the front of the door body 40 to form the front appearance of the door 20 and the refrigerator 1. The panel assembly 50 may be installed on the door body 40 in a manner that allows for easy installation and removal, and may have a structure that allows for easy installation and removal even when the door 20 is installed in the cabinet 10.

[0119] Therefore, the panel assembly 50 can be installed with the appearance of the furniture or wall O in mind, and the panel assembly 50 with the appearance design required by the user can also be installed or replaced as needed.

[0120] The structure of the door body 40 is described as follows: the door body 40 may consist of a front panel 41, a side frame 45, a first cap decorative piece 42, a second cap decorative piece 44, and a door lining 47. Furthermore, a heat insulation member 49 may be filled inside the door body 40.

[0121] In detail, the front panel 41 forms the front surface of the door body 40 and can be formed in a plate shape. The front panel 41 can be formed of steel and forms a surface facing the rear surface of the panel assembly 50.

[0122] Furthermore, a plurality of screw holes 413 may be formed along the periphery of the front plate 41. Screws that are fastened to the first cap trim 42, the second cap trim 44, and the side frames 45 on both sides can be fastened to the screw holes 413.

[0123] Furthermore, stepped portions 411 can be formed at both ends of the front panel 41, extending rearward in a stepped shape. These stepped portions 411 provide space for arranging the magnets 52 during the installation of the panel assembly 50, and can extend vertically. The stepped portions 411 can also be formed into a groove shape corresponding to the shape of the magnets 52.

[0124] The first cap decoration 42 and the second cap decoration 44 are respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends of the front panel 41, thereby forming the upper and lower surfaces of the door body 40. In addition, the side frames 45 are attached to the left and right ends of the front panel 41, and the upper and lower ends of the side frames 45 can be connected to the first cap decoration 42 and the second cap decoration 44 respectively.

[0125] The door liner 47 can be attached to the rear of the first cap decoration 42, the second cap decoration 44, and the side frame 45. The door liner 47 can be formed as a plate and form the rear of the door body 40. The door liner 47 can be formed of plastic material and can be vacuum-formed to form the rear shape of the door body 40.

[0126] The sealing element 48 can be disposed along the rear periphery of the door liner 47. The sealing element 48 can contact the periphery of the housing 10 when the door 20 is closed, thereby airtightening the storage space.

[0127] The side frame 45 connects the first cap decoration 42 and the second cap decoration 44, and also connects the front panel 41 and the door lining 47. Furthermore, the side frame 45 can form both sides of the door body 40.

[0128] The side frame 45 can be formed by extending elongatedly along the vertical direction and can be formed by pressing out a metal material. As an example, the side frame 45 can be formed of aluminum. Thus, the side frame 45 can make the side appearance of the door 20 more upscale.

[0129] The side frames 45 on the left and right sides can be formed with the same shape and can be arranged facing each other. The side frames 45 can include frame sides 451 and frame fronts 452.

[0130] In detail, the frame side 451 can form a surface exposed to the side of the door body 40 and is formed into a planar shape. The upper end of the frame side 451 can be combined with the first cap decoration 42, and the lower end of the frame side 451 can be combined with the second cap decoration 44.

[0131] A frame opening 453 corresponding to the hinge mounting portion 427 formed on the first cap decoration 42 can be formed on the upper part of the frame side 451. The frame opening 453 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the open side of the hinge mounting portion 427, thereby preventing interference with the hinge (not shown) connecting the box 10 and the door 20 when the door 20 rotates.

[0132] Furthermore, the front end 452 of the frame can extend inward from the front end of the side end 451 of the frame. The front end 452 of the frame can be configured to support the left and right ends of the front plate 41.

[0133] The first cap-shaped decorative element 42 can form the upper surface of the door body 40 and is combined with the upper ends of the front panel 41, the door lining 47, and the pair of side frames 45. Furthermore, a decorative cover 43 can be installed on the open upper surface of the first cap-shaped decorative element 42.

[0134] The second cap decoration 44 can form the lower surface of the door body 40 and is combined with the lower ends of the front panel 41 and the door lining 47 and the lower ends of a pair of side frames 45.

[0135] By combining the front panel 41, the door liner 47, the side frame 45, the first cap decoration 42, and the second cap decoration 44, the door body 40 can form an enclosed space inside and a space to fill the heat insulation member 49.

[0136] The structure of the first cap decoration 42 and the second cap decoration 44 constituting the door body 40 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0137] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the first cap ornament and the ornament cover, which are part of the arrangement structure of the door. Furthermore, Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the decorative cover. Furthermore, Figure 8 This is a partial perspective view showing the structure at the upper end of the main body of the door.

[0138] As shown in the figure, the first cap-shaped decorative element 42 can form the upper part of the door 20, and in the assembled state, it forms the upper surface of the door 20 that is exposed to the outside. Furthermore, the first cap-shaped decorative element 42 can be configured to support the upper ends of the front panel 41, the door liner 47, and the side frame 45. Since the first cap-shaped decorative element 42 forms the upper surface of the door 20, it can also be referred to as the upper cap-shaped decorative element 42.

[0139] In detail, the first cap decoration 42 may be formed of plastic material and may include a front 421, a rear 423, and two side panels 426. The front panel 41 may be attached to the front 421, the door lining 47 may be attached to the rear 423, and the side frames 45 may be attached to the left and right side panels 426 respectively.

[0140] Furthermore, the first cap decoration 42 may have a decorative recess 420 with an opening on its surface, which can constrain the upper end of the panel assembly 50.

[0141] Furthermore, the decorative recess 420 can be recessed to a predetermined depth from the upper end of the door 20, and can also accommodate printed circuit boards or other electrical components for controlling electrical components provided on the door 20.

[0142] The decorative recess 420 can extend to the lower end of the first cap decorative member 42, and during injection molding, the decorative recess 420 causes the rear end 423 to form a planar shape. Furthermore, the open upper surface of the decorative recess 420 can be covered by the decorative cover 43. The decorative recess 420 can be open over a large portion of the upper surface of the first cap decorative member 42. Thus, the decorative cover 43 can form most of the upper surface appearance of the door 20 while installed in a state that covers the decorative recess 420.

[0143] An upwardly extending decorative fastening portion 428 may be formed on the inner side of the decorative recess 420. The decorative fastening portion 428 can support the decorative cover 43 for concealing the decorative recess 420 from below. Furthermore, the decorative fastening portion 428 may be configured to fasten a screw S that passes through the cover hole 432 of the decorative cover 43.

[0144] The lower part of the front 421 of the first cap decoration 42 may be recessed further rearward than the upper part, thus forming a stepped shape. Furthermore, an upper plate joint 422 supporting the front panel 41 from the rear may be formed on the front 421 of the first cap decoration 42. The upper plate joint 422 extends from the left end to the right end of the first cap decoration 42, and a plurality of ribs and grooves are continuously arranged vertically at predetermined intervals. Thus, even if the heat insulation member 49 is present, it will fill the space between the front panel 41 and the upper plate joint 422 and be more firmly secured.

[0145] Furthermore, the upper end of the front plate 41 can be attached to the upper plate joint 422 using screws. For this purpose, a screw fastening portion can be formed in the upper plate joint 422, and a screw hole 414 for the screw to pass through is formed along the corresponding upper end of the front plate 41. With the screw fastening, the upper end of the front plate 41 can be securely fixed to the front of the first cap decoration 42.

[0146] Furthermore, a first support end 428 protruding forward may be formed at the upper front surface of the first cap decoration 42. The first support end 428 protrudes forward and supports the upper part of the panel assembly 50. The protruding length of the first support end 428 may be shorter than the thickness of the panel assembly 50, thereby preventing the first support end 428 from protruding forward from the panel assembly 50 when it is installed. Thus, when viewed from the front, the upper panel assembly 50 can be fully exposed, and the first support end 428 can be prevented from being excessively exposed.

[0147] An insertion port 425 may be formed between the first support end 428 and the upper plate joint 422. The insertion port is open for insertion of the insertion protrusion 534 of the first bracket 53, which will be described in detail below, and a plurality of insertion ports may be formed along the front of the first cap decoration 42.

[0148] The insertion port 425 may be formed at a position facing the insertion protrusion 534, and be open to allow the insertion protrusion 534 to be inserted and protrude to the inside of the recess. Furthermore, the insertion ports 425 may be formed in a number corresponding to the insertion protrusions 534, and are arranged at predetermined intervals in the lateral direction from one end of the first cap decoration 42 to the other end.

[0149] The insertion port 425 can communicate with the decorative element recess 420. Thus, the insertion protrusion 534 inserted into the insertion port 425 can protrude inward toward the decorative element recess 420 and can have a structure constrained by the constraint protrusion 434 of the decorative element cover 43.

[0150] An upper fastening portion 424 may also be formed on the front side of the first cap decoration 42. The upper fastening portion 424 is used to engage with the first bracket 53 and may be formed between the first support end 428 and the upper plate joint portion 422.

[0151] The upper fastening portion 424 can be recessed at a position corresponding to the upper fastening protrusion 533 protruding from the first bracket 53. As an example, a pair of upper fastening portions 424 can be formed on each of the left and right sides with the center of the first cap decoration 42 as a reference, so that a total of four upper fastening portions are formed at positions spaced apart from each other. That is, one upper fastening portion 424 can be formed at each of the two ends of the first cap decoration 42, and another one can be formed on the inner side spaced apart from the two ends.

[0152] The upper fastening portion 424 can be recessed from the front corresponding to the decorative element recess 420. Thus, the upper fastening protrusion 533 can be inserted into the inner side of the upper fastening portion 424. Furthermore, the upper fastening portion 424 can protrude inwards from the decorative element recess 420 and can be formed with a screw hole 424a through which a screw fastened through the decorative element recess 420 passes. Thus, a screw passing through the screw hole 424a can be fastened to the upper fastening portion 424, and the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be securely fixed to the first cap decorative element 42.

[0153] Additionally, a hinge mounting portion 427 may be formed on the side of the first cap decoration 42. The hinge mounting portion 427 may open to the side and rear of the first cap decoration 42, and a hinge may be installed thereon to allow the door 20 to rotate about the pivot point of the hinge.

[0154] The decorative cover 43 can cover the decorative recess 420 while engaging with the first bracket 53 to constrain the upper end of the panel assembly 50.

[0155] The decorative cover 43 may generally include: a cover portion 431 that covers the decorative recess 420; and a restraining protrusion 434 that protrudes downward from below the cover portion 431. The cover portion 431 may be formed in a plate shape and have a size and shape corresponding to the open upper surface of the decorative recess 420. Furthermore, a border portion 435 extending downward along the periphery of the cover portion 431 may be formed to airtightly seal the decorative recess 420 when the decorative cover 43 is installed.

[0156] Furthermore, the constraint protrusion 434 may be located at a position corresponding to the insertion port 425 and the insertion protrusion 534, and there may be a plurality of constraint protrusions 434 arranged at predetermined intervals, thereby engaging with the insertion protrusion 534 inserted through the insertion port 425.

[0157] Furthermore, the constraint protrusion 434 can be configured such that, when the decorative cover 43 is installed, the constraint protrusion 434 extends further downward through the through-hole 534a of the insertion protrusion 534. Additionally, the constraint protrusion 434 can have a width and thickness corresponding to the through-hole 534a, thereby allowing it to penetrate the inner side of the through-hole 534a.

[0158] Furthermore, an inclined surface 434a may be formed at the lower front end of the constraint protrusion 434. Thus, when the constraint protrusion 434 is inserted into the inside of the through-hole 534a, the inclined surface 434a will contact the inside of the through-hole 534a. Under the action of the inclined surface 434a, the constraint protrusion 434 can be inserted more smoothly into the inside of the through-hole 534a and firmly locked and constrained by the insertion protrusion 534, thereby achieving a secure installation of the panel assembly 50.

[0159] Furthermore, a plurality of screw holes 432 may be formed along the decorative cover 43. Additionally, an upwardly extending decorative fastening portion 428 may be formed on the inner side of the decorative recess 420 corresponding to the screw holes 432. The decorative fastening portion 428 may be formed at a position corresponding to the screw holes 432 and may extend to support the decorative cover 43 from below when it is installed. Furthermore, screws passing through the screw holes 432 may be fastened to the upper side of the decorative fastening portion 428, thereby securing the decorative cover 43.

