Refrigerator and method for controlling temperature of refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator. According to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by supplying cold air generated from a refrigerating chamber evaporator to a variable temperature chamber, a variable temperature chamber cooling mode, which implements a temperature of the variable temperature chamber to be lower than a temperature of the refrigerating chamber, and a variable temperature chamber heating mode, which implements a temperature of the variable temperature chamber to be higher than the temperature of the refrigerating chamber, can be implemented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, and more specifically, to a refrigerator including a variable temperature compartment. Background Technology

[0002] A refrigerator is a household appliance used to supply cold air, generated by a refrigerant cycle, to the storage compartment to keep various stored items fresh for extended periods. The cold air supplied to a refrigerator is generated as follows: as refrigerant circulates sequentially through the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, it flows into the evaporator, where the liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the refrigerator's interior and evaporates into a gaseous refrigerant. The cold air generated while passing through the evaporator is then supplied to the storage compartment via a grille fan assembly, which includes a cold air flow path and a blower fan that directs the cold air into the storage compartment.

[0003] Storage compartments can be used for various purposes, such as serving as refrigerators or freezers. Since refrigerators store items under refrigerated conditions and freezers store items under frozen conditions, it is necessary to control the amount of cold air supplied to the refrigerator and freezer compartments differently to maintain different temperatures. Therefore, a refrigerator can have multiple independent storage compartments to ensure multiple storage spaces for various purposes. When a refrigerator has multiple storage compartments with independent storage spaces, cold air can be supplied to each storage compartment through a separate evaporator located in each of the refrigerator and freezer compartments.

[0004] Meanwhile, to meet users' diverse food storage needs, refrigerators may feature a variable temperature compartment, a multi-functional storage space that can maintain refrigeration, freezing, or a user-specified temperature by controlling the temperature according to the user's requirements. The variable temperature compartment can be configured as a separate storage space from the refrigerator and freezer compartments and may require a separate cooling system control system.

[0005] When cold air generated from the freezer evaporator is supplied to the variable temperature compartment, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment can be reduced to below 0°C. However, a separate blower is required on the freezer evaporator to supply cold air to the variable temperature compartment, and careful insulation and shielding of the variable temperature compartment are required. This may lead to inconvenience in structural modifications and increased material costs.

[0006] Furthermore, to achieve a cold air circulation cycle according to the cold air control system, a return duct can be connected to the variable temperature compartment. This return duct, which allows cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment, can return the cold air to the evaporator in either the refrigerator or freezer compartment. In this case, the cold air returning to the return duct is relatively warm and humid compared to the supplied cold air, which may cause frost to form on the evaporator. In particular, when frost concentrates on one side of the evaporator, the cold air circulation cycle may be interrupted. This uneven frost formation problem may occur more frequently in refrigerator evaporators that do not have separate defrosting mechanisms.

[0007] Furthermore, when cold air is returned from the variable temperature compartment to the freezer evaporator, the return duct can be connected to the freezer compartment, and the cold air returns by first returning to the freezer compartment and then through the freezer evaporator chamber connected to it. In this case, because the cold air returning to the return duct is relatively warmer and more humid than the cold air supplied to the freezer compartment, the cold air returning to the freezer compartment may cause temperature fluctuations inside the freezer compartment. Therefore, the cold air returning to the freezer compartment needs to return to the freezer evaporator chamber as quickly as possible via the shortest possible return path.

[0008] Furthermore, temperature fluctuations in the variable-temperature compartment can affect the refrigerator's energy efficiency. Increased energy consumption during temperature control in the variable-temperature compartment leads to increased power consumption, potentially placing a financial burden on users. For example, heating elements such as heaters can be used to raise the temperature in the variable-temperature compartment, but using such heaters disrupts the overall cooling balance of the refrigerator.

[0009] Recently, storage compartments that can be used by opening only the front surface of the door without fully opening the door have been developed. However, when the variable temperature compartment is also operated in this way, the overall cooling balance of the refrigerator may be further disrupted. Therefore, a cooling control system for the variable temperature compartment is needed that can reduce the impact on the refrigerator's energy efficiency and maintain the overall cooling balance of the refrigerator when the temperature in the variable temperature compartment changes (e.g., by raising or lowering the temperature of the variable temperature compartment).

[0010] Furthermore, when the temperature control of the variable temperature compartment relies entirely on the cooling control system of the refrigerator or freezer compartment, the cooling control system of the refrigerator or freezer compartment also needs to operate to control the temperature of the variable temperature compartment, which reduces the energy efficiency of the refrigerator. Therefore, a cooling control system for the variable temperature compartment is needed that can control the temperature of the variable temperature compartment even when the cooling control system of the refrigerator or freezer compartment is not operating.

[0011] Furthermore, when the temperature in the variable temperature compartment remains at the user-set level for an extended period, the cooling control system of the variable temperature compartment cannot operate, thus preventing the cooling air from circulating within the compartment. In this way, when the cooling air in the variable temperature compartment is not circulating, temperature stratification may occur inside the compartment.

[0012] To address these issues, the present invention proposes a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, which utilizes the cold air from the refrigerator compartment to control the temperature of the variable temperature compartment. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The present invention aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, the refrigerator and the method being able to achieve both a variable temperature compartment cooling mode and a variable temperature compartment heating mode.

[0014] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, which can reduce the structural modification problems and increased material costs associated with the insulation shielding of the variable temperature compartment.

[0015] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, the refrigerator and the method being able to achieve both a variable temperature compartment cooling mode and a variable temperature compartment heating mode independently of the operation of the cooling control system of the refrigerator compartment or the cooling control system of the freezer compartment.

[0016] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, which can improve the energy efficiency of the refrigerator without disrupting the overall cold air balance of the refrigerator.

[0017] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, the refrigerator and the method being able to achieve a cold air circulation mode that allows cold air to circulate in the variable temperature compartment independently of the operation of the cold air control system of the refrigerator compartment or the cold air control system of the freezer compartment.

[0018] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, which can prevent uneven frost formation on the evaporator of the refrigerator compartment due to warm and humid return cold air when the return pipe is connected to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment.

[0019] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, wherein when the return pipe is connected to the freezer compartment, the refrigerator and the method can return the cold air returning to the freezer compartment along the minimum return path to the freezer compartment evaporator.

[0020] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, wherein when the return pipe is connected to the freezer compartment, the refrigerator and the method can make the cold air returning to the freezer compartment evaporator as quickly as possible.

[0021] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, the refrigerator and the method being able to prevent cold air from damaging stored items in the variable temperature compartment.

[0022] The present invention also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, which can solve the problem of unbalanced cold air that may occur when the variable temperature compartment is installed on a door using a secondary door.

[0023] The objectives of this invention are not limited to those described above. Other objectives and advantages of the invention not mentioned herein may be understood through the following description and will become clearer through embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, it will be apparent that the objectives and advantages of this invention can be achieved through the means and combinations thereof described in the claims.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerator is provided, the refrigerator comprising: a cabinet including a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment; one or more doors for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment; a variable temperature compartment mounted on the door; a variable temperature compartment fan disposed on one side of the variable temperature compartment; a cold air supply duct configured to deliver cold air generated from a refrigerator compartment evaporator disposed in the refrigerator compartment to the variable temperature compartment; a return duct configured to return cold air from the variable temperature compartment; a damper configured to regulate the amount of cold air delivered to the variable temperature compartment; and a control unit configured to control the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan and the damper, wherein the control unit controls the variable temperature compartment fan and the damper to maintain the variable temperature compartment at a temperature lower than or higher than that of the refrigerator compartment.

[0025] The refrigerator may further include a refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, a refrigerator compartment blower fan mounted on the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly disposed in the refrigerator compartment. The refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber, in which the refrigerator compartment evaporator is housed, may be disposed between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment. The return duct may communicate with the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber and allow cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment to the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber.

[0026] The control unit can open the damper and operate the variable temperature compartment fan to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower than that in the cold storage compartment.

[0027] The control unit can also operate the blower fan to make the temperature of the variable temperature compartment lower than that of the cold storage compartment.

[0028] The return pipe may be connected to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment at one of the side surface, rear surface, or lower surface of the evaporator chamber.

[0029] The return pipe can communicate with the rear surface of the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment at a location where it overlaps with the central area of ​​the refrigerator compartment in the left-right direction.

[0030] The refrigerator may further include a freezer compartment grille fan assembly, a freezer compartment blower fan mounted on the freezer compartment grille fan assembly, and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly disposed in the freezer compartment. The freezer compartment evaporator chamber, in which the freezer compartment evaporator is disposed, may be located between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the freezer compartment. The return duct may communicate with the freezer compartment or the freezer compartment evaporator chamber and return the cold air returning from the variable temperature compartment to the freezer compartment or the freezer compartment evaporator chamber.

[0031] The control unit can open the damper and operate the freezer compartment blower to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower than that in the refrigerator compartment.

[0032] The control unit can adjust the operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan according to the temperature of the freezer compartment.

[0033] The control unit can also operate the variable temperature compartment fan to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower than that in the cold storage compartment.

[0034] The refrigerator may also include one or more storage units disposed in the freezer compartment, such that a separation space is formed between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly and the storage units, wherein when the return duct is in communication with the freezer compartment, cold air returning to the freezer compartment from the return duct can be introduced into the separation space.

[0035] The end of the return pipe that communicates with the freezer can be positioned so that it does not overlap with the storage unit in the left-right direction of the freezer.

[0036] At least a portion of the end of the return pipe that communicates with the freezer compartment may be positioned to overlap with at least a portion of the freezer compartment grille fan assembly in the left-right direction of the freezer compartment.

[0037] The control unit can close the damper and block the supply of cold air from the cold air supply pipe to the variable temperature compartment, so that the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than that of the cold storage compartment.

[0038] The variable temperature compartment may include: a housing unit configured to house stored items; a flow path forming member configured to communicate with the housing unit and disposed on one side of the housing unit; and a variable temperature compartment heater disposed on one side of the flow path forming member. The control unit can operate the variable temperature compartment fan and the variable temperature compartment heater to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is higher than the temperature in the cold storage compartment.

[0039] The cold air circulating along the cold air circulation flow path formed by the containing unit and the flow path forming member can be heated as it passes through the variable temperature chamber heater.

[0040] The variable temperature chamber may include: a housing unit configured to house stored items; and a flow path forming member configured to communicate with the housing unit and disposed on one side of the housing unit. The control unit may close the damper and operate the variable temperature chamber fan to circulate the cold air in the variable temperature chamber along the cold air circulation flow path formed by the housing unit and the flow path forming member.

[0041] The variable temperature chamber may include: an inlet configured to communicate with the cold air supply duct; and a return port configured to communicate with the return duct, with the inlet located above the return port.

[0042] The inlet and the return outlet can be located on the same side surface of the variable temperature chamber.

[0043] The inlet may be located on one side surface of the variable temperature chamber, and the return outlet may be located on the lower surface of the variable temperature chamber.

[0044] The refrigerator may include: a discharge cover configured to cover the inlet; and a suction cover configured to cover the return port, wherein the discharge cover may include a discharge opening that opens rearward from the variable temperature compartment, and the suction cover includes a suction opening that opens rearward from the variable temperature compartment.

[0045] The discharge cover may include one or more discharge guide ribs disposed in the discharge opening, and the discharge guide ribs may be inclined in a direction between the rear and upper sides of the variable temperature chamber.

[0046] The inhalation cover may include one or more inhalation guide ribs disposed in the inhalation opening, and the inhalation guide ribs may be inclined in a direction between the rear and lower sides of the variable temperature chamber.

[0047] The variable temperature compartment may include: a housing unit configured to house stored items; a flow path forming member configured to communicate with the housing unit and disposed on one side of the housing unit; an inlet configured to communicate with the cold air supply pipe and introduce cold air into the housing unit; and a return port configured to communicate with the return pipe and return cold air from the variable temperature compartment. The flow path forming member may include: an inlet orifice configured to communicate with the housing unit and introduce cold air into the flow path forming member; and an intake orifice configured to draw cold air passing through the flow path forming member into the inlet. The housing unit may include a through hole configured to communicate with the inlet orifice and the intake orifice.

[0048] The inlet may be located in the upper region of the variable temperature chamber, the inflow hole may be located in the lower region of the variable temperature chamber, and the through hole may be adjacent to the inlet and located between the inlet and the inflow hole.

[0049] The variable temperature chamber fan can be configured to communicate with the inlet, and the cold air drawn in from the inlet can be introduced into the containment unit through the variable temperature chamber via the inlet.

[0050] The flow path forming member may include a partition configured to divide the inlet hole into a first inlet hole and a second inlet hole to distinguish between a circulating flow path and a non-circulating flow path.

[0051] The circulating flow path can be connected to the first inlet hole, the suction port and the inlet, and a variable temperature chamber heater can be provided in the circulating flow path.

[0052] The non-circulating flow path may not be connected to the second inlet hole.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for controlling the temperature of a refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator includes a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, a variable temperature compartment mounted on a door for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment, a variable temperature compartment fan disposed on one side of the variable temperature compartment, a cold air supply pipe for supplying cold air generated from a refrigerator compartment evaporator disposed in the refrigerator compartment to the variable temperature compartment, a return pipe for returning cold air from the variable temperature compartment, and a damper configured to adjust the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment. The method includes: a variable temperature compartment cooling mode, wherein the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment; and a variable temperature compartment heating mode, wherein the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

[0054] In the method, the refrigerator may further include a refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, a refrigerator compartment blower fan mounted on the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly disposed in the refrigerator compartment. The refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber, where the refrigerator compartment evaporator is housed, may be located between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment. The return duct may communicate with the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber, allowing cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment to the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber. Furthermore, when the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment is not met, the variable temperature compartment cooling mode may open the damper and operate the variable temperature compartment fan to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment lower than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0055] In the method, the refrigerator may further include a freezer compartment grille fan assembly, a freezer compartment blower fan mounted on the freezer compartment grille fan assembly, and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly disposed in the freezer compartment. A freezer compartment evaporator chamber, in which the freezer compartment evaporator is housed, is located between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the freezer compartment. The return duct may communicate with the freezer compartment or the freezer compartment evaporator chamber, allowing cold air returning from the variable temperature compartment to return to the freezer compartment or the freezer compartment evaporator chamber. Furthermore, when the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment is not met, the variable temperature compartment cooling mode may open the damper and operate the freezer compartment blower fan to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment lower than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0056] The method may include: operating the freezer compartment blower at a first operating speed when the preset temperature of the freezer compartment is met; and operating the freezer compartment blower at a second operating speed when the preset temperature of the freezer compartment is not met, wherein the first operating speed may be lower than the second operating speed.

