maturation refrigerator

Abstract

This invention relates to a aging refrigerator. An embodiment of the aging refrigerator includes a cabinet, a door disposed at the front of the cabinet, an evaporator disposed at the rear of the cabinet and generating cold air, and a defrost water collection unit disposed below the evaporator at the rear of the cabinet and collecting defrost water generated in the evaporator. The defrost water collection unit is disposed below the evaporator and includes a defrost water receiver for accumulating defrost water. The defrost water accumulated in the defrost water receiver is supplied to a water tank disposed below the defrost water receiver.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a aging refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] As dietary culture becomes increasingly Westernized, the demand for meats such as beef is constantly increasing. Furthermore, as consumers pay more attention to the quality and flavor of these meats, the demand for high-quality meats is on the rise.

[0003] On the other hand, meat aging has been proposed as a method of consuming high-quality meat. Furthermore, the development of aging refrigerators with unique functions in meat aging is actively underway.

[0004] However, while traditional curing refrigerators do collect defrost water produced inside, a problem exists: the collected defrost water returns to its original location, causing the internal temperature of the refrigerator to rise. Furthermore, the curing function deteriorates when the internal temperature of the refrigerator increases.

[0005] Therefore, in practice, there is a need to develop a aging refrigerator with enhanced aging function that captures the defrost water generated inside the refrigerator, but prevents the internal temperature of the refrigerator from rising by returning the captured defrost water to a lower position than before. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved

[0007] The embodiments of the present invention are proposed to solve the above-mentioned prior art problems, and aim to provide a aging refrigerator with an improved aging function, which captures defrost water generated inside the refrigerator, but prevents the internal temperature of the refrigerator from rising by returning the captured defrost water to a lower position than before.

[0008] Methods for solving problems

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a aging refrigerator can be provided, comprising: a cabinet; a door disposed at the front of the cabinet; an evaporator disposed at the rear of the cabinet and generating cold air; and a defrost water collection section disposed at the rear of the cabinet below the evaporator and collecting defrost water generated in the evaporator, the defrost water collection section being disposed below the evaporator and including a defrost water receiver for accumulating the defrost water, the defrost water accumulated in the defrost water receiver being supplied to a water tank disposed below the defrost water receiver.

[0010] In addition, the defrost water collection section may also include a first guide section disposed between the evaporator and the defrost water receiver.

[0011] Furthermore, the aforementioned defrost water collection section may also include a second guide section disposed between the aforementioned first guide section and the aforementioned defrost water receiver.

[0012] Furthermore, the aforementioned defrost water receiver may include a storage section and a supply section. The storage section has a space for storing the defrost water guided by at least one of the first guide section and the second guide section. The supply section is connected to the lower part of the storage section and supplies the defrost water to the water tank. Due to the height difference between the storage section and the water tank, the defrost water supplied from the storage section to the water tank can generate water pressure.

[0013] Furthermore, the cabinet may include: a first frame coupled to the door at the front; a second frame coupled to the rear of the first frame; and a third frame coupled to the first frame and disposed within the space surrounded by the door, the first frame, and the second frame. An evaporator cover may be provided in front of the rear inner wall of the third frame opposite to the door, and an isolation space may be formed between the rear inner wall and the evaporator cover for arranging the defrost water collection section.

[0014] Furthermore, the defrost water receiver can be connected to either the rear inner wall of the third frame or the evaporator cover within the isolation space, and the second guide portion can be connected to the other of the rear inner wall of the third frame or the evaporator cover within the isolation space.

[0015] Furthermore, protruding support portions supporting the evaporator shroud can be provided around the rear inner sidewall of the third frame. Through these protruding support portions, the aforementioned isolation space can be formed between the front of the rear inner sidewall and the rear of the evaporator shroud.

[0016] Furthermore, the first guide portion may include a first wing-shaped member and a second wing-shaped member. The first wing-shaped member may be connected to either the first support sidewall of the protruding support portion or the second support sidewall facing the first support sidewall. The second wing-shaped member may be connected to the other of the first support sidewall and the second support sidewall of the protruding support portion.

[0017] Furthermore, the aforementioned second guide portion may include a connecting portion and an extension portion, wherein the connecting portion is connected to the aforementioned evaporator cover, and the extension portion extends from the end of the connecting portion and is formed obliquely from the front of the aforementioned cabinet toward the rear in a direction that gets closer and closer to the aforementioned defrost water receiver.