[0160] By using the screws to tighten, the decorative cover 43 can be firmly fixed to the upper side of the first cap decorative piece 42. At this time, the constraint protrusion 434 of the decorative cover 43 also remains constrained by the insertion protrusion 534, thereby enabling the panel assembly 50 to remain firmly installed and preventing it from being arbitrarily separated.

[0161] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the second cap decoration as part of the arrangement structure of the door.

[0162] As shown in the figure, the second cap-shaped decorative element 44 can be formed of plastic material, and it can form the lower part of the door body 40 and shape the lower appearance of the door body 40. Furthermore, since the second cap-shaped decorative element 44 forms the lower appearance of the door 20, it can be referred to as the lower cap-shaped decorative element.

[0163] The second hat ornament 44 may consist entirely of a bottom 441, a front 442, a back 444, and two side panels 443. Furthermore, the second hat ornament 44 may form an opening 440 at the top, and the heat insulation member 49 may be filled inside the space.

[0164] The front panel 442 can support the lower end of the front panel 41 from the rear. Furthermore, the two side panels 443 can support the lower end of the side frame 45 from the inside. Additionally, the rear panel 444 can support the lower end of the door liner 47 from the front.

[0165] As described above, by utilizing the front panel 41 and side frame 45 and door liner 47 combined with the front 442, two sides 443 and rear 444 of the second cap decoration 44, an enclosed space 440 can be formed inside, and the heat insulation member 49 can be filled inside the space 440.

[0166] A lower plate joint portion 442a supporting the front plate 41 from the rear can be formed on the front surface of the second cap decoration 44. The lower plate joint portion 442a can extend from the left end to the right end of the front, protruding slightly forward and supporting the front plate 41 from the rear. In addition, screw holes 442b can be formed for fastening a plurality of screws through the front plate 41.

[0167] A second support end 445 extending forward may be formed at the lower end of the front 442 of the second cap decoration 44. The second support end 445 may also be extended so that the lower part 441 of the second cap decoration 44 passes through the lower end of the front 442 of the second cap decoration 44.

[0168] The second support end 445 may protrude to support the lower end of the panel assembly 50, and the protruding length of the second support end 445 may be shorter than the thickness of the panel assembly 50. Thus, when viewed from the front, the exposure of the second support end 445 is minimized, so that it is perceived as if the entire front of the door 20 is composed of the panel assembly 50.

[0169] Additionally, an upwardly protruding constraint portion 445a may be formed at the lower end of the second support end 445. The constraint portion 445a is configured to be inserted into the second bracket 54, which will be described below, and to constrain the lower end of the panel assembly 50.

[0170] The restraining portions 445a may be formed in a plurality of units at predetermined intervals along the second support end 445. Furthermore, the restraining portions 445a may be spaced apart from the front of the second cap decoration 44.

[0171] Furthermore, a plurality of lower fastening holes 445b may be formed on the second support end 445. These lower fastening holes 445b allow screws to pass through the second support end 445 from below and fasten it to the second bracket 54. This allows for a more secure fixation of the lower end of the panel assembly 50 mounted on the second support end 445.

[0172] Additionally, a handle may also be formed on the lower side of the second hat ornament 44. Figure 14 (446) In this case, the user can put their hand into the handle to pull the door 20 and open it.

[0173] The panel assembly 50 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0174] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a panel assembly that forms part of the arrangement structure of the door.

[0175] As shown in the figure, the panel assembly 50 can be configured to have a size corresponding to the front size of the door body 40, and form the overall appearance of the front of the door 20 when installed on the door body 40.

[0176] The panel assembly 50 may include: a panel 51, which is plate-shaped and forms an appearance; a first bracket 53 and a second bracket 54, for fixing the upper and lower ends of the panel 51. Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 may also include: a magnet 52, capable of adhering to the back surface of the panel 51 and the front panel 41 of the door body 40.

[0177] In detail, the panel 51 can be formed from a quadrilateral plate-like material with a specified thickness, and can be formed from a material that can coordinate with the surrounding furniture, wall 0, or home appliances. For example, the panel 51 can be formed from glass. For example, the panel 51 can be formed from tempered glass, and the appearance of the door 20 can be formed using printing processes or film lamination to achieve color or patterns.

[0178] The panel 51 can be configured such that, when installed on the door body 40, its upper and lower ends are respectively supported by the first support end 428 and the second support end 445, and its two sides are able to support the size of the extended front end of the side frame 45.

[0179] Furthermore, a first bracket 53 and a second bracket 54 may be respectively provided at the upper and lower ends of the back surface of the panel 51. The first bracket 53 and the second bracket 54 may be configured to allow the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50 to be fixedly mounted on the door body 40.

[0180] The first bracket 53 and the second bracket 54 may extend along the upper and lower ends of the panel 51 and may have a length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 51. Furthermore, the first bracket 53 and the second bracket 54 may have a structure that allows them to be fastened to the first cap decoration 42 and the second cap decoration 44 respectively when the panel assembly 50 is installed.

[0181] Furthermore, magnets 52 can be provided at both ends of the panel 51. The magnets 52 can be attached to the back surface of the panel 51 using adhesive or magnetic force. The magnets 52 can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the panel 51. Moreover, with the magnets attached to the panel 51, when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40, the magnets 52 can be magnetically attached to the front panel 41. That is, the magnets 52 can be used to assist in the installation of the panel assembly 50.

[0182] The structure of the first bracket 53 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0183] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the first bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly. Furthermore, Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the connection structure at the upper end of the door.

[0184] As shown in the figure, the first bracket 53 can be mounted on the upper end of the panel 51 and can be formed to have a length corresponding to the lateral width of the panel 51. Since the first bracket 53 is disposed on the upper end of the panel 51, it can be referred to as the upper bracket. Furthermore, the first bracket 53 can be injection molded from plastic material and can include a planar upper adhesive portion 531, an upper rib 532 at the upper end of the upper adhesive portion 531, and an insertion protrusion 534 inserted into the insertion port 425. Additionally, the first bracket 53 can include an upper fastening protrusion 533 disposed on the upper adhesive portion 531.

[0185] In detail, the front surface of the upper adhesive portion 531 is formed into a planar shape and can be bonded to the upper end of the back surface of the panel 51. At this time, an adhesive can be applied to the front surface of the upper adhesive portion 531, and under the action of the adhesive, the first bracket 53 can be firmly fixed to the panel 51.

[0186] The first bracket 53 may have a predetermined vertical width, and an upper rib 532 is formed at the upper end of the upper adhesive portion 531. Below the upper rib 532, there is a width sufficient to accommodate the insertion protrusion 534 and the upper fastening protrusion 533. Furthermore, the upper end of the first bracket 53 is positioned adjacent to the upper end of the panel 51, but may be located slightly apart to avoid interference with the first support end 428.

[0187] The upper rib 532 can be formed along the upper end of the first bracket 53. Furthermore, the upper rib 532 can protrude rearward and contact the front surface of the first cap decoration 42. Thus, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be supported by the first cap decoration 42. And, with the upper rib 532 in contact with the front surface of the first cap decoration 42, the insertion protrusion can be inserted to its maximum extent into the inner side of the insertion port.

[0188] Furthermore, when the upper rib 532 is in contact with the front of the first cap decoration 42, it can be in an aligned state where the screw can be easily tightened due to the insertion of the upper fastening protrusion 533 into the upper fastening portion 424. For this purpose, a screw hole 533a for screw tightening can be formed on the upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion 533.

[0189] Additionally, a plurality of insertion protrusions 534 may be formed on the upper adhesive portion 531. A plurality of insertion protrusions 534 may be arranged at predetermined intervals along the upper adhesive portion 531. Furthermore, the plurality of insertion protrusions 534 may be formed at positions corresponding to the insertion port 425 and the constraint protrusion 434.

[0190] The insertion protrusion 534 can protrude vertically rearward from the rear of the upper adhesive portion 531. When the panel assembly 50 is installed, the rear end of the insertion protrusion 534 can extend so that it passes over the constraint protrusion 434 and is located further rearward.

[0191] Furthermore, the insertion protrusion 534 can be formed into a protrusion shape with a specified width and thickness, and a through-hole 534a is formed in its center for inserting the constraint protrusion 434. The through-hole 534a can be formed into a quadrilateral shape and can be formed into a size corresponding to the cross-section of the constraint protrusion 434. Thus, when the constraint protrusion 434 is inserted into the through-hole 534a, the panel assembly 50 can be firmly fixed without moving.

[0192] An inclined portion 534d may be formed at the upper rear end of the inner surface of the through opening 534a. The inclined portion 534d may be formed with an increasing rearward inclination as it approaches the top. This allows the constraint protrusion 434 to be easily guided into the inside of the through opening 534a during initial insertion. In particular, the inclined surface 434a formed at the lower end of the constraint protrusion 434 and the inclined portion 534d may have corresponding slopes. This allows the constraint protrusion 434 to contact each other during insertion, making it easier to introduce the constraint protrusion 434 into the inside of the through opening 534a. During the insertion of the constraint protrusion 434, the panel assembly 50 is pulled rearward, allowing it to fit more tightly against the front of the door body 40.

[0193] The lower part 534c of the insertion protrusion 534 can extend perpendicularly to the upper adhesive portion 531 and the panel 51, and the upper part 534b of the insertion protrusion 534 can be formed obliquely. That is, the vertical width of the insertion protrusion 534 can become narrower as it extends rearward, and the upper part 534b of the insertion protrusion 534 can become lower as it extends rearward.

[0194] Therefore, when the panel assembly 50 rotates around the second bracket 54 at its lower end for mounting on or separating from the door body 40, the insertion protrusion 534, with its relatively large radius of rotation, can be easily inserted into the inner side of the insertion port 425. That is, when the insertion protrusion 534 is initially inserted into the insertion port 425, it is prevented from colliding with the outer end of the insertion port 425. Furthermore, the lower surface 534c of the insertion protrusion 534 can contact and be supported by the lower end of the insertion port 425.

[0195] Additionally, the first bracket 53 may be located at the upper end of the panel 51, and the height from the upper end of the panel 51 to the first bracket 53 may be greater than the height from the upper end of the panel 51 to the seal 48.

[0196] Therefore, the first bracket 53 can be substantially located outside the seal 48, thus not affecting the thermal insulation performance of the storage space. That is, even if the front of the corresponding first cap trim 42 is tilted and recessed due to the installation of the first bracket 53, resulting in a relatively thinner structure, since the corresponding location is an area unaffected by cold air inside the refrigerator, not only will condensation not occur, but the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 will not be reduced. In other words, the first bracket 53 is disposed outside the seal 48 and can be located outside the thermal insulation area.

[0197] The structure of the second bracket 54 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0198] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the second bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly. Furthermore, Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the connection structure at the lower end of the door.

[0199] As shown in the figure, the second bracket 54 can be injection molded from plastic material and can be disposed at the lower end of the panel 51. Since the second bracket 54 is disposed at the lower end of the panel 51, it can be referred to as the lower bracket.

[0200] Furthermore, the second bracket 54 can be formed to extend in length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 51. Additionally, the vertical width of the second bracket 54 can be formed to have a vertical length sufficient to form the lower fastening protrusion 545.

[0201] The second bracket 54 can be locked and constrained on the second cap decoration 44. In addition, the second bracket 54 can fasten the screws passing through the second cap decoration 44 into the screw holes 545a of the lower fastening protrusion 545, thereby making the lower end of the panel assembly 50 more securely fixed to the door body 40.

[0202] In detail, the second bracket 54 may have a lower adhesive portion 541 that is mounted on the back surface of the panel 51. The lower adhesive portion 541 may be planar and may be adhered to the back surface of the panel 51 using an adhesive. With the lower adhesive portion 541 adhered to the back surface of the panel 51, the lower end of the second bracket 54 may be located at a position corresponding to the lower end of the panel 51.

