Refrigerator

Abstract

This invention relates to a refrigerator. A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space with a front opening and a door configured to open and close the storage space. The door includes: a door body having an opening and an insulating material filling the periphery of the opening; a body panel assembly configured to cover the opening and including a plurality of transparent panels allowing observation through the rear side of the door; and a panel assembly detachably mounted to the door body. The panel assembly includes a transparent front panel forming the front surface of the door and a transparent display disposed on the rear surface of the front panel, wherein the transparent display is positioned facing the body panel assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a household appliance constructed to store food at low temperatures within an internal storage space enclosed by a refrigerator door. Refrigerators are designed to keep stored food in optimal condition by cooling the interior of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in a refrigeration cycle.

[0003] With changing dietary habits and the trend towards high-end products, the functions of these refrigerators are becoming increasingly expanded and diversified. Various types of refrigerators equipped with structures and convenient features designed to enhance user convenience have been launched.

[0004] For example, a refrigerator has been developed in which a portion of the refrigerator door has a transparent structure, allowing selective observation of the interior when the internal light is on or off. Furthermore, refrigerators have been developed that provide a display on the refrigerator door capable of both transparency and image output, thus enabling the display of information needed for using the refrigerator.

[0005] However, in this type of refrigerator, it is difficult to easily replace the refrigerator panel that houses the display when it malfunctions.

[0006] In addition, during the manufacturing process of refrigerator doors, there is a problem that the heat generated by the foaming of insulation materials may damage the panel or display. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that facilitates door maintenance.

[0008] Another embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator with improved assemblability.

[0009] Another embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator capable of efficiently arranging printed circuit boards (PCBs).

[0010] Another embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that ensures safe use by preventing condensation from occurring in the storage space containing the PCB and the display.

[0011] In one embodiment, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a cabinet forming a storage space with a front surface opening; and a door configured to open and close the storage space, wherein the door includes: a door body forming an opening and filled with a heat-insulating material around the periphery of the opening; a body panel assembly including a plurality of transparent panels configured to cover the opening and allow observation of the rear of the door; and a panel assembly detachably mounted to the door body, wherein the panel assembly includes: a transparent front panel forming a front surface of the door; and a transparent display disposed on the rear surface of the front panel, the transparent display being arranged facing the body panel assembly.

[0012] The front surfaces of the transparent display and the body panel assembly can overlap each other in the front-to-back direction.

[0013] The transparent display may be formed to have a smaller size than the front panel, and multiple PCB components may be arranged along the periphery of the transparent display on the rear surface of the front panel.

[0014] The front panel can be detachably installed onto the door body while the transparent display and the PCB assembly are in place.

[0015] The plurality of PCB components can be disposed between the front panel and the transparent display.

[0016] The front panel may include: a display window that overlaps with the transparent display and is configured to allow viewing through the display window; and a border that is formed opaquely along the periphery of the display window, wherein the PCB assembly may be covered by the border.

[0017] The plurality of PCB components may include: a first PCB component disposed above the transparent display and connected to a control unit disposed in the cabinet to transmit control signals; a third PCB component disposed on one of the left and right sides of the transparent display and connected to the display; and a second PCB component disposed below the transparent display and connected to the third PCB component and the first PCB component.

[0018] A side guide configured to guide the cable connecting the first PCB assembly and the second PCB assembly may be disposed on the rear surface of the front panel, and the side guide may be disposed on the side closer to the hinge device connecting the door and the cabinet on the left and right sides of the transparent display.

[0019] In another embodiment, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a cabinet forming a storage space with a front opening; and a door configured to open and close the storage space, wherein the door includes: a door body having an opening and a periphery filled with insulating material surrounding the opening; a body panel assembly configured to cover the opening, the body panel assembly including a plurality of transparent panels allowing observation through the rear side of the door; and a panel assembly detachably mounted to the door body, wherein the panel assembly includes: a transparent front panel forming the front surface of the door; a transparent display disposed on the rear side of the front panel; and a PCB assembly disposed between an edge of the front panel and the transparent display, wherein the PCB assembly includes a plurality of PCBs arranged to be stacked in a front-rear direction.

[0020] The PCB assembly may include: a first PCB disposed on the side of the transparent display and connected to the display; and a second PCB connected to the first PCB, wherein the second PCB may be disposed behind the first PCB with at least a portion of the second PCB overlapping the first PCB.

[0021] The PCB assembly may be located on the left and right sides of the front panel, opposite to the hinge device that connects the door to the cabinet.