[0057] The variable temperature compartment fan can be operated additionally to achieve a temperature lower than that of the cold storage compartment.

[0058] The variable temperature chamber heating mode can close the damper to block the cold air supplied to the variable temperature chamber through the cold air supply pipe.

[0059] The variable temperature chamber may include: a containment unit configured to contain stored items; and a flow path forming member configured to communicate with the containment unit and disposed on one side of the containment unit.

[0060] The variable temperature chamber may also include a variable temperature chamber heater disposed on one side of the flow path forming member, and when the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber is not met, the variable temperature chamber heating mode may close the damper and operate the variable temperature chamber heater to achieve a temperature of the variable temperature chamber higher than that of the cold storage chamber.

[0061] The flow path forming component can be divided into a circulating flow path and a non-circulating flow path, and in the variable temperature chamber heating mode, the cold air in the variable temperature chamber can be heated by the variable temperature chamber heater while circulating along the cold air circulating flow path formed by the containing unit and the circulating flow path.

[0062] The method may further include a variable temperature chamber circulation mode for circulating cold air within the variable temperature chamber, wherein, when the damper is closed, if the duration of satisfying the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber exceeds a preset time, the variable temperature chamber circulation mode may operate the variable temperature chamber fan to circulate the cold air within the variable temperature chamber for a predetermined time.

[0063] The method may further include a variable temperature chamber circulation mode in which cold air is circulated within the variable temperature chamber, wherein the flow path forming component may be divided into a circulating flow path and a non-circulating flow path, and when the damper is closed, if the duration of the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber exceeds a preset time, the variable temperature chamber circulation mode may operate the variable temperature chamber fan to cause the cold air in the variable temperature chamber to circulate along the cold air circulation flow path formed by the housing unit and the circulating flow path for a predetermined time.

[0064] According to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator, by supplying cold air generated from the evaporator of the refrigerator compartment to the variable temperature compartment, a variable temperature compartment cooling mode and a variable temperature compartment heating mode can be realized. In the variable temperature compartment cooling mode, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is lower than that of the refrigerator compartment, and in the variable temperature compartment heating mode, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than that of the refrigerator compartment.

[0065] Therefore, compared to supplying cooling air to the variable temperature chamber from the evaporator of the freezer chamber which provides relatively cold air, it is possible to reduce the structural modification issues and material cost increases associated with the insulation shielding of the variable temperature chamber.

[0066] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan and the damper can be controlled, thereby achieving a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower or higher than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0067] Therefore, the temperature rise or fall in the variable temperature compartment can be controlled independently of the air conditioning control system of the refrigerator compartment or the air conditioning control system of the freezer compartment.

[0068] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by simply closing the damper to block the cold air generated from the evaporator of the refrigerator compartment from being transported to the variable temperature compartment through the cold air supply pipe, the temperature in the variable temperature compartment can be higher than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0069] Therefore, without using a separate heating element, the temperature rise in the variable temperature compartment can be controlled, thereby improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency and maintaining the overall cold air balance of the refrigerator.

[0070] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by operating the variable temperature compartment fan and the variable temperature compartment heater, the cold air passing through the variable temperature compartment heater is circulated along the cold air circulation flow path formed in the variable temperature compartment, and the temperature of the variable temperature compartment can be made higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

[0071] Therefore, in addition to locally heating the cold air in the variable temperature compartment through the variable temperature compartment heater, the heated cold air can also circulate along the cold air circulation path formed in the variable temperature compartment to raise the temperature of the variable temperature compartment more quickly and effectively, thereby reducing the operating time of the variable temperature compartment heater, improving the energy efficiency of the refrigerator, and maintaining the cold air balance of the entire refrigerator.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by closing the damper and operating the variable temperature compartment fan, the cold air in the variable temperature compartment can circulate along the cold air circulation path formed in the variable temperature compartment, so that the cold air in the variable temperature compartment can circulate periodically to prevent the cold air in the variable temperature compartment from forming temperature stratification according to temperature.

[0073] Therefore, when the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is maintained at the user-set level for a long time, the operation of the cold air control system of the refrigerator compartment or the cold air control system of the freezer compartment can be realized to enable the cold air circulation mode of the variable temperature compartment.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by allowing the return pipe for recovering cold air from the variable temperature compartment to communicate with the rear surface of the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment at a position where it overlaps with the central area of ​​the refrigerator compartment in the left-right direction, uneven frost can be prevented from forming on the evaporator of the refrigerator compartment.

[0075] Therefore, it can prevent frost from accumulating on one side of the evaporator in the refrigerator compartment, thereby preventing cold air imbalance caused by interruption of the cold air circulation cycle.

[0076] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, when the return pipe is connected to the freezer compartment, the cold air returning through the return pipe can return to the separation space formed between the storage unit and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly in the freezer compartment, so that the cold air returning to the freezer compartment can return to the freezer compartment evaporator along the minimum return path, and the flow of the returning cold air will not be blocked by the storage unit.

[0077] Therefore, by providing a structure that allows relatively warm and humid return cold air to return directly to the freezer evaporator chamber located behind the freezer grille fan assembly instead of circulating within the freezer compartment, the energy efficiency of the refrigerator can be improved without causing temperature fluctuations within the freezer compartment.

[0078] Furthermore, in the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, when the return pipe is connected to the freezer compartment and the return cycle of cold air in the variable compartment returning to the freezer compartment is in progress due to the operation of the variable compartment, the freezer compartment blower fan of the freezer compartment grille fan assembly is also in operation. Therefore, due to the operation of the freezer compartment blower fan, the cold air returning to the freezer compartment can be quickly drawn into the freezer compartment evaporator chamber.

[0079] Therefore, the refrigerator can be controlled to provide a powerful suction force that allows relatively warm and humid return cold air to return directly to the freezer evaporator chamber located behind the freezer grille fan assembly, without circulating in the freezer compartment, thereby improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency without causing temperature fluctuations in the refrigerator compartment.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by allowing the vent cover / air outlet cover to open backward and / or upward, and the vent cover covering the inlet for introducing cold air into the variable temperature compartment, an indirect cooling method can be achieved by indirectly applying cold air without applying cold air to the items stored in the containment unit, thereby preventing the stored items from being directly exposed to cold air and damaged.

[0081] Furthermore, according to the refrigerator and the method for controlling the temperature of the refrigerator according to the present invention, by including a door supply pipe for supplying cold air downward from the upper region of the door, more cold air can be discharged to the side of the refrigerator with the variable temperature compartment.

[0082] Therefore, supplying additional cold air through the door supply pipe can eliminate the imbalance of cold air in the entire refrigerator. This imbalance may be caused by the frequent inflow of warm air due to the user's frequent opening of the secondary door, or by the operation of the variable temperature compartment heater.

[0083] The specific effects, together with the effects described above, are described in conjunction with the following detailed description of the implementation of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0084] Figure 1This is a frontal 3D view of the refrigerator.

[0085] Figure 2 This is a front view of the refrigerator, showing the freezer door removed and the refrigerator door with the variable temperature compartment installed in the open position.

[0086] Figure 3 This is a view of the secondary door (shown with the refrigerator door open) installed on the refrigerator door, which has a variable temperature compartment.

[0087] Figure 4 This is a view showing the cold storage room door and the variable temperature compartment door, both with the variable temperature compartment installed, in the open position.

[0088] Figure 5 This is a view of a refrigerator door (with a variable temperature compartment mounted on it) shown in a fully open state according to one embodiment.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a view of a refrigerator door (with a variable temperature compartment mounted on it) shown in a fully open state according to another embodiment.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a view showing the structure for supplying cold air to and returning cold air from the variable temperature chamber according to the first embodiment.

[0091] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the components of the variable temperature chamber according to the first embodiment.

[0092] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of some components of the variable temperature chamber according to the first embodiment.

[0093] Figure 10 This is a view showing a variable temperature chamber heater, a variable temperature chamber fan, and a temperature sensor disposed on one side surface of a variable temperature chamber according to a first embodiment.

[0094] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing the cold air circulation flow path of the variable temperature chamber according to the first embodiment.

[0095] Figure 12 This is a view showing the structure for supplying cold air to and returning cold air from the variable temperature chamber according to the second embodiment.

[0096] Figure 13 This is a view showing the structure for supplying cold air to and returning cold air from the variable temperature chamber according to the third embodiment.

[0097] Figure 14 This is a view showing the cold air supply pipes and return pipes connected to the variable temperature chamber according to the second and third embodiments.

[0098] Figure 15 This is a view showing the structure for supplying cold air to and returning cold air from the variable temperature chamber according to the fourth embodiment.

[0099] Figure 16 This is a side sectional view showing the area where the cold air supply pipe connected to the variable temperature chamber communicates with the freezer chamber according to the fourth embodiment.

[0100] Figure 17 This is a view showing the structure for supplying cold air to and returning cold air from the variable temperature chamber according to the fifth embodiment.

[0101] Figure 18 This is a rear sectional view showing the area where the cold air supply pipe connected to the variable temperature chamber communicates with the evaporator chamber of the freezer according to the fifth embodiment.

[0102] Figure 19 This is an exploded perspective view of the components of the variable temperature chamber according to the second to fifth embodiments.

[0103] Figure 20 This is a view of the exhaust cap and intake cap according to one embodiment.

[0104] Figure 21 This is a view showing a variable temperature chamber heater, a variable temperature chamber fan, and a temperature sensor disposed on one side surface of a variable temperature chamber according to the second to fifth embodiments.

[0105] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the cold air circulation flow path of the variable temperature chamber according to the second to fifth embodiments.

[0106] Figure 23 This is a view showing the control connection configuration of the control unit.

[0107] Figure 24 It is a view used to describe the temperature control of the variable temperature compartment based on the temperature control of the refrigerator compartment and the temperature control of the freezer compartment.

[0108] Figure 25 This is a flowchart illustrating a cooling mode for a variable temperature greenhouse according to one embodiment.

[0109] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the set temperature of a variable temperature chamber in a variable temperature chamber cooling mode according to one embodiment.

[0110] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating a variable temperature chamber cooling mode according to another embodiment.

[0111] Figure 28This is a flowchart illustrating a cooling mode for a variable temperature greenhouse according to yet another embodiment.

[0112] Figure 29 This is a flowchart illustrating the heating mode of the variable temperature chamber.

[0113] Figure 30 This is a flowchart illustrating the circulating mode of the variable temperature chamber. Detailed Implementation

[0114] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, thus enabling those skilled in the art to readily implement the technical spirit of this disclosure. In describing the invention, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to the invention will be omitted where it is determined that such detailed descriptions may unnecessarily obscure the essential points of the invention. Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments according to the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar components.

[0115] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise stated, it is obvious that a first component can be a second component.

[0116] Throughout this instruction manual, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0117] In the following text, the phrase "any component arranged on the upper (or lower) part of a component" or "above (or below) a component" can mean not only that the component is arranged in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the component, but also that other components can be inserted between the component and any component arranged above (or below) the component.

[0118] Furthermore, when the first component is described as “connected,” “joined,” or “engaged” to the second component, these components may be directly connected or engaged, but it should be understood that the third component may be “inserted” between these components, or these components may be “connected,” “joined,” or “engaged” through the third component.

[0119] The singular expressions used herein include plural expressions unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. In this application, terms such as “consisting of” or “comprising” should not be construed as necessarily including all the various components or operations described in the specification, but should be construed as excluding some components or operations, or further including additional components or operations.

[0120] Throughout the specification, when “A and / or B” is described, it means A, B or A and B, unless otherwise specified, and when “C to D” is described, it means C or more and D or fewer, unless otherwise specified.

[0121] The following will describe a refrigerator according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0122] [The structure of a refrigerator, including a variable temperature compartment]

[0123] Reference Figures 1 to 6 A refrigerator including a variable temperature compartment is described according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The exterior of the refrigerator 1 may be formed by a cabinet 10 including one or more storage compartments (which are storage spaces for items) and a plurality of doors that allow the cabinet 10 to be opened and closed. The cabinet 10 may include an outer shell 11 and an inner shell 12 that engages internally with the outer shell 11. Insulation material may be filled between the inner shell 12 and the outer shell 11, and various types of pipes associated with the refrigeration system may pass through the insulation material. A partition unit 17 may divide the inner shell 12 into separate spaces including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment. The first storage compartment located at the top may be used as a refrigerator compartment 20, and the second storage compartment located at the bottom may be used as a freezer compartment 30.

[0125] The refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 can be respectively installed in the refrigerator compartment 20 and the freezer compartment 30, and they supply cold air generated from the evaporator to each storage compartment. In addition, one or more storage units 22 for storing items can be installed in the refrigerator compartment 20, and one or more storage units 32 for storing items can also be installed in the freezer compartment 30.

[0126] The refrigerator compartment 20 can be opened and closed by a pair of first doors 13. The pair of first doors 13 can be a pair of pivot doors, which are rotatably connected to one side and the other side of the cabinet 10 by hinges respectively. A dispenser 15 can be installed on one of the first doors 13, which allows the user to remove water or ice without opening the door.

[0127] Furthermore, another compartment in the first door 13 may be equipped with a variable temperature compartment 40, which can be used for different purposes according to user settings. The variable temperature compartment 40 can be used as a refrigerator, a freezer, or a separate storage compartment with a desired temperature, depending on user settings. The following description will provide an embodiment in which the first door 13 with dispenser 15 is the left door and the first door 13 with variable temperature compartment 40 is the right door.

[0128] The freezer compartment 30 can be opened and closed by a pair of second doors 14. The pair of second doors 14 can be a pair of rotatable doors, which are rotatably connected to one side and the other side of the cabinet 10 by hinges, but are not limited thereto, and the pair of second doors 14 can be drawer-type doors that are pulled in and out by guide rails.