[0203] Furthermore, a lower protrusion 543 may be formed behind the lower adhesive portion 541, protruding rearward from the lower adhesive portion 541. The lower protrusion 543 may extend from one side of the lower adhesive portion 541 to a position corresponding to the lower end of the lower adhesive portion 541.

[0204] A lower insertion portion 544 with an opening at its lower side may be formed on the lower surface of the lower protrusion 543. That is, the lower insertion portion 544 may be formed in a shape that is recessed upward from the lower surface of the second bracket 54, and may be formed to allow the restraining portion 445a of the second cap decoration 44 to be inserted. The lower insertion portion 544 may be formed over the entire lower surface of the second bracket 54.

[0205] Therefore, when the panel assembly 50 is installed in the correct position on the door body 40, the restraining part 445a can be inserted into the inner side of the lower insertion part 544 and fix the lower end of the panel assembly 50. The state in which the restraining part 445a is inserted into the lower insertion part 544 is the state before the screw is tightened, and when the panel assembly 50 is lifted, it will again reach a state where it can be separated, so this can be called the pre-fixed state.

[0206] Of course, under the weight of the panel assembly 50 itself, the lower end of the panel assembly 50 can remain in the state of being placed in the second support end 445. That is, the restraining part 445a will remain inserted into the lower insertion port 425, and the panel assembly 50 will not move when the insertion protrusion 534 is restrained by the restraining protrusion 434. Therefore, the panel assembly 50 can be kept firmly installed without tightening the screws.

[0207] Additionally, the second bracket 54 can be located at the lower end of the panel 51, and the height from the lower end of the panel 51 to the second bracket 54 can be lower than the height of the seal 48. In this case, the height of the seal 48 can be the height from the lower end of the panel 51 to the center of the seal mounting portion 481.

[0208] Therefore, the second bracket 54 can be substantially located outside the seal 48, thus not affecting the insulation performance of the storage space. That is, even if the front of the corresponding second cap trim 44 is recessed due to the installation of the second bracket 54, resulting in a relatively thinner structure, condensation will not occur at the corresponding location because it is not affected by the cold air inside the refrigerator, and the insulation performance of the door 20 will not be reduced. In other words, the second bracket 54 is also located outside the insulation area outside the seal 48, thereby preventing a reduction in the insulation performance of the door 20.

[0209] Hereinafter, the process of installing the panel assembly 50 on the door 20 of the refrigerator 1 having the structure described above will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0210] Figure 15 This diagram shows the panel assembly installed before the door body is installed. Furthermore, Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the constraint process at the lower end of the panel assembly. Furthermore, Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the constraint process at the upper end of the panel assembly. Furthermore, Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the state of the panel assembly after installation.

[0211] like Figure 15 As shown, the door 20 can be assembled by mounting the panel assembly 50 onto the door body 40. For this purpose, the panel assembly 50 is completed by mounting the first bracket 53 and the second bracket 54, as well as the panel fixing member 55, onto the panel 51. Furthermore, after assembling the panel assembly 50, the side frame 45, the first cap decoration 42, the second cap decoration 44, and the receiving member 46, a heat insulation member 49 is formed internally to complete the door body 40.

[0212] Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 can be configured for installation on the front of the assembled door body 40. In this case, the back surface of the panel assembly 50 faces the front of the door body 40, and the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is positioned above the second support end 445, thereby positioning the restraint portion 445a in a position where it can be inserted into the lower insertion portion 544.

[0213] In detail, the panel assembly 50 is moved from front to rear, thereby approaching the front of the door body 40, and at the same time, it is moved from top to bottom, thereby bringing the lower end of the panel assembly 50 closer to and placing it on the second support end 445.

[0214] like Figure 16As shown, the constraint portion 445a of the second support end 445 can be inserted into the inner side of the lower insertion portion 544, thereby constraining the lower end of the panel assembly 50. Thus, the panel assembly 50 can achieve a state where its downward movement is constrained by the constraint portion 445a.

[0215] As described above, after the user temporarily constrains the lower end of the panel assembly 50 to the door body 40, the user rotates the upper end of the panel assembly 50 to make it fit tightly against the first cap decoration 42.

[0216] With the lower end of the panel assembly 50 supported on the second support end 445 and pre-fixed, the user rotates the upper end of the panel assembly 50 to make it fit snugly against the front of the first cap decoration 42.

[0217] At this time, the insertion protrusion 534 at the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be inserted into the insertion port 425. When the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is fully rotated, the insertion protrusion 534 can be inserted into the inner side of the decorative element recess 420 through the insertion port 425.

[0218] During the rotation of the panel assembly 50, the magnet 52 can use magnetic force to adhere to the front panel 41, and the magnet 52 enables the panel assembly 50 to remain in contact with the front of the door body 40 until the panel assembly 50 is installed.

[0219] Furthermore, when the panel assembly 50 is fully rotated, its upper end can contact the first support end 428. Additionally, the panel assembly 50 can be accommodated in the space in front of the door body 40 formed by the first support end 428, the second support end 445, and the front ends of the left and right side frames 45.

[0220] Furthermore, when the panel assembly 50 is installed in the correct position, the upper fastening protrusion 533 and the upper fastening part 424 can be aligned, and screws can be fastened to the upper fastening part 424 inside the decorative part recess 420, thereby making the first bracket 53 and the first cap decorative part 42 more firmly connected.

[0221] Next, as Figure 17 As shown, the decorative cover 43 is installed to cover the open top of the decorative recess 420. The decorative cover 43 moves from top to bottom and is positioned on top of the open top of the decorative recess 420.

[0222] At this time, as the decorative cover 43 moves downward, the constraint protrusion 434 of the decorative cover 43 can be inserted so that it passes through the through-hole 534a of the insertion protrusion 534 inserted into the inside of the decorative recess 420.

[0223] When the decorative cover 43 is installed in the decorative recess 420, as Figure 12 As shown, the constraint protrusion 434 will penetrate the insertion protrusion 534, and the insertion protrusion 534 can achieve a state of mutual constraint with the constraint protrusion 434.

[0224] With the decorative cover 43 installed in the decorative recess 420, the decorative cover 43 can be securely fixed to the first cap decorative member 42 by tightening the decorative cover 43 fastening screws S. In the state described above, the panel assembly 50 can remain fastened to the front of the door body 40, as... Figure 18 As shown, the panel assembly 50 can be securely installed on the door body 40.

[0225] Alternatively, fastening screws can be used to secure the second cap decoration 44 to the second bracket 54 more firmly.

[0226] Alternatively, in order to separate the panel assembly 50 mounted on the door body 40, the aforementioned process can be performed in reverse order.

[0227] In particular, in order to separate the panel assembly 50, when the decorative cover 43 is separated, the decorative recess 420 will be exposed, and in the state described above, the user can put his hand into the decorative recess 420 to press the insertion protrusion 534.

[0228] By pressing the insertion protrusion 534, the panel assembly 50 will rotate about its lower end as an axis, since the panel assembly 50 is in a constrained state at its lower end. The insertion protrusion 534 can then escape the constrained portion 445a.

[0229] That is, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be rotated outward through the first support end 428, and in the state described above, the panel assembly 50 can be lifted to separate the panel assembly 50 from the door body 40.

[0230] Of course, during this process, if the screws are tightened on the first bracket 53 or the second bracket 54, the operation of removing the screws may also be performed.

[0231] In addition to the foregoing embodiments, the refrigerator of the present invention can also be implemented by various other embodiments. Another embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the panel constituting the panel assembly is formed of a metal material. Another embodiment of the present invention is identical to the foregoing embodiments in all respects except for the structure of the panel; the same reference numerals will be used for the same structural elements, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0232] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the rear of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0233] As shown in the figure, the refrigerator door 20 of another embodiment of the present invention may include a door body 40 and a panel assembly 50' installed on the front side of the door body 40.

[0234] The panel assembly 50' has a size corresponding to the front size of the door body 40, and when installed on the door body 40, it can form the overall appearance of the front of the door 20.

[0235] The panel assembly 50' may include: a panel 51, which is plate-shaped and forms an appearance; a first bracket 53 and a second bracket 54 for fixing the upper and lower ends of the panel 51. Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 may also include a magnet 52 for abutting the back surface of the panel 51' and the front surface of the door body 40 together.

[0236] In detail, the panel 51' may be formed of a quadrilateral plate-like material with a specified thickness, and may be formed of a material that can be coordinated with the surrounding furniture or wall O or home appliances.

[0237] As an example, the panel 51' can be formed from a sheet-like metal material such as stainless steel. Furthermore, the front surface of the panel 51' can be coated or laminated with a film to create color or pattern, thus shaping the appearance of the door 20.

[0238] Furthermore, the panel 51' may have a bend 511 formed along its periphery, thereby maintaining a stable supported state when installed on the door body 40 and preventing the cross-section of the panel 51' from being exposed to the outside. Thus, the bend 511 can be used to shape the appearance of the periphery of the panel 51'. Moreover, the bend 511 conceals the first bracket 53 and the second bracket 54, as well as the magnet 52, mounted on the back of the panel 51', thereby preventing them from being exposed to the periphery of the panel 51'.

[0239] Magnets 52 may be provided at the left and right ends of the panel 51'. The magnets 52 can be attached to the back surface of the panel 51' using adhesive or magnetic force. The magnets 52 can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the panel 51'. Furthermore, with the magnets attached to the panel 51', when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40, the magnets 52 can be magnetically attached to the front panel 51'. That is, the magnets 52 can be used to assist in the installation of the panel assembly 50.

[0240] The first bracket 53 may extend along the upper end of the panel 51' and may have a length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 51'. Furthermore, the first bracket 53 may have a structure that secures it to the first cap trim 42 and constrains the upper end of the panel assembly 50' when the panel assembly 50' is installed.

[0241] Furthermore, the second bracket 54 is disposed at the lower end of the panel 51' and may have a lateral length equal to the length of the left and right sides of the panel 51'. Additionally, a lower insertion portion 544 may be formed at the lower end of the second bracket 54 for inserting the restraining portion 445a of the second cap decoration 44. Thus, the lower end of the panel assembly 50' can be secured by inserting the restraining portion 445a into the bending opening 524.

[0242] In addition to the foregoing embodiments, the refrigerator of the present invention can also be implemented by various other embodiments. In another embodiment of the present invention, the panel of the panel assembly can be formed of FENIX material. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, all structural elements except the panel are the same as in the foregoing embodiments; the same reference numerals will be used for the same structural elements, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0243] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the back of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0244] As shown in the figure, in another embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator door 20 may include a door body 40 and a panel assembly 50 installed on the front of the door body 40.

[0245] The panel assembly 50” can be installed on the front of the door body 40 and form the front appearance of the door 20. The panel assembly 50” may include a panel 51” and a first bracket 53 and a second bracket 54. In addition, the panel assembly 50” may also include a magnet 52 attached to the front panel 41.

[0246] In detail, the panel 51 may be formed of a quadrilateral plate-like material with a specified thickness, and may be formed of a material that can be coordinated with the surrounding furniture or wall O or home appliances.

[0247] As an example, the panel 51” can be formed from FENIX material with a specified thickness. Furthermore, the front surface of the panel 51” can be patterned or treated with a surface finish such as a coating to achieve a textured appearance, thus shaping the appearance of the door 20. Of course, the panel 51” can also be formed from ceramics, tiles, composite materials, stone, etc., with a similar thickness but not from the FENIX material.

[0248] Furthermore, considering processability and strength for use in door 20, the panel 51” made of FENIX material will have a thickness of a predetermined thickness or greater. Thus, the thickness of the panel 51” can also be greater than that of the aforementioned glass or metal panels 51, 51'.

[0249] In this state, when the first bracket 53, the second bracket 54, and the magnet 52 are arranged on the back surface of the panel 51", the thickness of the panel assembly 50" will become too thick, thereby affecting the appearance of the door 20 or making it unsuitable for normal assembly structure. Therefore, a recessed panel mounting portion 512 can be formed on the rear periphery of the panel 51".