[0022] The PCB assembly may further include: a first housing fixed to the front panel, the first PCB being mounted in the first housing; and a second housing disposed behind the first housing, the second PCB being mounted in the second housing, wherein the second housing may be connected to the first housing in a front-rear direction.

[0023] An opaque border may be formed along the perimeter of the front panel, and the PCB assembly may be positioned in an area corresponding to the border so as to be hidden by the border.

[0024] In yet another embodiment, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a cabinet forming a storage space with a front opening; a door body configured to open and close the storage space; and a panel assembly detachably mounted to the door body, wherein the panel assembly includes: a transparent front panel forming a front surface of the door; a transparent display mounted on a rear surface of the front panel; and a PCB assembly mounted to the front panel and disposed around the periphery of the transparent display, and the door body includes: a front frame forming a front surface of the door body and defining a receiving space for receiving the panel assembly; a door liner forming a rear surface of the door body and having an opening; and a body panel assembly including a plurality of transparent panels configured to cover the opening and allow observation through the rear space of the door, wherein a heater is disposed in the front frame to heat the receiving space.

[0025] With the panel assembly installed onto the door body, the PCB assembly can be located within the receiving space.

[0026] The body panel assembly may include: a front body panel forming a front surface and located within the receiving space; a rear body panel forming a rear surface and covering the opening of the door liner; and a spacer connecting the front body panel and the rear body panel to form a heat insulation layer, wherein the heater may be disposed along the periphery of the rear body panel.

[0027] The rear body panel may be formed to be larger than the front body panel, and an outwardly extending protrusion may be formed along the periphery of the rear body panel, and the heater may contact the protrusion.

[0028] A panel support extending into contact with the body panel assembly may be formed on the front frame, and the heater may be disposed at the end of the panel support. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 It's a 3D view of the refrigerator door.

[0031] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the panel assembly and the door body separated from the front.

[0032] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the panel assembly and the door body separated from the rear.

[0033] Figure 5 This is an exploded 3D view of the panel components.

[0034] Figure 6 This is the back view of the panel component.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the first PCB assembly, which is a component of the panel assembly.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the second PCB assembly, which is another component of the panel assembly.

[0037] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of the side guide.

[0038] Figure 10 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of part A in the image.

[0039] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of the third PCB assembly, which is a component of the panel assembly.

[0040] Figure 12 It is along Figure 4 A three-dimensional cross-section taken from line 12–12.

[0041] Figure 13 It is along Figure 2 The sectional view taken from line 13–13.

[0042] Figure 14 It is along Figure 2 A three-dimensional cross-section taken from line 14–14.

[0043] Figure 15 This is a partial perspective view showing the upper part of the door body.

[0044] Figure 16 It is an exploded perspective view showing the wiring layout of the upper part of the door and the top cover.

[0045] Figure 17 This is a block diagram illustrating the control signal flow of a refrigerator.

[0046] Figure 18 This is a view showing whether the door is open or closed.

[0047] Figure 19 This is a view showing an example of the state changes of the door's display window.

[0048] Figure 20 This is another example view showing the state changes of the display window.

[0049] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of a door according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented for illustrating the spirit of the invention, and various other embodiments falling within the scope of the present invention can be readily proposed by adding, modifying, or deleting other components without departing from the scope of the inventive concept.

[0051] Before providing a detailed description, the orientations used in this specification will be defined.

[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the direction facing the front surface of the door is defined as the front direction, the direction facing the cabinet based on the front surface of the door is defined as the rear direction, the direction facing the floor surface where the refrigerator is installed is defined as the down direction, and the direction away from the floor surface is defined as the up direction.

[0053] Furthermore, when referring to directions that were not previously defined, the direction can be redefined and described based on each attached diagram.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] As shown in the figure, the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage space and a door 20 for opening and closing the storage space.

[0056] In one example, cabinet 10 may have vertically divided storage spaces. The storage spaces may be divided into upper and lower storage spaces, where the upper storage space can be used as a refrigerator compartment and the lower storage space can be used as a freezer compartment. Cabinet 10 may be equipped with a control unit 11 (e.g., Figure 17 As shown), the control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the refrigerator 1. The control unit 11 can be referred to as the main PCB (printed circuit board).

[0057] Door 20 may include an upper door 21 for opening and closing the upper storage space and a lower door 22 for opening and closing the lower storage space. The upper door 21 may be referred to as the refrigerator door or the first door, and the lower door 22 may be referred to as the freezer door or the second door. The upper door 21 and the lower door 22 may form a pair of doors, and the left and right ends of each door may be connected to the cabinet 10 by a hinge device, so that the storage space can be opened and closed by rotation.

