Refrigerator

Abstract

The invention provides a refrigerator, which can fix a component which is closer to the inner side than the inner wall of a storage chamber so as not to damage a component which is closer to the outer side than the inner wall of the storage chamber. A refrigerator according to an embodiment includes: an outer wall forming an outer contour of a refrigerator body; an inner wall provided with a thermal insulation material between the inner wall and the outer wall, and forming a storage chamber on the inner side of the side opposite to the thermal insulation material; the inner side part is arranged on the inner side of the inner wall; and an outer member provided on the outer side of the inner wall, the outer member having an engagement protrusion protruding further toward the inner side than the inner wall, and the inner member having an engagement portion that engages with the engagement protrusion further toward the inner side than the inner wall.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] For example, the refrigerator disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes an inner wall forming a vegetable compartment, a track disposed on the inner side of the inner wall, and a reinforcing plate disposed on the outer side of the inner wall. The track supports the pull-out door of the front opening of the vegetable compartment, allowing it to move in the front-back direction. In addition, the refrigerator has heat-insulating material on the outer side of the inner wall.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-181071

[0004] Conventional refrigerators are configured such that hooks on tracks located on the inner side of the inner wall protrude through holes in the inner wall towards the outer side, i.e., the insulation material side. These hooks then engage with holes in a reinforcing plate at their outermost position, thus securing the tracks. However, the hooks protruding beyond the inner wall can potentially damage the insulation material. Damage to the insulation material reduces the overall insulation performance of the refrigerator. Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can secure components such as tracks located on the inner side of the inner wall without damaging components such as insulation material located on the outermost side. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, this embodiment provides a technical solution that can fix a component located on the inner side of the storage chamber's inner wall in a way that will not damage a component located on the outer side of the storage chamber's inner wall.

[0006] The refrigerator according to this embodiment includes: an outer wall forming the outline of the refrigerator body; an inner wall having a heat-insulating material disposed between it and the outer wall, and a storage compartment formed on the inner side opposite to the heat-insulating material; an inner component disposed on the inner side of the inner wall; and an outer component disposed on the outer side of the inner wall, the outer component having an engaging protrusion extending to the inner side of the inner wall, and the inner component having an engaging portion engaging with the engaging protrusion at the inner side of the inner wall.

[0007] Invention Effects

[0008] A refrigerator is provided that can secure components located on the inner side of the storage compartment without damaging components located on the outer side of the storage compartment. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a front view that roughly shows a structural example of the refrigerator according to this embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2This is a front view that roughly shows an example of the internal structure of the refrigerator according to this embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view that schematically illustrates the structure of the quenching space in this embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the receiving component of this embodiment, roughly from the inside.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the receiving component of this embodiment from the outside.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a side view that roughly shows the structural example of the receiving component in this embodiment from the inside.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a side view that roughly shows an example of the structure of the receiving component in this embodiment from the outside.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a top view that schematically shows a structural example of the portion of the receiving component in this embodiment that has a locking protrusion.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a longitudinal sectional view that schematically shows a portion of the structure of the receiving component and the heat insulation material of this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the support member of this embodiment, roughly from the inside.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the support member of this embodiment from the outside.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a side view that roughly shows an example of the structure of the support member in this embodiment from the inside.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a side view that roughly shows an example of the structure of the support member in this embodiment from the outside.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a perspective view that schematically shows a structural example of a portion of the inner wall of this embodiment in which a support structure is provided.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how the support member and the receiving member engage in this embodiment.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a longitudinal sectional view that schematically illustrates a structural example of the portion of this embodiment where the support member is fastened to the receiving member.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal sectional view that schematically shows a comparative example of the structure of the part that secures the inner component in this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a front view that schematically illustrates a structural example of the quenching space in this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing, from the outside, a receiving component with a sealing member according to this embodiment.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a perspective view (1) that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition of this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 21 This is a perspective view (2) that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition of this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 22 This is a side view (1) that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition of this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 23 This is a side view (2) that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition of this embodiment.

[0032] Figure 24 This is a front view that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition and windproof section of this embodiment.

[0033] Figure 25 This is a side view that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition and windproof portion of this embodiment.

[0034] Figure 26 This is a top view that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition and the upper windproof part of this embodiment.

[0035] Figure 27 This is a top view that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition and the lower windproof part of this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 28 This is a side view that schematically shows a structural example of the right longitudinal partition and the rear windshield of this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 29 This is a top view that roughly shows an example of the size relationship between the gap formed between the right longitudinal partition and the windproof part in this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 30 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the outer component of a modified embodiment of this invention, roughly from the inside.

[0039] Figure 31 This is a longitudinal sectional side view (1) of a structural example of the left side of the refrigerator compartment of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0040] Figure 32 This is a longitudinal sectional side view (2) of a structural example of the left side of the refrigerator compartment of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0041] Figure 33 This is a longitudinal sectional side view (3) of a structural example of the left side of the refrigerator compartment of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0042] Figure 34 This is a longitudinal sectional side view (4) of a structural example of the left side of the refrigerator compartment of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0043] Figure 35 This is a longitudinal sectional side view (5) of a structural example of the left side of the refrigerator compartment of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0044] Figure 36 This is a longitudinal sectional side view (6) of a structural example of the left side of the refrigerator compartment of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0046] In the attached drawings, 10 represents the refrigerator, 11 represents the insulated cabinet (refrigerator body), 11K represents the storage compartment partition wall (lower surface forming component), 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 represent the storage compartments, 21 represents the outer wall, 22 represents the inner wall, 22a represents the hole for temporary fixing, 22b represents the insertion hole, 23A represents the vacuum insulation panel (insulation material, shaped insulation material), 23B represents the foamed insulation material (insulation material), 31 represents the cold air duct (rear surface forming component), 100 represents the upper horizontal partition (partition component, upper surface forming component), 102 represents the lower horizontal partition (partition component), 104 represents the upper quench container (special component), 116 represents the separation section, 201 represents the receiving component (outer component), 202 represents the supporting component (inner component), and 210 represents the main body. 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215 represent engaging protrusions; 216 represents fastening protrusions; 217 represents temporary fixing parts; 218 represents parts with increased contact area; 220 represents sealing components (plugging components); 231, 232, and 234 represent engaging parts; 236 represents fastening parts; 237, 238, and 239 represent reinforcing ribs (specific protrusions); 240 represents covering parts; 301 represents upper windproof parts (windproof parts, first windproof parts); 302 represents lower windproof parts (windproof parts, second windproof parts); 303 represents rear windproof parts (windproof parts, third windproof parts); 311 represents rear guide parts (first guide parts); 321 represents front guide parts (second guide parts); 331 represents basic extension parts (first extension parts); and 332 represents additional extension parts (second extension parts). Detailed Implementation

[0047] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the refrigerator will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, (The remaining text appears to be a fragment and requires further context for accurate translation.) Figure 1 The refrigerator 10 shown is used as a reference for frontal viewing to define various directions such as up and down, left and right, and front and back.

[0048] like Figure 1 As illustrated, the refrigerator 10 has multiple storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 formed inside a rectangular box-shaped insulated body 11. Various stored items, such as food, can be cooled and preserved inside the storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. The insulated body 11 is an example of the refrigerator's main body, and is a structure in which an insulating material 23 is provided between an outer wall 21 and an inner wall 22. The outer wall 21, for example, is a component referred to as an "outer box," forming the outline of the insulated body 11 in the refrigerator 10. The outer wall 21 is, for example, made of metal. The inner wall 22, for example, is a component referred to as an "inner box," assembled inside the outer wall 21 in the refrigerator 10. The inner wall 22 has storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 formed on its inner side opposite to the insulating material 23. The inner wall 22 is, for example, made of resin.

[0049] In this case, the refrigerator 10 includes a vacuum insulation panel 23A and a foamed insulation material 23B as insulation material 23. The vacuum insulation panel 23A is an example of a molded insulation material. The vacuum insulation panel 23A is an insulation material molded before the outer wall 21 and inner wall 22 are combined to assemble the insulation box 11, and is formed into a predetermined shape, in this case, a rectangular thin plate. The foamed insulation material 23B is formed by foaming and solidifying a liquid of fluid foamed insulation material injected between the outer wall 21 and inner wall 22 after the outer wall 21 and inner wall 22 are combined, that is, after the insulation box 11 is assembled. Furthermore, the molded insulation material is not limited to the vacuum insulation panel 23A, and may also be formed from, for example, expanded polystyrene, aerogel, carbon fiber, etc.

[0050] Storage compartment 12 is a refrigerator compartment maintained at a refrigeration temperature in this case. Hereinafter, storage compartment 12 is sometimes referred to as "refrigeration compartment 12". Storage compartment 13 is a vegetable compartment maintained at a refrigeration temperature in this case. Hereinafter, storage compartment 13 is sometimes referred to as "vegetable compartment 13". Storage compartment 14 is an ice-making compartment maintained at a freezing temperature in this case. Hereinafter, storage compartment 14 is sometimes referred to as "ice-making compartment 14". Storage compartment 15 is a small freezer compartment maintained at a freezing temperature in this case. Hereinafter, storage compartment 15 is sometimes referred to as "small freezer compartment 15". Storage compartment 16 is a large freezer compartment maintained at a freezing temperature in this case. Hereinafter, storage compartment 16 is sometimes referred to as "large freezer compartment 16".

[0051] The refrigerator compartment 12 is the uppermost of the multiple storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 of the refrigerator 10. The vegetable compartment 13 is located below the refrigerator compartment 12, at or near the center of the insulated housing 11 in the vertical direction. The refrigerator compartment 12 and the vegetable compartment 13 are separated by a storage compartment dividing wall 11K. The ice maker compartment 14 and the small freezer compartment 15 are located below the vegetable compartment 13 and are arranged horizontally within the insulated housing 11 along the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10. The large freezer compartment 16 is located within the insulated housing 11 below the ice maker compartment 14 and the small freezer compartment 15. The large freezer compartment 16 is the lowermost of the multiple storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 of the refrigerator 10.

[0052] The refrigerator compartment 12 has a rectangular opening 12a on its front surface. The opening 12a is opened and closed by two refrigerator doors 12D[L] and 12D[R], which are rotatable in the left and right directions. That is, the opening 12a is constructed to open and close by at least two refrigerator doors, in this case, a left refrigerator door 12D[L] and a right refrigerator door 12D[R]. Alternatively, the refrigerator door may be a single door that opens and closes the opening 12a.

[0053] Vegetable compartment 13 has a rectangular opening 13a on its front surface. The opening 13a is opened and closed by a storage door, a drawer-type vegetable compartment door 13D, which can move in the front-back direction. Ice compartment 14 has a rectangular opening 14a on its front surface. The opening 14a is opened and closed by a storage door, a drawer-type ice compartment door 14D, which can move in the front-back direction. Small freezer compartment 15 has a rectangular opening 15a on its front surface. The opening 15a is opened and closed by a storage door, a drawer-type small freezer door 15D, which can move in the front-back direction. Large freezer compartment 16 has an opening 16a on its front surface. The opening 16a is opened and closed by a storage door, a drawer-type large freezer door 16D, which can move in the front-back direction.

[0054] like Figure 2 As illustrated, the refrigerator 10 is configured to divide a storage compartment, in this case a refrigerator compartment 12, into multiple cooling spaces. More specifically, the refrigerator compartment 12 is divided into multiple, in this case, two cooling spaces 12A and 12B, by an upper horizontal partition 100. Cooling space 12A is a normal cooling space capable of cooling to the target cooling temperature of the refrigerator compartment 12. Hereinafter, cooling space 12A is sometimes referred to as "normal cooling space 12A". The target cooling temperature can be set, for example, by operating an operation panel (not shown) provided on the front surface of the refrigerator door 12D[L] or refrigerator door 12D[R]. On the other hand, cooling space 12B is a blast cooling space capable of cooling to a temperature lower than the target cooling temperature of the refrigerator compartment 12. Hereinafter, cooling space 12B is sometimes referred to as "blast cooling space 12B". Normal cooling space 12A is an example of "other cooling spaces", and blast cooling space 12B is an example of "special cooling spaces".