[0250] In detail, on the rear side of the panel 51", the central portion 513 of the rear side protrudes rearward and may have a panel mounting portion 512 recessed along the periphery of the central portion 513. The panel 51" may be formed as a plate having the same thickness as the central portion 513 and may have the panel mounting portion 512 recessed along the periphery of the rear side by machining the panel mounting portion 512.

[0251] The panel mounting portion 512 can be formed with a predetermined width to accommodate the first bracket 53, the second bracket 54, and the magnet 52. Furthermore, the panel mounting portion 512 can have a predetermined thickness so that, when the panel assembly 50 is installed, the first bracket 53 and the second bracket 54 can be attached to the first cap trim 42 and the second cap trim 44 as described in the previous embodiments, and the magnet is attached to the front panel 41.

[0252] That is, the panel mounting portion 512 can be formed in a stepped manner with the central portion 513 and has a thinner thickness than the central portion 513, so as to arrange the first bracket 53, the second bracket 54 and the magnet 52.

[0253] Depending on the needs, the panel mounting portion 512 may not be formed in a stepped shape, but rather the area where the first bracket 53, the second bracket 54, and the magnet 52 are mounted may be recessed in the corresponding shape.

[0254] Furthermore, magnets 52 can be provided at the left and right ends of the panel 51". The magnets 52 can be attached to the back surface of the panel 51" using adhesive or magnetic force. The magnets 52 can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the panel 51". Moreover, with the magnets attached to the panel 51", when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40, the magnets 52 can be magnetically attached to the front panel 51". That is, the magnets 52 can be used to assist in the installation of the panel assembly 50".

[0255] The first bracket 53 may extend along the upper end of the panel 51” and may have a length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 51”. In addition, the first bracket 53 may have a structure that fastens to the first cap decoration 42 to constrain the upper end of the panel assembly 50” when the panel assembly 50” is installed.

[0256] Furthermore, the second bracket 54 is disposed at the lower end of the panel 51” and may have a lateral length equal to the length of the left and right sides of the panel 51”. Additionally, a lower insertion portion 544 may be formed at the lower end of the second bracket 54 for inserting the restraining portion 445a of the second cap decoration 44. Thus, the lower end of the panel assembly 50” can be fixed by inserting the restraining portion 445a into the bending opening 524.

[0257] In addition to the aforementioned embodiments, the refrigerator of the present invention can also be implemented by a variety of other embodiments.

[0258] Another embodiment of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0259] Figure 21 This is a perspective view showing a refrigerator with another embodiment of the present invention installed. Furthermore, Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the refrigerator.

[0260] As shown in the figure, the refrigerator 1 of the present invention can be formed by a cabinet 10 that forms a storage space with an opening at the front and doors 20 and 30 for opening and closing the storage space to form an overall appearance.

[0261] Furthermore, the refrigerator 1 can be installed in a way that harmonizes with the furniture or walls of the interior space. For example, such as... Figure 21As shown, the refrigerator 1 can be installed in an indoor space such as a kitchen, and can be arranged in a way that is adjacent to and coordinated with furniture or walls O. That is, space corresponding to the size of the refrigerator 1 can be provided in furniture or walls O, and the refrigerator 1 can be accommodated or arranged in a built-in manner.

[0262] Furthermore, other refrigerators 1' can also be arranged side by side continuously on the side of the refrigerator 1. That is, furniture or walls can be used to provide space for arranging a plurality of refrigerators 1, 1'.

[0263] Multiple refrigerators 1, 1' can also have the same structure, and refrigerators 1, 1' with diverse structures can be combined and arranged as needed. As an example, such as... Figure 21 As shown, the door 20 of the refrigerator 1 on the right side can be arranged vertically. That is, the refrigerator 1 on the right side can be configured with a door 20 that opens and closes by rotation at the top and a door 30 that opens and closes by sliding at the bottom. Furthermore, the refrigerator 1' arranged side-by-side on the left side can be configured such that its upper storage space is opened and closed by a pair of doors 20a and 20b, and its lower storage space is opened and closed by a pair of doors 20c. Moreover, the doors 20a, 20b, and 20c can be configured to open and close by rotation; these doors 20a, 20b, and 20c can be referred to as French doors.

[0264] Furthermore, the doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c of both the left and right refrigerators 1' can be fitted with identical panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d. These panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d form the front of the doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c, thus creating the appearance of the refrigerators 1' when viewed from the front. Of course, one of the doors 20b of the left refrigerator 1' can have a different appearance and can also be configured to have an interior view. The remaining doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c, except for the door 20b which performs a specific function as described above, can all have the same appearance.

[0265] That is, panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d, which have the same structure but differ only in size, can be installed on the doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c of the refrigerators 1 and 1'. Thus, even if a plurality of refrigerators 1 are arranged, they can form an appearance with the same color and texture. Of course, the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d can also be made of materials with different colors or textures as needed.

[0266] Furthermore, the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d may also have a detachable structure, thereby allowing for the selection and installation of panel assemblies with appropriate appearances depending on the environment in which the refrigerators 1 and 1' are installed.

[0267] When the refrigerator 1 is installed on furniture or wall O, the appearance of the refrigerator 1 can also be formed of a material with the same material or texture as the furniture or wall O, so that the appearance of the adjacent furniture or wall O and the refrigerator have a sense of unity. Of course, even if the appearance of the refrigerator 1 and the furniture or wall O do not have a sense of unity, it is preferably formed of a material that can be coordinated with it.

[0268] Furthermore, the refrigerator 1 is arranged adjacent to the neighboring refrigerator 1', furniture or wall O, and is arranged close to the neighboring refrigerator 1', furniture or wall O within a range that does not interfere with the opening and closing of the doors 20, 30.

[0269] The structure and mounting structure of the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d of the present invention can be identical in both the left-side refrigerator 1' and the right-side refrigerator 1. Therefore, to avoid repetition in the description, Figure 21 Based on refrigerator 1 on the right in refrigerator 1 and 1', its structure will be described in more detail.

[0270] The refrigerator 1 can be formed by the cabinet 10 and the doors 20 and 30. Furthermore, the cabinet 10 can form vertically divided storage spaces. Additionally, the doors 20 and 30 for opening and closing the storage spaces can be arranged continuously along the vertical direction.

[0271] The upper storage space can be equipped with an upper door 20, and the lower storage space can be equipped with a lower door 30. The upper door 20 can be rotated to open and close the upper storage space. Therefore, the upper door 20 can be called a revolving door. In addition, the lower door 30 can be introduced and led out in a drawer-like manner to open and close the lower storage space, and the lower door 30 can be called a drawer door.

[0272] The lower section 30 can be arranged in two places, one above the other. The storage space below the opening and closing of the lower section 30 can be a single space, or it can be divided into spaces to accommodate each of the lower sections 30.

[0273] Furthermore, the front appearance of the upper section 20 and the lower section 30 can be formed by panel assemblies 50, 50a, and 50b. The panel assemblies 50, 50a, and 50b respectively provided on the upper section 20 and the lower section 30 differ only in size but can have the same appearance.

[0274] For ease of explanation and understanding, the panel assembly 50 and its mounting structure will be described below with reference to the upper part 20. Furthermore, the upper part 20 may be referred to as door 20 below.

[0275] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view of the refrigerator door. Furthermore, Figure 24 This is an exploded perspective view showing the main body of the door, which is part of the door's arrangement structure, as viewed from the front. Furthermore, Figure 25 This is an exploded perspective view showing the disassembled main body of the door as seen from the rear.

[0276] As shown in the figure, the door 20 may include: a door body 40, filled with a heat insulation component ( Figure 36 (400 in the middle), and substantially open and close the storage space; panel assembly 50, installed on the door body 40.

[0277] The door body 40 may have a specified thickness and be internally filled with a heat insulation element 400 to insulate the storage space. Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 may be installed on the front of the door body 40 to form the front appearance of the door 20 and the refrigerator 1. The panel assembly 50 may be installed on the door body 40 in a manner that allows for easy installation and removal, and the panel assembly 50 may have a structure that allows for easy installation and removal even when the door 20 is installed in the cabinet 10.

[0278] Therefore, the panel assembly 50 can be installed with the appearance of the furniture or wall O in mind, and the panel assembly 50 with the appearance design required by the user can also be installed or replaced as needed.

[0279] The structure of the door body 40 is described as follows: the door body 40 may generally include a front panel 141 and a side frame 145, an upper cap decorative piece 142, a lower cap decorative piece 144, a door liner 147, and a sealing piece 148. Furthermore, a heat insulation piece 400 may be filled inside the door body 40.

[0280] In detail, the front panel 141 forms the front surface of the door body 40 and can be formed in a plate shape. The front panel 141 can be formed of steel and forms a surface facing the rear surface of the panel assembly 50.

[0281] In addition, a plurality of screw holes 1414 may be formed along the periphery of the front plate 141. Screws fastened to the upper cap trim 142, the lower cap trim 144, and the side frames 145 on both sides can be fastened in the screw holes 1414.

[0282] The upper cap decorative member 142 and the lower cap decorative member 144 are respectively disposed at the upper and lower ends of the front panel 141, thereby forming the upper and lower surfaces of the door body 40. In addition, the side frames 145 are attached to the left and right ends of the front panel 141, and the upper and lower ends of the side frames 145 can be connected to the upper cap decorative member 142 and the lower cap decorative member 144 respectively.

[0283] The door liner 147 can be attached to the rear surface of the upper cap trim 142, the lower cap trim 144, and the side frame 145. The door liner 147 can be formed as a plate and form the rear surface of the door body 40. The door liner 147 can be formed of plastic material and can be vacuum-formed to form the shape of the back surface of the door body 40.

[0284] A sealing groove 1471 can be formed on the periphery of the back surface of the door liner 147, and a sealing element 148 can be arranged along the sealing groove 1471. The sealing element 148 can contact the periphery of the housing 10 when the door 20 is closed, thereby sealing the storage space.

[0285] The main structural elements constituting the door body 40 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0286] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of the upper cap decorative element, which is part of the arrangement structure of the main body of the door. Figure 27 It is along Figure 26 A three-dimensional view cut along the XXVII-XXVII' line.

[0287] As shown in the figure, the upper cap decorative piece 142 can form the upper part of the door 20, and in the assembled state, it forms the upper surface of the door 20 exposed to the outside. Furthermore, the upper cap decorative piece 142 can be configured to support the upper ends of the front panel 141, the door lining 147, and the side frame 145.

[0288] In detail, the upper cap decorative element 142 may be formed of plastic material and may include a front 1421a, a rear 1423, and two side panels 1426. The front panel 141 may be attached to the front 1421a, the door lining 147 may be attached to the rear 1423, and the side frames 145 may be attached to the left and right side panels 1426 respectively.

[0289] Furthermore, the upper cap decorative member 142 may have a recessed space 1420 with an opening on its surface, through which screws can be fastened to the upper end of the panel assembly 50. Additionally, a printed circuit board for controlling electrical components provided on the door 20 may be accommodated inside the recessed space 1420. Furthermore, the recessed space 1420 may extend to the lower end of the upper cap decorative member 142, allowing the rear end 1423 to be formed into a planar shape during injection molding. Moreover, the open surface of the recessed space 1420 can be concealed by a decorative cover 143. That is, the decorative cover 143 can form most of the appearance of the door 20.

[0290] A plurality of screw holes 1431 may be formed along the decorative cover 143. Furthermore, an upwardly extending cover support protrusion 1425 may be formed inside the recessed space 1420 corresponding to the screw holes 1431. The cover support protrusion 1425 may be formed at a position corresponding to the screw holes 1431 and may extend to support the decorative cover 143 from below when it is installed. Additionally, screws passing through the screw holes 1431 may be fastened to the upper surface of the cover support protrusion 1425, thereby securing the decorative cover 143.

[0291] Furthermore, an upper fastening portion 1424 may be formed on the inner side of the recessed space 1420 for fastening the upper fastening member 1424d, which is to be combined with the upper bracket 153 described in detail below, to the upper fastening portion 1424. The upper fastening portion 1424 may be formed at a position corresponding to the upper fastening protrusion 1533 protruding from the upper bracket 153. As an example, a pair of upper fastening portions 1424 may be formed on each of the left and right sides with reference to the center of the upper cap decoration 142, so that a total of four upper fastening portions are formed at positions spaced apart from each other. That is, one upper fastening portion 1424 may be formed at each of the two ends of the upper cap decoration 142, and another one may be formed on the inner side spaced apart from the two ends.