[0129] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The first door 13 of the variable temperature compartment 40 may consist of a main door 131 and a secondary door 132. The first door 13 may be implemented as a door within a door. The main door 131 is a door attached to the cabinet 10 and serves as an entrance to the entire interior of the refrigerator compartment 20. The secondary door 132 is hinged to one side of the main door 131 and can be opened and closed rotatably independently of the main door 131. The main door 131 may house the variable temperature compartment 40. The variable temperature compartment 40 may include a receiving unit 41 for storing items to be stored and a variable temperature compartment door 42 covering the rear surface of the receiving unit 41.

[0130] A front opening 133 with an open front surface may be formed in the front surface of the main door 131. Therefore, a user can approach the housing unit 41 of the variable temperature compartment 40 via the front opening 133 by opening only the secondary door 132 without opening the main door 131. That is, the front surface of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be closed when the secondary door 132 is closed, and opened when the secondary door 132 is open. Furthermore, when the variable temperature compartment door 42 is opened in the open state where the main door 131 and the secondary door 132 are both open, the user can approach the variable temperature compartment 40 via the rear surface of the variable temperature compartment 40.

[0131] The front surface of the secondary door 132 may include a light-transmitting unit 16. Therefore, a user can easily inspect items stored inside the variable temperature compartment 40 without opening the secondary door 132. In this case, the light transmittance of the light-transmitting unit 16 can be changed according to specific user actions (e.g., tapping) or user settings. For example, the light-transmitting unit 16 may normally remain opaque or semi-transparent, and can be changed to a light-transmitting state via input from the control unit.

[0132] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5The variable temperature compartment fan 44 and sealing gasket 45 can be disposed on the outer side of one side surface of the variable temperature compartment 40, and the exhaust cover 46 can be disposed on the inner side of that side surface of the variable temperature compartment 40. The exhaust cover 46 and the variable temperature compartment fan 44 can be disposed facing each other. The cold air supply duct connection port 23 can be formed on one side of the inner shell 12 constituting the refrigerator compartment 20. In the closed state of the main door 131, the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and sealing gasket 45 of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be disposed at a position communicating with the cold air supply duct connection port 23 of the inner shell 12. Therefore, in the closed state of the main door 131, the cold air supply duct connection port 23 of the inner shell 12 can communicate with the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and exhaust cover 46 of the variable temperature compartment 40. The return duct connection port 24 can be formed on the lower surface of the inner shell 12 constituting the refrigerator compartment 20. In the closed state of the main door 131, the lower surface of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be disposed in communication with the return duct connection port 24.

[0133] At the same time, refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 A variable temperature chamber fan 44 and a sealing gasket 45 can be provided on the outer side of one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40, and a return port 419 and a sealing gasket 45 can also be provided. The variable temperature chamber fan 44 can be provided in the upper region of one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40, while the return port 419 can be provided in the lower region of one side surface of the variable temperature chamber. Each sealing gasket 45 can be provided to surround the variable temperature chamber fan 44 and the return port 419. The cold air supply pipe connection port 23 and the return pipe connection port 24 can be formed on one side of the inner shell 12 constituting the cold storage compartment 20. When the main door 131 is closed, the variable temperature chamber fan 44 and the return port 419 of the variable temperature chamber 40 can be provided at positions communicating with the cold air supply pipe connection port 23 and the return pipe connection port 24, respectively. The return cover 49 can be provided on the inner side of one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40 corresponding to the return port 419. In addition, the discharge cover 46 can be provided on the inner side of one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40 corresponding to the variable temperature chamber fan 44. In this case, since Figure 3 and Figure 4 The discharge cover 46, which is disposed in the upper interior region of one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40, is not shown in the figure, therefore the discharge cover 46 will be described in detail below.

[0134] One or more retaining units 134 (e.g., storage shelves) may be mounted on the main door 131. Although this specification describes a structure in which the retaining units 134 are disposed above the variable temperature compartment 40, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0135] In this manual, the refrigerator compartment may be referred to as the fresh food compartment or the food preservation compartment, the freezer compartment may be referred to as the ice-freezing compartment or the food freezing compartment, and the variable temperature compartment may be referred to as the switching compartment or the variable temperature compartment.

[0136] [Air conditioning system for the variable temperature chamber - First implementation method]

[0137] The following text will refer to further details. Figure 7 A cooling system for a variable temperature chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0138] A refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e for generating cold air to be supplied to the refrigerator compartment 20 and a refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 for supplying the cold air generated from the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e to the refrigerator compartment 20 may be disposed in the refrigerator compartment 20. The refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 may include a refrigerator compartment blower fan 212 for blowing the cold air generated from the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e. The refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 may be disposed in the rear interior of the refrigerator compartment 20. The refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e may be disposed between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 and the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment 20. For example, the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211 in which the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e is disposed may be formed between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 and the rear surface of the inner shell 12 constituting the refrigerator compartment 20. For example, the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e may be disposed below the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212. The refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21, the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212, the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e, and the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211 can be referred to as the first grille fan assembly, the first blower fan, the first evaporator, and the first evaporator chamber, respectively.

[0139] The refrigerator compartment cooling system repeats the following cycle. High-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor releases heat in the condenser and becomes liquid. The liquid refrigerant moves through the expansion valve to the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e, where it becomes gaseous to absorb heat from the surroundings to generate cold air. The cold air generated in this way is blown into the refrigerator compartment 20 by the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212, thereby cooling the interior of the refrigerator compartment 20.

[0140] A cold air exhaust structure 213, including one or more cold air flow paths 214 for the cold storage compartment, may be installed inside the rear of the cold storage compartment 20. The cold air exhaust structure 213 may also be referred to as a connecting duct or a multi-duct system. The cold air exhaust structure 213 may be installed above and communicate with the cold storage compartment grille fan assembly 21. Cold air blown by the cold storage compartment blower fan 212 may move along the cold air flow path 214 of the cold air exhaust structure 213 and may be supplied to the cold storage compartment 20 through cold air guide holes or the like formed in the cold air exhaust structure 213.

[0141] A freezer compartment evaporator 311e for generating cold air to be supplied to the freezer compartment 30 and a freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 for supplying the cold air generated from the freezer compartment evaporator 311e to the freezer compartment 30 may be disposed in the freezer compartment 30. The freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 may include a freezer compartment blower fan 312 for blowing the cold air generated from the freezer compartment evaporator 311e. The freezer compartment evaporator 311e and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 may be disposed in the rear interior of the freezer compartment 30. The freezer compartment evaporator 311e may be disposed between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 and the rear surface of the freezer compartment 30. For example, the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 in which the freezer compartment evaporator 311e is disposed may be formed between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 and the rear surface of the inner shell 12 constituting the freezer compartment 30. For example, the freezer compartment evaporator 311e may be disposed below the freezer compartment blower fan 312. The freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31, freezer compartment blower fan 312, freezer compartment evaporator 311e, and freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 may be referred to as the second grille fan assembly, the second blower fan, the second evaporator, and the second evaporator chamber, respectively.

[0142] In addition, the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 may also include an ice-making fan 313 for supplying cold air to an ice-making device. For example, the ice-making device may be installed on the freezer compartment 30, the door, etc. The freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 may be provided with one or more cold air guide holes 314, which guide the cold air blown from the freezer compartment blower fan 312 to be discharged into the freezer compartment 30. The cold air guide holes 314 may be located in the upper region of the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31, but are not limited thereto.

[0143] The freezer cooling system repeats the following cycle. High-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor releases heat in the condenser and becomes liquid. The liquid refrigerant moves through the expansion valve to the freezer evaporator 311e, where it becomes gaseous to absorb heat from the surroundings to generate cold air. The cold air generated in this way is blown into the freezer compartment 30 by the freezer compartment blower fan 312, thereby cooling the interior of the freezer compartment 30.

[0144] For example, the compressor may be located in the machine compartment at the lower rear end of the freezer compartment 30. A single compressor can implement both the refrigerator compartment cooling system and the freezer compartment cooling system, but the invention is not limited thereto, and two compressors may implement the refrigerator compartment cooling system and the freezer compartment cooling system respectively.

[0145] In this way, according to the present invention, the refrigerator compartment 20 and the freezer compartment 30 can each implement an independent cooling system. The variable temperature compartment 40 can receive cold air generated from the refrigerator compartment cooling system or the freezer compartment cooling system. In this invention, an embodiment in which the variable temperature compartment 40 receives cold air from the refrigerator compartment cooling system will be described.

[0146] Reference Figure 7 The variable temperature compartment 40 receives cold air generated from the evaporator 211e of the refrigerator compartment via a cold air supply duct 50 connected to the evaporator 211e of the refrigerator compartment. One side and the other side of the cold air supply duct 50 can be connected to the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 on which the evaporator 211e is located and one side of the variable temperature compartment 40, respectively. The cold air supply duct 50 can be formed to extend from the rear surface of the inner shell 12 constituting the refrigerator compartment 20 along a side surface. The cold air supply duct 50 extending along one side surface of the inner shell 12 can be connected to a cold air supply duct connection port 23 formed on one side surface of the inner shell 12.

[0147] The amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled by a damper 54. For example, the damper 54 can be positioned between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 and the cold air supply duct 50. When the damper 54 is open, cold air generated from the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e can be delivered to the variable temperature compartment 40, but when the damper 54 is closed, cold air generated from the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e cannot be delivered to the variable temperature compartment 40, thus preventing cold air from being introduced into the variable temperature compartment 40. The damper 54 can be opened at a predetermined angle, rather than fully open or closed, and the amount of cold air passing through the damper 54 can be controlled according to the opening angle.

[0148] A variable temperature chamber fan 44 can be installed on one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40. The variable temperature chamber fan 44 can be positioned on one side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40 and can communicate with the cold air supply duct connection port 23 formed on one side surface of the inner shell 12 when the main door 131 of the variable temperature chamber 40 is closed. Therefore, the variable temperature chamber fan 44 and the cold air supply duct 50 can communicate with each other with the inner shell 12 located between them. The variable temperature chamber fan 44 can help draw in cold air generated from the cold air supply duct 50 and discharge the cold air into the variable temperature chamber 40, and when the damper 54 blocks the supply of cold air from the cold air supply duct 50, the variable temperature chamber fan 44 can circulate the air within the variable temperature chamber 40.

[0149] According to the present invention, the variable temperature compartment 40 can receive cold air generated from the evaporator 211e of the refrigerator compartment, and the variable temperature compartment 40 can achieve a temperature lower or higher than that of the refrigerator compartment 20. That is, according to the present invention, since the cold air generated by the evaporator 211e of the refrigerator compartment is supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40, compared to supplying cold air to the variable temperature compartment 40 from the evaporator 311e of the freezer compartment, which provides relatively cold air, there are no structural modification problems or increased material costs related to the thermal insulation of the variable temperature compartment 40.

[0150] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and the damper 54 can be controlled to achieve a variable temperature compartment cooling mode and a variable temperature compartment heating mode. In the cooling mode, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20; in the heating mode, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. However, the variable temperature compartment cooling mode, as defined herein, is not limited to achieving a temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20, but can be controlled to achieve a predetermined temperature lower than the currently measured temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40. Similarly, the variable temperature compartment heating mode, as defined herein, is not limited to achieving a temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20, but can be controlled to achieve a predetermined temperature higher than the currently measured temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40.

[0151] For example, the variable temperature compartment cooling mode can be implemented as follows. When the required temperature conditions in the refrigerator compartment 20 are met, the operation of the refrigerator compartment's air conditioning control system can be stopped. In this case, the operation of the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212 can also be stopped, thereby stopping the supply of cold air to the refrigerator compartment 20. Even when the operation of the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212 is stopped in this way, when the variable temperature compartment fan 44 of the variable temperature compartment 40 operates with the damper 54 open, the cold air generated in the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e can be drawn into the variable temperature compartment 40 by the variable temperature compartment fan 44. Therefore, even when the supply of cold air to the refrigerator compartment 20 is stopped, cold air can be continuously supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40, thereby achieving a temperature lower than that of the refrigerator compartment 20.

[0152] Furthermore, even when the air conditioning control system of the refrigerator compartment operates in a state that does not meet the required temperature conditions in the refrigerator compartment 20, when the variable temperature compartment fan 44 of the variable temperature compartment 40 operates, compared to the refrigerator compartment 20 which is supplied with cold air solely by the air volume of the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212, more cold air can be blown into the variable temperature compartment 40 under the combined air volume of the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212 and the variable temperature compartment fan 44, thereby achieving a temperature in the variable temperature compartment 40 that is lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. In this way, according to the present invention, the temperature reduction of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled independently of the operation of the air conditioning control system of the refrigerator compartment 20 or the air conditioning control system of the freezer compartment 30.

[0153] For example, the variable temperature compartment heating mode can be implemented as follows: A damper 54, capable of controlling the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40, can be closed to prevent cold air generated from the evaporator 211e of the refrigerator compartment from being transported to the variable temperature compartment 40 through the cold air supply pipe 50. In this way, when the supply of cold air to the variable temperature compartment 40 is blocked, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be made higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. In this way, according to the present invention, the temperature rise of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled independently of the operation of the cold air control system of the refrigerator compartment 20 or the cold air control system of the freezer compartment 30.

[0154] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the temperature rise of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled without using a separate heating element. When a separate heating element is installed in the variable temperature compartment 40 and generates heat, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can rise, but the temperature near the side of the refrigerator compartment 20 adjacent to the variable temperature compartment 40 can also rise. In this way, when the temperature near the side of the refrigerator compartment 20 adjacent to the variable temperature compartment 40 rises, an imbalance of cold air may occur between the left and right regions of the refrigerator compartment 20. In addition, when the temperature near the side of the refrigerator compartment 20 adjacent to the variable temperature compartment 40 rises, the cold air control system of the refrigerator compartment 20 needs to operate continuously to meet the set temperature within the refrigerator compartment 20, which is detrimental to the energy efficiency of the refrigerator 1. In this way, according to the present invention, the temperature rise of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled simply by controlling the opening and closing of the damper 54 without using a separate heating element, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the refrigerator 1 and preventing the cold air balance of the entire refrigerator 1 from being disrupted.