[0055] A cold air duct 31 is provided at the rear of the refrigerator compartment 12, and a cold air generating section 32 is provided at the lower part of the cold air duct 31. Inside the cold air generating section 32 are a cooler (not shown), a cooling fan, and other components. The cooler, together with the compressor (not shown), heater, and expansion valve of the refrigerator 10, forms a refrigeration cycle. The cooler generates cold air by circulating refrigerant using the compressor in the refrigeration cycle. The cold air generated by the cooler is supplied to the refrigerator compartment 12 by the airflow of the cooling fan (not shown). Thus, the refrigerator compartment 12 is cooled to the target cooling temperature.

[0056] Furthermore, the cold air supplied to the refrigerator compartment 12 is also supplied to the vegetable compartment 13 through a (not shown) connecting hole in the compartment partition wall 11K. As a result, the vegetable compartment 13 is also cooled to the target cooling temperature. The cold air supplied to the vegetable compartment 13 is returned to the cold air generating unit 32 by the airflow of a (not shown) cooling fan, and is cooled again by a (not shown) cooler. By repeatedly circulating this cold air, the refrigerator compartment 12 and the vegetable compartment 13 are maintained at the target cooling temperature.

[0057] As described above, the refrigerator 10 includes a refrigeration cooling system that cools the refrigerator compartment 12 (which is a storage compartment in the refrigeration temperature zone) and the vegetable compartment 13 to a target cooling temperature within the refrigeration temperature zone. Furthermore, although detailed descriptions are omitted, the refrigerator 10 also includes a freezing cooling system that cools the freezer compartments (i.e., the ice maker 14, the small freezer compartment 15, and the large freezer compartment 16) to a target cooling temperature within the freezer temperature zone. This freezing cooling system is also configured to include a refrigeration cycle with a cooler and a cooling fan. Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 may be configured to cool both the refrigeration temperature zone and the freezer temperature zone storage compartments using a shared cooling system.

[0058] The air duct 31 has an air outlet (not shown) that blows cold air into the normal cooling space 12A and an air outlet (not shown) that blows cold air into the blast cooling space 12B. Additionally, a damper device (not shown) is provided between the air duct 31 and the cold air generating unit 32. The damper device is configured such that adjusting its opening degree allows adjustment of the amount of cold air blown into the normal cooling space 12A and the amount of cold air blown into the blast cooling space 12B. Therefore, by controlling the operation of the damper device to make the amount of cold air blown into the blast cooling space 12B greater than the amount of cold air blown into the normal cooling space 12A, the refrigerator 10 can, for example, cool the normal cooling space 12A to the target cooling temperature of the refrigerator compartment 12 and cool the blast cooling space 12B to a temperature lower than the target cooling temperature of the refrigerator compartment 12 by cooling the normal cooling space 12A to the target cooling temperature of the refrigerator compartment 12.

[0059] The quenching space 12B is further configured to be divided into multiple cooling spaces 12B1, 12B2, 12B3, and 12B4. To explain in more detail, the quenching space 12B is configured to be... Figure 3 The illustrated lower horizontal partition 101, right vertical partition 102, and left vertical partition 103 divide the space into multiple cooling spaces 12B1, 12B2, 12B3, and 12B4. Hereinafter, cooling space 12B1 will sometimes be referred to as "upper chill cooling space 12B1", cooling space 12B2 as "lower right chill cooling space 12B2", cooling space 12B3 as "lower left chill cooling space 12B3", and cooling space 12B4 as "ice maker cooling space 12B4".

[0060] like Figure 2 As illustrated, the upper quench cooling space 12B1 is an elongated cooling space that extends across the entire left-right direction of the refrigerator compartment 12. The lower right quench cooling space 12B2 is a cooling space formed below the upper quench cooling space 12B1 in a region to the right of the center of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the left-right direction. The left-right dimension of the lower right quench cooling space 12B2 is shorter than that of the upper quench cooling space 12B1 in the left-right direction. The lower left quench cooling space 12B3 is a cooling space formed below the upper quench cooling space 12B1 in a region to the left of the center of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the left-right direction. The left-right dimension of the lower left quench cooling space 12B3 is shorter than that of the upper quench cooling space 12B1 in the left-right direction, and also shorter than that of the lower right quench cooling space 12B2 in the left-right direction. The ice-making cooling space 12B4 is formed below the upper quench cooling space 12B1, in an area to the left of the lower left quench cooling space 12B3. The left-right dimension of the ice-making cooling space B4 is shorter than the left-right dimension of any of the cooling spaces: the upper quench cooling space 12B1, the lower right quench cooling space 12B2, and the lower left quench cooling space 12B3.

[0061] like Figure 3 As illustrated, a rectangular upper-level quench container 104 with an open upper surface is housed within the upper quench cooling space 12B1, allowing it to be pulled out in the front-to-back direction. The upper-level quench container 104 is an elongated container extending across the entire left-to-right direction of the upper quench cooling space 12B1. Furthermore, the left-to-right dimension of the upper-level quench container 104 is longer than its front-to-back dimension. The upper-level quench container 104 has a handle 104a at its front end. The handle 104a extends across the entire left-to-right direction of the upper-level quench container 104. Additionally, the handle 104a extends in a straight line along the left-to-right direction. The user can hook their fingers onto the handle 104a to move the upper-level quench container 104 in and out in the front-to-back direction.

[0062] A rectangular, open-topped lower-level quench container 105 is housed within the lower-right quenching space 12B2, designed to be pulled out in the front-to-back direction. The lower-right quench container 105 is shorter in the left-to-right direction than in the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, the lower-right quench container 105 is shorter in the left-to-right direction than the upper-level quench container 104. The lower-right quench container 105 is longer in the vertical direction than the upper-level quench container 104. The lower-right quench container 105 has a handle 105a at its front end. The handle 105a extends along the entire left-to-right direction of the lower-right quench container 105. The handle 105a allows the user to hook their fingers onto the handle 105a to move the lower-right quench container 105 in and out of the space.

[0063] A rectangular, open-topped lower-level quench container 106 is housed within the lower-left quenching space 12B3, designed to be pulled out in the front-to-back direction. The left-to-right dimension of the lower-left quench container 106 is shorter than its front-to-back dimension. Furthermore, the left-to-right dimension of the lower-left quench container 106 is shorter than that of the upper-level quench container 104 and also shorter than that of the lower-right quench container 105. The vertical dimension of the lower-left quench container 106 is longer than that of the upper-level quench container 104. The vertical dimension of the lower-left quench container 106 is the same as that of the lower-right quench container 105. The lower-left quench container 106 has a handle 106a at its front end. The handle 106a extends along the entire left-to-right direction of the lower-left quench container 106. The handle 106a extends in a straight line along the left-to-right direction. The user can hook his finger on the handle 106a to move the lower left chill container 106 in and out in the front-to-back direction.

[0064] An ice-making container (not shown) is housed within the ice-making container cooling space 12B4, allowing it to move in and out in a front-to-back direction. The ice-making container can store a predetermined amount of water for ice making. Furthermore, the ice-making container can supply water for ice making to an ice maker (not shown) located within the ice-making chamber 14 via a pump (not shown).

[0065] The upper transverse partition 100 is formed as a rectangular thin plate extending in both the front-to-back and left-to-right directions. The upper transverse partition 100 forms the lower surface of the normal cooling space 12A and the upper surface of the quench cooling space 12B. At the front end of the upper transverse partition 100, a quench door 107 is provided, which can be rotatably opened and closed to the opening on the front surface of the upper quench cooling space 12B1. The upper transverse partition 100 is an example of an upper surface forming component.

[0066] The lower transverse partition 101 is formed as a rectangular thin plate extending in the front-back direction and the left-right direction. The lower transverse partition 101 forms the lower surface of the upper quench cooling space 12B1, and forms the upper surface of the lower right quench cooling space 12B2, the lower left quench cooling space 12B3, and the ice box cooling space 12B4.

[0067] The right longitudinal partition 102 is formed as a rectangular plate extending in both the front-to-back and vertical directions. The right longitudinal partition 102 divides the space below the lower transverse partition 101 into a lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and a lower left chilled cooling space 12B3. The right longitudinal partition 102 is an example of a partition component. Located between the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3, the right longitudinal partition 102 prevents cold air from mixing into the other cooling space. Therefore, the right longitudinal partition 102 suppresses the exchange of cold air and heat between the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3, maintaining each cooling space 12B2 and 12B3 at its respective target cooling temperature.

[0068] The left longitudinal partition 103 is formed as a rectangular plate extending in both the front-to-back and vertical directions. The left longitudinal partition 103 divides the space below the lower transverse partition 101 into a lower left chilling space 12B3 and an ice-making box cooling space 12B4. The left longitudinal partition 103 is also an example of a partition component. Located between the lower left chilling space 12B3 and the ice-making box cooling space 12B4, the left longitudinal partition 103 prevents cold air from mixing into the other cooling space. Therefore, the left longitudinal partition 103 suppresses the exchange of cold air and heat between the lower left chilling space 12B3 and the ice-making box cooling space 12B4, maintaining each cooling space 12B3 and 12B4 at its respective target cooling temperature. Furthermore, the left longitudinal partition 103 prevents the ice-making box cooling space 12B from being cooled to a temperature lower than the target cooling temperature, thus preventing the water in the ice-making box from freezing.

[0069] Next, a structural example of the support structure 200 that supports the aforementioned upper transverse partition 100 will be described. The support structure 200 is a structure formed by combining a receiving member 201 and a support member 202. The receiving member 201 is an example of an outer member, provided in the inner wall 22 on the outer side of the portion forming the left and right sides of the refrigerator compartment 12, i.e., the outer side of the compartment. The support member 202 is an example of an inner member, provided in the inner wall 22 on the inner side of the portion forming the left and right sides of the refrigerator compartment 12, i.e., the inner side of the compartment.

[0070] Furthermore, the support structure 200 is symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the refrigerator compartment 12. Therefore, the following description will mainly focus on the structural example of the support structure 200 on the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12, and the description of the structural example of the support structure 200 on the right side of the refrigerator compartment 12 will be omitted.

[0071] like Figures 4 to 7 As illustrated, the receiving component 201 is, for example, made of metal and has a plate-shaped main body 210 located on the outer side of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22. The main body 210 is a thin plate shape with a front-to-back dimension longer than its vertical dimension. In addition, in this case, the front end of the main body 210 slopes downward from the upper rear to the lower front.

[0072] Furthermore, the receiving component 201 has a plurality of engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215 that protrude further inward than the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22, i.e., into the interior of the compartment. The plurality of engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215 are integrally formed with the main body 210, for example, by deforming a portion of the main body 210. Specifically, the two engaging protrusions 211 and 212 formed on the upper part of the main body 210 have openings 211a and 212a at the upper and lower parts, respectively, and are connected to the main body 210 at both ends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, which in this case is the front-rear direction of the refrigerator 10. Similarly, the engaging protrusion 213 formed on the upper part of the main body 210 also has openings 213a at the upper and lower parts, and is connected to the main body 210 at both ends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, which in this case is the front-rear direction of the refrigerator 10.

[0073] Furthermore, the vertical dimensions of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are the same. In contrast, the vertical dimension of the engaging protrusion 213 is shorter than that of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212. Additionally, the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 have a slit extending in the front-rear direction at their central portion in the vertical direction. In contrast, the engaging protrusion 213 does not have a slit extending in the front-rear direction. The engaging protrusion 213 is formed between the two engaging protrusions 211 and 212. In this case, the engaging protrusion 213 is formed at a position closer to the front engaging protrusion 211 than the rear engaging protrusion 212.

[0074] Furthermore, the two engaging protrusions 214 and 215 formed on the lower part of the main body 210 have openings 214a and 215a at the upper part and are connected to the main body 210 at the lower part. The front engaging protrusion 214 is located further forward than the front engaging protrusion 211. On the other hand, the rear engaging protrusion 215 is located below the rear engaging protrusion 212. The vertical dimensions of the engaging protrusions 214 and 215 are the same.