[0292] The upper fastening portion 1424 may include: an upper extension portion 1424a extending along the front side of the recessed space 1420; an upper inclined surface 1424b formed at the upper end of the upper extension portion 1424a; and an upper screw hole 1424c formed on the upper inclined surface 1424b.

[0293] The upper extension 1424a is formed by a recess in a portion of the front end 1421a, thereby accommodating the upper fastening protrusion 1533, and can protrude from the inside of the recessed space 1420. Furthermore, the upper extension 1424a can extend upwards and can extend to a position lower than the decorative cover 143. For example, the upper extension 1424a can be formed at the same height as or slightly lower than the height of the cover support protrusion 1425. Thus, with the decorative cover 143 open, the upper fastening member 1424d can be easily fastened via the screw hole 1424c formed on the upper extension 1424a. For example, the upper fastening member 1424d can be a screw.

[0294] An upwardly inclined surface 1424b may be formed on the upper surface of the upper extension 1424a. The upwardly inclined surface 1424b may be formed such that its rear end slopes downwards compared to its front end. Furthermore, an upper screw hole 1424c for fastening the upper fastening member 1424d may be formed on the upwardly inclined surface 1424b. Thus, when assembling the door 20, with the door 20 positioned so that its rear face faces the bottom, space for fastening the upper fastening member 1424d is easily ensured by the recessed space 1420.

[0295] Furthermore, the front surface of the cap decoration 142 can be shaped such that its lower part protrudes further rearward than its upper part. Additionally, an upper plate joining portion 1421a supporting the front plate 141 from the rear can be formed on the front surface of the cap decoration 142. The upper plate joining portion 1421a can extend from the left end to the right end of the cap decoration 142 and can be formed as a plurality of ribs and grooves continuously arranged vertically at predetermined intervals. Furthermore, the upper plate joining portion 1421a and the cap decoration 142 can be joined using screws. Moreover, when foaming liquid is injected under the cap decoration 142 for molding the heat insulation member 400, the foaming liquid fills the grooves of the upper plate joining portion 1421a, enabling the cap decoration 142 and the rear surface of the front plate 141 to be joined. Furthermore, the upper plate joining portion 1421a can be formed extending beyond the lower end of the upper extension portion 1424a.

[0296] Furthermore, an upper support end 1422 protruding forward may be formed at the upper front surface of the upper cap decorative member 142. The upper support end 1422 protrudes forward and supports the upper end of the panel assembly 50. The protruding length of the upper support end 1422 may be shorter than the thickness of the panel assembly 50, thereby preventing the upper support end 1422 from protruding forward of the panel assembly 50 when the panel assembly 50 is installed. Thus, when viewed from the front, the upper panel assembly 50 can be fully exposed, and the upper support end 1422 can be prevented from being excessively exposed.

[0297] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the lower cap decorative element, which is part of the arrangement structure of the main body of the door.

[0298] As shown in the figure, the lower cap decorative member 144 can be formed of plastic material, forming the lower part of the door body 40 and shaping its lower appearance. The lower cap decorative member 144 can generally include a bottom 1441, a front 1442, a rear 1444, and two side panels 1443. Furthermore, the lower cap decorative member 144 can form an open space 1440 on its upper surface, and the heat insulation member 400 can be filled inside this space.

[0299] The front panel 1442 can support the lower end of the front panel 141 from the rear. Furthermore, the two side panels 1443 can support the lower end of the side frame 145 from the inside. Additionally, the rear panel 1444 can support the lower end of the door liner 147 from the front.

[0300] As described above, by utilizing the front panel 141 and side frame 145 and door liner 147 combined with the front 1442, two sides 1443 and rear 1444 of the lower cap trim 144, an enclosed space 1440 can be formed inside, and the heat insulation 400 can be filled inside the space 1440.

[0301] A lower plate joint portion 1442a, which supports the front plate 141 from the rear, may be formed on the front surface of the lower cap decorative member 144. The lower plate joint portion 1442a may extend from the left end to the right end of the front, protrude slightly forward, and support the front plate 141 from the rear. In addition, a plurality of screws passing through the front plate 141 may be fastened.

[0302] A forward-extending lower support end 1445 may be formed at the lower end of the front 1442 of the lower cap decoration 144. The lower support end 1445 may also be extended so that the lower part 1441 of the lower cap decoration 144 passes through the lower end of the front 1442 of the lower cap decoration 144.

[0303] The lower support end 1445 can protrude to support the lower end of the panel assembly 50, and the protruding length of the lower support end 1445 can be shorter than the thickness of the panel assembly 50. Thus, when viewed from the front, the exposure of the lower support end 1445 is minimized, so that the entire front of the door 20 can be considered to be composed of the panel assembly 50.

[0304] Additionally, an upwardly protruding lower protrusion 1445a may be formed at the lower end of the lower support end 1445. The lower protrusion 1445a is inserted into the lower bracket 154, which will be described below, and is able to constrain the lower end of the panel assembly 50.

[0305] The lower protrusions 1445a can be formed in a plurality of units at predetermined intervals along the lower support end 1445. Furthermore, the lower protrusions 1445a can be spaced apart from the front of the lower cap decorative member 144. An opening 1445c can be formed in the lower support end 1445 between the lower protrusions 1445a and the front end 1442. During the injection molding of the lower cap decorative member 144, the lower protrusions 1445a can be formed using the opening 1445c.

[0306] Furthermore, a plurality of lower fastening holes 1445b may be formed on the lower support end 1445. The lower fastening holes 1445b allow the lower fastening member 1545b, which is fastened from below through the lower support end 1445, to pass through. The lower fastening member 1545b passes through the lower fastening holes 1445b and is fastened to the lower bracket 154, thereby securely fixing the lower end of the panel assembly 50 mounted on the lower support end 1445.

[0307] Figure 29 This is a perspective view of the side frame, which is part of the arrangement structure of the main body of the door.

[0308] As shown in the figure, the side frame 145 connects the upper cap decorative piece 142 and the lower cap decorative piece 144, and also connects the front panel 141 and the door lining 147. Furthermore, the side frame 145 can form both sides of the door body 40.

[0309] The side frame 145 can be elongated along the vertical direction and can be formed by pressing out a metal material. For example, the side frame 145 can be formed of aluminum. Thus, the side frame 145 can give the side appearance of the door 20 a more upscale look. Furthermore, the side frame 145 can enhance the strength of the door 20 to prevent deformation.

[0310] The side frames 145 on both sides can be formed with the same shape and can be arranged facing each other. That is, the side frames 145 on both sides can be formed symmetrically with reference to the center of the door body 40. Therefore, in order to avoid repetition, the side frame 145 on one of the left and right sides will be described.

[0311] The structure of the side frame 145 will be described in more detail. The side frame 145 may include a frame side 1451, a frame front 1452, and a frame rear 1458.

[0312] In detail, the frame side 1451 can form a surface exposed to the side of the door body 40 and is formed into a planar shape. The upper end of the frame side 1451 can contact the upper cap decoration 142, and the lower end of the frame side 1451 can contact the lower cap decoration 144.

[0313] Furthermore, the front end 1452 of the frame can extend inward from the front end of the side end 1451 of the frame. The front end 1452 of the frame can be formed to support the left and right ends of the front plate 141. The front end 1452 of the frame can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the side frame 145 and can be formed perpendicular to the side end 1451 of the frame.

[0314] The panel assembly 50 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0315] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the panel assembly, which is part of the arrangement structure of the door, viewed from the rear. Figure 31 This is an exploded perspective view of the panel assembly.

[0316] As shown in the figure, the panel assembly 50 can be configured to have a size corresponding to the front size of the door body 40, and form the overall appearance of the front of the door 20 when installed on the door body 40.

[0317] The panel assembly 50 may include: a panel 152, which is plate-shaped and forms an appearance; an upper bracket 153 and a lower bracket 154 for fixing the upper and lower ends of the panel 152. Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 may also include: a magnet 156 for bringing the back surface of the panel 152 and the front surface of the door body 40 into contact with each other.

[0318] In detail, the panel 152 may be formed of a quadrilateral plate-like material with a specified thickness, and may be formed of a material that can be coordinated with the surrounding furniture or wall or home appliances.

[0319] As an example, the panel 152 can be formed from a sheet-like metal material such as stainless steel. Furthermore, the front surface of the panel 152 can be printed, coated, or laminated with a film to have color or pattern, thus shaping the appearance of the door 20.

[0320] Furthermore, the panel 152 may have bends 1521, 1522, and 1523 formed along its periphery, thereby maintaining a stable support state when installed on the door body 40 and preventing the cross-section of the panel 152 from being exposed to the outside. Thus, the bends 1521, 1522, and 1523 can be used to shape the appearance of the periphery of the panel 152. Moreover, when installing the panel assembly 50, it can be arranged in a manner that contacts or is adjacent to the upper support end 1422 of the upper cap trim 142, the lower support end 1445 of the lower cap trim 144, and the side support end 1451a of the side frame 145. Furthermore, the extension length of the bends 1521, 1522, and 1523, i.e., the thickness of the periphery of the panel 152, can be greater than the protrusion height of the upper support end 1422, the lower support end 1445, and the side support end 1451a. Therefore, when viewed from the front, the entire front appearance of the door 20 can be observed through the panel 152, and the upper support end 1422, the lower support end 1445, and the side support end 1451a can be prevented from protruding outwards.

[0321] The bending portions 1521, 1522, and 1523 may include: an upper bending portion 1521 formed at the upper periphery of the panel 152; a side bending portion 1522 formed at the left and right sides of the periphery of the panel 152; and a lower bending portion 1523 formed at the lower periphery of the panel 152.

[0322] In detail, the upper bending portion 1521 may include: a first bending portion 1521a, bending rearward from the upper end of the panel 152; and a second bending portion 1521b, bending downward from the extended end of the first bending portion 1521a. Thus, when installing the panel assembly 50, the second bending portion 1521b prevents the sharp end of the panel 152 from directly contacting the upper cap decorative member 142, thereby preventing damage to the upper cap decorative member 142.

[0323] The side bending portion 1522 can be bent backward from the left and right sides of the panel 152, and can protrude backward at the same height as the upper bending portion 1521 and the lower bending portion 1523.

[0324] The lower bend 1523 can be formed by bending rearward from the lower end of the panel 152. Furthermore, the lower bend 1523 may have a bend opening 1524 for inserting the lower protrusion 1445a. The bend opening 1524 is formed along the lower bend 1523, and a plurality of them may be formed at positions corresponding to a plurality of the lower protrusions 1445a protruding from the lower support end 1445. Additionally, the lower bend 1523 may also have bend screw holes 1525. These bend screw holes 1525 are holes through which lower fastening members 1545b fastened to the lower bracket 154 pass, and a plurality of them may be formed at positions corresponding to the lower fastening protrusions 1545 of the lower bracket 154.

[0325] Furthermore, an upper bracket 153 and a lower bracket 154 may be respectively provided at the upper and lower ends of the back surface of the panel 152. The upper bracket 153 and the lower bracket 154 may be configured such that the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50 can be fixedly mounted on the door body 40.

[0326] The upper bracket 153 and the lower bracket 154 can extend along the upper and lower ends of the panel 152, and can have a length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 152. Furthermore, the upper bracket 153 and the lower bracket 154 can have a structure that allows them to be fastened to the upper cap decoration 142 and the lower cap decoration 144 respectively when the panel assembly 50 is installed.

[0327] Furthermore, magnets 156 can be provided at both ends of the panel 152. The magnets 156 can be attached to the back surface of the panel 152 using adhesive or magnetic force. The magnets 156 can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the panel 152. Moreover, with the magnets attached to the panel 152, when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40, the magnets 156 can be magnetically attached to the front panel 152. That is, the magnets 156 can be used to assist in the installation of the panel assembly 50.