[0155] Meanwhile, in order to improve the energy efficiency of refrigerator 1 and maintain the overall cold air balance of refrigerator 1, cold air can be more concentratedly discharged to the first door 13 where the variable temperature compartment 40 is located. In particular, when warm air is frequently introduced according to the user's frequent opening of the secondary door 132 to use the variable temperature compartment 40, or when the variable temperature compartment heater installed in the variable temperature compartment 40 is operated, it may be difficult to maintain the cold air balance between the left and right areas of the refrigerator compartment 20. For this reason, a door supply pipe 52 for supplying cold air to the first door 13 where the variable temperature compartment 40 is located can be additionally provided in the refrigerator compartment 20. The door supply pipe 52 can be configured to extend from the outside of the upper surface of the refrigerator compartment 20, such that one end of the other side of the door supply pipe 52 can be connected through an opening formed in the upper surface of the inner shell 12, but is not limited thereto. The door supply pipe 52 can also be configured to extend from the inside of the upper surface of the refrigerator compartment 20.

[0156] One side of the door supply pipe 52 can communicate with the cold air exhaust structure 213 located inside the rear of the refrigerator compartment 20, and the other side of the door supply pipe 52 can exhaust cold air downwards from the upper region of the first door 13. The other side of the door supply pipe 52 that exhausts cold air to the first door 13 can be configured to vertically overlap with the first door 13 where the variable temperature compartment 40 is located, and supply cold air thereto. The door supply pipe 52 is not directly connected to the first door 13 or the variable temperature compartment 40, but it can exhaust cold air downwards from a position that vertically overlaps with the upper region of the first door 13 where the variable temperature compartment 40 is located, thereby achieving an effect substantially similar to directly supplying cold air to the first door 13. In this way, according to the present invention, by additionally arranging the door supply pipe 52, more cold air can be supplied to the vicinity of the side of the refrigerator where the first door 13 with the variable temperature compartment 40 is located, thereby solving the problem of cold air imbalance between the left and right sides of the refrigerator.

[0157] Furthermore, the door supply pipe 52 can be positioned closer to one of the outer surfaces of the refrigerator compartment 20 where the cold air supply pipe 50 extends, compared to the other outer surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 where no cold air supply pipe 50 is located. Therefore, in the left-right direction of the refrigerator compartment 20, the cold air supply pipe 50 and the door supply pipe 52 can be positioned more towards the first door 13 where the variable temperature compartment 40 is located. By arranging the cold air supply pipe 50 and the door supply pipe 52 in this way near the first door 13 where the variable temperature compartment 40 is located, the problem of cold air imbalance that may be caused by the presence of the variable temperature compartment 40 and the frequent opening of the secondary door 132 can be solved.

[0158] As described above, according to the present invention, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can control the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and the damper 54, thereby realizing a variable temperature compartment cooling mode and a variable temperature compartment heating mode. In the variable temperature compartment cooling mode, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is kept lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20, and in the variable temperature compartment heating mode, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is kept higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. However, the refrigerator 1 according to the present invention is not limited to implementing the variable temperature compartment cooling mode and the variable temperature compartment heating mode by controlling the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and the damper 54, and can also be implemented by adding components or performing other control methods. Therefore, additional embodiments will be described below.

[0159] Simultaneously, the cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40 can communicate with the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment via the return pipe 60. For example, one side of the return pipe 60 can communicate with the lower surface of the variable temperature compartment 40, and the other side of the return pipe 60 can communicate with the lower surface of the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment. The other side of the return pipe 60 can be configured to vertically / perpendicularly overlap with the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e disposed in the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211, but the invention is not limited thereto. The return pipe 60 can be configured to be spaced at a predetermined distance from the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e, so as not to vertically / perpendicularly overlap with the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e. In this case, the return pipe 60 can extend in the front-back direction, thereby passing between the inner shell 12 forming the refrigerator compartment 20 and the inner shell 12 forming the freezer compartment 30. That is, the return pipe 60 can be disposed below the refrigerator compartment 20 and above the freezer compartment 30. Therefore, the cold air supply duct 50 supplying cold air to the variable temperature compartment 40 can extend along the side surface of the refrigerator compartment 20, and the return duct 60 allowing cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment 40 can communicate with the variable temperature compartment 40 on a surface different from that surface, and can also extend along a different surface relative to the refrigerator compartment 20. Because the cold air supply duct 50 and the return duct 60 are arranged in this way, cold air imbalances that may occur due to the cold air flow path being concentrated on one side surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 can be reduced. Furthermore, the design of the communication structure allowing the variable temperature compartment 40 to communicate with the duct can be simplified, and the cost of structural modifications can be reduced.

[0160] [Structure of the Variable Temperature Chamber - First Embodiment]

[0161] The following text will refer to further details. Figures 8 to 11 The structure of a variable temperature chamber according to a first embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0162] The variable temperature compartment 40 can be mounted on the door liner 135. The door liner 135 can substantially form the main body of the main door 131. The door liner 135 can be formed in the shape of a hollow rectangular frame, in which a front opening 133 is formed. A pair of protrusions 136 can be formed on the two inner sides of the door liner 135, the pair of protrusions 136 being positioned opposite each other and projecting inward from the door liner 135. The pair of protrusions 136 can be used to support and fix the two sides of the variable temperature compartment 40. Therefore, the variable temperature compartment 40 can be mounted on the pair of protrusions 136 and fixed to the inner side of the door liner 135. An additional pair of protrusions 136 can be provided on the inner side of the door liner 135 to additionally support and fix the retaining unit 134. The terminal storage unit 137, which will be described below, can additionally be formed on one side of the door liner 135. The terminal storage unit 137 can be covered by a terminal cover 48.

[0163] The variable temperature compartment 40 may include a receiving unit 41 for accommodating stored items. The receiving unit 41 may substantially form the main body of the variable temperature compartment 40. The receiving unit 41 may be referred to as the variable temperature compartment. The lower part of the receiving unit 41 may be formed in the shape of a basket capable of accommodating stored items. Therefore, a storage wall 418 with a predetermined height may be formed along the edge of the lower surface 41b of the receiving unit 41. A return port 419 may be formed on the lower surface 41b of the receiving unit 41. The return port 419 may communicate with a return pipe 60 to allow cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment 40 to the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment via the return pipe 60. The return port 419 may be configured to communicate with the return pipe connection port 24 formed in the refrigerator compartment 20 when the main door 131 is closed. According to one embodiment, the return port 419 may be located closer to a side surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 where a cold air supply pipe 50 is provided, but is not limited thereto. The return port 419 is formed with multiple grilles of predetermined width to prevent stored items from being discharged through the return port 419. The upper surface 41t of the receiving unit 41 can be formed in a plate shape to cover its upper area. A pair of engaging portions 413 can be formed on both sides of the storage wall 418 of the receiving unit 41, which are recessed inward to be engaged with the protrusions 136 of the door liner 135.

[0164] Furthermore, an inlet 411 may be formed on one side of the storage wall 418 of the housing unit 41, and the inlet 411 is formed as an opening with a predetermined size. The lower surface 41b and the upper surface 41t of the housing unit 41 may be connected by two vertically extending side surfaces 41s, respectively. That is, the two side surfaces 41s of the housing unit 41 may extend upward from a portion of the side surface of the storage wall 418 and may be connected to the upper surface 41t. The engaging portion 413 may be provided in front of the two side surfaces 41s of the housing unit 41, and the inlet 411 may be provided vertically and vertically overlappingly on the two side surfaces 41s of the housing unit 41. The inlet 411 may communicate with the cold air supply duct 50 and serve as a channel for introducing cold air blown from the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 to the cold air supply duct 50 into the variable temperature compartment 40. A through hole 412 may be formed at the upper end of the inlet 411. The through hole 412 may be formed as a slit shape extending in the front-rear direction of the housing unit 41. The front-to-back length of the through hole 412 can be similar to that of the inlet 411, but the vertical / vertical height of the through hole 412 can be formed to have a smaller vertical / vertical height than that of the inlet 411.

[0165] Both the front and rear surfaces of the receiving unit 41 may be open. The front surface of the receiving unit 41 refers to the direction facing the front surface of the refrigerator 1 when the first door 13 is closed, and its rear surface refers to the direction facing the refrigerator compartment 20 when the first door 13 is closed. The front surface of the receiving unit 41 may be open, allowing access to the receiving unit 41 through the front opening 133 of the door liner 135 when the secondary door 132 is open. A blocking guide 47 may be formed on the front surface of the receiving unit 41, which can serve as a sealing gasket to prevent cold air from leaking from the gap between the secondary door 132 and the receiving unit 41 when the secondary door 132 is closed. The blocking guide 47 may be provided along the contact surface between the receiving unit 41 and the secondary door 132.

[0166] The rear surface of the housing unit 41 can be formed into an open shape and opened and closed by a variable temperature door 42. The variable temperature door 42 can be connected to one side of the housing unit 41 via a vertically extending rotating rod 422 and opened and closed in a rotatable manner. The variable temperature door 42 is generally formed as a plate, with both sides of the plate curving towards the housing unit 41. Therefore, edge portions can be formed on both sides of the variable temperature door 42 in the curved areas.

[0167] In reference Figure 9In another embodiment described, the outer side of the housing unit 41 may be additionally covered by a variable-temperature chamber shell 414. The variable-temperature chamber shell 414 may be formed to cover a portion of the side and top surfaces, excluding the rear and front surfaces of the housing unit 41. A variable-temperature chamber door 42 is rotatably connected to one side of the variable-temperature chamber shell 414. The space between the housing unit 41 and the variable-temperature chamber shell 414 may be filled with insulating material. Therefore, the variable-temperature chamber 40 can be formed as a separate insulated storage space. When the variable-temperature chamber 40 is insulated in this way, the impact on temperature fluctuations within the cold storage chamber 20 can be minimized even when the temperature inside the variable-temperature chamber 40, located within the cold storage chamber 20, differs significantly from the temperature within the cold storage chamber 20.

[0168] A flow path forming member 43 may be provided on the side of the receiving unit 41 where the inlet 411 is formed. The flow path forming member 43 may include a circulating flow path 401 for circulating cold air in the receiving unit 41. The flow path forming member 43 may include a first flow path forming member 431 and a second flow path forming member 432. The first flow path forming member 431 may be provided on the inner side of the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41 where the inlet 411 is formed, and the second flow path forming member 432 may be provided on the outer side of the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41 where the inlet 411 is formed. Therefore, the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432 may be configured such that the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41 is inserted therebetween. The first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432 may be formed as plates that generally extend vertically to correspond to the shape of the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41.

[0169] The first flow path forming member 431 may include one or more fastening protrusions 4314. The fastening protrusions 4314 may protrude toward the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41. The fastening protrusions 4314 may protrude with a predetermined thickness to form a gap between the first flow path forming member 431 and the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41. The circulating flow path 401 may be formed by the separation space formed by the gap between the first flow path forming member 431 and the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41. A hole may be formed in the central portion of the fastening protrusion 4314.

[0170] A protruding fastening portion 416 may be formed on the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41, and the protruding fastening portion 416 is disposed at a position corresponding to the fastening protrusion 4314 of the first flow path forming member 431. The fastening protrusion 4314 can be fixedly inserted into the protruding fastening portion 416. Therefore, the outer diameter of the fastening protrusion 4314 may be formed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the protruding fastening portion 416. The fastening protrusion 4314 may also protrude toward the first flow path forming member 431 with a predetermined thickness. In addition, the fastening protrusion 4314 may also protrude toward the second flow path forming member 432 with a predetermined thickness, thereby forming a gap between the fastening protrusion 4314 and the second flow path forming member 432. A through hole 417 through the protruding fastening portion 416 may be formed in the central portion of the protruding fastening portion 416.

[0171] A fastening hole 4324 may be formed in the second flow path forming member 432, the fastening hole 4324 being located at a position corresponding to the protruding fastening portion 416 of the receiving unit 41. The fastening hole 4324 of the second flow path forming member 432 and the through hole 417 of the receiving unit 41 may be aligned with the hole formed in the central portion of the fastening protrusion 4314 of the first flow path forming member 431. The first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432 may be secured to the receiving unit 41 using separate fastening members that pass through and are fastened to the holes formed in the first flow path forming member 431, the receiving unit 41, and the second flow path forming member 432. For example, the fastening member may be a screw member, but is not limited thereto.

[0172] A first suction port 4312 and a second suction port 4322, configured to communicate with the inlet 411, can be formed on the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432, respectively. Therefore, when the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432 are engaged with the receiving unit 41, the first suction port 4312, the inlet 411, and the second suction port 4322 can be arranged to communicate with each other sequentially from the inside to the outside of the receiving unit 41. The first suction port 4312 and the second suction port 4322 can be formed in the lower regions of the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432, respectively.

[0173] The first suction port 4312 may be formed to have substantially the same size as the inlet 411. The second suction port 4322 may be formed to have a larger size than the first suction port 4312 and the inlet 411. For example, the first suction port 4312 and the inlet 411 may be located inside the second suction port 4322. Furthermore, the through hole 412 located at the upper end of the inlet 411 may also be located inside the second suction port 4322. Therefore, when the second flow path forming member 432 is engaged with the receiving unit 41, the inlet 411 and the through hole 412 of the receiving unit 41 may be exposed to the outside through the second suction port 4322.

[0174] An inlet hole 4311, open to communicate with the receiving unit 41, may be formed in the first flow path forming member 431. The inlet hole 4311 may be formed in a slit shape extending in the front-rear direction of the receiving unit 41. The inlet hole 4311 may be formed in the upper region of the first flow path forming member 431. That is, the inlet hole 4311 may be spaced a predetermined distance from the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431 and disposed above the first suction port 4312. The inlet hole 4311 may be formed to have a smaller size than the first suction port 4312.

[0175] The variable temperature chamber heater 434 can be disposed between the inlet 4311 and the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431. Therefore, the variable temperature chamber heater 434 can be located in the circulating flow path 401 formed between the first flow path forming member 431 and the side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41. The variable temperature chamber heater 434 can indirectly heat the cold air inside the variable temperature chamber 40 and directly heat the cold air passing through the circulating flow path 401.

[0176] Furthermore, a temperature sensor 433 may be disposed on the first flow path forming member 431 and may measure the temperature inside the variable temperature chamber 40. The temperature sensor 433 may be disposed in the upper region of the first flow path forming member 431 and may measure the temperature of cold air with a relatively high temperature. For example, the temperature sensor 433 may be disposed above the inlet 4311, but is not limited thereto. The temperature sensor 433 may communicate with the receiving unit 41 through a hole formed in the first flow path forming member 431 and may measure the temperature inside the receiving unit 41.