[0075] Furthermore, the receiving member 201 is configured such that, along with the mounting clip protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215, a plurality of through holes 211b, 212b, 213b, 214b, and 215b are formed penetrating the main body 210. The through holes 211b, 212b, 213b, 214b, and 215b, when viewed from the side, have a shape where the front-to-back dimension is longer than the vertical dimension. Additionally, the front-to-back dimension of the through holes 211b and 212b is longer than that of the through hole 213b. Furthermore, the front-to-back dimension of the through holes 211b and 212b is the same length as that of the through holes 214b and 215b. Additionally, the vertical dimension of the through holes 211b, 212b, and 213b is shorter than that of the through holes 214b and 215b. Through holes 211b, 212b, and 213b are respectively provided above and below the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213. On the other hand, through holes 214b and 215b are provided above the engaging protrusions 214 and 215, but not below them.

[0076] like Figure 8 As illustrated, when the receiving component 201 is viewed in the vertical direction, the main body 210 and the engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, 215 are connected in a ring shape, forming trapezoidal openings 211a, 212a, 213a, 214a, 215a surrounded by these main body parts 210 and engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, 215.

[0077] Furthermore, the receiving component 201 has a fastening protrusion 216 that protrudes inward from the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22. The fastening protrusion 216 protrudes in a circular shape from the outside to the inside, i.e., from the outside of the box to the inside of the box, and a threaded hole 216a is formed at its front end for screwing in a screw 203. In addition, the fastening protrusion 216 is formed in the upper part of the main body 210 between the rear-side engaging protrusion 212 and engaging protrusion 213. In addition, the fastening protrusion 216 is formed closer to the engaging protrusion 213 than the rear-side engaging protrusion 212. In addition, the fastening protrusion 216 is located in the center of the main body 210 in the front-rear direction.

[0078] Additionally, the receiving component 201 has a temporary fixing portion 217. The temporary fixing portion 217 is formed on the upper part of the main body 210 between the front engaging protrusion 211 and the engaging protrusion 213. Furthermore, the temporary fixing portion 217 is formed closer to the engaging protrusion 213 than the front engaging protrusion 211. The temporary fixing portion 217 is formed by cutting and bending a portion of the main body 210 to extend downwards. Additionally, the front end of the temporary fixing portion 217 is elastically deformable.

[0079] Furthermore, the receiving component 201 has a contact area enlargement portion 218. In this case, the contact area enlargement portion 218 bulges outward from the inside of the main body portion 210, i.e., from the inside of the box to the outside of the box. Additionally, the contact area enlargement portion 218 extends linearly along the front-rear direction of the main body portion 210. Furthermore, the contact area enlargement portion 218 is formed at the center of the main body portion 210 in the vertical direction.

[0080] like Figure 9 As illustrated, the vacuum insulation panel 23A is positioned opposite the receiving member 201, located on the outer side of the enclosure, beyond the receiving member 201. Furthermore, a foamed insulation material 23B is filled between the vacuum insulation panel 23A and the receiving member 201. The contact area enlargement portion 218 is configured such that it is pressed into the foamed insulation material 23B, which is located on the outer side of the inner wall 22, thereby increasing the contact area with the foamed insulation material 23B. The contact area enlargement portion 218 suppresses positional displacement of the receiving member 201 by increasing the contact area with the foamed insulation material 23B. Additionally, the contact area enlargement portion 218 is constructed by deforming the main body 210 of the receiving member 201, thus functioning as a reinforcing rib or reinforcing stiffener to strengthen the main body 210 and the entire receiving member 201.

[0081] Furthermore, the receiving component 201 may also be configured to have multiple contact area enlargement portions 218. In addition, the contact area enlargement portions 218 may be a structure along the vertical direction of the main body portion 210, or a structure along a direction inclined relative to the front-back direction and the vertical direction.

[0082] like Figures 10 to 13 As illustrated, the support member 202 is made of resin, for example, and has a plate-shaped main body 230 located inside the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22. The main body 230 is shaped such that its front-to-back dimension is longer than its vertical dimension. Furthermore, in this case, the front end of the main body 230 slopes downward from the upper rear portion toward the lower front portion. Additionally, the thickness of the main body 230 of the support member 202 is greater than the thickness of the main body 210 of the receiving member 201.

[0083] Furthermore, the support member 202 has multiple engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 on the inner side of the inner wall 22, which engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 of the receiving member 201, located on the side inward of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12. Specifically, the two engaging portions 231 and 232 formed on the upper part of the main body 230 extend downward at the front and rear portions of the main body 230, respectively. Additionally, the engaging portion 234 formed on the lower part of the main body 230 extends downward at a position further forward than the front engaging portion 231. Moreover, the downward extension of the engaging portion 234 is shorter than the downward extension of the engaging portions 231 and 232.

[0084] Furthermore, the support member 202 has a fastening portion 236 on the inner side of the inner wall 22, which is closer to the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 than the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12, and is fastened to the fastening protrusion 216. In this case, the fastening portion 236 is configured to be threadedly fastened to the fastening protrusion 216 of the receiving member 201 by a screw 203. Moreover, the method of fastening the receiving member 201 and the support member 202 is not limited to threaded fastening; for example, a pin-shaped component or a bolt and nut can be used for fastening. That is, any method that can fasten the receiving member 201 and the support member 202 can be applied.

[0085] Next, an example of an installation method for mounting the aforementioned support member 202 and receiving member 201 to the inner wall 22 of the refrigerator compartment 12 will be described. Figure 14As illustrated, the temporary fixing portion 217 of the receiving component 201 is inserted into the temporary fixing hole 22a of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 provided in the inner wall 22, clamping the periphery of the hole 22a, which in this case is the lower part of the hole 22a. Thus, the outer side of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22 of the receiving component 201 is temporarily fixed. At this time, the plurality of engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215 of the receiving component 201 are respectively inserted into the insertion holes 22b of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22 and enter the interior of the refrigerator.

[0086] Furthermore, the support member 202 is installed in the inner wall 22 and moves from top to bottom towards the inner side of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12. At this time, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 of the support member 202 engage from above with a portion of the engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215 that enter the inner wall 22 and are located towards the inner side of the portion forming the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12. In this case, the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 are engaged.

[0087] To explain in more detail, such as Figure 15 As illustrated, in the inner wall 22, at a position closer to the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12, the support member 202 moves from top to bottom, so that the front engaging part 231 is inserted from above into the opening 211a of the upper part of the front engaging protrusion 211, the rear engaging part 232 is inserted from above into the opening 212a of the upper part of the rear engaging protrusion 212, and the engaging part 234 is inserted from above into the opening 214a of the upper part of the front engaging protrusion 214.

[0088] Moreover, such as Figure 16 As illustrated, the support member 202 is securely fixed by threading the fastening part 236 to the fastening protrusion 216 using a screw 203. Furthermore, with the fastening part 236 threaded to the fastening protrusion 216 by the screw 203, the tip of the screw 203 is positioned within the outer surface of the receiving member 201 (i.e., the outer side of the casing), i.e., the inner side of the casing. That is, the screw 203 has a structure where its tip does not protrude outwards compared to the outer surface of the receiving member 201. Therefore, contact, insertion, or penetration of the tip of the screw 203 with the insulation material 23, such as the vacuum insulation panel 23A or the foam insulation material 23B, can be prevented.

[0089] In addition, Figure 17In the existing refrigerator structure illustrated as a comparative example, the inner component 202z, located on the inner side of the storage compartment's inner wall 22z, is directly fixed to the inner wall 22z by screws 203z. Therefore, the tip of the screw 203z reaches, inserts into, and penetrates the insulation materials 23z, such as the vacuum insulation plate 23Az and foamed insulation material 23Bz, located on the outer side of the inner wall 22z. Consequently, there is a problem that the insulation material 23z is damaged by the tip of the screw 203z, resulting in impaired insulation performance.

[0090] According to the refrigerator 10 of this disclosure, as described above, a structure is designed to prevent the front end of the screw 203 from reaching the insulation material 23. Therefore, damage to the insulation material 23 by the front end of the screw 203 can be avoided, thereby preventing damage to the insulation performance of the insulation material 23.

[0091] Based on the above, the support member 202 located on the inner side of the inner wall 22, which is located on the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12, is securely fixed by the receiving member 201 located on the inner wall 22, which is located on the outer side of the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12.

[0092] Furthermore, the temporary fixing part 217 may also have a structure with a gap between it and the hole 22a for temporary fixing. In this case, the gap formed between the temporary fixing part 217 and the hole 22a for temporary fixing may be configured to be larger than the gap formed between the engaging protrusions 211, 212, 214 and the engaging parts 231, 232, 234.

[0093] Furthermore, with the receiving member 201 installed on the outer side of the portion forming the refrigerator compartment 12 in the inner wall 22, the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are positioned corresponding to the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b, and the lower ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are positioned corresponding to the lower edge of the insertion hole 22b. More specifically, the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are positioned opposite the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b with a slight gap, and the lower ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are positioned opposite the lower edge of the insertion hole 22b with a slight gap. That is, the vertical dimension of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 is almost the same as or slightly shorter than the vertical dimension of the insertion hole 22b.

[0094] Furthermore, the minute gap formed between the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 and the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b is assumed to be, for example, approximately 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm. Additionally, the minute gap formed between the lower ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 and the lower edge of the insertion hole 22b is assumed to be, for example, approximately 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0095] Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 may have a structure in which the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 contact the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b. Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 may have a structure in which the lower ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 contact the lower edge of the insertion hole 22b.

[0096] On the other hand, the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 214 and 215 are separated from the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b by a predetermined distance. That is, the distance between the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 214 and 215 and the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b is at least longer than the distance between the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 and the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b.

[0097] like Figure 15 As illustrated, with the front engaging portion 231 inserted into the opening 211a at the top of the front engaging protrusion 211, and the rear engaging portion 232 inserted into the opening 212a at the top of the rear engaging protrusion 212, the entire engaging portion 231 is inserted into the engaging protrusion 211, and the entire engaging portion 232 is inserted into the engaging protrusion 212. That is, the planar portion 231a of the root portion constituting the engaging portion 231 contacts the upper end of the engaging protrusion 211, and the planar portion 232a of the root portion constituting the engaging portion 232 contacts the upper end of the engaging protrusion 212.

[0098] On the other hand, with the engaging portion 234 inserted into the opening 214a at the top of the engaging protrusion 214 on the front side, the lower end portion of the engaging portion 234 is inserted into the engaging protrusion 214, and the upper end portion of the engaging portion 234 is located above the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214. That is, the flat portion 234a constituting the root portion of the engaging portion 234 is in a state where it is slightly separated from the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214 without contacting it.

[0099] Assuming that the planar portion 234a of the root portion of the engaging part 234 contacts the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214, due to dimensional errors, installation position errors, etc., there is a concern that the planar portion 234a of the engaging part 234 may come into contact with the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214 before the planar portions 231a and 232a of the root portions of the engaging parts 231 and 232 contact the upper end of the engaging protrusion 211 and 212, causing the planar portions 231a and 232a of the engaging parts 231 and 232 to float from the upper end of the engaging protrusion 211 and 212. That is, there is a concern that the insertion amount of the engaging parts 231 and 232 relative to the engaging protrusion 211 and 212 may become insufficient. Furthermore, in such a situation, the installation state of the support member 202 may become unstable.

[0100] According to the refrigerator 10 of this disclosure, the flat portion 234a of the engaging portion 234 separates from the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214 when the flat portions 231a and 232a of the engaging portions 231 and 232 are in contact with the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212. Therefore, the flat portion 234a of the engaging portion 234 does not come into contact with the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214 before the flat portions 231a and 232a of the engaging portions 231 and 232 come into contact with the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212. Thus, it is configured to easily form a state in which the flat portions 231a and 232a of the engaging portions 231 and 232 come into contact with the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212. According to this structural example, it is possible to prevent the flat portions 231a and 232a of the engaging portions 231 and 232 from floating up from the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212, thereby stabilizing the installation state of the support member 202.