[0018] Furthermore, the aforementioned first wing-shaped member may include: a first connecting portion, which is connected to either the first support sidewall or the second support sidewall of the aforementioned protruding support portion; a first inclined portion, which extends from the end of the aforementioned first connecting portion and is arranged at a first angle to the extending direction of the aforementioned first connecting portion; and a first contact portion, which is connected to the connecting surface connecting the two ends of the aforementioned first inclined portion and extends in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the aforementioned first inclined portion.

[0019] Furthermore, the aforementioned second wing-shaped member may include: a second connecting portion, which is connected to the other of the aforementioned first support sidewall and the aforementioned second support sidewall of the aforementioned protruding support portion; a second inclined portion, which extends from the end of the aforementioned second connecting portion and is arranged at a second angle to the extending direction of the aforementioned second connecting portion; and a second contact portion, which is connected to the connecting surface connecting the two ends of the aforementioned second inclined portion and extends in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the aforementioned second inclined portion.

[0020] Furthermore, the ends of the first inclined portion and the second inclined portion may be positioned at different locations above the extension of the second guide portion.

[0021] Furthermore, the aforementioned extension may include a first extension and a second extension. The first extension may extend from at least a portion of the end of the joint and be formed obliquely from the first support sidewall of the protruding support toward the second support sidewall in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver. The second extension may extend from the remaining portion of the end of the joint and be formed obliquely from the second support sidewall of the protruding support toward the first support sidewall in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver. A gap may be formed between the first extension and the second extension to allow the defrost water to pass through.

[0022] Invention Effects

[0023] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the temperature inside the refrigerator is prevented from rising by returning the collected defrost water to a lower position than before when collecting the defrost water generated inside the refrigerator, it has the effect of improving the aging function. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a aging refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the aging refrigerator;

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Front view of the aging refrigerator;

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 AA section diagram;

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 BB cross-section diagram;

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 CC section view;

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 DD cross-sectional view;

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 EE cross-sectional view;

[0032] Figure 9 It is Figure 8 The enlarged view of part G is shown in the illustration;

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 2 FF cross-section diagram;

[0034] Figure 11 It is Figure 10 The H portion is enlarged, and the diagram is an enlarged view;

[0035] Figure 12 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A diagram of the humidification section of a aging refrigerator.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0037] Detailed Implementation

[0038] Hereinafter, specific embodiments for implementing the ideas of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Furthermore, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known structure or function may obscure the spirit of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0040] Furthermore, when referring to the “connection” of one constituent element to another, it should be understood that although it can be directly connected to another constituent element, other constituent elements may also exist in between.

[0041] The terminology used in this specification is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions.

[0042] Furthermore, it should be noted beforehand that the terms "one side," "the other side," "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "above," and "rear" in this specification are based on the illustrations in the accompanying drawings. If the orientation of the corresponding object changes, different descriptions may be used. For the same reason, some components are exaggerated, omitted, or shown in a simplified manner in the accompanying drawings, and the size of each component does not fully reflect its actual size.

[0043] Furthermore, terms containing ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the corresponding constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from another.

[0044] The term "comprising" as used in this specification means to specify a particular characteristic, region, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, and does not exclude the existence or addition of other particular characteristics, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups.

[0045] Hereinafter, a aging refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 12 An embodiment of the present invention, a aging refrigerator 1, may include a cabinet 10, a door 20, an evaporator 30, a defrost water collection unit 40, a water tank 50, a defrost water filter 60, a humidifier 70, a flow assist unit 80, and a control unit 90.

[0047] The cabinet 10 can form the appearance of the refrigerator 1. The interior of the cabinet 10 can have a curing space for food to cure. For this purpose, the cabinet 10 can include a first frame 11, a second frame 12, a third frame 13 and a fourth frame 14.

[0048] The front of the first frame 11 can be coupled to the door 20. The rear of the first frame 11 can be coupled to the second frame 12.

[0049] The second frame 12 can be coupled to the rear of the first frame 11 to form the rear surface of the refrigerator 1.

[0050] The third frame 13 can be configured within the space surrounded by the door 20, the first frame 11, and the second frame 12.

[0051] The third frame 13 may include a rear inner sidewall 131 opposite to the door 20. The rear inner sidewall 131 may be connected to a protruding support 132 around its perimeter. The protruding support 132 may include a first support sidewall 1321 and a second support sidewall 1322 facing the first support sidewall 1321. The first support sidewall 1321 and the second support sidewall 1322 may be connected to the first guide 43 of the defrost water collection section 40, which will be described later.