[0058] At least a portion of the front surface of the upper door 21 may be provided with a display window. The display window 312 may selectively allow observation of the space behind the upper door 21. The display window may also be referred to as a screen or a transparent portion. Furthermore, the display window 312 may output an image via a display 33 disposed on the door 21. The display window 312 may be formed on each of a pair of left and right upper doors 21. Alternatively, the display window 312 may be formed on only one of the upper doors 21.

[0059] The structure of the upper door 21 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. For ease of description, the upper door 21 may be simply referred to as door 21.

[0060] Figure 2 It's a 3D model of the refrigerator door. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the panel assembly and the door body separated from the front. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the panel assembly and the door body separated from the rear.

[0061] As shown in the figure, door 21 may include a panel assembly 30 and a door body 40. The panel assembly 30 may have a structure that is detachably connected to the door body 40.

[0062] In one example, panel assembly 30 can be easily attached to and removed from door body 40 without the need for separate tools to fasten fasteners such as screws or bolts. This facilitates the maintenance and assembly of panel assembly 30.

[0063] The door body 40 may include a front frame 41 forming the front surface, a door liner 42 forming the rear surface, a side frame 45 forming two side surfaces, and an upper cover 43 and a lower cover 44 forming the upper and lower ends, respectively.

[0064] In addition, the door body 40 may include a body panel assembly 50. The body panel assembly 50 may consist of multiple transparent panels that allow observation of the rear side of the door. The body panel assembly 50 may be referred to as a second panel assembly to distinguish it from panel assembly 30.

[0065] The body panel assembly 50 can be disposed at the center of the door body 40. In addition, the body panel assembly 50 can form a portion of the front surface and the rear surface of the door body 40.

[0066] A frame opening 411 for the body panel assembly 50 to pass through can be formed in the front frame 41. A liner opening 421 for the body panel assembly 50 to pass through can also be formed in the door liner 42. Therefore, the front surface of the body panel assembly 50 can be exposed through the frame opening 411, and the rear surface of the body panel assembly 50 can be exposed through the liner opening 421. A sealing ring 46 can be provided along the periphery of the door liner 42.

[0067] Furthermore, side limiting portions 412 for mounting the panel assembly 30 can be formed in the front frame 41. Side limiting protrusions 343 and 634 provided on both sides of the panel assembly 30 can be inserted into the side limiting portions 412. Multiple side limiting portions 412 can be formed along both sides of the body panel assembly 50 in the vertical direction.

[0068] The upper cover 43 and the lower cover 44 can be connected to the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 30 to restrict the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 30. Therefore, when the panel assembly 30 is installed on the door body 40, the upper and lower ends, as well as the left and right sides of the panel assembly 30, are restricted, thereby maintaining a stable connection.

[0069] In addition, a portion of the front surface of the door body 40, i.e. a portion of the front frame 41, can form a recessed receiving space 401, in which PCB assemblies 60, 70 and 80 protruding from the rear surface of the panel assembly 30 can be accommodated.

[0070] Although not shown, a lighting device 111 (such as...) can be provided. Figure 17 (As shown). Operation of the lighting device 111 illuminates the space behind the door 21, allowing observation of the space through the display window 312. In one example, the lighting device 111 may be located on one side of the door lining 42 or the door body 40. In another example, the lighting device 111 may be located on one side of the cabinet 10.

[0071] The panel assembly 30 can be detachably attached to the door body 40 and can form the front surface of the door 21. The panel assembly 30 can be referred to as a door panel assembly. The panel assembly 30 can also be referred to as a first panel assembly to distinguish it from the body panel assembly 50. The panel assembly 30 may include a front panel 31 forming the front surface, a display 33 disposed on the rear side of the front panel 31, and a plurality of PCB assemblies 60, 70, and 80.

[0072] The front panel 31 may be formed of a transparent material so that it can be viewed through. In one example, the front panel 31 may be formed of glass. In embodiments of the invention, the term "transparent" may be defined as including not only complete transparency but also a semi-transparent state that allows some degree of observation of the rear space. Similarly, the term "opaque" may be defined as including not only complete opacity but also a state in which the shape of the rear space is difficult to discern.

[0073] A display window 312 can be formed in the center of the front panel 31. Through the display window 312, the space behind the door 21 can be observed, and at the same time, when the display 33 outputs a screen, the image displayed on the display 33 can be seen from the outside.

[0074] The bezel 311 can be formed along the periphery of the front panel 31. The bezel 311 can be used to cover components in the rear space and can be formed along the periphery of the display window 312. Multiple PCB components 60, 70 and 80 arranged along the periphery of the display 33 can be located within the area of ​​the bezel 311 and thus hidden by the bezel 311.