[0177] A variable-temperature chamber fan 44, communicating with inlet 411 and drawing cold air into the variable-temperature chamber 40, may be disposed outside the housing unit 41. The variable-temperature chamber fan 44 may be shaped to mate with the inlet 411 of the housing unit 41 and the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431. Therefore, the variable-temperature chamber fan 44 may be located inside the inlet 411 and the first suction port 4312. One side of the variable-temperature chamber fan 44 may coincide with the boundary surface of the inlet 411, and the other side of the variable-temperature chamber fan 44 may protrude outward from the first suction port 4312. The variable-temperature chamber fan 44 may be inserted into the inlet 411 and the first suction port 4312, and may be additionally fastened to the side surface 41s of the housing unit 41 by a plurality of fastening portions protruding outward from the variable-temperature chamber fan 44. For example, the fastening portions of the variable-temperature chamber fan 44 may be configured to be inserted between the first flow path forming member 431 and the side surface 41s of the housing unit 41. The fastening part of the variable temperature room fan 44 can be fastened to the side surface 41s of the housing unit 41 by fastening members such as screws, but is not limited thereto.

[0178] A sealing gasket 45, which is hollow and surrounds the outer surface of the inlet 411, can be disposed outside the housing unit 41. The sealing gasket 45 can be disposed outside the second flow path forming member 432 along the outer surface of the second flow path forming member 432. For example, the sealing gasket 45 can be fixedly fastened to a sealing gasket fastening portion 415 formed to protrude outward from the side surface 41s of the housing unit 41. With the sealing gasket 45 engaged with the second flow path forming member 432, the inlet 411 and through-hole 412 of the housing unit 41, as well as the second flow path forming member 4322, can be exposed to the outside through the sealing gasket 45. With the first door 13 of the variable temperature compartment 40 closed, the sealing gasket 45 can contact one side surface of the inner shell 12 forming the refrigerator compartment 20. Therefore, the sealing gasket 45 can contact the inner shell 12 to surround the outer surface of the cold air supply pipe connection 23 of the inner shell 12, thereby improving airtightness so that the cold air introduced through the cold air supply pipe connection 23 can be delivered to the variable temperature chamber 40 without leakage.

[0179] The air supply duct 50 can be connected to the inner shell 12 via an air supply duct connection port 23 formed on one side surface of the inner shell 12. That is, one end of the air supply duct 50 can be connected to the air supply duct connection port 23 via the outer surface of the inner shell 12, and the other end of the air supply duct 50 can be connected to the damper 54 and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21.

[0180] An exhaust cover 46, communicating with inlet 411 to guide the direction of cold air discharged into the variable temperature chamber 40, may be disposed inside the housing unit 41. The exhaust cover 46 may be securely fastened to one side of the first flow path forming member 431. The exhaust cover 46 may be configured to cover the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431 and the inlet 411 of the housing unit 41. For example, a connection hole 4313 may be formed in the first flow path forming member 431, and a hook 465 may be formed on the exhaust cover 46 for detachable fastening to the connection hole 4313 in a hook-and-loop manner. The exhaust cover 46 may be located on the inner surface of the first flow path forming member 431 and fastened to protrude into the housing unit 41. When the exhaust cover 46 is disposed in this manner, the exhaust cover 46 and the variable temperature chamber fan 44 may be arranged sequentially from the inside to the outside of the housing unit 41, communicating with the inlet 411.

[0181] Reference Figure 10 Temperature sensor 433, variable temperature compartment heater 434, and variable temperature compartment fan 44 may be disposed on the first flow path forming member 431. Terminal storage unit 137 may be formed on the side surface of door liner 135 located on the side surface on which the first flow path forming member 431 is disposed. Wiring harness unit 138 may be disposed and stored in terminal storage unit 137, which is electrically connected to a first wire 1381 connected to variable temperature compartment fan 44, a second wire 1382 connected to variable temperature compartment heater 434, and a third wire 1383 connected to temperature sensor 433. Terminal storage unit 137 may communicate with the upper region of door liner 135 along the side surface of door liner 135. The upper region of door liner 135 may be connected to the hinge for rotating the first door 13. Signal lines and power lines from the control unit and power supply unit of refrigerator 1 may pass through the hinge of the first door 13 and the inner side of the side surface of door liner 135 and be electrically connected to the wiring harness unit 138 stored in terminal storage unit 137. Therefore, the variable temperature chamber fan 44, variable temperature chamber heater 434 and temperature sensor 433 installed in the variable temperature chamber 40 can receive control signals and power.

[0182] [Cold air circulation path in the variable temperature chamber - First embodiment]

[0183] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 11 The structure of the cold air circulation path 400 formed in the variable temperature chamber 40 according to the first embodiment is described. In the variable temperature chamber 40, in addition to the cold air supply flow path provided by the cold air system that receives cold air from the cold air supply pipe 50, the cold air circulation path 400 can also be formed separately.

[0184] With the damper 54 open, cold air introduced through the cold air supply duct 50 can be introduced into the housing unit 41 through the second intake 4322, the inlet 411, and the first intake 4312. When the variable temperature compartment fan 44 is operated in addition to the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212 that blows cold air into the cold air supply duct 50, the intake air volume of the cold air introduced through the cold air supply duct 50 increases, and a larger amount of cold air can be introduced into the variable temperature compartment 40. Therefore, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled to be lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. Furthermore, even when the refrigerator compartment blower fan 212 is not operating, cold air can be introduced into the variable temperature compartment 40 through the cold air supply duct 50 solely through the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44. In this way, the cold air introduced through the cold air supply flow path can help reduce the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40.

[0185] The cold air circulation flow path 400 of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be formed by a flow path forming member 43, including a first flow path forming member 431 and a second flow path forming member 432. The cold air circulation flow path 400 refers to the flow path used to circulate cold air within the variable temperature compartment 40 when the damper 54 is closed. When the damper 54 is closed, cold air is not introduced and discharged towards the cold air supply duct 50. Simultaneously, since the variable temperature compartment 40 has a return port 419, some cold air can return to the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment through the return port 419 during the cold air circulation within the variable temperature compartment 40. However, the size of the return port 419 is relatively smaller than the size of the inlet 411 forming the cold air circulation flow path 400, and due to the cold air suction force of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 forming the cold air circulation flow path 400, a small amount of cold air can return to the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment through the return port 419. Therefore, the cold air circulation path 400 formed in the variable temperature chamber 40 as described herein does not refer to a completely closed-loop circulation path, but rather to a flow path used for the movement of most of the cold air when the cold air circulating in the variable temperature chamber 40 is significantly greater than the cold air discharged from the variable temperature chamber 40.

[0186] An inlet hole 4311 communicating with the receiving unit 41 may be disposed in the upper region of the first flow path forming member 431. One side of the circulating flow path 401 may communicate with the inlet hole 4311, and the other side may communicate with the through hole 412 of the receiving unit 41. The through hole 412 of the receiving unit 41 may communicate with the second suction port 4322 of the second flow path forming member 432. The second suction port 4322 of the second flow path forming member 432 may communicate with the inlet 411 disposed in the lower region of the receiving unit 41 and the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431. The through hole 412 may be disposed closer to the inlet 411 than the inlet hole 4311, and disposed between the inlet 411 and the inlet hole 4311. The through hole 412 may be located above the variable temperature chamber fan 44. The inlet 4311, through hole 412, second suction port 4322, inlet 411 and first suction port 4312 formed in this way can be arranged on the same side surface 41s of the variable temperature chamber 40 to form a cold air circulation flow path 400.

[0187] When the variable temperature chamber fan 44 operates with the damper 54 closed, the cold air in the housing unit 41 is drawn into the circulating flow path 401 formed in the flow path forming member 43 through the inlet hole 4311 due to the intake operation of the variable temperature chamber fan 44. In this way, the cold air introduced into the circulating flow path 401 can move along the circulating flow path 401, pass through the through hole 412, and be drawn into the inlet 411 with the variable temperature chamber fan 44 through the second intake port 4322. Since the variable temperature chamber fan 44 blows the cold air drawn in through the second intake port 4322 back into the housing unit 41, the cold air blown by the variable temperature chamber fan 44 can be discharged back into the housing unit 41 through the first intake port 4312 by the exhaust cover 46. In this way, the cold air discharged into the housing unit 41 can be reintroduced into the circulating flow path 401 through the inlet hole 4311, thereby allowing the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 to circulate continuously through the cold air circulating flow path 400. In this way, according to the present invention, by closing the damper 54 and operating the variable temperature chamber fan 44 to allow the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 to circulate along the cold air circulation path 400 formed in the variable temperature chamber 40, the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 can be circulated periodically.

[0188] A variable-temperature compartment heater 434 can be disposed in the circulating flow path 401 of the flow path forming member 43. Therefore, the cold air circulating along the cold air circulation flow path 400 can be heated when passing through the variable-temperature compartment heater 434 disposed in the circulating flow path 401. The cold air heated by the variable-temperature compartment heater 434 can be continuously supplied to the housing unit 41 and circulates in the housing unit 41 along the cold air circulation flow path 400, thereby raising the temperature of the variable-temperature compartment 40. Therefore, according to the present invention, by operating the variable-temperature compartment fan 44 and the variable-temperature compartment heater 434, the temperature of the variable-temperature compartment 40 can be controlled to be higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. In this way, according to the present invention, not only is the cold air in the variable-temperature compartment 40 locally heated by the variable-temperature compartment heater 434, but the heated cold air is also circulated along the cold air circulation flow path 400 formed in the variable-temperature compartment 40, the temperature of the variable-temperature compartment 40 can be raised more quickly and effectively, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the refrigerator by reducing the operating time of the variable-temperature compartment heater and preventing the cold air balance of the entire refrigerator from being disrupted.

[0189] [Air conditioning system for variable temperature chamber - Second to Fifth Embodiments]

[0190] The following will refer to further details. Figures 12 to 18 The cooling systems of the variable-temperature chambers according to the second to fifth embodiments of the present invention are described below. In the following description of the cooling systems of the variable-temperature chambers, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and any content that is repeated in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, any omitted content in the cooling systems of the variable-temperature chambers described below can be implemented in the same manner as the cooling systems of the variable-temperature chambers according to the first embodiment.

[0191] In reference Figures 12 to 14In the cooling system of the variable-temperature compartment according to the second embodiment, the cooling supply duct 50 and return duct 60, which communicate with the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21, can be connected to a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. For example, the cooling supply duct 50 can communicate with an inlet 411 formed in the upper region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40, and the return duct 60 can communicate with a return port 419 formed in the lower region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. The return duct 60 can extend along a side surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 in the front-rear direction and communicate with the side surface of the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211. For example, the end of the return duct 60 that communicates with the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211 can be configured to overlap with the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e disposed in the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 11 in the left-right direction. In this way, when the return duct 60 extending along a side surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 in the front-rear direction communicates with the side surface of the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211, the return duct 60 formed from the variable-temperature compartment 40 can be formed along the shortest path. Since the return pipe 60 is formed along the shortest path in this way, the path length where frost may occur in the return pipe 60 can be minimized because the returned cold air is relatively warm and humid compared to the cold air supplied to the variable temperature chamber 40.

[0192] At the same time, in reference Figure 13 In the cooling system of the variable-temperature compartment according to the third embodiment, the cooling supply duct 50 and return duct 60, which communicate with the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21, can be connected to a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. For example, the cooling supply duct 50 can communicate with an inlet 411 formed in the upper region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40, and the return duct 60 can communicate with a return port 419 formed in the lower region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. The return duct 60 can extend along a side surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 in a front-rear direction, and can bend rearward at the edge where the side surface and rear surface of the refrigerator compartment 20 intersect, and can extend along the left-right direction of the refrigerator compartment 20. Therefore, the return duct 60 can communicate with the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211. Preferably, the return duct 60 can communicate with the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment evaporator chamber 211 at a position where it overlaps with the central region CL of the refrigerator compartment 20 in the left-right direction. For example, one end of the return duct 60 communicating with the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment can be configured to overlap with the refrigerator evaporator 211e disposed in the refrigerator evaporator chamber 211 in the front-to-back direction. The cold air returning through the return duct 60 is relatively warm and humid compared to the cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40. In this way, the returning warm and humid cold air causes frost to form on the refrigerator evaporator 211e. In particular, when frost concentrates on one side of the refrigerator evaporator 211e, the flow of the cold air circulation cycle may be interrupted, resulting in an imbalance in the cold air circulation between the left and right sides.

[0193] Therefore, according to the present invention, by allowing the return pipe 60 for returning cold air from the variable temperature compartment 40 to communicate with the rear surface of the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment 20 at a position overlapping with the central region CL of the refrigerator compartment 20 in the left-right direction, uneven frost formation on the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e can be prevented. In this case, frost may form on the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e, but the frost will not be uneven; instead, it will be evenly formed in the left-right direction of the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e, thus maintaining the cold air circulation cycle in the left-right direction as evenly as possible. In the case of the refrigerator compartment evaporator 211e, frost can be removed by natural defrosting, but according to the present invention, even before removing frost by natural defrosting, the cold air circulation cycle in the left-right direction can be maintained as evenly as possible.

[0194] In reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the cooling system of the variable-temperature compartment according to the fourth embodiment, a cold air supply duct 50 communicating with the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 and a return duct 60 communicating with the freezer compartment 30 can be connected to a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. For example, the cold air supply duct 50 can communicate with an inlet 411 formed in the upper region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40, and the return duct 60 can communicate with a return port 419 formed in the lower region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. The return duct 60 can extend diagonally downward and rearward along the side surface of the freezer compartment 30 to communicate with the freezer compartment 30. Cold air returning from the variable-temperature compartment 40 can be introduced into the freezer compartment 30 and then returned to the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 located at the rear of the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 and then cooled again by the freezer compartment evaporator 311e. However, since the cold air returned through the return pipe 60 is relatively warm and humid compared to the cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40, the cold air introduced into the freezer compartment 30 is preferably returned to the freezer compartment evaporator compartment 311 via the shortest possible return path.

[0195] In the freezer compartment 30, the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 may be disposed on the rear inner side, and a return guide hole 316 communicating with the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 may be formed between the rear surface of the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 and the rear surface of the freezer compartment 30. Therefore, the return guide hole 316 communicating with the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 may be formed at the lower end of the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311. For example, the return guide hole 316 may be formed to be inclined downward and forward.