[0052] The protruding support 132 can be connected to the surrounding side walls 133. A water tank 50 can be disposed on the lower side side wall 1331 of the surrounding side walls 133 connected to the protruding support 132. A humidifying part 70 can be provided on the upper side side wall 1332 of the surrounding side walls 133 connected to the protruding support 132. The lower side wall 1331 and the upper side wall 1332 can be connected by a connecting side wall 1333.

[0053] An evaporator shroud 134 may be disposed in front of the rear inner wall 131. The evaporator shroud 134 may be supported by a protruding support 132 in front of the rear inner wall 131. An isolation space 135 may be formed between the front of the rear inner wall 131 and the rear of the evaporator shroud 134.

[0054] The isolation space 135 formed between the front of the rear inner wall 131 and the rear of the evaporator cover 134 due to the evaporator cover 134 can be used as at least one of the space for configuring the defrost water collection section 40 and the space for ensuring the flow of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 of the flow auxiliary section 80, as described later.

[0055] The fourth frame 14 can be configured below the third frame 13. The fourth frame 14 can be configured with an overflow tank 52 to collect water that overflows from the water tank 50 and is discharged.

[0056] Door 20 can open or close the curing space located inside the cabinet 10. For this purpose, door 20 can be rotatably connected to the front of the cabinet 10.

[0057] The evaporator 30 can generate cold air. For this purpose, the evaporator 30 can be located at the rear of the cabinet 10. The evaporator 30 at the rear of the cabinet 10 can be positioned above the defrost water collection section 40.

[0058] The cold air generated in the evaporator 30 can flow downwards within the interior space of the cabinet 10 via a circulation fan 31 positioned closer to the front of the cabinet 10 than the evaporator 30. Furthermore, the air can pass through an air filter 41 positioned below the circulation fan 31 and be supplied to the isolation space 135, where it flows upwards again and is resupplyed to the circulation fan 31.

[0059] The defrost water collection unit 40 can collect the defrost water generated in the evaporator 30. For this purpose, the defrost water collection unit 40 can be located below the evaporator 30 at the rear of the cabinet 10. The defrost water collection unit 40 can be disposed in the isolation space 135 formed between the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134.

[0060] The defrost water collection unit 40 may include a defrost water receiver 42, a first guide unit 43, and a second guide unit 44.

[0061] The defrost water receiver 42 can collect the defrost water generated in the evaporator 30. For this purpose, the defrost water receiver 42 can be disposed below the evaporator 30 and above the water tank 50.

[0062] The defrost water receiver 42 can be connected to either the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 or the evaporator cover 134 within the isolation space 135 formed between the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134.

[0063] According to this embodiment, since the position of the defrost water receiver 42 is higher than before, the defrost water returns below the defrost water receiver 42, and thus the return position of the defrost water is lower than before, thereby preventing the internal temperature of the cabinet 10 from rising.

[0064] For ease of explanation, the following description will use the case where the defrost water receiver 42 is connected to the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 as an example. However, this is only an example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. If the second guide portion 44 is connected to the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13, the defrost water receiver 42 can also be connected to the evaporator cover 134.

[0065] The defrost water receiver 42 may include a storage section 421 and a supply section 422. The storage section 421 has a space for storing defrost water guided by at least one of the first guide section 43 and the second guide section 44. The supply section 422 is connected to the lower part of the storage section 421 and supplies the defrost water to the water tank 50.

[0066] Due to the height difference between the storage section 421 and the water tank 50, water pressure can be generated in the defrost water supplied from the storage section 421 to the water tank 50. With the help of the water pressure generated in the defrost water, the defrost water supplied from the defrost water receiver 42 to the water tank 50 can pass through the defrost water filter 60 installed in the water tank 50.

[0067] The first guide section 43 can guide the defrost water generated in the evaporator 30 to the defrost water receiver 42. For this purpose, the first guide section 43 can be provided between the evaporator 30 and the defrost water receiver 42.

[0068] The first guide portion 43 can be connected to the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134 within the isolation space 135 between the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134. Since the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134 are connected by the first guide portion 43, the loss of defrost water generated in the evaporator 30 to the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134 can be minimized.

[0069] The first guide portion 43 may include a first wing-shaped member 431 and a second wing-shaped member 432. The first wing-shaped member 431 is connected to either the first support sidewall 1321 or the second support sidewall 1322 facing the first support sidewall 1321 of the protruding support portion 132 of the rear inner sidewall 131 of the third frame 13. The second wing-shaped member 432 is connected to the other of the first support sidewall 1321 or the second support sidewall 1322 facing the first support sidewall 1321 of the protruding support portion 132.