[0075] The PCB assembly may include a first PCB assembly 80 located above the display 33, a second PCB assembly 70 located below the display 33, and a third PCB assembly 60 disposed on one of the left and right sides of the display 33.

[0076] The side guide 34 can be disposed on the opposite side of the left and right sides of the display 33. The side guide 34 can also be disposed on the side of the left and right sides of the panel assembly 30 corresponding to the hinge mounting portion 432 at the upper end of the door 21.

[0077] The panel assembly 30 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] Figure 5 This is an exploded 3D view of the panel components. Figure 6 This is the rear view of the panel component. Figure 7 This is a 3D view of the first PCB assembly, which is a component of the panel assembly. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the second PCB assembly, which is another component of the panel assembly.

[0079] As shown in the figure, the panel assembly 30 may include a front panel 31, a display 33, and multiple PCB assemblies 60, 70, and 80. Furthermore, the panel assembly 30 may further include a touch sensor 32 configured to detect user touch operations.

[0080] Touch sensor 32 can be disposed between front panel 31 and display 33. In one example, touch sensor 32 can be formed as a film, with its front surface contacting front panel 31 and its rear surface contacting display 33. Touch sensor 32 can be formed at a position corresponding to display window 312 and can have a corresponding size or a slightly larger size.

[0081] A touch cable 321 for transmitting signals from the touch sensor 32 can be disposed on the upper part of the touch sensor 32. In one example, the touch cable 321 can be constructed as a flexible flat cable (FFC). That is, the touch cable 321 can be formed in the shape of a film or flexible plate and can be connected to the first PCB assembly 80 disposed above it.

[0082] Display 33 can be configured as a transparent display panel capable of both rear visibility and image output, and can be referred to as a transparent display. Display 33 can also be referred to as a display panel. In one example, display 33 can be configured as a transparent OLED panel. Specifically, after injecting foaming liquid into the door body 40, the panel assembly 30 including the transparent OLED (organic light-emitting diode) can be installed, thereby preventing damage to the expensive OLED due to foaming heat. Furthermore, when the panel assembly 30 is removed, the transparent OLED can be exposed, facilitating the repair of the expensive transparent OLED.

[0083] The display 33 can be fixedly mounted to the front panel 31. Therefore, when the panel assembly 30 is removed or installed, the display 33, together with the multiple PCB assemblies 60, 70, and 80, can remain connected to the front panel 31.

[0084] The display 33 may have a size corresponding to or slightly larger than the display window 312. The periphery of the display 33 may be spaced apart from the front panel 31, thereby providing a space in which multiple PCB assemblies 60, 70, 80 may be mounted along the periphery of the display 33.

[0085] The third PCB assembly 60 can be disposed on one of the left and right sides of the display 33. The third PCB assembly 60 can be connected to the side of the display 33 via a display cable 331. In one example, the display cable 331 can be configured as a flexible flat cable (FFC). The third PCB assembly 60 can be disposed on the left and right sides of the panel assembly 30 away from the hinge mounting portion 432. The third PCB assembly 60 can be located between one end of the display 33 and the front panel 31, and a portion of the third PCB assembly 60 can overlap with the side of the display 33.

[0086] The side guide 34 can be disposed on the other side of the left and right sides of the display 33. The side guide 34 can be disposed between the side end of the display 33 and the side end of the front panel 31.

[0087] The first PCB assembly 80 can be disposed between the upper end of the display 33 and the upper end of the front panel 31. The first PCB assembly 80 can control all components disposed in the panel assembly 30. The first PCB assembly 80 can be constructed as a combination of multiple PCBs.

[0088] In detail, the first PCB assembly 80 may include a first PCB bracket 80 mounted on the rear surface of the front panel 31 and a plurality of PCBs 81, 82, 83, 84 mounted on the first PCB bracket 80.

[0089] The first PCB support 80 can be formed in the shape of a plate. An upper limiting portion 802 and an upper limiting groove 803 can be formed at the upper end of the first PCB support 80. A plurality of upper limiting grooves 803 can be arranged along the upper end of the first PCB support 80. When the cover 48 is installed, the upper limiting protrusion 483 formed on the cover 48 can be inserted into the upper limiting groove 803 to limit the upper part of the panel assembly 30.

[0090] The first PCB bracket 80 may include a panel PCB 81, a touch PCB 82, and a converter PCB 83. Furthermore, the first PCB bracket 80 may further include a thread PCB 84.