[0101] Furthermore, even if the support member 202 is pressed downwards due to loads, causing deformation where the planar portions 231a and 232a of the engaging portions 231 and 232 bite into the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212, the planar portion 234a of the engaging portion 234 separates from the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214, thus preventing the planar portion 234a of the engaging portion 234 from biting into the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214. Therefore, even if the engaging portions 231 and 232 deform in a manner that bites into the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212, deformation of the engaging portion 234 in a manner that bites into the upper end of the engaging protrusion 214 can be avoided, preventing deformation or breakage of all engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 that contribute to the fixation of the support member 202.

[0102] In addition, such as Figure 14 As illustrated, a reinforcing rib 22F is formed at the lower part of the portion in the inner wall 22 where the receiving member 201 is installed. This reinforcing rib 22F extends from the lower end of the lower transverse partition 101 in the left-right direction. According to the refrigerator 10, the lower end of the supporting member 202 is configured not to contact this reinforcing rib 22F. However, the refrigerator 10 may also be configured such that the lower end of the supporting member 202 contacts the reinforcing rib 22F; in this case, the reinforcing rib 22F can be used as a reinforcing rib for supporting the lower part of the supporting member 202 from below.

[0103] In addition, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12As illustrated, the support member 202 has a plurality of reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 extending from the outside to the inside, i.e., from the outside of the box to the inside of the box. The reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 are examples of specific protrusions. The reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 protrude inwards to perform a specific function different from their engagement function with the receiving member 201; in this case, they support the components disposed within the box. Furthermore, the specific function is not limited to the support function; for example, it could include guiding the movement of components disposed within the box, guiding the flow of cold air within the box, and blocking the portion where the support member 202 engages with the receiving member 201, among other functions.

[0104] Furthermore, reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 extend in a straight line along the front-rear direction of the main body 230. Specifically, reinforcing rib 237, located at the upper part of the main body 230, extends from the rear end of the main body 230 to a position slightly forward of the center in the front-rear direction, but does not reach the front end of the main body 230. Similarly, reinforcing rib 238, located at the center in the vertical direction of the main body 230, extends from the rear end of the main body 230 to a position slightly forward of the center in the front-rear direction, but does not reach the front end of the main body 230. However, reinforcing rib 238 is shorter than reinforcing rib 237. Furthermore, reinforcing rib 239, located at the lower part of the main body 230, extends from the rear end of the main body 230, with its front end reaching the front end of the main body 230. Reinforcing rib 239 is longer than both reinforcing ribs 237 and 238.

[0105] like Figure 12As illustrated, the rear engaging portion 232 of the aforementioned plurality of engaging portions 231, 232 is entirely disposed on the opposite side of the reinforcing rib 237, i.e., on the outer side of the case. Furthermore, in this case, the engaging portion 232 is disposed on the opposite side of the recess 237a provided at the rear of the reinforcing rib 237, i.e., on the outer side of the case. Additionally, a portion of the front engaging portion 231 is disposed on the opposite side of the reinforcing rib 237, i.e., on the outer side of the case. Furthermore, in this case, the engaging portion 231 is located on the opposite side of the front end of the reinforcing rib 237; more specifically, the front portion of the engaging portion 231 is located on the outer side of the case a portion forward of the front end face of the reinforcing rib 237, and the rear portion of the engaging portion 231 is located on the outer side of the case a portion rearward of the front end face of the reinforcing rib 237. Additionally, the entire engaging portion 234 is disposed on the opposite side of the reinforcing rib 239, i.e., on the outer side of the case. Furthermore, in this case, the engaging portion 234 is located on the outer side of the box, further rearward than the front end face of the reinforcing rib 239. Additionally, the upper ends of the engaging portions 231 and 232 are lower than the highest portion of the reinforcing rib 237, and the lower ends of the engaging portions 231 and 232 are higher than the lowest portion of the reinforcing rib 237. Similarly, the upper end of the engaging portion 234 is lower than the highest portion of the reinforcing rib 239, and the lower end of the engaging portion 234 is higher than the lowest portion of the reinforcing rib 238.

[0106] As described above, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 are integrally or partially disposed on the opposite side of the area in the support member 202 where the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 are formed, i.e., on the outer side of the housing. In other words, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 are disposed on the opposite side of the portion where the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 are formed, or on the portion close to that portion, and are not disposed in a position away from the portion where the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 are formed.

[0107] In addition, the inward protrusion of the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239, i.e., the inner side of the box, is all less than [a certain value]. Figure 14 The illustrated reinforcing rib 22F protrudes inward, i.e., into the box. The reinforcing rib 22F is configured to extend in the front-rear direction below the support member 202 mounted on the inner wall 22 of the box.

[0108] In addition, such as Figure 12As illustrated, the fastening part 236 is provided in one of the plurality of reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239, and in this case, it is provided in the lower part of the uppermost reinforcing rib 237. In this case, the fastening part 236 is provided in such a way that it is embedded in the lower part of the central part in the front-back direction of the reinforcing rib 237. According to this structural example, the fastening part 236 can be covered from above by the reinforcing rib 237. As a result, the fastening part 236 is difficult to see visually, and damage to the appearance due to the fastening part 236 can be avoided. In addition, since the fastening part 236 is covered by the reinforcing rib 237, it is not necessary to provide a new structure for covering the fastening part 236.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 15 As illustrated, the support member 202 has a cover portion 240. The cover portion 240 extends from the upper end of the support member 202 toward the inner wall 22, i.e., the outer side of the refrigerator. The end of the cover portion 240 opposite to the inner wall 22, i.e., the outer side of the refrigerator, abuts against the inner wall 22. Therefore, it is a structure in which it is difficult to form a gap between the end of the cover portion 240 opposite to the inner wall 22 and the inner wall 22. Furthermore, it is preferable to configure it so that a gap is formed as little as possible between the end of the cover portion 240 opposite to the inner wall 22 and the inner wall 22, but for example, a slight gap may form between the end of the cover portion 240 opposite to the inner wall 22 and the inner wall 22 due to errors in the installation position or size of the support member 202.

[0110] Furthermore, the cover portion 240 extends along the front-rear direction of the main body portion 230. The dimension of the cover portion 240 in the front-rear direction is longer than that of the reinforcing rib portion 237. Additionally, the dimension of the cover portion 240 in the front-rear direction is shorter than that of the reinforcing rib portion 239. The cover portion 240 covers the portion above which the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214. In this case, the cover portion 240 covers the entire portion above which the engaging portions 231, 232 engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212. Furthermore, the cover portion 240 covers a portion above which the engaging portion 234 engages with the engaging protrusion 214 via its front end portion.

[0111] The support members 202, respectively installed in the inner wall 22 forming the left and right sides of the cold storage compartment 12, can support multiple components, including at least the upper transverse partition 100 and the upper quench container 104. More specifically, the support members 202 support the left and right ends of the upper transverse partition 100 via reinforcing ribs 237. In this case, the support members 202 support the upper transverse partition 100 so that it cannot move in the front-back or left-right directions.

[0112] Furthermore, the support member 202, which forms the left side of the refrigerator compartment 12 and is installed in the inner wall 22, supports the left end of the upper quench container 104 via reinforcing ribs 238. Similarly, the support member 202, which forms the right side of the refrigerator compartment 12 and is installed in the inner wall 22, supports the right end of the upper quench container 104 via reinforcing ribs 238. In this case, the left and right support members 202 support the upper quench container 104 so that it can move in the front-back direction. The upper quench container 104, supported by the left and right support members 202, floats above the lower transverse partition 101. The upper transverse partition 100 is an example of a partition component. The upper quench container 104 is an example of a special component.

[0113] The upper quench container 104 is a component disposed below the upper transverse partition 100, which is an example of an upper surface forming component. Furthermore, the upper quench container 104 is a component whose front surface can be visually observed from the front of the refrigerator compartment 12 when the refrigerator compartment doors 12D[L] and 12D[R] are open. As described above, the upper quench container 104 is supported together with the upper transverse partition 100 by a shared support member 202. Therefore, it is possible to suppress any positional shift or tilting of the upper quench container 104 relative to the upper transverse partition 100.

[0114] According to the refrigerator 10, it is possible to suppress the positional shift or tilting of the upper chiller container 104, which can be visually confirmed from the front of the refrigerator compartment 12 when the refrigerator compartment doors 12D[L] and 12D[R] are open. Therefore, it is possible to improve the appearance of the inside of the refrigerator when the refrigerator compartment doors 12D[L] and 12D[R] are open.

[0115] Furthermore, since the upper quench container 104 is a component whose lower surface faces the upper surface of the lower transverse partition 101, it is generally assumed that the upper quench container 104 is placed on the lower transverse partition 101. However, in the case where the upper quench container 104 is placed on the lower transverse partition 101, the upper quench container 104 is supported by a component different from the support member 202 that supports the upper transverse partition 100, namely the lower transverse partition 101. Therefore, it is impossible to prevent the upper quench container 104 from shifting or tilting relative to the upper transverse partition 100.

[0116] According to the refrigerator 10 of this disclosure, the upper quench container 104 is not placed on the lower transverse partition 101, but is supported by a support member 202 that supports the upper transverse partition 100. Therefore, according to the refrigerator 10, a structure is achieved that can suppress the positional displacement and tilting of the upper quench container 104 relative to the upper transverse partition 100 compared to conventional structures.

[0117] Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 can also be configured to support the lower right chill container 105, the lower left chill container 106, the lower transverse partition 101, etc., via the support member 202. According to this structural example, for the multiple components arranged in the chilling space 12B, specifically the upper transverse partition 100, the lower transverse partition 101, the upper chill container 104, the lower right chill container 105, the lower left chill container 106, etc., it is possible to suppress the displacement or tilting of their respective arrangement positions, thereby improving the overall appearance of the chilling space 12B.

[0118] And, as Figure 18 As illustrated, the quench door 107 is formed into a rectangular shape that is longer in the left-right direction. Furthermore, when the opening on the front surface of the upper quench cooling space 12B1 is closed, the lower end of the quench door 107 forms an outline line L1 that extends linearly in the left-right direction. Additionally, the upper end of the handle portion 104a located at the front of the upper quench container 104 forms an outline line L2 that extends linearly in the left-right direction, parallel to the outline line L1, below the lower end of the quench door 107. By forming two outline lines L1 and L2 that extend parallel to each other in the same direction, the appearance can be further improved.

[0119] In addition, such as Figure 19 As illustrated, the receiving component 201 is configured such that, in the main body 210, two or more of the multiple engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, specifically the portions where engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213 are formed, are blocked by a common sealing component 220. The sealing component 220 is an example of a blocking component, in which it blocks the multiple through holes 211b, 212b, 213b formed along with the engagement protrusions 211, 212, 213 among the multiple engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213. This prevents the liquid of the fluid-filled foamed insulation material 23B injected between the outer wall 21 and the inner wall 22 from entering the inner side (i.e., the inner side of the box) through the through holes 211b, 212b, 213b, and more preferably, prevents it from entering.

[0120] Furthermore, in this case, the sealing member 220 also blocks the temporary fixing part 217 and the fastening protrusion 216. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent, for example, the liquid of the foamed insulation material 23B from entering the inner side, i.e., the inner side of the box, through the through hole around the temporary fixing part 217. In addition, it is possible to suppress or prevent, for example, the liquid of the foamed insulation material 23B from filling the fastening protrusion 216.

[0121] exist Figure 19In the structural example, the receiving member 201 is configured such that a plurality of engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213 arranged in the front-back direction are blocked by a common sealing member 220, while engaging protrusions 214 and 215 are not blocked. However, it is also possible that engaging protrusions 214 and 215 are blocked by a sealing member 220 different from the sealing member 220 that blocks engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213. Furthermore, the receiving member 201 may also be configured such that a plurality of engaging protrusions arranged in the vertical direction (an example of a direction different from the front-back direction), such as engaging protrusions 212 and 215, are blocked by a common sealing member 220. Alternatively, the receiving member 201 may also be configured such that a plurality of engaging protrusions arranged in an inclined direction (an example of a direction different from the front-back direction), such as engaging protrusions 212 and 214 or engaging protrusions 211 and 215, are blocked by a common sealing member 220.