[0070] The first wing-shaped member 431 may include: a first connecting portion 4311, which is connected to either a first support sidewall 1321 of the protruding support portion 132 or a second support sidewall 1322 facing the first support sidewall 1321; a first inclined portion 4312, which extends from the end of the first connecting portion 4311 and is configured to form a first angle θ1 with the extension direction of the first connecting portion 4311; and a first contact portion 4313, which is connected to the connecting surfaces connecting the two ends of the first inclined portion 4312 and extends in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the first inclined portion 4312.

[0071] The first contact portion 4313 contacts the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134, thereby enabling the first wing-shaped member 431 to be fixed in the isolation space 135 formed between the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134. Furthermore, the first contact portion 4313 prevents defrosting water flowing along the first inclined portion 4312 from leaking into at least one of the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134.

[0072] The second wing-shaped member 432 may include: a second connecting portion 4321, which is connected to the other of a first support sidewall 1321 of the protruding support portion 132 and a second support sidewall 1322 facing the first support sidewall 1321; a second inclined portion 4322, which extends from the end of the second connecting portion 4321 and is configured to form a second angle θ2 with the extension direction of the second connecting portion 4321; and a second contact portion 4323, which is connected to the connecting surface connecting the two ends of the second inclined portion 4322 and extends in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the second inclined portion 4322.

[0073] The second contact portion 4323 contacts the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134, thereby enabling the second wing-shaped member 432 to be fixed in the isolation space 135 formed between the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134. Furthermore, the second contact portion 4323 prevents defrosting water flowing along the second inclined portion 4322 from leaking into at least one of the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134.

[0074] The first angle θ1 formed by the extension directions of the first inclined portion 4312 and the first connecting portion 4311 of the first wing member 431 is different from the second angle θ2 formed by the extension directions of the second inclined portion 4322 and the second connecting portion 4321 of the second wing member 432. Therefore, the end of the first inclined portion 4312 of the first wing member 431 and the end of the second inclined portion 4322 of the second wing member 432 can be arranged at different positions above the extension 442 of the second guide portion 44, which will be described later.

[0075] An air vent can be formed between the end of the first inclined portion 4312 of the first wing member 431 and the end of the second inclined portion 4322 of the second wing member 432. Here, the air passing between the end of the first inclined portion 4312 of the first wing member 431 and the end of the second inclined portion 4322 of the second wing member 432 can be air that flows upward from below the defrost water receiver 42 after passing through the air filter 41 disposed below the defrost water receiver 42 and attached to the lower end of the evaporator cover 134.

[0076] The second guide section 44 can guide defrost water to the defrost water receiver 42 from below the first guide section 43. For this purpose, the second guide section 44 can be disposed between the first guide section 43 and the defrost water receiver 42.

[0077] The second guide portion 44 can be connected to the other of the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134 within the isolation space 135 formed between the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 and the evaporator cover 134. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the case where the second guide portion 44 is connected to the evaporator cover 134 will be described as an example. However, this is merely an illustration and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. If the defrost water receiver 42 is connected to the evaporator cover 134, the second guide portion 44 can also be connected to the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13.

[0078] The defrost water guided by the second guide section 44 to the defrost water receiver 42 can be the defrost water that flows into the evaporator shroud 134 from the defrost water generated in the evaporator 30. The defrost water that flows into the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13 from the defrost water generated in the evaporator 30 can be recovered through the accumulation section 421 of the defrost water receiver 42 connected to the rear inner wall 131 of the third frame 13.

[0079] The second guide portion 44 may include a connecting portion 441 and an extension portion 442. The connecting portion 441 is connected to the evaporator cover 134, and the extension portion 442 extends from the end of the connecting portion 441 and is formed obliquely from the front of the cabinet 10 toward the rear in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver 42.

[0080] The joint 441 can guide the defrost water generated in the evaporator 30 that flows into the evaporator cover 134, such as the defrost water flowing along the surface of the evaporator cover 134, to the extension 442.

[0081] The extension 442 can guide the defrost water guided by the joint 441 to the accumulation portion 421 of the defrost water receiver 42. For this purpose, the extension 442 may include a first extension 4421 extending from at least a portion of the end of the joint 441 and a second extension 4422 extending from the remaining portion of the end of the joint 441.