[0328] The structure of the upper bracket 153 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0329] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the upper bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly. Furthermore, Figure 33 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along line XXXIII-XXXIII'. Furthermore, Figure 34 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along the XXXIV-XXXIV' line.

[0330] As shown in the figure, the upper bracket 153 can be installed on the upper end of the panel 152 and can have a length corresponding to the lateral width of the panel 152. Furthermore, the upper bracket 153 may include: an upper adhesive portion 1531, which is planar and injection molded from plastic material; an upper rib 1532 formed on the upper end of the upper adhesive portion 1531; and an upper fastening protrusion 1533 disposed on the upper adhesive portion 1531.

[0331] In detail, the front surface of the upper adhesive portion 1531 is formed into a planar shape and can be bonded to the upper end of the back surface of the panel 152. At this time, an adhesive can be applied to the front surface of the upper adhesive portion 1531, and under the action of the adhesive, the upper bracket 153 can be firmly fixed to the panel 152.

[0332] The upper bracket 153 may have a predetermined vertical width, and an upper rib 1532 is formed at the upper end of the upper adhesive portion 1531. Below the upper rib 1532, there is a width sufficient to accommodate the upper fastening protrusion 1533. Furthermore, the upper end of the upper bracket 153 is positioned adjacent to the upper end of the panel 152, but may be located slightly apart to avoid interference with the upper support end 1422.

[0333] The upper rib 1532 can be formed along the upper end of the upper bracket 153. Furthermore, the upper rib 1532 can protrude rearward and contact the front of the upper cap decorative member 142. Thus, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be supported by the upper cap decorative member 142. And, with the upper rib 1532 in contact with the front of the upper cap decorative member 142, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 and the upper fastening portion 1424 contact each other, thereby also guiding the upper fastening member 1424d to be easily fastened.

[0334] Furthermore, a reinforcing portion 1532a may be formed on the lower side of the upper rib 1532 to connect the upper rib 1532 and the upper bonding portion 1531. The reinforcing portion 1532a may be formed continuously along the upper rib 1532 at predetermined intervals.

[0335] The upper fastening protrusion 1533 can be formed rearwardly from the rear of the upper adhesive portion 1531 and protrudes from a position corresponding to the upper fastening portion 1424 of the upper cap decorative member 142. The upper fastening protrusion 1533 can protrude further rearward than the upper rib 1532 and is configured to contact the upper fastening portion 1424 when the panel assembly 50 is installed.

[0336] In detail, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 can protrude obliquely rearward and upward from the upper adhesive portion 1531. In addition, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 can be formed such that its cross-sectional area decreases as it moves rearward from the upper adhesive portion 1531.

[0337] Furthermore, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 can be inserted into the inner side of the upper extension 1424a formed on the front surface of the upper cap decoration 142 when the panel assembly 50 is attached. That is, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 can be formed corresponding to the shape of the recess in the upper extension 1424a.

[0338] An inclined protrusion 1533a may be formed on the upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion 1533. The inclined protrusion 1533a may have a downward slope that decreases towards the rear. Furthermore, the inclined protrusion 1533a may have a slope corresponding to that of the upper inclined surface 1424b. Thus, when the panel assembly 50 is accurately mounted on the front of the door body 40, the inclined protrusion 1533a and the upper inclined surface 1424b can be in close contact with each other.

[0339] Furthermore, the screw hole 1533b can be formed on the raised inclined surface 1533a. An upper fastening member 1424d, which passes through the upper fastening portion 1424, can be fastened to the screw hole 1533b. Therefore, when the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is positioned at the front of the door body 40, when the upper fastening member 1424d is fastened to pass through the upper fastening portion 1424, the upper fastening member 1424d will be fastened to the screw hole 1533b of the upper fastening protrusion 1533, and the raised inclined surface 1533a and the upper inclined surface 1424b can be brought into close contact with each other. In this state, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be securely fixed to the door body 40.

[0340] Furthermore, an abutment portion 1533c may be formed on the upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion 1533. The abutment portion 1533c may be formed obliquely on the upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion 1533. Specifically, the abutment portion 1533c may be formed obliquely downwards from the rear end of the inclined surface 1533a of the protrusion. In this case, the obliqueness of the abutment portion 1533c may have a greater inclination than the inclined surface 1533a of the protrusion, thereby preventing interference between the protruding portion of the upper cap decorative member 142 and the protruding portion of the upper fastening member 1424d when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40.

[0341] Additionally, the upper bracket 153 may be located at the upper end of the panel 152, and the height from the upper end of the panel 152 to the upper bracket 153 may be greater than the height from the upper end of the panel 152 to the seal 148.

[0342] Therefore, the upper bracket 153 can be substantially located outside the seal 148, thus not affecting the thermal insulation performance of the storage space. That is, even if the front of the corresponding upper cap trim 142 is tilted and recessed due to the installation of the upper bracket 153, resulting in a relatively thinner structure, condensation will not occur at the corresponding location because it is not affected by the cold air inside the refrigerator, and the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 will not be reduced. In other words, the upper bracket 153 can be configured outside the seal 148 and located outside the thermal insulation area.

[0343] The structure of the lower bracket 154 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0344] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the lower bracket, which is part of the arrangement structure of the panel assembly. Furthermore, Figure 36 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along the XXXVI-XXXVI' line. Furthermore, Figure 37 It is along Figure 22 A three-dimensional view cut along line XXXVII-XXXVII'.

[0345] As shown in the figure, the lower bracket 154 can be injection molded from plastic material and can be disposed at the lower end of the panel 152. Furthermore, the lower bracket 154 can be formed to extend in length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 152. Additionally, the vertical width of the lower bracket 154 can be formed to have a vertical length sufficient to form at least the lower fastening protrusion 1545.

[0346] The lower bracket 154 can lock and constrain the lower cap trim 144, and fasten the lower fastening member 1545b passing through the lower cap trim 144, thereby firmly fixing the lower end of the panel assembly 50 to the door body 40. As an example, the lower fastening member 1545b can be a screw.

[0347] In detail, the lower bracket 154 may have a lower adhesive portion 1541 that is mounted on the back surface of the panel 152. The lower adhesive portion 1541 may be planar in shape and may be adhered to the back surface of the panel 152 using an adhesive. With the lower adhesive portion 1541 adhered to the back surface of the panel 152, the lower end of the lower bracket 154 may be located at a position corresponding to the lower end of the panel 152.

[0348] Furthermore, a lower protrusion 1543 may be formed behind the lower adhesive portion 1541, protruding rearward from the lower adhesive portion 1541. The lower protrusion 1543 may extend from one side of the lower adhesive portion 1541 to a position corresponding to the lower end of the lower adhesive portion 1541.

[0349] A lower insertion portion 1544 with an opening on its lower side can be formed on the lower surface of the lower protrusion 1543. That is, the lower insertion portion 1544 can be formed in a shape that is recessed upward from the lower surface of the lower bracket 154, and can be formed to allow the lower protrusion 1445a of the lower cap decorative member 144 to be inserted. The lower insertion portion 1544 can be formed over the entire lower surface of the lower bracket 154. Furthermore, the lower insertion portion 1544 can be formed facing each other with the bend opening 1524 formed on the lower bend portion 1523 of the panel 152.

[0350] Therefore, when the panel assembly 50 is installed in the correct position on the door body 40, the lower protrusion 1445a can pass through the bend opening 1524 and be inserted into the inner side of the lower insertion portion 1544, thus fixing the lower end of the panel assembly 50. The state in which the lower protrusion 1445a is inserted into the bend opening 1524 and the lower insertion portion 1544 is the state before the fastening members 424d and 545b are fastened. When the panel assembly 50 is lifted, it will again reach a state where it can be separated, so this can be called the pre-fixed state.

[0351] Additionally, a lower fastening protrusion 1545 may be formed on the lower adhesive portion 1541. The lower fastening protrusion 1545 may protrude from the rear of the lower adhesive portion 1541 and may extend from the lower end of the lower bracket 154 to the upper end.

[0352] Furthermore, a screw hole 1545a may be formed on the lower surface of the lower fastening protrusion 1545. The lower fastening protrusion 1545 extends downward through the lower protrusion 1543. Therefore, the screw hole 1545a formed on the lower surface of the lower fastening protrusion 1545 can be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the open lower surface of the lower insertion portion 1544.

[0353] The screw hole 1545a can be formed at a position corresponding to the screw hole 1445b formed on the lower cap decorative member 144 and the bent portion screw hole 1525 formed on the lower bent portion 1523. Therefore, the lower fastening protrusion 1545 can be formed at positions corresponding to the bent portion screw hole 1525 and the screw hole 1445b, and in corresponding numbers. As an example, one lower fastening protrusion 1545 can be formed in the center and one on each of the left and right sides of the lower bracket 154, thus forming a total of three.

[0354] With the panel assembly 50 installed on the door body 40 such that the lower protrusion 1445a is inserted into the bend opening 1524 and the lower insertion portion 1544, the screw holes 1445b, 1525, and 1545a of the lower cap decorative member 144 can be aligned with each other. Furthermore, in the state described above, when the screw 1545b is tightened to pass through the screw holes 1445b and 1525 of the lower cap decorative member 144, the screw 1545b will be secured to the screw hole 1545a of the lower bracket 154, thereby securing the lower end of the panel assembly 50 firmly to the lower bracket 154.

[0355] Additionally, the lower bracket 154 can be located at the lower end of the panel 152, and the height h1 from the lower end of the panel 152 to the lower bracket 154 can be lower than the height h2 of the seal 148. In this case, the height of the seal 148 can be the height from the lower end of the panel 152 to the center of the seal mounting portion 1481.

[0356] Therefore, the lower bracket 154 can be substantially located outside the seal 148, thus not affecting the thermal insulation performance of the storage space. That is, even if the front of the corresponding lower cap trim 144 is recessed due to the installation of the lower bracket 154, resulting in a relatively thinner structure, condensation will not occur at the corresponding location because it is not affected by the cold air inside the refrigerator, and the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 will not be reduced. In other words, the lower bracket 154 is also located outside the thermal insulation area outside the seal 148, thereby preventing a reduction in the thermal insulation performance of the door 20.

[0357] The arrangement of the magnet 156 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0358] Figure 38 It is along Figure 22 A sectional view taken along line XXXVIII-XXXVIII'.

[0359] As shown in the figure, a magnet 156 for assisting in the installation of the panel assembly 50 may be provided on the rear side of the panel 152. The magnet 156 may be elongated in the vertical direction and may extend along the left and right ends of the panel 152 in the vertical direction.

[0360] One side of the magnet 156 can be bonded to the back surface of the panel 152, and the other side can be magnetically attached to the front panel 141 when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40.

[0361] Additionally, the magnet 156 can be disposed on the side portions 511 on both sides of the front panel 141. Therefore, the thickness of the magnet 156 can be formed corresponding to the distance between the back surface of the panel 152 and the front surface of the front panel 141, i.e., the side portion 511, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted.

[0362] Under the action of the magnet 156, the panel assembly 50 and the front panel 141 can exert magnetic force in the direction of pulling each other, thereby enabling the panel assembly 50 to maintain a more compliant state with the front of the door body 40.

[0363] Furthermore, the magnet 156 can be disposed in the space between the panel assembly 50 and the front panel 141. Therefore, the thickness of the door body 40 will not be affected, and the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 will not be reduced.

[0364] Hereinafter, the process of installing the panel assembly 50 on the door 20 of the refrigerator 1 having the structure described above will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0365] Figure 39 This is a diagram that schematically shows the state in which the panel assembly is installed in front of the door body.

[0366] As shown in the figure, the door 20 can be assembled by mounting the panel assembly 50 onto the door body 40. For this purpose, the panel assembly 50 is completed by mounting the upper bracket 153 and the lower bracket 154 onto the panel 152. Furthermore, after assembling the panel assembly 50, the side frame 145, the upper cap trim 142, the lower cap trim 144, and the receiving member 146 respectively, a heat insulation member 400 is formed internally to complete the door body 40.