[0196] An exhaust guide 317 for discharging cold air into the freezer compartment 30 may be provided in the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31. The exhaust guide 317 may be located above the return guide 316. In this case, since the exhaust guide 317 can be formed as close as possible to the return guide 316, the cold air discharged from the exhaust guide 317 can return to the return guide 316 through minimal cold air circulation.

[0197] Storage unit 32 may be disposed in front of freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31. Storage unit 32 may be configured to be spaced a predetermined distance from freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 so as not to interfere with return guide hole 316 or discharge guide hole 317 disposed behind storage unit 32. Therefore, a separation space 33 having a predetermined size may be formed between the rear surface of storage unit 32 and the front surface of freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31. Return duct 60 may be introduced into separation space 33 formed in this manner.

[0198] In this way, according to the present invention, by allowing the cold air returning from the return pipe 60 to return to the separation space 33 formed between the storage unit 32 and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 in the freezer compartment 30, the cold air returning to the freezer compartment 30 can return to the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 along a minimal return path, and the flow of the returning cold air is not obstructed by the storage unit 32. Therefore, a structure can be provided that allows relatively warm and humid returning cold air to return directly to the freezer compartment evaporator 311e located in the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 without having to circulate within the freezer compartment 30, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the refrigerator compartment without causing temperature fluctuations within the freezer compartment.

[0199] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the end of the return pipe 60 communicating with the freezer compartment 30 can be positioned so that it does not overlap with the storage unit 32 in the left-right direction of the freezer compartment 30. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and some areas of the end of the return pipe 60 may overlap with the storage unit 32 in the left-right direction of the freezer compartment 30, but when the non-overlapping area is large, the introduction of cold air from the return pipe 60 may not be obstructed by the storage unit 32.

[0200] Furthermore, according to the present invention, at least a portion of the end of the return duct 60 communicating with the freezer compartment 30 can be positioned to overlap with at least a portion of the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 in the lateral direction of the freezer compartment 30. As described above, since the returned cold air introduced into the freezer compartment 30 preferably returns to the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 via the minimum return path, the end of the return duct 60 is preferably positioned as close as possible to the freezer compartment grille fan assembly 31 located in front of the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311. For this purpose, at least a portion of the end of the return duct 60 can be positioned to overlap with the return guide hole 316 in the lateral direction of the freezer compartment 30, thereby allowing cold air to return to the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 via the minimum return path.

[0201] In reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the cooling system of the variable-temperature compartment according to the fifth embodiment, a cooling supply duct 50 communicating with the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly 21 and a return duct 60 communicating with the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311 can be connected to a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. For example, the cooling supply duct 50 can communicate with an inlet 411 formed in the upper region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40, and the return duct 60 can communicate with a return port 419 formed in the lower region of a side surface of the variable-temperature compartment 40. The return duct 60 can extend diagonally downward and backward along the side surface of the freezer compartment 30 to communicate with the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311. For example, the return duct 60 can communicate with the side surface of the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311. In this way, when the return duct 60 extending downward and backward along a side surface of the freezer compartment 30 communicates with the side surface of the freezer compartment evaporator chamber 311, the return duct 60 formed from the variable-temperature compartment 40 can be formed along the shortest path. When the return pipe 60 is formed along the shortest path in this manner, the length of the path in which frost may occur within the return pipe 60 can be minimized because the returned cold air is relatively warm and humid compared to the cold air supplied to the variable temperature chamber 40.

[0202] Furthermore, the end of the return pipe 60 communicating with the freezer evaporator chamber 311 can be configured to overlap with the freezer evaporator 311e disposed in the freezer evaporator chamber 311 in the left-right direction of the freezer 30. Therefore, the return path between the cold air returning from the return pipe 60 and the freezer evaporator 311e can be further minimized. Additionally, the end of the return pipe 60 communicating with the freezer grille fan assembly 31 can be positioned above the return guide hole 316, thereby preventing interference between the cold air returning from the return pipe 60 and the cold air returning from the return guide hole 316, thus forming a smooth return path. Furthermore, a drain hole can be provided at the bottom of the freezer grille fan assembly 31 to remove moisture from the refrigerator and drain water appropriately. Therefore, according to the present invention, the return pipe 60 preferably communicates with the side surface of the freezer evaporator chamber 311, thereby not interfering with the drain hole.

[0203] [Structure of the Variable Temperature Chamber - Second to Fifth Embodiments]

[0204] The following will refer to further details. Figures 19 to 22 The structure of the variable-temperature chamber according to the second to fifth embodiments of the present invention is described. In the following description of the structure of the variable-temperature chamber, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and any content that is repeated in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, any omitted content in the structure of the variable-temperature chamber described below can be implemented in the same manner as in the structure of the variable-temperature chamber according to the first embodiment.

[0205] The variable temperature compartment 40 may include a receiving unit 41 for receiving stored items. A storage wall 418 of predetermined height may be formed upward along the edge of the lower surface 41b of the receiving unit 41. An inlet 411 and a return outlet 419, formed with openings of predetermined sizes, may be formed on one side of the storage wall 418 of the receiving unit 41. The inlet 411 may be located in the upper region of one side surface 41s of the receiving unit 41, and the return outlet 419 may be located in the lower region of the same receiving unit 41, where the side surface 41s of the inlet 411 is located. A through hole 412 may be formed at the lower end of the inlet 411.

[0206] A flow path forming member 43 may be disposed on the side of the receiving unit 41 where an inlet 411 and a return port 419 are formed. The flow path forming member 43 may include a circulating flow path 401 for circulating cold air in the receiving unit 41. The flow path forming member 43 may include a first flow path forming member 431 and a second flow path forming member 432. A first suction port 4312 and a second suction port 4322, formed to communicate with the inlet 411, may be formed on the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432, respectively. Therefore, when the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432 are engaged with the receiving unit 41, the first suction port 4312, the inlet 411, and the second suction port 4322 may be arranged to communicate with each other sequentially from the inside to the outside of the receiving unit 41. The first suction port 4312 and the second suction port 4322 may be formed in the upper regions of the first flow path forming member 431 and the second flow path forming member 432, respectively. A return channel port 4326 may be formed in the lower region of the second flow path forming member 423. The return passage 4326 may be configured to have a similar size to the second intake 4322. The return passage 4326 may communicate with the return duct 60 to provide a passage for the return of cold air.

[0207] The first suction port 4312 may be formed to have substantially the same size as the inlet 411. The second suction port 4322 may be formed to have a larger size than the first suction port 4312 and the inlet 411. For example, the first suction port 4312 and the inlet 411 may be located inside the second suction port 4322. Furthermore, the through hole 412 located at the lower end of the inlet 411 may also be located inside the second suction port 4322. Therefore, when the second flow path forming member 432 is engaged with the receiving unit 41, the inlet 411 and the through hole 412 of the receiving unit 41 may be exposed to the outside through the second suction port 4322.

[0208] An inlet hole 4311, open to communicate with the receiving unit 41, may be formed in the first flow path forming member 431. The inlet hole 4311 may be formed in a slit shape extending in the front-rear direction of the receiving unit 41. The inlet hole 4311 may be formed in the lower region of the first flow path forming member 431. That is, the inlet hole 4311 may be spaced a predetermined distance from the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431 and disposed below the first suction port 4312. The inlet hole 4311 may be formed to have a smaller size than the first suction port 4312.

[0209] Reference Figure 21 A partition wall 403 dividing the inlet hole 4311 into a first inlet hole 4311a and a second inlet hole 4311b may be provided on the first flow path forming member 431. The partition wall 403 may extend vertically through the central region of the inlet hole 4311 and divide the inlet hole 4311 into the first inlet hole 4311a and the second inlet hole 4311b in the left-right direction. In this case, the partition wall 403 may extend to the region in which the variable temperature chamber fan 44 is disposed above it. In addition, the partition wall 403 may extend in the left-right direction along the lower end of the first inlet hole 4311a and in the left-right direction along the upper end of the second inlet hole 4311b. Therefore, the first inlet hole 4311a and the second inlet hole 4311b may be physically divided into different regions by the partition wall 403. The upper region communicating with the first inlet hole 4311a formed in this way may be used as a circulating flow path 401. For example, the circulating flow path 401 may include a first inlet 4311a, a first suction port 4312, an inlet 411, and a second suction port 4322. A variable temperature chamber heater 434 may be disposed within the circulating flow path 401. Meanwhile, the upper region disposed above the second inlet 4311b may be used as a non-circulating flow path 402 that does not directly contribute to the circulation of cold air within the variable temperature chamber 40. The non-circulating flow path 402 may be separated from the second inlet 4311b by a partition wall 403 and may not be connected to the second inlet 4311b.

[0210] Temperature sensor 433 may be located below inlet 4311, but is not limited thereto. A variable temperature chamber fan 44, communicating with inlet 411 and drawing cold air into the variable temperature chamber 40, may be located outside the housing unit 41. The variable temperature chamber fan 44 may be shaped to mate with the inlet 411 of the housing unit 41 and the first suction port 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431.

[0211] Reference Figure 20An exhaust cover 46, communicating with inlet 411 and guiding the direction of cold air discharged into the variable temperature chamber 40, can be disposed inside the housing unit 41. When the exhaust cover 46 is disposed in this manner, the exhaust cover 46 and the variable temperature chamber fan 44 can be arranged sequentially from the inside of the housing unit 41 to the outside, communicating with inlet 411. Furthermore, an intake cover 49, guiding the direction of cold air so that cold air within the variable temperature chamber 40 is drawn into the return port 419, can be disposed inside the housing unit 41. Therefore, the exhaust cover 46 can be disposed in the upper region of one side surface 41s of the variable temperature chamber 40, and the intake cover 49 can be disposed in its lower region.

[0212] A discharge cover 46 may be disposed on a side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40 and open rearward and / or upward from the variable temperature chamber 40. The discharge cover 46 may be closed to prevent it from opening forward and downward from the variable temperature chamber 40. For example, the discharge cover 46 may be formed to have a separation space with a predetermined distance between the discharge cover 46 and the front surface of the first intake port 4312, and to cover the front surface of the first intake port 4312. The discharge cover 46 may include a discharge opening 462 that opens rearward and / or upward from the variable temperature chamber 40. One or more discharge guide ribs 463 may be disposed in the discharge opening 462 opened in this manner. When multiple discharge guide ribs 463 are provided, adjacent discharge guide ribs 463 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. For example, multiple discharge guide ribs 463 disposed in the discharge opening 462 that opens rearward from the variable temperature chamber 40 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical / vertical direction of the variable temperature chamber 40. Furthermore, a plurality of discharge guide ribs 463 disposed in the discharge opening 462 that opens upward from the variable temperature chamber 40 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction of the variable temperature chamber 40. Each discharge guide rib 463 may be formed to be inclined upward toward the rear. Therefore, cold air passing through the inlet 411 and the first suction inlet 4312 through the discharge cover 46 may be discharged rearward and / or upward from the variable temperature chamber 40 with the discharge opening 462, rather than being discharged laterally from the variable temperature chamber 40. In addition, the discharge direction of the cold air may be guided rearward and upward from the variable temperature chamber 40 in the inclined direction of the discharge guide ribs 463. In this way, according to the invention, by opening the discharge cover 46 covering the inlet 411 that introduces cold air into the variable temperature chamber 40 rearward and / or upward, an indirect cooling method can be realized, wherein the cold air is applied indirectly rather than directly to the articles stored in the housing unit 41, thereby preventing the stored articles from being directly exposed to the cold air and damaged by the cold air.

[0213] One or more vent holes 464 opening toward the side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40 may be further formed in the vent cover 46. The vent holes 464 can guide some of the cold air introduced into the vent cover 46 directly toward the side surface of the variable temperature chamber 40. The vent holes 464 can be provided as multiple vent holes. One vent hole 464 may be formed adjacent to the lower region of the vent cover 46 in the form of a slit extending in the front-rear direction of the variable temperature chamber 40. Another vent hole 464 may be formed adjacent to a side surface of the vent cover 46 located at the front of the variable temperature chamber 40 in the form of a slit extending in the vertical / vertical direction of the variable temperature chamber 40. The opening area of ​​the vent hole 464 may be formed smaller than the opening area of ​​the vent opening 462, such that some cold air can be discharged through the vent hole 464, and most of the cold air can be discharged through the vent opening 462.

[0214] Simultaneously, the intake cover 49 may be formed to have a substantially the same shape as the exhaust cover 46, but some openings may be formed in a different direction than the openings formed in the exhaust cover 46. The intake cover 49 may have an opening that opens rearward and / or downward from the variable temperature chamber 40. The intake cover 49 may be closed without an opening that opens forward and / or downward. The intake cover 49 may include an intake opening 492 that opens rearward and / or downward from the variable temperature chamber 40. One or more intake guide ribs 493 may be provided in the intake opening 492 opened in this manner. Each intake guide rib 493 may be formed to slope downward toward the rear. Therefore, the cold air discharged and circulated rearward and / or upward from the variable temperature chamber 40 through the exhaust cover 46 may circulate along the rear wall of the variable temperature chamber 40 and may be naturally drawn into the return port 419 through the intake opening 492 of the rearward and / or downward-opening intake cover 49.

[0215] [Cold air circulation path in the variable temperature chamber - second to fifth embodiments]

[0216] The following will refer to Figure 22 The structure of the cold air circulation path 400 formed within the variable temperature chamber 40 according to the second to fifth embodiments is described. In the following description of the cold air circulation path of the variable temperature chamber, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and any content repeated in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, any omissions in the cold air circulation path of the variable temperature chamber described below can be implemented in the same manner as in the cold air circulation path of the variable temperature chamber according to the first embodiment. In the variable temperature chamber 40, the cold air circulation path 400 can be formed separately from the cold air supply flow path provided by the cold air system that receives cold air from the cold air supply duct 50.