[0082] The first extension 4421 can be formed obliquely from the first support sidewall 1321 of the protruding support 132 toward the second support sidewall 1322 in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver 42.

[0083] The second extension 4422 can be formed obliquely from the second support sidewall 1322 of the protruding support 132 toward the first support sidewall 1321 in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver 42.

[0084] A gap 4423 can be formed between the first extension 4421 and the second extension 4422 to allow defrosting water to pass through. Through the gap 4423, the defrosting water can fall into the accumulation section 421 of the defrosting water receiver 42.

[0085] The water tank 50 can receive and store the defrost water collected by the defrost water collection unit 40. For this purpose, the water tank 50 can be arranged below the defrost water collection unit 40.

[0086] The water tank 50 can be installed below the third frame 13 of the cabinet 10. The water tank 50 can be installed in the lower side wall 1331 of the four sides connected to the protruding support 132 of the third frame 13.

[0087] The defrost water supplied to the water tank 50 is the defrost water receiver 42 of the defrost water collection unit 40, and can pass through the defrost water filter 60 installed in the water tank 50 before being stored in the water tank 50.

[0088] Defrost water discharged from defrost water receiver 42 can be supplied to defrost water filter 60 through first piping 53. Defrost water passing through defrost water filter 60 can be discharged through second piping 54 and stored in water tank 50. Defrost water stored in water tank 50 can be supplied to water tank 73 of humidification unit 70 (described later) as needed.

[0089] The water tank 50 may be equipped with a tank-side detection sensor 51 for detecting the water level of the defrost water stored in the water tank 50. The value detected by the tank-side detection sensor 51 can be transmitted to the control unit 90 and used to determine whether to execute an alarm or whether to execute an overflow.

[0090] If the value detected by the water tank-side detection sensor 51 corresponds to a high water level in the water tank 50, the defrost water in the water tank 50 can overflow. On the other hand, if the value detected by the water tank-side detection sensor 51 corresponds to a low water level in the water tank 50, a low water level alarm can be triggered, and the water tank 50 can be refilled.

[0091] Water tank 50 can be connected to overflow water tank 52, which collects defrost water overflowing based on an overflow control signal generated by control unit 90. Overflow water tank 52 can be installed in the fourth frame 14 of cabinet 10. Defrost water overflowing from water tank 50 can be discharged through third piping 55 and stored in overflow water tank 52.

[0092] Before the defrost water supplied from the defrost water collection unit 40 is stored in the water tank 50, the defrost water filter 60 can filter the defrost water using the water pressure of the defrost water discharged from the defrost water collection unit 40.

[0093] For this purpose, a defrost water filter 60 can be installed in the water tank 50. The defrost water filter 60 can be constructed of a filter having pores that allow defrost water to pass through but not allow deodorizing enzymes introduced into the defrost water to pass through. For example, the pore size of the defrost water filter 60 can be about 30 μm to about 40 μm.

[0094] Previously, in order for defrost water to pass through the filter that filters defrost water, it was necessary to use a separate pump or similar mechanism to pump the defrost water to the filter side. However, in this embodiment, the defrost water can pass through the defrost water filter 60 by means of the water pressure generated by the defrost water collection unit 40 itself, so defrost water can be filtered in a simpler way than before.

[0095] The humidifier 70 can supply moisture to the air containing the cold air returned from the defrost water collection unit 40 in the cold air generated in the evaporator 30. For this purpose, the humidifier 70 can be arranged in front of the cabinet 10, but above the evaporator 30.

[0096] The humidifier 70 can be disposed above the third frame 13 of the cabinet 10. The humidifier 70 can be disposed on the upper four-sided side wall 1332, which is disposed on the lower side of the four-sided side wall 133 connected to the protruding support 132 of the third frame 13.

[0097] The humidifier 70 may include a housing 71, an absorbent cloth 72, a water tank 73, a heating element 74, and a humidifier-side detection sensor 75.

[0098] The housing 71 can be detachably coupled to the upper peripheral sidewall 1332, which is disposed on the lower side of the peripheral sidewall 133 connected to the protruding support 132 of the third frame 13. The housing 71 may have an air intake 711 for drawing in air containing cold air returned from the defrost water collection section 40.