[0367] Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 can be configured for installation on the front of the assembled door body 40. In this case, the back surface of the panel assembly 50 faces the front of the door body 40. That is, the panel assembly 50 is moved from front to rear to approach the front of the door body 40, while simultaneously being moved from top to bottom to approach the front of the door body 40.

[0368] At this time, the lower protrusion 1445a of the lower support end 1445 can be inserted into the inner side of the lower insertion portion 1544 through the opening 1524 of the bent portion, thereby constraining the lower end of the panel assembly 50. Thus, the panel assembly 50 can achieve a state in which its downward and forward / backward movement is constrained by the lower protrusion 1445a and the lower bracket 154.

[0369] That is, in order to install the panel assembly 50, the panel assembly 50 is moved to the front of the door body 40, and at this time, the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is fixed to the lower support end 1445 of the lower cap decoration 144.

[0370] As described above, after the user temporarily constrains the lower end of the panel assembly 50 to the door body 40, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is then pressed tightly against the upper cap decoration 142.

[0371] In addition, the state of the upper end of the panel assembly 50 when it is installed will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0372] Figures 40 to 42 This is a diagram showing the change in position of the upper end of the panel assembly during installation.

[0373] As shown in the figure, when installing the panel assembly 50, the panel assembly 50 moves downward, so that the lower protrusion 1445a is inserted into the lower insertion portion 1544 of the lower bracket 154. At this time, the panel assembly 50 moves downward in an inclined state so that its lower end is closer to the door body 40 than its upper end, and the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is placed on the lower support end 1445 and can be temporarily fixed.

[0374] At this time, as Figure 40As shown, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can move downwards to pass over the upper support end 1422. Furthermore, an upper rib 1532 can protrude from the upper rear surface of the panel assembly 50. The upper rib 1532 protrudes further rearwards than the upper bend 1521, so that it can contact the upper support end 1422 during the downward movement of the panel assembly 50. This prevents the upper support end 1422 from being scratched or damaged due to contact between the sharp upper end of the panel 152 and the upper support end 1422.

[0375] Furthermore, when the lower protrusion 1445a is fully inserted into the lower insertion portion 1544, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 reaches... Figure 41 As shown, the upper rib 1532 and the upper bent portion 1521 are positioned below the upper support end 1422.

[0376] With the lower end of the panel assembly 50 supported by the lower support end 1445 and pre-fixed, the user rotates the upper end of the panel assembly 50 and presses it against the front of the upper cap decoration 142.

[0377] When the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is fully rotated, as Figure 42 As shown, the upper bent portion 1521 can reach a state of contact with the upper support end 1422. In addition, the upper bracket 153 can be tightly attached to the upper cap decoration 142, and the upper fastening protrusion 1533 can be tightly attached to the upper fastening portion 1424 to achieve a state of fastening the upper fastening member 1424d.

[0378] Figure 43 This is a diagram that schematically shows the panel assembly installed on the door body.

[0379] As shown in the figure, when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the front of the door body 40, the panel assembly 50 will be located inside the area formed by the upper support end 1422, the lower support end 1445 and the side support end 1451a, respectively, and can be configured to contact each other.

[0380] Furthermore, with the panel assembly 50 installed on the front of the door body 40, the lower protrusion 1445a penetrates the lower bend 1523 and inserts into the inside of the lower bracket 154. Thus, with its lower end constrained, the panel assembly 50 is less likely to detach due to its own weight. Additionally, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can achieve a state where the upper fastening protrusion 1533 is in close contact with the upper fastening portion 1424.

[0381] In particular, by utilizing the magnet 156 attached to the back surface of the panel assembly 50, the panel assembly 50 can remain attached to the front of the door body 40. Thus, the panel assembly 50 can maintain a pre-fixed state to the front of the door body 40.

[0382] Figure 44 This diagram schematically illustrates the state of the upper and lower fastening members of the panel assembly mounted on the door body. Furthermore, Figure 45 This diagram shows the upper end of the panel mounting portion being fixed in place.

[0383] As shown in the figure, when the panel assembly 50 is positioned in front of the door body 40, the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50 can be securely fixed by fastening fastening members 1424d and 1545b.

[0384] In detail, when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the front of the door body 40, the screw holes 1445b of the lower cap trim 144, the screw holes 1525 of the bend portion of the panel 152, and the screw holes 1545a of the lower bracket 154 can be aligned with each other. Furthermore, in the state described above, when the screw 1545b is tightened to pass through the screw holes 1445b and 1525, the screw 1545b is tightened into the screw hole 1545a of the lower bracket 154, thereby securing the lower end of the panel assembly 50 firmly to the lower bracket 154.

[0385] Furthermore, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted on the front of the door body 40, the upper end of the upper bracket 153 will contact the upper cap decorative member 142. In particular, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 of the upper bracket 153 will contact the upper fastening portion 1424 of the upper cap decorative member 142.

[0386] In detail, such as Figure 45 As shown, when installing the panel assembly 50, the upper fastening protrusion 1533 can be inserted into the inner side of the upper extension 1424a. Furthermore, with the upper fastening protrusion 1533 inserted into the upper extension 1424a, the protruding inclined surface 1533a of the upper fastening protrusion 1533 will contact the upper inclined surface 1424b of the upper extension 1424a. Additionally, the screw holes 1533b of the protruding inclined surface 1533a and the screw holes 1424c of the upper inclined surface 1424b can be aligned with each other.

[0387] In the state described above, the user can fasten the upper fastening member 1424d through the recessed space 1420 of the upper cap decorative piece 142. The upper fastening member 1424d can be fastened through the screw hole 1424c of the upper inclined surface 1424b and to the screw hole 1533b of the raised inclined surface 1533a. The upper fastening member 1424d can be fastened in a direction intersecting the upper inclined surface 1424b and the raised inclined surface 1533a. Therefore, by fastening the upper fastening member 1424d, the panel assembly 50 can move slightly upward and backward, thereby allowing adjustment based on the degree of fastening of the upper fastening member 1424d.

[0388] The upper end of the panel assembly 50 can be fixed to the upper cap decoration 142 by means of the upper fastening member 1424d. In addition, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 can contact or maintain a predetermined distance from the upper support end 1422.

[0389] Furthermore, when the door body 40 is installed in a horizontal position for assembling the door 20, the upper fastening member 1424d is inclined, making it easier to perform the fastening operation through the recessed space 1420.

[0390] In addition, the panel assembly 50 will form the front of the door 20. Not only the upper door 20, but other doors 20a, 20b, 20c, and 30 may also have the same structure.

[0391] Figure 46 It is installed in Figure 21 Rear view of the refrigerator's panel components.

[0392] As shown in the figure, the plurality of doors 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 30 of the refrigerators 1 and 1' constituting embodiments of the present invention may all have the same panel assembly 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d structure as the panel assembly 50.

[0393] The doors 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, and 30 differ only in their horizontal width and vertical length, while the structural elements constituting the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d can have identical structures. That is, an upper bracket 153 and a lower bracket 154 can be installed at the upper and lower ends of the panel 152, respectively, and the structures of each upper bracket 153 and lower bracket 154 can be identical. Furthermore, magnets 156 can be installed on the left and right sides between the upper bracket 153 and the lower bracket 154.

[0394] Furthermore, although the door bodies 40 constituting the doors 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, and 30 are not shown in detail, they may all have the same structure or the same connection structure with the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d.

[0395] In addition to the foregoing embodiments, the refrigerator of the present invention can also be implemented by a variety of other embodiments. Another embodiment of the present invention may have a structure in which the panel assembly only includes a magnet and an upper bracket. Another embodiment of the present invention is identical to the foregoing embodiments in all parts except for the structural elements of the panel assembly; the same reference numerals will be used for the same structural elements, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0396] Figure 47 This is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 48 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the state in which the panel assembly is installed.

[0397] As shown in the figure, the refrigerator door 20 of another embodiment of the present invention may include a door body 40 and a panel assembly 50 installed on the front of the door body 40.

[0398] The panel assembly 50 has a size corresponding to the front size of the door body 40, and when installed on the door body 40, it can form the overall appearance of the front of the door 20.

[0399] The panel assembly 50 may include: a panel 152, which is plate-shaped and forms an appearance; and an upper bracket 153 for fixing the upper and lower ends of the panel 152. Furthermore, the panel assembly 50 may also include a magnet 156 for abutting the back surface of the panel 152 and the front surface of the door body 40 together.

[0400] In detail, the panel 152 may be formed of a quadrilateral plate-like material with a specified thickness, and may be formed of a material that can be coordinated with the surrounding furniture or wall or home appliances.

[0401] As an example, the panel 152 can be formed from a sheet-like metal material such as stainless steel. Furthermore, the front surface of the panel 152 can be printed, coated, or laminated with a film to have color or pattern, thus shaping the appearance of the door 20.

[0402] Furthermore, the panel 152 may have bends 1521, 1522, and 1523 formed along its periphery, thereby maintaining a stable support state when installed on the door body 40 and preventing the cross-section of the panel 152 from being exposed to the outside. Thus, the bends 1521, 1522, and 1523 can be used to form the appearance of the periphery of the panel 152.

[0403] The bending portions 1521, 1522, and 1523 may include: an upper bending portion 1521 formed at the upper periphery of the panel 152; a side bending portion 1522 formed at the left and right sides of the periphery of the panel 152; and a lower bending portion 1523 formed at the lower periphery of the panel 152.

[0404] Furthermore, the lower bend 1523 can be formed by bending rearward from the lower end of the panel 152. The lower bend 1523 can also have a bend opening 1524 for inserting the lower protrusion 1445a. The bend opening 1524 can be formed along the lower bend 1523, and a plurality of them can be formed at positions corresponding to a plurality of the lower protrusions 1445a protruding from the lower support end 1445. Furthermore, the lower bend 1523 can also have bend screw holes 1525. These bend screw holes 1525 are holes through which the lower fastening member 1545b, which is fastened to the lower bracket 154, passes, and a plurality of them can be formed at positions corresponding to the lower fastening protrusions 1545 of the lower bracket 154.

[0405] Furthermore, magnets 156 can be provided at both ends of the panel 152. The magnets 156 can be attached to the back surface of the panel 152 using adhesive or magnetic force. The magnets 156 can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the panel 152. Moreover, with the magnets attached to the panel 152, when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40, the magnets 156 can be magnetically attached to the front panel 152. That is, the magnets 156 can be used to assist in the installation of the panel assembly 50.

[0406] The upper bracket 153 may extend along the upper end of the panel 152 and may have a length corresponding to the left and right width of the panel 152. Furthermore, the upper bracket 153 may have a structure that secures it to the upper cap trim 142 and constrains the upper end of the panel assembly when the panel assembly 50 is installed.

[0407] Furthermore, the lower end of the panel assembly 50 can be initially secured by inserting the lower protrusion 1445a into the bend opening 1524. Additionally, the lower end of the panel assembly 50 can be secured a second time by having the lower fastening member 1545b pass through the screw hole 1525 of the lower cap trim 144 and be fastened to the lower fastening protrusion 1545.

[0408] In addition to the foregoing embodiments, the refrigerator of the present invention can also be implemented by various other embodiments. In another embodiment of the present invention, the panel of the panel assembly can be formed of tempered glass. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, all structural elements other than the panel are the same as in the foregoing embodiments; the same reference numerals will be used for the same structural elements, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0409] Figure 49 This is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0410] As shown in the figure, in another embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator door 20 may include a door body 40 and a panel assembly 50 installed on the front of the door body 40.

[0411] The door body 40 internally includes a front panel 141, a door lining 147, an upper cap decorative piece 142, a lower cap decorative piece 144, and a side frame 145, and a receiving member 146 can be installed on the back surface of the front panel 141. The structure of the door body 40 can be completely the same as that of the aforementioned embodiment.

[0412] The panel assembly 50 can be installed on the front of the door body 40 and form the front appearance of the door 20. The panel assembly 50 may include a panel 151, an upper bracket 153, a lower bracket 154, and a magnet 156. The specific structure and shape of the upper bracket 153, the lower bracket 154, and the magnet 156, except for the panel 151, can be the same as in the aforementioned embodiments.