[0217] With the damper 54 open, cold air introduced through the cold air supply pipe 50 can be introduced into the housing unit 41 through the second suction port 4322, the inlet 411, and the first suction port 4312. The cold air circulation flow path 400 of the variable temperature chamber 40 can be formed by a flow path forming member 43 including a first flow path forming member 431 and a second flow path forming member 432. The cold air circulation flow path 400 refers to the flow path that circulates cold air within the variable temperature chamber 40 when the damper 54 is closed. A first inlet hole 4311a communicating with the housing unit 41 can be provided in the lower region of the first flow path forming member 431. One side of the circulation flow path 401 can communicate with the first inlet hole 4311a, and the other side can communicate with the through hole 412 of the housing unit 41. The through hole 412 of the housing unit 41 can communicate with the second suction port 4322 of the second flow path forming member 432. The second intake 4322 of the second flow path forming member 432 may communicate with the inlet 411 disposed in the upper region of the receiving unit 41 and the first intake 4312 of the first flow path forming member 431. The through hole 412 may be positioned closer to the inlet 411 than the inlet hole 4311 and disposed between the inlet 411 and the inlet hole 4311. The through hole 412 may be located below the variable temperature chamber fan 44. The inlet hole 4311, through hole 412, second intake 4322, inlet 411, and first intake 4312 formed in this manner may be disposed on the same side surface 41s of the variable temperature chamber 40 to form a cold air circulation flow path 400.

[0218] When the variable temperature chamber fan 44 operates with the damper 54 closed, the cold air in the housing unit 41 is drawn into the circulating flow path 401 formed in the flow path forming member 43 through the first inlet port 4311a due to the intake operation of the variable temperature chamber fan 44. In this way, the cold air introduced into the circulating flow path 401 can move along the circulating flow path 401, pass through the through hole 412, and be drawn into the inlet 411 with the variable temperature chamber fan 44 through the second suction port 4322. Since the variable temperature chamber fan 44 blows the cold air drawn in through the second suction port 4322 back into the housing unit 41, the cold air blown by the variable temperature chamber fan 44 can be discharged back into the housing unit 41 through the first suction port 4312 by the discharge cover 46. In this way, the cold air discharged into the housing unit 41 can be reintroduced into the circulating flow path 401 through the inlet port 4311, thereby allowing the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 to circulate continuously through the cold air circulating flow path 400. In this way, according to the present invention, by closing the damper 54 and operating the variable temperature chamber fan 44 to allow the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 to circulate along the cold air circulation flow path 400 formed within the variable temperature chamber 40, the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 can be circulated periodically. Simultaneously, since the first inlet 4311a of the variable temperature chamber 40 is connected to the return port 419, some cold air can be discharged into the return pipe 60 through the return port 419 during the cold air circulation within the variable temperature chamber 40. However, due to the cold air suction of the variable temperature chamber fan 44 forming the cold air circulation flow path 400, a small amount of cold air can return to the evaporator chamber 211 of the refrigerator compartment through the return port 419.

[0219] [Variable Temperature Chamber Air Conditioning Control System]

[0220] The following text will refer to further details. Figures 23 to 30 Describe the cooling control system of the variable temperature greenhouse.

[0221] Refrigerator 1 may include a control unit 100, which is a central control device responsible for various operations and functions of refrigerator 1. Control unit 100 may include a microcontroller. Control unit 100 can control various sensors, actuators, etc., of refrigerator 1 to regulate operations such as temperature adjustment, cooling, and overall system control. (See reference...) Figure 14 The control unit 100 of refrigerator 1 can control the operation of various components inside refrigerator 1 (such as damper 54, variable temperature compartment fan 44, variable temperature compartment heater 434, temperature sensor 433, refrigerator compartment blower fan 212, freezer compartment blower fan 312 and compressor 56) or receive information.

[0222] Figure 24 This is a view used to describe the temperature control of the variable temperature compartment based on the temperature control of the refrigerator compartment and the temperature control of the freezer compartment. Figure 24The target temperature setting 1 of the variable temperature compartment is shown, which is located between the target temperature setting 3 of the refrigerator compartment and the target temperature setting 2 of the freezer compartment. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the target temperature setting 1 of the variable temperature compartment can be set higher than the target temperature setting 3 of the refrigerator compartment.

[0223] Compressor 56 can be operated to control the temperatures of refrigerator compartment 20 and freezer compartment 30. To match the target temperature setting 3 of the refrigerator compartment, the temperature of refrigerator compartment 20 can be controlled so that the temperature of refrigerator compartment 20 varies within the set range of the target temperature (setting 3 ± difference). For example, when the temperature of refrigerator compartment 20 is higher than the target temperature setting 3, compressor 56 can be operated to perform refrigerator compartment operation, and when the temperature of refrigerator compartment 20 drops below the target temperature setting 3, refrigerator compartment operation can be stopped. Similarly, to match the target temperature setting 2 of the freezer compartment, the temperature of freezer compartment 30 can be controlled so that the temperature of freezer compartment 30 varies within the set range of the target temperature (setting 2 ± difference). For example, when the temperature of freezer compartment 30 is higher than the target temperature setting 2, compressor 56 can be operated to perform freezer compartment operation, and when the temperature of freezer compartment 30 drops below the target temperature setting 2, freezer compartment operation can be stopped. In this way, to control the temperatures of refrigerator compartment 20 and freezer compartment 30, both refrigerator compartment operation and freezer compartment operation need to be performed simultaneously using the operation of compressor 56.

[0224] Meanwhile, the variable temperature chamber 40 according to the present invention can independently control its temperature, independent of the refrigeration or freezing chamber operation used for temperature control of the refrigeration chamber 20 or the freezing chamber 30, so as to control the temperature. To match the target temperature setting 1 of the variable temperature chamber, the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 can be controlled so that the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 varies within the set range (setting 1 ± difference) of the target temperature. For example, when the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is higher than the target temperature setting 1, the damper 54 can be opened and the variable temperature chamber blower 44 can be operated; and when the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 drops below the target temperature setting 1, the damper 54 can be closed or the variable temperature chamber blower 44 can be operated additionally to raise the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40. If necessary, the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 can be raised more quickly by additionally operating the variable temperature chamber heater 434 installed within the variable temperature chamber 40. For example, the set range (setting 1 ± difference) of the target temperature of the variable temperature chamber can be -1°C to 7°C, but is not limited to this.

[0225] In this way, according to the present invention, the variable temperature compartment 40 can achieve a temperature lower or higher than that of the refrigerator compartment 20 by controlling the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and the damper 54. Therefore, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be controlled to decrease or increase independently of the operation of the air conditioning control system of the refrigerator compartment 20 or the air conditioning control system of the freezer compartment 30.

[0226] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and the damper 54 can be performed simultaneously with the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 312. Essentially, the freezer compartment fan 312 operates during the period when freezer compartment operation is performed for temperature control, but may not operate during the period when freezer compartment operation is not performed. However, according to the present invention, the freezer compartment fan 312 can operate not only during the period when freezer compartment operation is performed, but also during the period when freezer compartment operation is not performed but the variable temperature compartment is operated. Therefore, during the period when freezer compartment operation is not performed but the variable temperature compartment is operated, the operation of the freezer compartment fan 312 is synchronized with the variable temperature compartment operation, and during the period when freezer compartment operation is performed, the operation of the freezer compartment fan 312 is synchronized with the freezer compartment operation. That is, in the section where the operation of the variable temperature chamber does not overlap with the operation of the freezer, the operating range of the variable temperature chamber fan 44 and the operating range of the freezer blower fan 312 can overlap, and in the section where the operation of the variable temperature chamber overlaps with the operation of the freezer, the operating range of the freezer blower fan 312 can be longer than the operating range of the variable temperature chamber fan 44.

[0227] When the freezer compartment blower fan 312 is stopped during variable temperature compartment operation, the suction force of the cold air returning to the freezer compartment 30 towards the freezer evaporator chamber 311 is greatly reduced when the return duct 60 is connected to the freezer compartment 30. The freezer compartment blower fan 312 is primarily used to blow cold air into the freezer compartment 30, but it can be used to both blow and draw in cold air throughout the entire freezing cycle. Therefore, by operating the freezer compartment blower fan 312 while operating the variable temperature compartment, the suction force of the cold air drawn into the freezer evaporator chamber 311 can be increased. Thus, by providing strong suction, the relatively warm and humid return cold air can return directly to the freezer evaporator 311e located in the freezer evaporator chamber 311 without circulating within the freezer compartment 30, improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency without causing temperature fluctuations within the freezer compartment 30. When the variable temperature compartment fan 44 and the freezer compartment blower fan 312 operate together in this manner, the speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can be controlled to be slower than the speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 when the variable temperature compartment fan 44 is not operating.

[0228] The variable temperature chamber 40 according to the present invention can realize: a variable temperature chamber cooling mode in which the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is lower than the temperature of the cold storage chamber 20, and a variable temperature chamber heating mode in which the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is higher than the temperature of the cold storage chamber 20. In addition, a variable temperature chamber circulation mode in which the cold air inside the variable temperature chamber 40 is circulated can also be realized.

[0229] Reference Figure 25When the variable temperature compartment operation S100 begins to achieve the variable temperature compartment cooling mode according to one embodiment, operation S110 is executed to determine whether the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met. In this case, if the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met, operation S120 is executed to close the damper 54 and not operate the variable temperature compartment blower 44, so the operation to lower the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is not performed. At the same time, if the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is not met, operation S130 is executed to open the damper 54 and operate the variable temperature compartment blower 44 to allow cold air to be introduced into the variable temperature compartment 40 through the cold air supply pipe 50, thereby lowering the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40. In this case, the control unit 100 may additionally operate the refrigerator compartment blower 212 to lower the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 more quickly. When the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 drops to the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 during operation S130, the condition in operation S110 is met, so operation S120 is executed.

[0230] Reference Figure 26The cooling mode of the variable temperature chamber can control the cooling speed or cooling temperature by adjusting the opening angle of the damper 54. When the variable temperature chamber operation S200 starts, operation S210 is executed to determine whether the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber is met. In this case, if the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is met, operation S220 is executed to close the damper 54 and not operate the variable temperature chamber blower 44, so the operation of lowering the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is not executed. At the same time, if the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is not met, operation S230 is executed to control the set temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40. In the operation S230 of controlling the set temperature, when the target intensity level is set to low, operation S240 is executed to open the damper 54 to an opening angle of 45 degrees and introduce cold air into the variable temperature chamber 40, and when the target intensity level is set to medium or high, operation S250 is executed to open the damper 54 to an opening angle of 90 degrees and introduce cold air into the variable temperature chamber 40. Setting the opening angle of damper 54 to 45 degrees in operation S240 and to 90 degrees in operation S250 is merely an example, and the opening angle of damper 54 can be set to different angles in each setting operation. However, in operation S240, the opening angle of damper 54 can be set to be smaller than the opening angle of damper 54 in operation S250. The opening angle of damper 54 set to 90 degrees can be the maximum opening angle of damper 54, but is not limited to it. When damper 54 is opened at its maximum opening angle, the variable temperature compartment 40 can achieve its lowest temperature. In this case, the lowest temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be lower than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20. Furthermore, when damper 54 is opened at a predetermined angle smaller than the maximum opening angle (e.g., 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, etc.) instead of the maximum opening angle, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 can be achieved as a temperature between the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 20 and the lowest temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40. When the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 drops to its preset temperature as operations S240 and S250 are executed, the condition in operation S210 is met, and therefore operation S220 is executed. In this way, according to the present invention, the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature chamber 40 can be adjusted by controlling the opening angle of the damper 54.

[0231] Reference Figure 27When the variable temperature compartment operation S300 begins to achieve the variable temperature compartment cooling mode according to another embodiment, operation S310 is performed to determine whether the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met. In this case, when the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met, operation S320 is performed to close the damper 54 and not operate the variable temperature compartment blower fan 44, so the operation to lower the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is not performed. At the same time, when the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is not met, operation S330 is performed to determine whether the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is met. In this case, when the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is met, operation S340 is performed to open the damper 54 and operate the freezer compartment blower fan 312 at a first operating speed. When the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is met, there is no need to operate the freezer compartment, so the first operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can rotate at a relatively low rpm. For example, the low rpm can be about 1000 to 1300 rpm, but is not limited to this. When the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 drops to its preset temperature during operation S340, the condition in operation S310 is met, and therefore operation S320 is executed. When the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is not met during operation S330, operation S350 is executed, opening the damper 54 and operating the freezer compartment blower fan 312 at a second operating speed. Since the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is not met, freezer operation is performed, and therefore the second operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can be at a relatively high rpm. For example, the high rpm could be approximately 2000 rpm, but it is not limited to this. That is, the first operating speed can be set lower than the second operating speed. In this way, according to the present invention, the operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can be controlled according to the temperature of the freezer compartment 30, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0232] Reference Figure 28When the variable temperature compartment operation S400 begins to achieve the variable temperature compartment cooling mode according to another embodiment, operation S410 is executed to determine whether the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met. In this case, when the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met, operation S420 is executed to close the damper 54 and not operate the variable temperature compartment blower fan 44, so the operation to lower the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is not performed. At the same time, when the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is not met, operation S430 is executed to determine whether the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is met. In this case, when the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is met, operation S440 is executed to open the damper 54, operate the variable temperature compartment blower fan 44, and operate the freezer compartment blower fan 312 at a first operating speed. When the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is met, there is no need to operate the freezer compartment, so the first operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can rotate at a relatively low rpm. When the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 drops to the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 during operation S440, the condition in operation S410 is met, so operation S420 is executed. When the preset temperature of the freezer compartment 30 is not met during operation S430, operation S450 is performed, which involves opening the damper 54, operating the variable temperature compartment blower fan 44, and operating the freezer compartment blower fan 312 at a second operating speed. Since the freezer compartment is not at its preset temperature, freezer operation is performed, and therefore the second operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can be at a relatively high rpm. That is, the first operating speed can be set lower than the second operating speed. In this way, according to the present invention, the operating speed of the freezer compartment blower fan 312 can be controlled according to the temperature of the freezer compartment 30, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0233] Reference Figure 29 When the variable temperature chamber operation S500 begins to achieve the variable temperature chamber heating mode, operation S510 is performed to determine whether the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is met. In this case, if the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is met, operation S520 is performed to close the damper 54 and not operate the variable temperature chamber fan 44 and the variable temperature chamber heater 434, so the operation to raise the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is not performed. At the same time, if the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is not met, operation S530 is performed to operate the variable temperature chamber fan 44 and the variable temperature chamber heater 434 while the damper 54 is closed, thereby blocking the introduction of cold air into the variable temperature chamber 400 through the cold air supply pipe 50 and raising the temperature inside the variable temperature chamber 400 through the variable temperature chamber heater 434. In this case, when the variable temperature chamber fan 44 operates together, the cold air inside the variable temperature chamber 400 can be heated by the variable temperature chamber heater 434 while circulating along the cold air circulation flow path 400 formed by the housing unit 41 and the flow path forming member 43. When the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 rises to the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 during operation S530, the condition in operation S510 is met, and therefore operation S520 is executed.