[0099] The housing 71 may be coupled with a circulating fan 31. Driven by the circulating fan 31, air containing cold air returning from the defrost water collection section 40 can be drawn into the interior of the housing 71 through the air intake 711. The air drawn in through the air intake 711 can increase its moisture content while passing through the absorbent cloth 72 soaked in water in the water tank 73. The air with increased moisture content while passing through the absorbent cloth 72 can be discharged through the circulating fan 31.

[0100] The absorbent cloth 72 can be immersed in a water tank 73 located inside the housing 71. The absorbent cloth 72 immersed in the water tank 73 can be replaced as needed, taking into account the performance of the absorbent cloth 72.

[0101] The absorbent cloth 72, soaked in the water tank 73, can guide air in such a way that the air drawn in through the air intake 711 of the housing 71 is discharged toward the circulating fan 31. For this purpose, the absorbent cloth 72 can extend from one side to the other.

[0102] The absorbent cloth 72 may have a guide fold 712 that guides air drawn in through the air inlet 711 of the housing 71 from one side to the other. The guide fold 712 may be folded in a manner that does not interfere with the movement of air from one side of the absorbent cloth 72 to the other. The guide fold 712 may be provided along the extending direction of the absorbent cloth 72 extending from one side to the other.

[0103] In this embodiment, the air drawn in through the air intake 711 of the housing 71 does not flow in the direction of passing through the front and rear of the absorbent cloth 72, but flows along the extension direction of the absorbent cloth 72 through the guide fold 712. Therefore, the air resistance can be reduced compared to the past. In addition, since the contact area between the absorbent cloth 72 and the air is increased, no resistance is generated in the airflow, thus accelerating the airflow.

[0104] The water tank 73 is a portion for collecting water soaked in the absorbent cloth 72, and can be located inside the housing 71. The water tank 73 may be provided with a drain section 712, which allows the water collected in the water tank 73 to be drained to the outside before the housing 71 is separated from the upper peripheral sidewall 1332. The water stored in the water tank 73 can be water supplied by the water tank 50, such as defrosting water or water containing defrosting water.

[0105] If the fittings or similar mechanisms are connected to the discharge section 712 before separating the housing 71 from the upper four-sided side wall 1332, all the water collected in the water tank 73 can flow out through the fittings, thereby preventing water leakage during the process of separating the housing 71 from the upper four-sided side wall 1332 to replace the absorbent cloth 72.

[0106] The heating element 74 prevents the absorbent cloth 72 and the water tank 73 from freezing due to the air exhausted from the circulating fan 31. For this purpose, the heating element 74 can be connected to at least one of the housing 71 and the water tank 73.

[0107] The humidifier-side detection sensor 75 can detect the water level in the water tank 73. Therefore, the humidifier-side detection sensor 75 can be installed in the water tank 73.

[0108] The value detected by the humidifier-side detection sensor 75 can be transmitted to the control unit 90 and used to determine whether the water level in the water tank 73 is low. If the value detected by the humidifier-side detection sensor 75 corresponds to a low water level in the water tank 73, water can be added to the water tank 73. The humidifier-side detection sensor 75 can be positioned below the water tank 73 to maintain the water level in the water tank 73 at a preset level, such as approximately 13mm to approximately 14mm.

[0109] The airflow assist unit 80 can assist the airflow based on the circulating fan 31. For this purpose, the airflow assist unit 80 can be arranged in front of the cabinet 10, but it is located below the circulating fan 31 in front of the cabinet 10.

[0110] The flow assist section 80 may be disposed on the evaporator cover 134, which is located in front of the rear inner sidewall 131 of the third frame 13 of the cabinet 10. The flow assist section 80 may include a first auxiliary fan 81 disposed on the evaporator cover 134 and a second auxiliary fan 82 disposed on the evaporator cover 134 and positioned above or below the first auxiliary fan 81.

[0111] By forming an isolation space 135 between the front of the rear inner sidewall 131 of the third frame 13 and the rear of the evaporator shroud 134, the flow of at least one of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 disposed in the evaporator shroud 134 can be ensured.

[0112] In this embodiment, for ease of explanation, we will take the case where the first auxiliary fan 81 is disposed below the circulation fan 31 and the second auxiliary fan 82 is disposed between the first auxiliary fan 81 and the circulation fan 31, for example, the case where the second auxiliary fan 82 is disposed above the first auxiliary fan 81.

[0113] The first auxiliary fan 81 can be configured on the lower side of the cabinet 10, for example, at a first height H1, based on the fourth frame 14. The first auxiliary fan 81 can be configured at a lower position than the circulation fan 31 configured at a third height H3, based on the fourth frame 14. For example, the first auxiliary fan 81 can be configured at a position equivalent to approximately 20% to approximately 30% of the height of the cabinet 10.