[0122] like Figures 20 to 23 As shown, the right longitudinal partition 102 is made of resin, for example, and is a rectangular component having an upper side 110, a lower side 111, a rear side 112, and a front side 113. The upper side 110 is an example of a first side, the lower side 111 is an example of a second side, and the rear side 112 is an example of a third side. The main body 114 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is shaped such that its front-to-back dimension is longer than its vertical dimension.

[0123] like Figure 24 As illustrated, the refrigerator 10 includes an upper wind shield 301, a lower wind shield 302, and a rear wind shield 303. The upper wind shield 301, the lower wind shield 302, and the rear wind shield 303 are all examples of wind shields. More specifically, the upper wind shield 301 is an example of a first wind shield, the lower wind shield 302 is an example of a second wind shield, and the rear wind shield 303 is an example of a third wind shield.

[0124] The upper wind shield 301 extends from the lower surface of the lower transverse partition 101, which is opposite to the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102, toward the upper edge 110, thus blocking the airflow between the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3. The lower transverse partition 101 is an example of an upper surface forming component, in which the upper surfaces of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2, the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3, and the ice-making cooling space 12B4 are formed. Furthermore, the upper surface forming component need only be a structure capable of forming at least the upper surfaces of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3.

[0125] The lower wind shield 302 extends from the upper surface of the storage compartment partition wall 11K, which is opposite the lower edge 111 of the right longitudinal partition 102, toward the lower edge 111, thus blocking the airflow between the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3. The storage compartment partition wall 11K is an example of a lower surface forming component, in which the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2, the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3, and the ice box cooling space 12B4 are formed. Furthermore, the lower surface forming component need only be a structure capable of forming at least the lower surfaces of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3.

[0126] The rear wind shield 303 extends from the front surface of the air duct 31, which is opposite the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102, toward the rear edge 112, thus blocking airflow between the lower right chilled space 12B2 and the lower left chilled space 12B3. The air duct 31 is an example of a rear surface forming component, in which the rear surfaces of the lower right chilled space 12B2 and the lower left chilled space 12B3 are formed. Furthermore, the rear surface forming component need only be a structure capable of forming at least the rear surfaces of the lower right chilled space 12B2 and the lower left chilled space 12B3. The air duct 31 is equipped as a component distinct from the lower transverse partition 101 and the storage compartment dividing wall 11K.

[0127] In this case, the refrigerator 10 is configured such that one of the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3 is designated as a "special cooling space," while the other is designated as an "other cooling space." That is, the refrigerator 10 can also be configured such that the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 is designated as a "special cooling space," and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3 is designated as an "other cooling space," or vice versa. The refrigerator 10 is a structure in which a storage compartment, in this case a refrigerator compartment 12, is divided into multiple cooling spaces. Furthermore, the refrigerator 10 has at least one cooling space among the multiple cooling spaces designated as a "special cooling space," and at least one cooling space among the multiple cooling spaces that is different from the "special cooling space" designated as an "other cooling space."

[0128] The lower right chiller 12B2 and the lower left chiller 12B3 are arranged in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10. The right longitudinal partition 102 is a plate-shaped or wall-shaped component that extends in the front-back direction and the up-down direction between the lower right chiller 12B2 and the lower left chiller 12B3 arranged in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10.

[0129] like Figure 25 As illustrated, the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the air duct 31 that forms the rear surfaces of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3. That is, taking into account dimensional errors and installation position errors of the right longitudinal partition 102 and the air duct 31, the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is separated from the air duct 31 by a predetermined distance. Furthermore, the rear wind shield 303 extends forward from the front surface of the air duct 31, i.e., towards the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102. In other words, the rear wind shield 303 extends in a manner that effectively blocks the gap between the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 and the air duct 31.

[0130] Furthermore, the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the lower transverse partition 101 that forms the upper surfaces of the lower right quenching space 12B2 and the lower left quenching space 12B3. That is, taking into account dimensional errors and installation position errors of the right longitudinal partition 102 and the lower transverse partition 101, the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is separated from the lower transverse partition 101 by a predetermined distance. Additionally, the upper wind shield 301 extends downward from the lower surface of the lower transverse partition 101, i.e., towards the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102. In other words, the upper wind shield 301 extends in a manner that effectively blocks the gap between the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 and the lower transverse partition 101. Alternatively, the lower transverse partition 101 may be a structure that forms the upper surface of at least one of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3.

[0131] The right longitudinal partition 102 is configured such that its upper edge 110 is entirely inseparable from the lower transverse partition 101, with a portion of it contacting the lower transverse partition 101. More specifically, the right longitudinal partition 102 has a protrusion 115 at the front of its upper edge 110. The upper surface of the protrusion 115 abuts against the lower surface of the lower transverse partition 101, supporting the lower transverse partition 101 from below. Furthermore, a portion of the right longitudinal partition 102 in its upper edge 110, in this case rearward of the protrusion 115, has a separation portion 116 that separates from the lower surface of the lower transverse partition 101. The upper windshield 301 is provided in such a manner that it at least blocks the separation portion 116.

[0132] The separation section 116 forms a gap between the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 and the lower transverse partition 101. Because of this gap—that is, the area where the right longitudinal partition 102 is far from the lower transverse partition 101—the contact area between the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 and the lower transverse partition 101 is reduced. Therefore, compared to a structure without such a separation section 116, the lower transverse partition 101 can be removed with less force.

[0133] Additionally, the right longitudinal partition 102 has a leg 117 at the front of its lower side 111. The lower surface of the leg 117 abuts against the upper surface of the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, thus supporting the right longitudinal partition 102 from below. Furthermore, a portion of the lower side 111 of the right longitudinal partition 102, in this case, a portion further rearward than the leg 117, has a separation portion 118 that separates from the upper surface of the storage compartment dividing wall 11K. The lower wind shield 302 is provided to at least block the separation portion 118. Additionally, the lower wind shield 302 includes a stepped portion that buries the separation portion 118. The separation portion 118 in the lower side 111 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is supported from below by the stepped portion of the lower wind shield 302.

[0134] In addition, such as Figures 20 to 23 As shown, ribs 120 are formed on both the left and right sides of the right longitudinal partition 102. The ribs 120 extend in a straight line from the rear to the front of the right longitudinal partition 102. Furthermore, the front end of the rib 120 slopes upwards from the rear to the front. The rear of the rib 120 does not reach the rear end of the right longitudinal partition 102. Additionally, a small rib 121 is formed on the right side of the right longitudinal partition 102. The small rib 121 is formed on the upper part of the rear of the right longitudinal partition 102. The front of the small rib 121 is located forward of the rear end of the rib 120, but the rear of the small rib 121 is located backwards of the rear end of the rib 120. The front end of the small rib 121 slopes downwards from the rear to the front.

[0135] The upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 are all arranged such that the right longitudinal partition 102 is sandwiched between the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3. In this case, the direction in which the upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 sandwich the right longitudinal partition 102 is the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10. Therefore, the upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 can be defined as sandwiching the right longitudinal partition 102 from the left and right sides.

[0136] The upper windproof section 301, lower windproof section 302, and rear windproof section 303, which are arranged in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10 to sandwich the right longitudinal partition 102, can achieve a higher windproofing effect compared to a windproof section only provided on one side in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10. Furthermore, the upper windproof section 301, lower windproof section 302, and rear windproof section 303 can be expected to suppress positional displacement of the right longitudinal partition 102 in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10.

[0137] Furthermore, the upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 can be extended to the right longitudinal partition 102 as much as possible. This achieves a higher wind shielding effect and a better positional offset suppression effect. However, if the extension of the upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 to the right longitudinal partition 102 is too large, there is a concern that these upper wind shields 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 may reduce the internal volume of the cooling space. Therefore, the extension of the upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 to the right longitudinal partition 102 is suppressed to a level that sufficiently ensures the internal volume of the cooling space.

[0138] like Figure 26 As illustrated, the upper windproof portion 301 has a lower right chilled cooling space side portion 301a and a lower left chilled cooling space side portion 301b sandwiching the right longitudinal partition 102. The lower right chilled cooling space side portion 301a is located on the side of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 relative to the right longitudinal partition 102, in this case, it is located on the right side relative to the right longitudinal partition 102. On the other hand, the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 301b is located on the side of the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3 relative to the right longitudinal partition 102, in this case, it is located on the left side relative to the right longitudinal partition 102.

[0139] The upper windproof portion 301, in the direction intersecting the right longitudinal partition 102 (in this case, the front-rear direction of the refrigerator 10), is longer than one side of the refrigerator 10 in the left-right direction (in this case, the other side of the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 301b, and in this case, the lower right chilled cooling space side portion 301a). More specifically, the dimension of the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 301b in the front-rear direction is at least longer than the dimension of the separation portion 116 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 301b can completely block the separation portion 116 in the front-rear direction. On the other hand, the dimension of the lower right chilled cooling space side portion 301a in the front-rear direction is at least shorter than the dimension of the separation portion 116 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the lower right chilled cooling space side portion 301a does not completely block the separation portion 116 in the front-rear direction, but only partially—in this case, the rear portion. Furthermore, the lower right chilled space side portion 301a is supported from below by a small rib 121 located on the side of the right longitudinal partition 102. Also, the upper wind shield 301 can be a structure where the lower right chilled space side portion 301a is longer than the lower left chilled space side portion 301b in the front-back direction of the refrigerator 10, or it can be a structure where the lower right chilled space side portion 301a and the lower left chilled space side portion 301b are of the same length.

[0140] Additionally, the upper wind shield 301 has a rear guide 311 at its rear. The rear guide 311 is an example of the first guide, and is formed such that the distance between the upper wind shield 301 and the right longitudinal partition 102, i.e., in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10, gradually increases from the front to the rear. When manufacturing the refrigerator 10, a storage compartment dividing wall 11K is installed inside the insulated cabinet 11, which is composed of the inner box 11A and the outer box 11B. Then, the right longitudinal partition 102 is installed on the upper surface of the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, and then a lower transverse partition 101 is installed on the upper part of the right longitudinal partition 102. After the right longitudinal partition 102 is installed on the upper surface of the storage room dividing wall 11K, when the lower transverse partition 101 is installed on the upper part of the right longitudinal partition 102, the rear guide portion 311 is shaped to easily guide the upper edge portion 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 to the space between the upper windproof portion 301 provided on the lower surface of the lower transverse partition 101.

[0141] Furthermore, the upper windproof portion 301 has a stop portion 312 at its front. If the lower transverse partition 101 is pressed into a predetermined installation position above the right longitudinal partition 102, the stop portion 312 provided on the lower surface of the lower transverse partition 101 abuts against the front end of the protrusion 115 of the right longitudinal partition 102. This prevents the lower transverse partition 101 from being pressed into a position further rearward than the predetermined installation position.

[0142] In this case, the stop portion 312 is shaped to abut against the front end face and the right side face of the protrusion 115, a so-called "L" shape. However, the shape of the stop portion 312 can be any shape that can restrict the lower transverse partition 101 to a predetermined installation position. For example, it can be a wall shape that abuts against the front end face of the protrusion 115, a shape that abuts against the front end face and the left and right sides of the protrusion 115, a so-called "U" shape, etc.

[0143] And, as Figure 27 As illustrated, the lower windproof portion 302 has a lower right chilled cooling space side portion 302a and a lower left chilled cooling space side portion 302b sandwiching the right longitudinal partition 102. The lower right chilled cooling space side portion 302a is located on the side of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 relative to the right longitudinal partition 102, in this case, it is located on the right side relative to the right longitudinal partition 102. On the other hand, the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 302b is located on the side of the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3 relative to the right longitudinal partition 102, in this case, it is located on the left side relative to the right longitudinal partition 102.

[0144] The lower vent 302 has the same length on one side of the refrigerator 10 in the direction intersecting the direction of the right longitudinal partition 102 (in this case, the front-rear direction of the refrigerator 10) and the other side in the left-right direction (in this case, the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 302b and the lower right chilled cooling space side portion 302a). The lower right chilled cooling space side portion 302a and the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 302b can block most of the separation section 118, except for the rear portion. Alternatively, the lower vent 302 can also be configured such that the lower right chilled cooling space side portion 302a and the lower left chilled cooling space side portion 302b have different lengths in the front-rear direction of the refrigerator 10.