[0413] In detail, the panel 151 can be formed of a quadrilateral plate-like material with a specified thickness, and can be formed of a material that can coordinate with the surrounding furniture, wall 0, or home appliances. As an example, the panel 151 can be formed of glass. As an example, the panel 151 can be formed of tempered glass, and the appearance of the door 20 can be formed using printing processes or film lamination to achieve color or patterns.

[0414] The panel 151 can be configured such that, when installed on the door body 40, its upper end and lower end are respectively supported on the upper support end 1422 and the lower support end 1445, and its two sides can be supported on the side support end 1451a.

[0415] Furthermore, an upper bracket 153 and a lower bracket 154 may be respectively provided at the upper and lower ends of the back surface of the panel 151. The upper bracket 153 and the lower bracket 154 may be configured such that the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50 can be fixedly mounted on the door body 40.

[0416] The upper bracket 153 is disposed at the upper end of the panel 151 and may have a lateral length equal to the length of the left and right sides of the panel 151. Furthermore, an upper rib 1532 may be formed at the upper rear end of the upper bracket 153, and an upper fastening protrusion 1533 may be formed below the upper rib 1532, capable of engaging with the upper fastening member 1424d of the upper cap decorative piece 142.

[0417] The lower bracket 154 is disposed at the lower end of the panel 151 and may have a lateral length equal to the length of the left and right sides of the panel 151. Furthermore, a lower insertion portion 1544 may be formed at the lower end of the lower bracket 154 for inserting the lower protrusion 1445a of the lower cap decorative member 144, and a lower fastening protrusion 1545 may be formed for fastening with a screw 1545b passing through the lower cap decorative member 144.

[0418] Additionally, a magnet 156 for assisting in the installation of the panel assembly 50 may be provided on the rear side of the panel 151. The magnet 156 may be elongated in the vertical direction and may extend in the vertical direction along the side end of the panel 151. Furthermore, a pair of magnets 156 may be provided on the left and right sides.

[0419] One side of the magnet 156 can be bonded to the back surface of the panel 151, and the other side can be magnetically attached to the front panel 141 when the panel assembly 50 is installed on the door body 40.

[0420] According to another embodiment of the invention, a refrigerator may include: a cabinet having a storage space; and a door for opening and closing the storage space, the door including: a door body having an internally filled heat insulation member, the upper and lower surfaces of the door body being formed by an upper cap trim and a lower cap trim; and a panel assembly disposed on the front surface of the door body, forming the front surface appearance of the door, the lower end of the panel assembly being inserted into and constrained by a lower protrusion protruding upward from the lower cap trim, the upper end of the panel assembly being fastened to the door body by an upper fastening member passing through and securing the upper cap trim.

[0421] The panel assembly may include: a panel, which is plate-shaped and forms the front appearance of the door; an upper bracket, disposed along the upper rear side of the panel, wherein the fastening member is fastened to the upper bracket; and a lower bracket, disposed along the lower rear side of the panel, wherein an insertion portion for the lower protrusion to be inserted is formed on the underside of the lower bracket.

[0422] The panel can be formed of tempered glass material.

[0423] The panel may be formed of a metal material, and a rearwardly extending bend is formed at the periphery of the panel.

[0424] The bend along the lower end of the panel can have a bend opening that communicates with the insertion part, and the lower protrusion passes through the bend opening and is inserted into the insertion part.

[0425] A lower fastening protrusion may be formed on the lower side of the lower bracket for fastening sequentially through the lower fastening member of the lower cap decoration and the bent portion.

[0426] The bending portion formed along the upper end of the panel may include: a first bending portion, which bends from the upper front end of the panel to the rear; and a second bending portion, which bends from the rear end of the first bending portion to the lower.

[0427] The upper and lower cap decorative elements may include an upper support end and a lower support end that protrude forward in a manner facing the bent portions at the upper and lower ends of the panel, with the lower protrusion formed along the lower support end.

[0428] The upper bracket may include: an upper adhesive portion that contacts the rear of the panel; and an upper fastening protrusion that protrudes rearward from the upper adhesive portion, wherein the upper fastening member is fastened to the upper fastening protrusion.

[0429] The upper end of the upper adhesive portion may be provided with an upper rib that protrudes more than the rear end of the bent portion.

[0430] The upper fastening protrusion may extend obliquely backward and upward, and a screw hole for fastening the upper fastening member is formed at the upper end of the upper fastening protrusion.

[0431] The upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion may be formed with a raised inclined surface, the raised inclined surface having an inclination that becomes lower towards the rear, and the screw hole may be formed on the raised inclined surface.

[0432] An abutment may be formed at the upper rear end of the upper fastening protrusion, the abutment being formed at a greater angle than the inclined surface of the protrusion, thereby preventing interference with the upper cap decoration when the panel assembly is installed.

[0433] An upper fastening portion may be formed on the front side of the upper cap decoration facing the upper fastening protrusion, through which the upper fastening member passes.

[0434] The upper cap decorative piece can form a recessed space with an opening on its upper side, and the upper fastening part can be exposed to the inside of the recessed space, thereby fastening the upper fastening member through the recessed space.

[0435] The upper cap decorative piece may be provided with a decorative cover for opening and closing the recessed space.

[0436] The upper fastening portion can be recessed rearward to accommodate the upper fastening protrusion, and can protrude inward into the recessed space.

[0437] The upper fastening part may have a fastening part inclined surface, which has an inclination corresponding to the protruding inclined surface, so as to contact the protruding inclined surface. The upper fastening member is fastened in such a way that it passes through the fastening part inclined surface and the protruding inclined surface in sequence.

[0438] When the panel assembly is installed on the door body so that the lower protrusion is inserted into the insertion portion, the inclined surface of the protrusion and the inclined surface of the fastening portion can contact each other.

[0439] The door body may include a front panel made of steel, which is spaced apart from the rear side of the panel and forms the front side of the door body. A magnet may be provided on the rear side of the panel, which causes the panel assembly to be magnetically attached to the front panel.

Claims

1. A door, the front surface of which opens and closes to form an opening for a storage space, wherein, include: Door body; as well as The panel assembly is detachably attached to the front surface of the door body to form the front surface appearance. The main body of the door includes: A decorative cap, having at least one through hole and forming the upper surface appearance of the door; and The lower cap decorative piece has a lower support end with at least one downward protrusion projecting upwards, forming the lower surface appearance of the door. The panel assembly includes: A plate-shaped panel; The upper bend is formed by bending from the upper end of the panel toward the door body; and The lower bend is formed by bending from the lower end of the panel toward the door body. The panel assembly can be detachably mounted to the door body via a fastening member passing through the through hole. The lower bent portion forms a bent portion opening at a position corresponding to the at least one lower protrusion, allowing the lower protrusion to pass through the bent portion opening for installation. The cap decoration includes: An upper protrusion protrudes forward from the upper end of the front surface of the upper cap decorative piece to cover the upper surface of the upper bent portion of the panel; and a fixing portion is provided with at least one through hole behind the upper protrusion.

2. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The upper bending portion includes: The first bend extends from the upper end of the panel toward the door body; and The second bend bends downward from the end of the extension of the first bend.

3. The door according to claim 2, wherein, The panel assembly also includes an upper bracket. The upper bracket is provided with at least one fixing hole along the width of the upper back of the panel, and the fastening member passes through the through hole and is fastened to the at least one fixing hole.

4. The door according to claim 3, wherein, The upper bracket also includes: The upper surface portion has at least one fixing hole provided along its width; and The upper rib protrudes rearward from the upper end of the upper plane portion and protrudes further rearward than the rear end of the second bend portion.

5. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The protrusion length of the upper protrusion is shorter than the extension length of the upper bent portion of the panel.

6. The door according to claim 5, wherein, The upper bent portion of the panel protrudes further forward than the upper protruding portion.

7. The door according to claim 4, wherein, The upper bracket includes an upper fastening protrusion that protrudes rearward from the upper flat portion and forms a fixing hole for fastening the fastening member.

8. The door according to claim 7, wherein, The upper fastening protrusion extends obliquely backward and upward, and the fixing hole is formed at the upper end of the upper fastening protrusion.

9. The door according to claim 8, wherein, The upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion forms a raised inclined surface with a slope that gradually decreases towards the rear, and the fixing hole is formed on the raised inclined surface.

10. The door according to claim 9, wherein, An abutment is formed at the rear end of the upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion, the abutment being formed at a greater angle than the inclined surface of the protrusion to prevent interference with the upper cap decoration when the panel assembly is installed.

11. The door according to claim 10, wherein, An upper fastening portion is formed on the front surface of the upper cap decoration that faces the upper fastening protrusion, through which the fastening member passes.

12. The door according to claim 11, wherein, The upper cap decorative piece forms a recessed space with an open upper surface. The upper fastening portion protrudes into the inside of the recessed space so that the upper fastening member is fastened through the recessed space.

13. The door according to claim 12, wherein, The upper cap decoration also includes a decorative cover that forms the appearance of the upper surface of the door.

14. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The lower support end protrudes forward from the lower end of the front surface of the lower cap trim to support the lower bent portion of the panel assembly.

15. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The panel assembly includes a lower bracket. The lower bracket is formed with its lower surface recessed upwards to allow the lower protrusion to be inserted to restrict the lower end of the panel assembly.

16. The door according to claim 15, wherein, The lower bracket includes: The lower plane portion is located at the lower end of the panel; The lower protrusion protrudes rearward from the lower plane portion; and The lower insertion portion is formed such that the lower surface of the lower protrusion is open and concave upward, so that the lower protrusion can be inserted.

17. The door according to claim 16, wherein, The lower protrusion is inserted into the lower insertion part through the opening of the bent part.

18. The door according to claim 16, wherein, The opening of the bent portion is located between the lower support end and the lower insertion portion.

19. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The door body includes a front panel made of stainless steel on its front surface. A magnet is disposed on the back of the plate-shaped panel.

20. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The panel assembly also includes side bends that bend rearward from both sides of the plate-like panel to form the appearance of the two sides of the door.

21. The door according to claim 1, wherein, The panel is made of a metallic material.

22. A door, the front surface of which opens and closes to form an opening for a storage space, wherein, include: The main body of the door, with its front surface made of stainless steel; A panel assembly that can be detachably attached to the front surface of the door body to form the front surface appearance; as well as Magnets are disposed on the back of the panel assembly. The main body of the door includes: A decorative cap that forms the upper surface appearance of the door; and The lower cap decorative piece has a lower support end with at least one downward protrusion projecting upwards, forming the lower surface appearance of the door. The panel assembly includes: A plate-shaped panel; The upper bending portion is formed by bending from the upper end of the panel towards the door body; and The lower bend is formed by bending from the lower end of the panel towards the door body. The lower bent portion forms a bent portion opening at a position corresponding to the at least one lower protrusion, allowing the lower protrusion to pass through the bent portion opening for installation. The upper cap decorative piece includes an upper protrusion that protrudes forward from the upper end of the front surface to cover the upper surface of the upper bend of the panel.

23. The door according to claim 22, wherein, The panel assembly also includes side bending portions, which are formed by bending backward from both sides of the plate-shaped panel.

24. The door according to claim 22, wherein, The magnet is arranged vertically on the inner side adjacent to the side bend.

25. The door according to claim 22, wherein, The panel assembly includes a lower bracket formed with its lower surface recessed upwards to allow the lower protrusion to be inserted to restrict the lower end of the panel assembly.

26. The door according to claim 25, wherein, The lower bracket includes: The lower plane portion is located at the lower end of the panel; The lower protrusion protrudes rearward from the lower plane portion; and The lower insertion portion is formed such that the lower surface of the lower protrusion is open and concave upward, so that the lower protrusion can be inserted.

27. The door according to claim 26, wherein, The lower support end is inserted into the lower insertion part through the opening of the bent part.

28. The door according to claim 26, wherein, The opening of the bent portion is located between the lower support end and the lower insertion portion.

29. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The box-like structure forms storage space; as well as The door according to any one of claims 1 to 28, for opening and closing the storage space.

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