[0114] The second auxiliary fan 82 can be configured on the lower side of the cabinet 10, for example, at a second height H2, based on the fourth frame 14. The second auxiliary fan 82 can be configured lower than the circulation fan 31 configured at a third height H3 based on the fourth frame 14, and higher than the first auxiliary fan 81 configured at a first height H1 based on the fourth frame 14. For example, the second auxiliary fan 82 can be configured at approximately 40% to approximately 50% of the height of the cabinet 10.

[0115] The first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 can be driven independently. The driving of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 can be determined in accordance with the flow information of the circulating fan 31. Furthermore, the airflow or rotation speed, driving time, etc. of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 can be adjusted to be different from each other, taking into account the flow information of the circulating fan 31. This will be described later.

[0116] In this embodiment, since the airflow based on the circulating fan 31 is assisted by at least one of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82, the airflow inside the cabinet 10 becomes smooth, thereby preventing degradation of the curing function.

[0117] The control unit 90 can determine the water level status of the water tank 50. Furthermore, the control unit 90 can determine the water level status of the water tank 73 in the humidification unit 70. In addition, the control unit 90 can also control the flow assist unit 80.

[0118] In order to determine the water level status of the water tank 50, the control unit 90 can receive the defrost water level value detected by the water tank side detection sensor 51, and compare and analyze the transmitted value with the pre-stored value to determine whether the water level of the water tank 50 is low or high.

[0119] The control unit 90 can receive the defrost water level value of the water tank 50 and generate a water tank level signal. This generated water tank level signal can be used to determine whether the water tank 50 is overflowing or needs replenishment. The overflow or replenishment information of the water tank 50 based on the water tank level signal can also be transmitted to a separate display unit (not shown) installed in the cabinet 10 and displayed thereon. Through this display unit, the user can visually identify the water tank level information of the water tank 50.

[0120] In order to determine the water level status of the water tank 73 of the humidifier 70, the control unit 90 can receive the water level value detected by the humidifier-side detection sensor 75, and compare and analyze the transmitted value with the pre-stored value to determine whether the water level of the water tank 73 of the humidifier 70 is low.

[0121] The control unit 90 can receive the water level value of the water tank 73 and generate a water tank level signal. This generated water tank level signal can be used to determine when to replenish water to the water tank 73. The water replenishment information for the water tank 73 based on the water tank level signal can also be transmitted to a separate display unit installed in the cabinet 10 and displayed thereon. Through this display unit, the user can visually identify the water level information of the water tank 73.

[0122] To control the flow assistance unit 80, the control unit 90 can determine the drive of at least one of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 based on the flow information of the circulating fan 31. Here, the flow information of the circulating fan 31 may include at least one of the air volume, rotational speed, and drive time of the circulating fan 31. The flow information of the circulating fan 31 can be collected in real time by a separate sensor (not shown) during the drive of the circulating fan 31, or it can be pre-stored. Alternatively, it can be input through a separate input unit (not shown).

[0123] The control unit 90 can receive flow information from the circulating fan 31 and generate at least one of a first auxiliary fan control signal for driving the first auxiliary fan 81 and a second auxiliary fan control signal for driving the second auxiliary fan 82.

[0124] Based on the first auxiliary fan control signal thus generated, the first auxiliary fan 81 can be turned on / off, and at least one of the airflow, rotation speed, and drive time of the first auxiliary fan 81 can be adjusted. Furthermore, based on the second auxiliary fan control signal, the second auxiliary fan 82 can be turned on / off, and at least one of the airflow, rotation speed, and drive time of the second auxiliary fan 82 can be adjusted. The drive information of at least one of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82 can also be transmitted to and displayed on a separate display unit housed in the cabinet 10. Through such a display unit, the user can visually identify the drive information of at least one of the first auxiliary fan 81 and the second auxiliary fan 82.

[0125] The control unit 90 can be provided to communicate with an external server or external terminal via a communication system. The communication system can be implemented using various communication methods, such as connecting via mobile communication networks like 3G, 4G, and 5G; wirelessly or wiredly connecting via a local area network (LAN) and the internet; connecting via a universal serial bus (USB) port; or connecting via short-range wireless communication methods such as Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and Wi-Fi.

[0126] The control unit 90 can be provided, for example, as a control box implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware, thereby enabling it to be formed in a compact size and easily applied to the aging refrigerator 1.