[0145] Furthermore, the lower wind shield 302 has a front guide portion 321 at its front. The front guide portion 321 is an example of a second guide portion, and is formed such that the distance between the lower wind shield 302 and the right longitudinal partition 102 in the left-right direction of the refrigerator 10 gradually increases from the rear to the front. The front guide portion 321 is formed such that when the right longitudinal partition 102 is installed on the upper surface of the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, it is easy to guide the lower edge 111 of the right longitudinal partition 102 to the space between the lower wind shield 302 located on the upper surface of the storage compartment dividing wall 11K.

[0146] like Figure 28As illustrated, the rear windshield 303 has a basic extension 331 extending forward toward the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102, and an additional extension 332 extending forward further toward the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 than the basic extension 331. The basic extension 331 is an example of a first extension, and the additional extension 332 is an example of a second extension. The additional extension 332 is integrally formed with the basic extension 331 and extends forward from the lower part of the front end of the basic extension 331. Alternatively, the additional extension 332 may be a separate component from the basic extension 331.

[0147] A rectangular protrusion 31a is provided at the lower end of the air conditioning duct 31. On the other hand, a rectangular cutout 112a, matching the shape of the protrusion 31a, is provided at the lower part of the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102. An additional extension 332 extends forward to block the gap formed between the protrusions 31a and the cutout 112a. Furthermore, the upper end of the basic extension 331 is lower than the upper end of the right longitudinal partition 102; that is, the upper part of the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is not blocked by the basic extension 331. Therefore, when the lower transverse partition 101 is installed on the upper part of the right longitudinal partition 102, interference between the rear part of the upper windshield 301 and the basic extension 331 can be avoided.

[0148] And, as Figure 29 As illustrated, the gap S1 formed in the left-right direction between the rear windshield 303 and the right longitudinal partition 102 is greater than the gap S2 formed in the left-right direction between the lower windshield 302 and the right longitudinal partition 102.

[0149] According to the refrigerator 10 configured as described above, the receiving member 201, located on the outer side of the inner wall 22 (i.e., the outer side of the cabinet), has a plurality of engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 that protrude to the inner side of the inner wall 22 (i.e., the inner side of the cabinet). Furthermore, the support member 202, located on the inner side of the inner wall 22, has a plurality of engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 that engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 respectively on the inner side of the inner wall 22.

[0150] According to this structural example, the support member 202, which is located inside the inner wall 22, can be fixed by engaging with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 of the receiving member 201, which protrude inside the inner wall 22. Therefore, the support member 202 can be fixed without damaging or penetrating components such as the heat insulation material 23 located outside the inner wall 22.

[0151] Furthermore, the receiving component 201 also includes engaging protrusions 213 and 215. Therefore, the refrigerator 10 can also be configured such that the support component 202 has engaging portions that can engage with these engaging protrusions 213 and 215, such that these engaging portions engage with the engaging protrusions 213 and 215 on the inner side of the refrigerator, closer to the inner wall 22. According to this structural example, the number of engaging portions between the support component 202 and the receiving component 201 can be increased, and the support component 202 can be fixed in a more stable state.

[0152] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, a vacuum insulation panel 23A is provided as the insulation material 23, and the vacuum insulation panel 23A is disposed at a position opposite to the receiving member 201. According to the refrigerator 10, the supporting member 202 can be fixed without damaging or penetrating the vacuum insulation panel 23A, and the insulation performance of the vacuum insulation panel 23A can be avoided by fixing the supporting member 202.

[0153] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 are designed to engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 from above by moving the support member 202 from above to the inside of the refrigerator, which is closer to the inner wall 22. According to this design, by applying a load to the support member 202, the support member 202 can be pressed downwards in the direction in which the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214. Therefore, the support member 202 can be more securely fixed relative to the receiving member 201.

[0154] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 have openings 211a, 212a, and 214a for inserting the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234. With this structure, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 can be easily inserted into the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214 through the openings 211a, 212a, and 214a. Moreover, with the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 being inserted from above into the openings 211a, 212a, and 214a of the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214, the support member 202 can be positioned vertically and horizontally.

[0155] Alternatively, the positioning of the support member 202 can be configured such that a protrusion protruding inward is provided on a portion of the receiving member 201, different from the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214, so that only a portion of the support member 202 is engaged or locked onto this protrusion. Alternatively, it can be configured such that a positioning component is provided as a component different from the receiving member 201 and the support member 202, and the support member 202 is positioned relative to the receiving member 201 by this positioning component. Alternatively, it can be configured such that the support member 202 is fixed to the receiving member 201 by screws or the like, or by claws or the like, thereby positioning the support member 202 relative to the receiving member 201. Alternatively, it can be configured such that the support member 202 is directly or indirectly fixed to the side or bottom surface of the refrigerator compartment 12, thereby positioning the support member 202 relative to the receiving member 201.

[0156] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the two ends of the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213, which intersect the vertical direction (in this case, the front-rear direction), are connected to the main body 210. This structural example improves the strength of the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213. Additionally, it prevents sharp edges from forming on the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213, thus preventing injuries to workers during the manufacture of the refrigerator 10 caused by these protrusions.

[0157] The engagement protrusions 211, 212, and 213 at both ends of the refrigerator 10 in the front-rear direction, which are connected to the main body 210, can be formed by creating elongated holes in the portion of the main body 210 where the engagement protrusions 211, 212, and 213 are to be formed. These holes correspond to the lengths of the engagement protrusions 211, 212, and 213 along the front-rear direction of the refrigerator 10, and the portion sandwiched between these elongated holes is bent. Furthermore, after forming the engagement protrusions 211, 212, and 213, these elongated holes form the aforementioned through holes 211b, 212b, and 213b. Additionally, the engagement protrusions 211, 212, and 213 at both ends of the refrigerator 10 in the front-rear direction, which are connected to the main body 210, can be formed without increasing the amount of protrusion from the main body 210. Therefore, the amount of protrusion of the engagement protrusions 211, 212, and 213 into the refrigerator can be suppressed.

[0158] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234, either wholly or partially, are positioned opposite to the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 formed in the support member 202. According to this structural example, on the opposite side of the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 to which load is applied, the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214. Therefore, the load applied to the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 can be utilized to enhance the degree of engagement of the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 with respect to the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214, resulting in a more secure engagement.

[0159] Furthermore, the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239 can cover the surface of the portions where the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 are formed, thus concealing any deformation or distortion that occurs on the surface due to the formation of the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234. Additionally, the reinforcing ribs 237, 238, and 239, which are designed to protrude inwards for a specific function different from the engaging function of the support member 202 to the receiving member 201, can be used to conceal deformed or warped portions without requiring a new structure for concealing them.

[0160] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, two or more of the multiple engaging protrusions 211, 212, 213, 214, and 215 are arranged in a structure in which the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213, as well as the multiple through holes 211b, 212b, and 213b formed with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213, are blocked by a common sealing member 220. According to this structure, as many engaging protrusions and through holes as possible can be blocked with as few sealing members 220 as possible. Therefore, the amount of sealing member 220 used can be reduced, which is advantageous in terms of cost, and the number of times the sealing member 220 needs to be applied can be reduced, which is also advantageous in terms of manufacturing operations.

[0161] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the receiving member 201 has a fastening protrusion 216 that protrudes to the inner side of the inner wall 22, i.e., the inner side of the refrigerator, and the supporting member 202 has a fastening portion 236 that is fastened to the fastening protrusion 216 to the inner side of the inner wall 22, i.e., the inner side of the refrigerator. According to this structural example, not only by engaging the engaging portions 231, 232, and 234 with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 214, but also by fastening the fastening portion 236 with the fastening protrusion 216, the supporting member 202 can be fixed to the receiving member 201, and the supporting member 202 can be fixed more firmly.

[0162] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the support member 202 has a cover portion 240 that covers the portion above which the engaging parts 231, 232, 234 engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, 214. According to this structural example, it is difficult to visually identify the engaging parts 231, 232, 234 and the engaging protrusions 211, 212, 214 from above, thus preventing damage to the appearance caused by the structure of engaging parts 231, 232, 234 and engaging protrusions 211, 212, 214 engaging.

[0163] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the support member 202 is capable of supporting multiple components, in which case it can support at least both the upper transverse partition 100 and the upper quench container 104. According to this structural example, the upper transverse partition 100 and the upper quench container 104 are supported by a common support member 202, thus suppressing any shift in positional relationship between the upper transverse partition 100 and the upper quench container 104.

[0164] Furthermore, in the structural example where multiple components are supported by a shared support member 202, the load applied to the support member 202 increases, raising concerns about the support member 202 falling off. However, in the refrigerator 10, the support member 202 is supported by engaging multiple engaging portions 231, 232, 234 with multiple engaging protrusions 211, 212, 214 of the receiving member 201. Therefore, even if the load applied to the support member 202 increases, the fall off of the support member 202 can be sufficiently suppressed.

[0165] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the receiving component 201 has a contact area enlargement portion 218 that increases the contact area with the foamed insulation material 23B. According to this structural example, the area of ​​the receiving component 201 supported by the foamed insulation material 23B is increased, thus suppressing positional shift or tilting of the receiving component 201. In addition, the contact area enlargement portion 218, formed by deforming the main body portion 210 of the receiving component 201, can function as a reinforcing rib or reinforcing rib to strengthen the main body portion 210 of the receiving component 201, thereby improving the strength of the receiving component 201.

[0166] Furthermore, the contact area enlargement portion 218 is provided in a straight line extending along the front-rear direction of the main body portion 210. With this configuration, the load applied to the receiving member 201 via the support member 202 in the vertical direction can be easily distributed in the front-rear direction, thereby suppressing positional displacement and deformation of the receiving member 201. Additionally, the contact area enlargement portion 218 can also be in a bent, curved, or meandering shape, i.e., a non-linear shape.

[0167] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the upper and lower parts of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are open, respectively. When the receiving member 201 is installed on the outer side of the refrigerator, i.e., the outer side of the compartment, the upper ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are positioned corresponding to the upper edge of the insertion hole 22b, and the lower ends of the engaging protrusions 211 and 212 are positioned corresponding to the lower edge of the insertion hole 22b. According to this structural example, the receiving member 201 can be positioned relative to the inner wall 22 of the refrigerator compartment 12, particularly in the vertical direction. Furthermore, by positioning the receiving member 201 relative to the inner wall 22 of the refrigerator compartment 12, for example, rotation or tilting of the receiving member 201 can be prevented when tightening based on the screw 203.

[0168] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the engaging protrusions 214 and 215 have an upper opening but are connected to the main body 210 at the lower part. According to this structural example, the portion of the engaging protrusions 214 and 215 connected to the main body 210 increases, thus improving the strength of the engaging protrusions 214 and 215.

[0169] In this embodiment, the upper engaging protrusions 211, 212, and 213 of the receiving member 201 are shaped to have openings 211a, 212a, and 213a at the top and bottom, respectively. The lower engaging protrusions 214 and 215 of the receiving member 201 are shaped to have openings 214a and 215a at the top and are connected to the main body 210 at the bottom. However, the refrigerator 10 is not limited to this structure. For example, the upper engaging protrusions of the receiving member 201 may be shaped to have openings at the top but be connected to the main body 210 at the bottom, and the lower engaging protrusions of the receiving member 201 may be shaped to have openings at both the top and bottom. Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 may be formed so that all engaging protrusions have openings at both the top and bottom. Or, the refrigerator 10 may be shaped so that all engaging protrusions have openings at the top but are connected to the main body 210 at the bottom.

[0170] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the receiving component 201 has a temporary fixing portion 217 protruding to the inner side of the inner wall 22, i.e., the inner side of the refrigerator. The inner wall 22 has a temporary fixing hole 22b for inserting the temporary fixing portion 217. According to this structural example, when the receiving component 201 is temporarily fixed by locking the temporary fixing portion 217 into the temporary fixing hole 22b, the engaging portions 231, 232, 234 can engage with the engaging protrusions 211, 212, 214, and the fastening portion 236 can fasten with the fastening protrusion 216, enabling more stable engagement and fastening.