[0234] according to Figure 29 The variable temperature chamber heating mode has been described as one implementation, in which the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is increased by operating not only the damper 54, but also the variable temperature chamber heater 434 and the variable temperature chamber fan 44, but it is not limited thereto. For example, when the set temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 to be increased is not high, the temperature inside the variable temperature chamber 40 can be increased simply by closing the damper 54 and blocking the cold air supplied from the refrigerator evaporator 211e to the variable temperature chamber 40, without operating the variable temperature chamber heater 434 and the variable temperature chamber fan 44.

[0235] Reference Figure 30 When the variable temperature chamber operation S600 begins to achieve the variable temperature chamber circulation mode, operation S610 is performed to determine whether the duration for which the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber is met exceeds a preset time. The variable temperature chamber circulation mode is performed with the damper 54 closed. For example, operation S610 can be performed by determining whether the duration for which the temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 is maintained at the preset temperature exceeds 60 minutes. The 60 minutes in operation S610 is an example, and this time can be set differently according to the user's preference. When the time required to meet the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber 40 with the damper 54 closed exceeds the preset time of 60 minutes, operation S620 is performed to operate the variable temperature chamber fan 44 with the damper 54 closed. When operation S620 is performed in this way, the cold air in the variable temperature chamber 40 circulates along the cold air circulation flow path 400 formed by the housing unit 41 and the flow path forming member 43. When operation S620 is performed, operation S630 is performed to determine whether the variable temperature chamber circulation mode has been operated for a predetermined time, and when the preset time is met, the process returns to operation S610. In this case, the circulation time of the variable temperature compartment's air circulation mode can be set to 30 seconds, but can be set differently according to the user's preference. In operation S610, when the duration for which the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is met does not exceed a preset time of 60 minutes, operation S640 can be executed to maintain the closed state of the damper 54 and keep the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan 44 stopped. When operation S640 is executed, if the time required to meet the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 exceeds the preset time of 60 minutes, the condition in operation S610 is met, and therefore operation S620 is executed.

[0236] When the temperature of the variable temperature compartment 40 is maintained at the preset temperature for an extended period of time, no new cold air is supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40. In this way, when no new cold air is supplied to the variable temperature compartment 40, the cold air within the variable temperature compartment 40 does not circulate. Therefore, the cold air within the variable temperature compartment 40 does not exhibit a uniform temperature distribution throughout the entire area, and temperature differences may occur between the upper and lower regions of the variable temperature compartment 40. Therefore, according to the present invention, by closing the damper 54 and operating the variable temperature compartment fan 44, the cold air within the variable temperature compartment 400 can circulate along the cold air circulation path 400 formed within the variable temperature compartment 40, thereby allowing the cold air within the variable temperature compartment 40 to circulate periodically and preventing temperature stratification of the cold air within the variable temperature compartment 40. Therefore, according to the present invention, when the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is maintained at the user-set level for an extended period, a cold air circulation mode in which cold air circulates within the variable temperature compartment can be achieved, independent of the operation of the cold air control system of the refrigerator compartment or the cold air control system of the freezer compartment.

[0237] This invention relates to non-limiting examples as defined in the following clauses.

[0238] Clause 1. A refrigerator, said refrigerator comprising:

[0239] The cabinet includes a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment;

[0240] One or more doors, the one or more doors being used to open and close the refrigerator compartment;

[0241] A variable temperature compartment, which is installed on the door;

[0242] A variable temperature chamber fan, wherein the variable temperature chamber fan is disposed on one side of the variable temperature chamber;

[0243] A cold air supply duct, the cold air supply duct being configured to deliver cold air generated from a cold air evaporator located in the cold air compartment to the variable temperature compartment;

[0244] A return duct, configured to return cold air from the variable temperature chamber;

[0245] A damper, configured to regulate the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment; and

[0246] A control unit, configured to control the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan and the damper.

[0247] The control unit controls the variable temperature chamber fan and the damper to maintain the variable temperature chamber at a temperature lower or higher than that of the cold storage chamber.

[0248] Clause 2. The refrigerator according to Clause 1, further comprising a refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, a refrigerator compartment blower fan mounted on the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly disposed in the refrigerator compartment.

[0249] The evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment, where the evaporator is housed, is located between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment.

[0250] The return pipe is connected to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment, and allows cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment.

[0251] Clause 3. The refrigerator according to Clause 2, wherein the control unit opens the damper and operates the variable temperature compartment fan to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0252] Clause 4. The refrigerator according to Clause 2, wherein the return conduit is in communication with the refrigerator compartment evaporator compartment at one of the side surface, rear surface or lower surface of the refrigerator compartment evaporator compartment.

[0253] Clause 5. The refrigerator according to Clause 2, wherein the return pipe communicates with the rear surface of the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment at a location where it overlaps with the central area of ​​the refrigerator compartment in the left-right direction.

[0254] Clause 6. The refrigerator according to Clause 1, further comprising a freezer compartment grille fan assembly, a freezer compartment blower fan mounted on the freezer compartment grille fan assembly, and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly disposed in the freezer compartment.

[0255] The evaporator chamber of the freezer compartment, which houses the evaporator, is located between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the freezer compartment.

[0256] The return pipe is connected to the freezer chamber or the freezer evaporator chamber, and allows the cold air returning from the variable temperature chamber to return to the freezer chamber or the freezer evaporator chamber.

[0257] Clause 7. The refrigerator according to Clause 6, wherein the control unit opens the damper and operates the freezer compartment blower to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0258] Clause 8. The refrigerator according to Clause 1, wherein the control unit closes the damper and blocks the supply of cold air from the cold air supply duct to the variable temperature compartment, so that the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

[0259] Clause 9. The refrigerator according to Clause 8, wherein the variable temperature compartment comprises:

[0260] A receiving unit configured to receive stored items;

[0261] A flow path forming member, configured to communicate with the receiving unit and disposed on one side of the receiving unit; and

[0262] A variable temperature chamber heater, wherein the variable temperature chamber heater is disposed on one side of the flow path forming member, and

[0263] The control unit operates the variable temperature chamber fan and the variable temperature chamber heater to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature chamber that is higher than the temperature in the cold storage chamber.

[0264] Clause 10. The refrigerator according to Clause 1, wherein the variable temperature compartment comprises:

[0265] A receiving unit, the receiving unit being configured to receive stored articles; and

[0266] A flow path forming member is configured to communicate with the receiving unit and is disposed on one side of the receiving unit.

[0267] The control unit closes the damper and operates the variable temperature chamber fan to circulate the cold air in the variable temperature chamber along the cold air circulation flow path formed by the containment unit and the flow path forming member.

[0268] Clause 11. The refrigerator according to Clause 1, wherein the variable temperature compartment comprises:

[0269] An inlet, configured to communicate with the air conditioning supply duct; and

[0270] A return port, configured to communicate with the return pipe, and

[0271] The entrance is located above the return port.

[0272] Clause 12. The refrigerator according to Clause 11, wherein the inlet and the return outlet are located on the same side surface of the variable temperature compartment.

[0273] Clause 13. The refrigerator according to Clause 11, wherein the inlet is located on one side surface of the variable temperature compartment, and

[0274] The return port is located on the lower surface of the variable temperature chamber.

[0275] Clause 14. The refrigerator as described in Clause 11, the refrigerator comprising:

[0276] An exhaust cover, configured to cover the inlet; and

[0277] A suction cap, configured to cover the return port.

[0278] The discharge cover includes a discharge opening that opens rearward from the variable temperature chamber, and

[0279] The inhalation cover includes an inhalation opening that opens rearward from the variable temperature chamber.

[0280] Clause 15. The refrigerator according to Clause 1, wherein the variable temperature compartment comprises:

[0281] A receiving unit configured to receive stored items;

[0282] A flow path forming member is configured to communicate with the receiving unit and is disposed on one side of the receiving unit;

[0283] An inlet, configured to communicate with the cold air supply duct and introduce cold air into the housing unit; and

[0284] A return port, configured to communicate with the return duct and allow cool air to return from the variable temperature chamber,

[0285] The flow path forming component includes:

[0286] An inlet orifice configured to communicate with the receiving unit and introduce cold air into the flow path forming member; and

[0287] An intake port, configured to draw in cold air passing through the flow path forming member, and

[0288] The receiving unit includes a through hole configured to communicate with the inlet and the suction port.

[0289] Clause 16. A method for controlling the temperature of a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, a variable temperature compartment mounted on a door for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment, a variable temperature compartment fan disposed on one side of the variable temperature compartment, a cold air supply duct for supplying cold air generated from a refrigerator compartment evaporator disposed in the refrigerator compartment to the variable temperature compartment, a return duct for returning cold air from the variable temperature compartment, and a damper configured to regulate the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment, the method comprising:

[0290] A variable temperature compartment cooling mode, wherein the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is lower than the temperature of the cold storage compartment; and

[0291] The variable temperature chamber heating mode achieves a temperature higher than that of the cold storage chamber.

[0292] Clause 17. The method according to Clause 16, wherein the refrigerator further includes a refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, a refrigerator compartment blower fan mounted on the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly is disposed in the refrigerator compartment.

[0293] The evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment, which houses the evaporator, is located between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment.

[0294] The return pipe is connected to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment, and allows cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment.

[0295] When the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber is not met,

[0296] The variable temperature chamber cooling mode opens the air vent and operates the variable temperature chamber fan to achieve a temperature lower than that of the cold storage chamber.

[0297] Clause 18. The method according to Clause 16, wherein the refrigerator further comprises a freezer compartment grille fan assembly, a freezer compartment blower fan mounted on the freezer compartment grille fan assembly, and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly is disposed in the freezer compartment.

[0298] The evaporator chamber of the freezer compartment, which houses the evaporator, is located between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the freezer compartment.

[0299] The return pipe is connected to the freezer compartment or the freezer compartment evaporator compartment, and allows the cold air returning from the variable temperature compartment to return to the freezer compartment or the freezer compartment evaporator compartment.

[0300] When the preset temperature of the variable temperature chamber is not met,

[0301] The variable temperature compartment cooling mode opens the air vent and operates the freezer blower to achieve a temperature lower than that of the refrigerator compartment.

[0302] Clause 19. The method according to Clause 16, wherein the variable temperature chamber heating mode closes the damper to block the supply of cold air to the variable temperature chamber through the cold air supply pipe.

[0303] Clause 20. The method according to Clause 16, wherein the variable temperature chamber comprises:

[0304] A receiving unit, the receiving unit being configured to receive stored articles; and

[0305] A flow path forming member is configured to communicate with the receiving unit and is disposed on one side of the receiving unit.

[0306] Although the invention has been described above with reference to exemplary drawings, it is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in the specification. It is evident that those skilled in the art can make various modifications within the scope of the technical spirit of the invention. Furthermore, even if the working effects of the construction according to the invention are not explicitly described in the description of the embodiments, it is obvious that the predictable effects of the corresponding construction should be recognized.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: The cabinet includes a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment; One or more doors, the one or more doors being used to open and close the refrigerator compartment; A variable temperature compartment, which is installed on the door; A variable temperature chamber fan, wherein the variable temperature chamber fan is disposed on one side of the variable temperature chamber; A cold air supply duct, the cold air supply duct being configured to deliver cold air generated from a cold air evaporator located in the cold air compartment to the variable temperature compartment; A return duct, configured to return cold air from the variable temperature chamber; A damper, configured to regulate the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature chamber; as well as A control unit, configured to control the operation of the variable temperature compartment fan and the damper. The control unit controls the variable temperature chamber fan and the damper to maintain the variable temperature chamber at a temperature lower or higher than that of the cold storage chamber.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising a refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, wherein a refrigerator compartment blower fan is mounted on the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly, and the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly is disposed in the refrigerator compartment. in, The evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment, which houses the evaporator, is located between the refrigerator compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the refrigerator compartment. The return pipe is connected to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment, and allows cold air to return from the variable temperature compartment to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The control unit opens the damper and operates the variable temperature chamber fan to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature chamber that is lower than that in the cold storage chamber.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The return pipe is connected to the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment at one of the side surface, rear surface, or lower surface of the evaporator chamber.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The return pipe communicates with the rear surface of the evaporator chamber of the refrigerator compartment at a location where it overlaps with the central area of ​​the refrigerator compartment in the left-right direction.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising a freezer compartment grille fan assembly, wherein a freezer compartment blower fan is mounted on the freezer compartment grille fan assembly, and the freezer compartment grille fan assembly is disposed in the freezer compartment. in, The freezer compartment evaporator chamber, in which the freezer compartment evaporator is housed, is located between the freezer compartment grille fan assembly and the rear surface of the freezer compartment. The return pipe is connected to the freezer chamber or the freezer evaporator chamber, and allows the cold air returning from the variable temperature chamber to return to the freezer chamber or the freezer evaporator chamber.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit opens the damper and operates the freezer compartment blower to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature compartment that is lower than that in the refrigerator compartment.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit closes the damper and blocks the supply of cold air from the cold air supply pipe to the variable temperature compartment, so that the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than that of the cold storage compartment.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein, The variable temperature chamber includes: A receiving unit configured to receive stored items; A flow path forming member, configured to communicate with the receiving unit and disposed on one side of the receiving unit; and A variable temperature chamber heater, wherein the variable temperature chamber heater is disposed on one side of the flow path forming member, and The control unit operates the variable temperature chamber fan and the variable temperature chamber heater to achieve a temperature in the variable temperature chamber that is higher than the temperature in the cold storage chamber.

10. A method for controlling the temperature of a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, a variable temperature compartment mounted on a door for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment, a variable temperature compartment fan disposed on one side of the variable temperature compartment, a cold air supply duct for supplying cold air generated from a refrigerator compartment evaporator disposed in the refrigerator compartment to the variable temperature compartment, a return duct for returning cold air from the variable temperature compartment, and a damper configured to regulate the amount of cold air supplied to the variable temperature compartment, the method comprising: A variable temperature chamber cooling mode, wherein the temperature of the variable temperature chamber is lower than the temperature of the cold storage chamber; as well as The variable temperature chamber heating mode achieves a temperature higher than that of the cold storage chamber.

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