[0127] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above through specific implementation methods. However, these are merely illustrative, and the present invention is not limited thereto. It should be interpreted as having the widest scope following the basic ideas disclosed in this specification. Those skilled in the art can implement forms not specified in the description by combining / replacing the disclosed embodiments, but this does not depart from the scope of the present invention. In addition, those skilled in the art can easily make changes or modifications to the disclosed embodiments based on this specification, and obviously such changes or modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A aging refrigerator, comprising: Cabinet; The door is located at the front of the cabinet. An evaporator, located at the rear of the cabinet, generates cold air; and A defrost water collection unit is located at the rear of the cabinet, below the evaporator, and collects the defrost water generated in the evaporator. The defrost water collection section is located below the evaporator and includes a defrost water receiver for collecting the defrost water. The defrost water stored in the defrost water receiver is supplied to a water tank located below the defrost water receiver.

2. The aging refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the defrost water collection section further comprises a first guide section disposed between the evaporator and the defrost water receiver.

3. The aging refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the defrost water collection section further comprises a second guide section disposed between the first guide section and the defrost water receiver.

4. The aging refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein the defrost water receiver comprises a storage section and a supply section. The storage section has a space for storing the defrosting water guided by at least one of the first guide section and the second guide section. The supply section is connected to the lower part of the storage section and supplies the defrosting water to the water tank. Due to the height difference between the storage section and the water tank, the defrosting water supplied from the storage section to the water tank generates water pressure.

5. The aging refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein the cabinet comprises: A first frame, whose front end is coupled to the door; The second frame, coupled to the rear of the first frame; and A third frame, coupled to the first frame and disposed within the space enclosed by the door, the first frame, and the second frame. An evaporator hood is provided in front of the rear inner sidewall of the third frame, which is opposite to the door. An isolation space is formed between the rear inner wall and the evaporator cover, through which the defrost water collection section can be configured.

6. The aging refrigerator according to claim 5, wherein the defrost water receiver is connected within the isolation space to either the rear inner sidewall of the third frame or the evaporator cover. The second guide portion is connected within the isolation space to the rear inner sidewall of the third frame and the other of the evaporator shroud.

7. The aging refrigerator according to claim 5, wherein the rear inner sidewall of the third frame has protruding support portions supporting the evaporator cover. The protruding support forms the isolation space between the front of the rear inner sidewall and the rear of the evaporator shroud.

8. The aging refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein the first guide portion comprises a first wing-shaped member and a second wing-shaped member. The first wing-shaped member is connected to either the first support sidewall of the protruding support portion or the second support sidewall facing the first support sidewall. The second wing-shaped member is connected to the other of the first and second support sidewalls of the protruding support.

9. The aging refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein the second guide portion comprises a connecting portion and an extension portion. The joint is connected to the evaporator cover. The extension extends from the end of the joint and is formed obliquely from the front of the cabinet toward the rear, getting closer and closer to the defrost water receiver.

10. The aging refrigerator according to claim 9, wherein the first wing-shaped member comprises: A first connecting portion is connected to either the first support sidewall or the second support sidewall of the protruding support portion; A first inclined portion extends from the end of the first connecting portion and is configured to form a first angle with the extending direction of the first connecting portion; as well as The first contact portion is connected to the connecting surface connecting the two ends of the first inclined portion and extends in a direction that is intersecting the extending direction of the first inclined portion.

11. The aging refrigerator of claim 10, wherein the second wing-shaped member comprises: The second connecting portion is connected to the other of the first and second supporting sidewalls of the protruding supporting portion; A second inclined portion extends from the end of the second connecting portion and is configured at a second angle to the extending direction of the second connecting portion; and The second contact portion is connected to the connecting surface connecting the two ends of the second inclined portion and extends in a direction that is intersecting the extending direction of the second inclined portion.

12. The aging refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein the ends of the first inclined portion and the second inclined portion are disposed at different positions above the extension of the second guide portion.

13. The aging refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein the extension comprises a first extension and a second extension. The first extension extends from at least a portion of the end of the joint and is formed obliquely from the first support sidewall of the protruding support toward the second support sidewall in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver. The second extension extends from the remaining portion at the end of the joint and is formed obliquely from the second support sidewall of the protruding support toward the first support sidewall in a direction that gets closer and closer to the defrost water receiver. A gap is formed between the first extension and the second extension, through which the defrosting water can pass.

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