[0171] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, a right longitudinal partition 102 having at least an upper side 110, a lower side 111, and a rear side 112 divides a refrigerator compartment 12 into a lower right chilling space 12B2 and a lower left chilling space 12B3. The refrigerator 10 configured in this way, as a windproof section to block the flow of air between the lower right chilling space 12B2 and the lower left chilling space 12B3, has an upper windproof section 301, a lower windproof section 302, and a rear windproof section 303.

[0172] The upper wind shield 301 extends from the lower horizontal partition 101 opposite to the upper side 110 toward the upper side 110. The lower wind shield 302 extends from the storage compartment partition wall 11K opposite to the lower side 111 toward the lower side 111. The rear wind shield 303 extends from the air conditioning duct 31 opposite to the rear side 112 toward the rear side 112.

[0173] According to this structural example, for a refrigerator 10 that divides a refrigerator compartment 12 into multiple cooling spaces 12B2, 12B3 by a right longitudinal partition 102, even if the right longitudinal partition 102 is not in close contact with the lower transverse partition 101, the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, and the cold air duct 31 opposite to the right longitudinal partition 102, the upper wind shield 301, the lower wind shield 302, and the rear wind shield 303 can adequately block the flow of air between the multiple cooling spaces 12B2, 12B3.

[0174] Furthermore, even if no wind-shielding components such as panels or insulation materials are installed between the right longitudinal partition 102 and the lower transverse partition 101 opposite to it, the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, and the air conditioning duct 31, the airflow between the multiple cooling spaces 12B2 and 12B3 can still be blocked by the upper wind-shielding part 301, the lower wind-shielding part 302, and the rear wind-shielding part 303. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the reduction of the volume in the cooling space 12B2 and the cooling space 12B3 due to the wind-shielding components. In addition, it is possible to prevent the structural complexity or increased manufacturing cost caused by the wind-shielding components.

[0175] Furthermore, the right longitudinal partition 102 can also be configured such that any one of the upper side 110, lower side 111, and rear side 112 is directly fixed to the component opposite to that side, and no windproof portion is provided on that side, while windproof portions are provided on the other sides. According to this structural example, any one of the upper side 110, lower side 111, and rear side 112 can be securely fixed, thereby securing the right longitudinal partition 102 securely. In addition, sufficient windproofing can be achieved at the fixed side even without windproof portions. Furthermore, sufficient windproofing can be achieved at the other sides even without being fixed to the opposite component. Moreover, since the other sides do not need to be fixed to the component opposite to them, dimensional errors and installation position errors between the right longitudinal partition 102 and the opposite component can be easily absorbed.

[0176] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3 are arranged in the left-right direction when viewed from the front side of the refrigerator 10. The right longitudinal partition 102 is a component that extends in the front-back direction and the up-down direction between the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3. The rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is opposite to the air duct 31 that forms the rear surface of the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3. The air duct 31 is a component different from the lower transverse partition 101 that forms the upper surface of the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3, and the storage compartment dividing wall 11K that forms the lower surface of the lower right chiller compartment 12B2 and the lower left chiller compartment 12B3. Furthermore, the rear windshield 303 is configured to extend forward from the front surface of such an air duct 31.

[0177] In conventional refrigerators, the partition separating adjacent cooling compartments in the left-right direction is fixed by embedding its upper and lower edges into mounting slots, achieving a draft-proof effect on the upper and lower edges of the partition. Furthermore, fixing the upper and lower edges of the partition ensures overall stability. Therefore, in conventional refrigerators, there is no incentive to install a fixing structure on the rear side of the partition, resulting in a lack of draft-proof effect on the rear side.

[0178] Furthermore, in conventional refrigerators, the cooling compartments are only separated by partitions in the left-right direction. Therefore, the cooling intensity within each compartment is the same. Consequently, it's not possible to set a high-temperature cooling mode for one compartment and a low-temperature cooling mode for another. Thus, in conventional refrigerators, there was little need to improve the airflow protection between the compartments, and therefore, innovative research was not conducted to improve airflow protection not only on the upper and lower sides of the partitions but also on the rear side.

[0179] The refrigerator 10 of this embodiment takes into account the needs of recent years, namely the desire to cool multiple cooling spaces separated by partitions to different temperatures. To meet this need, it also achieves a windproofing effect on the rear side of the partition, which has not been considered in conventional refrigerators. That is, the refrigerator 10 of this disclosure is configured to have a rear windproofing portion 303 extending forward from the cold air duct 31 forming the rear surface of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 and the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3. With this configuration, the refrigerator 10 can achieve windproofing effects not only on the upper side 110 and the lower side 111 of the right longitudinal partition 102, but also fully achieve a windproofing effect on the rear side 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102, which has not been considered in conventional refrigerators.

[0180] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 is opposite to the lower transverse partition 101 that forms at least the upper surface of the lower right chilled cooling space 12B2 or the lower left chilled cooling space 12B3, and the upper wind shield 301 extends downward from the lower transverse partition 101. Also, the right longitudinal partition 102 has a separation portion 116 on a portion of its upper edge 110 that is away from the lower transverse partition 101, and the upper wind shield 301 is provided in such a way that it at least blocks the separation portion 116.

[0181] According to this structural example, a separation section 116 is provided so that the lower transverse partition 101 can be disassembled with less force, and the wind flow passing through the separation section 116 can be blocked by the upper windproof section 301. Therefore, the reduction in windproof effect due to the provision of the separation section 116 can be suppressed.

[0182] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the upper wind shield 301 is disposed on the right lower layer quench cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower layer quench cooling space 12B3 side, separated by the right longitudinal partition 102. Similarly, the lower wind shield 302 is disposed on the right lower layer quench cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower layer quench cooling space 12B3 side, separated by the right longitudinal partition 102. Finally, the rear wind shield 303 is disposed on the right lower layer quench cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower layer quench cooling space 12B3 side, separated by the right longitudinal partition 102.

[0183] With the upper wind shield 301, lower wind shield 302, and rear wind shield 303 configured as described above, the airflow from the lower right quenching space 12B2 towards the lower left quenching space 12B3 can be partially blocked from the lower right quenching space 12B2 side, and the airflow from the lower left quenching space 12B3 towards the lower right quenching space 12B2 can be partially blocked from the lower left quenching space 12B3 side. In other words, airflow from either of the cooling spaces 12B2 or 12B3 can be sufficiently blocked.

[0184] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, in the direction where the right lower cooling space side portion 301a and the left lower cooling space side portion 301b sandwich the right longitudinal partition 102, which in this case is a front-back direction intersecting the left and right directions, the left lower cooling space side portion 301b is longer than the right lower cooling space side portion 301a. According to this structural example, at least the left lower cooling space side portion 301b can sufficiently block the separation portion 116, and even if the right lower cooling space side portion 301a is shorter, a sufficient windproofing effect can be obtained. Alternatively, the upper windproof portion 301 can have a structure where the right lower cooling space side portion 301a is longer than the left lower cooling space side portion 301b, or it can have a structure where the right lower cooling space side portion 301a and the left lower cooling space side portion 301b are of the same length.

[0185] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the rear windshield 303 has a basic extension 331 and an additional extension 332. The basic extension 331 extends toward the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102, and the additional extension 332 extends further toward the rear edge 112 of the right longitudinal partition 102 than the basic extension 331.

[0186] Here, a cutout portion 112a is formed at the lower rear end of the right longitudinal partition 102, which is cut to avoid the protrusion 31a of the air conditioning duct 31, and a gap is formed between these protrusions 31a and the cutout portion 112a. According to the rear windproof portion 303 having an additional extension portion 332 that extends further toward the rear side portion 112 than the basic extension portion 331, the flow of air passing through such a gap can also be adequately blocked.

[0187] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the upper wind shield 301 is respectively provided on the right lower chilled cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower chilled cooling space 12B3 side, separated by the right longitudinal partition 102, and has a rear guide 311 for guiding the right longitudinal partition 102. Moreover, the rear guide 311 is formed such that the distance between the upper wind shield 301 and the right longitudinal partition 102 gradually increases from the front side to the rear side.

[0188] According to this structural example, after the right longitudinal partition 102 is installed on the upper surface of the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, when the lower transverse partition 101 is installed on the upper part of the right longitudinal partition 102, the upper edge 110 of the right longitudinal partition 102 can be guided between the upper windproof parts 301 by the rear guide part 311. Therefore, the installation of the lower transverse partition 101 relative to the upper part of the right longitudinal partition 102 can be carried out smoothly.

[0189] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the lower wind shield 302 is respectively provided on the right lower chilled cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower chilled cooling space 12B3 side, with the right longitudinal partition 102 as a barrier, and has a front guide portion 321 for guiding the right longitudinal partition 102. The front guide portion 321 is formed such that the distance between the lower wind shield 302 and the right longitudinal partition 102 gradually increases from the rear to the front.

[0190] According to this structural example, when the right longitudinal partition 102 is installed on the upper surface of the storage room partition wall 11K, the lower edge 111 of the right longitudinal partition 102 can be guided to the space between the lower windproof portions 302 via the front guide portion 321. Therefore, the installation of the right longitudinal partition 102 relative to the upper surface of the storage room partition wall 11K can be carried out smoothly.

[0191] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator 10, the lower vent 302 is disposed on the right lower chilled cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower chilled cooling space 12B3 side, separated by the right longitudinal partition 102. Similarly, the rear vent 303 is disposed on the right lower chilled cooling space 12B2 side and the left lower chilled cooling space 12B3 side, separated by the right longitudinal partition 102. Moreover, the gap S1 formed between the rear vent 303 and the right longitudinal partition 102 is larger than the gap S2 formed between the lower vent 302 and the right longitudinal partition 102.

[0192] Here, the storage compartment dividing wall 11K, which forms the lower side vent 302, is a component that forms the skeleton of the refrigerator 10 and is a component that is relatively difficult to have dimensional or installation position errors. On the other hand, the air duct 31, which forms the rear side vent 303, is a component installed after the storage compartment dividing wall 11K is installed on the refrigerator 10 to form the refrigerator compartment 12; that is, a so-called post-installed component, and is a component that is relatively easy to have dimensional or installation position errors. Therefore, by adopting a structure in which the gap S1 between the rear side vent 303 and the right longitudinal partition 102 is larger than the gap S2 between the lower side vent 302 and the right longitudinal partition 102, even if dimensional or installation position errors occur in the air duct 31, these errors can be absorbed and the right longitudinal partition 102 can be easily installed.

[0193] (Other implementation methods)

[0194] This embodiment is not limited to the one described above, and various modifications and extensions can be made without departing from its main idea. For example, the storage compartment to which this embodiment can be applied is not limited to the refrigerator compartment 12, but can also be other storage compartments. In addition, this embodiment can be applied not only to refrigerators with both a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment, but also to refrigerators with only a refrigerator compartment, refrigerators with only a freezer compartment, etc.

[0195] In this disclosure, the engagement of the receiving component 201 and the supporting component 202 can achieve a certain effect as long as it is performed on the inner side of the inner wall 22, i.e., the storage compartment side. Therefore, the engagement direction of the supporting component 202 relative to the receiving component 201 is not limited to the vertical direction; for example, it can also be the front-back direction, or a direction inclined relative to the vertical or front-back directions. Furthermore, the engagement direction of the supporting component 202 relative to the receiving component 201 can also be a structure in which the supporting component 202 engages from the inside of the box to the outside of the box in the left-right direction. Alternatively, it can be a structure in which a protrusion protruding from the receiving component 201 toward the inside of the box is inserted into a hole formed in the supporting component 202.

[0196] Figure 30 The illustrated outer component 401 has multiple engaging protrusions 411, 412, 413, 414, 415, and 416. These protrusions are formed by cutting and bending a plate-shaped main body 410 located on the outer side (outer side of the inner wall 22, i.e., the outer side of the box) towards the inner side (inner side of the box). The protrusions 411, 412, 413, 414, 415, and 416 enter a position on the inner side (inner side of the box) of the inner wall 22 through slit-like openings (not shown) provided in the inner wall 22.

[0197] The engaging protrusions 411, 412, 413, and 414 are provided on the upper part of the main body 410. The engaging protrusions 411, 412, 413, and 414 are inclined at their lower parts, rising from the outside of the box towards the inside of the box. In addition, the engaging protrusions 411, 412, 413, and 414 have upwardly protruding claw portions 411a, 412a, 413a, and 414a at their front ends on the inside of the box.

[0198] The engaging protrusions 415 and 416 are provided at the lower part of the main body 410. The engaging protrusions 415 and 416 are inclined so that their upper parts descend from the outside of the box toward the inside of the box. In addition, the engaging protrusions 415 and 416 have downward protruding claws 415a and 416a at the front end of the inside of the box.

[0199] An inner component (not shown) disposed on the inner side of the box, corresponding to the outer component 401, has an engaging portion capable of engaging the claw portions 411a, 412a, 413a, 414a, 415a, and 416a. The inner component (not shown) is fixed to the inner side of the inner wall 22 by engaging at least one of the claw portions 411a, 412a, 413a, 414a, 415a, and 416a of the outer component 401 with the engaging portion.

[0200] With the outer component 401 configured in this way, the inner component can also be fixed without damaging or penetrating components such as the heat insulation material 23 that are disposed on the outer side of the inner wall 22.

[0201] Alternatively, the inner component can also be a shelf support member that supports a shelf installed in the storage compartment. Such a shelf support member can also be configured to engage with a locking protrusion of an outer component that protrudes inward beyond the inner wall of the storage compartment. Furthermore, such a shelf support member can also be a structure that uses screws to fasten it to a receiving component. In this case, the screw-fastening portion can be located at or near the location where the shelf hook engages with the shelf support member. As a more specific example, the screw-fastening portion can be located near, for example, the rear portion of the shelf hook engaging with the shelf support member. Thus, the fastening portion can be concealed by the portion of the shelf hook engaging with the shelf support member, preventing damage to the appearance due to the fastening portion.

[0202] As an example of a structure with shelf support components, consider the following structure. For example, such as... Figure 31 As illustrated, it can also be configured to have multiple shelf support members 502 that are longer in the vertical direction than in the front-to-back direction. Each shelf support member 502 has multiple shelf support portions 502a that protrude inwards, i.e., into the box, to support the shelves. Figure 31In the structural example shown, a shelf support member 502 is fixed by an outer member 501. Additionally, as... Figure 32 As illustrated, it can also be configured to use an outer component 501 to fix multiple shelf support components 502.

[0203] In addition, such as Figure 33 As illustrated, it can also be configured to have multiple shelf support members 602 that are longer in the front-to-back direction and have a plurality of shelf support portions 602a that protrude inward, i.e., into the box, for supporting the shelves. Figure 33 In the structural example shown, a shelf support member 602 is fixed by an outer member 601. Furthermore, as... Figure 34 As illustrated, it can also be configured to use an outer component 601 to fix multiple shelf support components 602.

[0204] In addition, such as Figure 35 As illustrated, it can also be configured to have a single shelf support member 702 that is relatively long in both the vertical and horizontal directions. The shelf support member 702 has multiple shelf support portions 702a that protrude inwards, i.e., into the box, to support the shelf. Figure 35 In the structural example shown, a shelf support member 702 is fixed by an outer member 701. Furthermore, as... Figure 36 As illustrated, it can also be configured to fix a shelf support member 702 using multiple outer parts 701.

[0205] In addition, according to Figure 31 , Figure 32 The illustrated structural example or Figure 33 , Figure 34 The illustrated structural example can suppress the weight and size of each shelf support component 502, 602, which is advantageous considering the ease of installation of the shelf support components 502, 602. Furthermore, according to... Figure 31 , Figure 32 The illustrated structural example or Figure 33 , Figure 34 In the illustrated structural example, the arrangement of each shelf support component 502, 602 has a high degree of freedom, thus increasing the freedom to change the shelf height. Furthermore, according to... Figure 33 , Figure 34 The illustrated structural example allows the same shelf support member 602 to support the end of a shelf, easily suppressing shelf tilting. Furthermore, according to... Figure 32 , Figure 34 , Figure 35The illustrated structural example ensures a large contact area between the outer components 501, 601, and 701 and the foamed insulation material, thus easily suppressing positional displacement of the outer components 501, 601, and 701, and consequently easily suppressing positional displacement of the shelf support components 502, 602, and 702. However, according to Figure 31 , Figure 32 The illustrated structural example or Figure 33 , Figure 34 The illustrated structural example can also effectively suppress the positional displacement of the outer components 501, 601, and 701, and the positional displacement of the shelf support components 502, 602, and 702.

[0206] In addition, according to Figure 31 , Figure 32 The illustrated structural example increases the options for the height of the shelves by making the mounting positions of the multiple shelf support members 502 different at the front and back, that is, it increases the freedom of choosing the mounting position of the shelves.

[0207] In addition, according to Figure 33 , Figure 34 , Figure 35 , Figure 36 The illustrated structural example allows a shelf to be supported using a shelf support member 602 or a shelf support member 702, making it easy to maintain the shelf's levelness.

[0208] Furthermore, the outer component of the locking or fastening shelf support member can be configured to cover the entire area where the shelf support member is installed or exceed the area where the shelf support member is installed. According to this structural example, the shelf support member can be adequately supported as a whole, and the installation state of the shelf support member can be stabilized. In addition, the contact area between the outer component and the foamed insulation material can be increased, thereby improving the effect of suppressing positional displacement of the outer component and strengthening its strength.

[0209] Furthermore, the inner component can be a structure that is entirely disposed inside the inner wall of the storage compartment, or it can be a structure in which at least a portion is disposed inside the inner wall of the storage compartment, and the remaining portion is disposed outside the inner wall of the storage compartment. Similarly, the outer component can be a structure that is entirely disposed outside the inner wall of the storage compartment, or it can be a structure in which at least a portion is disposed outside the inner wall of the storage compartment, and the remaining portion is disposed inside the inner wall of the storage compartment.

[0210] The wind shield only needs to be provided on at least one of the two sides of the partition member. Furthermore, the wind shield can be a structure that covers the entire front-back direction of the edge of the partition member, or it can be a structure that covers only a portion. The wind shield can also be configured such that a portion of one side of the partition member covers a portion of the front-back direction of the edge of the partition member, and a portion of the other side of the partition member covers the remaining portion of the front-back direction of the edge of the partition member. Alternatively, the wind shield can be configured such that a portion of one side of the partition member continuously covers the entire front-back direction of the edge of the partition member, and a portion of the other side of the partition member partially covers the entire front-back direction of the edge of the partition member.

[0211] The increased contact area can be formed, for example, by stamping a portion of the main body 210 of the receiving component 201 into a reinforcing rib shape, or by embossing. The increased contact area also includes structures where the surface roughness is greater than that of unprocessed portions of the main body 210, structures where the surface roughness of the outer surface of the main body 210 is greater than that of the inner surface, and so on. Therefore, the increased contact area can be achieved, for example, by surface processing that results in a "rough" or "uneven" appearance. Furthermore, as long as the increased contact area structure can increase the contact area with the foamed insulation material 23B, various structures can be applied.

[0212] Furthermore, the concept of an increased contact area includes various structures that can increase the contact area, such as setting the cross-sectional shape of the plate to a shape different from that of the flat plate, or implementing a structure that reduces the smoothness of the plate surface. Additionally, it is preferable to suppress the bulge of the increased contact area of ​​the receiving member 201 from the main body 210 to a bulge where the front end of the increased contact area does not reach the vacuum insulation plate 23A.

[0213] Furthermore, the increased contact area portion can bulge out from the main body portion 210 of the receiving component 201 at an angle as close to a right angle as possible. Thus, the increased contact area portion enters the foamed insulation material 23B like a wedge, and a so-called "anchoring effect," i.e., an adhesive effect between the receiving component 201 and the foamed insulation material 23B, can be expected. Additionally, the increased contact area portion is preferably provided over as large an area as possible within the main body portion 210 of the receiving component 201.

[0214] Refrigerator 10 only needs to have a structure that has at least one cooling space in a storage compartment, formed by a partition. Furthermore, the cooling space formed in a storage compartment by the partition can be a switching compartment capable of switching target cooling temperatures, a cooling space with a specific function, or a simple cooling space without a specific function. That is, the purpose of the cooling space formed in a storage compartment by the partition can be any.

[0215] Furthermore, the partition component can be a component that divides a storage compartment laterally, longitudinally, or in a front-to-back direction. That is, any component that divides a storage compartment into multiple cooling spaces, such as the upper transverse partition 100, the lower transverse partition 101, the shelves installed in the refrigerator compartment 12, the partition walls in the vegetable compartment 13, and the large freezer compartment 16, can also be defined as an example of the "partition component" of this disclosure.

[0216] For example, if the upper horizontal partition 100, the lower horizontal partition 101, and the shelves installed in the refrigerator compartment 12 are defined as examples of "partitioning components" in this disclosure, then the aforementioned reinforcing ribs 22F, 237, 238, and 239 can be defined as examples of "wind shielding portions". Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 may be configured such that wind shielding portions extending toward the upper horizontal partition 100, the lower horizontal partition 101, and the shelves installed in the refrigerator compartment 12 are provided on the front surface of the cold air duct 31 and the cold air generating section 32.

[0217] The foregoing has described one embodiment of the present invention, but this embodiment is merely an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The new embodiments in this disclosure can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. This embodiment and its variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the patent claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, comprising: The outer wall forms the outline of the refrigerator's main body; The inner wall is provided with heat insulation material between itself and the outer wall, and a storage room is formed on the inner side of the side opposite to the heat insulation material. An inner component, disposed on the inner side of the inner wall; and The outer component is located on the outer side of the inner wall. The outer component has a locking protrusion that extends inward beyond the inner wall. The inner component has an engaging portion that engages with the engaging protrusion on a side further inside the inner wall.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The refrigerator has a shaped heat insulation material as the heat insulation material. The molded thermal insulation material is positioned opposite the outer component.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The engaging portion engages with the engaging protrusion by moving downwards from the inner side component, which is located further inside the inner wall.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The outer component has a main body portion located on the outer side of the inner wall. The engaging protrusion has an opening for insertion of the engaging part, and its two ends, which intersect the vertical direction, are connected to the main body.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The inner component has a specific protrusion that protrudes inward to perform a specific function different from the engagement function of the outer component. The engaging portion is located on the opposite side of the specific protrusion in the inner component, at a position opposite to the specific protrusion.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The outer component has a plurality of engaging protrusions formed on the main body portion located on the outer side of the inner wall, and a through hole is formed along with the engaging protrusions. The thermal insulation material is a foamed thermal insulation material filled between the outer wall and the inner wall. The multiple through holes formed by providing two or more of the multiple engaging protrusions are blocked by a common blocking component.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The outer component has a fastening protrusion that extends inward beyond the inner wall. The inner component has a fastening portion that is fastened to the fastening protrusion on the inner side of the inner wall.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The inner component has a cover that covers the portion above which the engaging portion engages with the engaging protrusion.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The refrigerator has the following features: Dividing components separate the storage chamber into a special cooling space and other cooling spaces; and Special components are configured within the special cooling space. The inner component supports the partition component and the special component.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The refrigerator is equipped with foamed insulation material as the insulation material. The outer component has a contact area enlargement portion that increases the contact area with the foamed thermal insulation material.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The upper and lower parts of the card-joint protrusion have openings respectively. The inner wall has an insertion hole for inserting the engagement protrusion. The upper end of the snap-fit ​​protrusion is located at a position corresponding to the upper side of the insertion hole, and the lower end of the snap-fit ​​protrusion is located at a position corresponding to the lower side of the insertion hole.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The outer component has a main body portion located on the outer side of the inner wall. The upper opening of the card uses a protrusion, and the lower part is connected to the main body.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The outer component has a temporary fixing portion that protrudes inward beyond the inner wall. The inner wall has holes for temporary fixing into which the temporary fixing part can be inserted.

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