[0091] The panel PCB 81 can be configured to control the overall operation of the control panel assembly 30 and can be directly or indirectly connected to multiple PCBs 82, 83, and 84 via cables. A panel cable 911 extending outward from the door can be connected to the panel PCB 81 to link with the control unit 11 of the cabinet 10. One end of the panel cable 911 may be provided with a connector 910, which can be easily connected to or disconnected from the door cable 921 located in the door body 40 when the panel assembly 30 is attached or detached.

[0092] A converter PCB 83 may be provided to perform signal conversion between the panel PCB 81 and the weighing PCB (scale PCB) 71 of the second PCB assembly 70. The converter PCB 83 may be arranged separately from the panel PCB 81 and may be connected to the panel PCB 81 via a first connecting cable 912. The converter PCB 83 may also be connected to the weighing PCB 71 via a second connecting cable 913. In this case, the second connecting cable 913 may pass along the side guide 34 and through the cable guide 342 of the side guide 34.

[0093] The Thread module 84 can be located on one side of the panel PCB 81. The Thread module 84 can be used to communicate with external devices and can be configured as a separate PCB connected to the panel PCB 81 via a fourth connecting cable 915.

[0094] The touch PCB 82 can be constructed separately from the panel PCB 81. The touch PCB 82 can be connected to the panel PCB 81 via a fifth connecting cable 916, and the touch cable 321 can be connected to the other side of the touch PCB 82.

[0095] Meanwhile, the first PCB assembly 80 can be connected to the control unit 11 via a cable. The first PCB assembly 80 can also be connected to the second PCB assembly 70, and the second PCB assembly 70 can be connected to the third PCB assembly 60. That is, the third PCB assembly 60 and the second PCB assembly 70 can be directly or indirectly connected to the first PCB assembly 80, and can be connected to the control unit 11 through the first PCB assembly 80.

[0096] The second PCB assembly 70 can be disposed below the display 33. The second PCB assembly 70 can be disposed between the lower end of the display 33 and the lower end of the front panel 31. The second PCB assembly 70 can be used to drive the display 33, and in particular, can control the driving of the transparent OLED panel.

[0097] In detail, the second PCB assembly 70 may include a second PCB bracket 72 mounted on the rear surface of the front panel 31 and a weighing PCB 71 mounted on the second PCB bracket 72.

[0098] The second PCB bracket 72 can be formed in the shape of a plate and can be attached to the rear surface of the front panel 31. A PCB mounting part 721 on which the weighing PCB 71 is mounted can be formed on the upper part of the second PCB bracket 72.

[0099] The bracket extension 722 can be formed to extend downward from the lower end of the PCB mounting portion 721. The lower limiting portion 723 can be formed at the lower end of the bracket extension 722, that is, at the lower end of the second PCB bracket 72. The lower limiting portion 723 can be connected to the lower cover 44 and can limit the lower part of the panel assembly 30.

[0100] A downward-opening lower limiting groove 725 can be formed in the lower limiting portion 723. A lower limiting protrusion 442 protruding upward from the lower cover 44 can be inserted into the lower limiting groove 725. Through the engagement between the lower limiting protrusion 442 and the lower limiting groove 725, the lower part of the panel assembly 30 can be held in a state connected to the door body 40.

[0101] A rearwardly projecting support rib 724 may be formed above the lower limiting groove 725. The support rib 724 may contact the front surface of the door body 40, thereby preventing the panel assembly 30 from moving in the front-rear direction and allowing it to maintain a stable installation position.

[0102] The third PCB assembly 60 can be connected to the side of the display 33. The third PCB assembly 60 may include a source PCB 611 and a T-con PCB 612, at least some of which may be arranged continuously. The third PCB assembly 60 may be configured in a multi-level manner, so that multiple PCBs 611 and 612 can be arranged in a limited space. The source PCB 611 and T-con PCB 612 may be collectively referred to as the side PCB.

[0103] The weighing PCB 71 can transmit signals from the second PCB assembly 70 connected to the display 33 to the converter PCB 83. One side of the weighing PCB 71 can be connected to the converter PCB 83 via a second connecting cable 913, and the other side of the weighing PCB 71 can be connected to the third PCB assembly 60.

[0104] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of the side guide.

[0105] As shown, the side guide 34 can extend vertically / vertically along one side of the front panel 31. The side guide 34 may include a plate-like side body 341, a cable guide 342 protruding rearward from the rear surface of the side body 341, and a side limiting protrusion 343.

[0106] The side body 341 can be formed as a plate and can be attached to the rear surface of the front panel 31. A plurality of cable guides 342 can be arranged along the side body 341 in a vertical direction. The cable guides 342 can be aligned on a common vertical line. Each cable guide 342 can have an open rear portion, allowing the second connecting cable 913 to enter and exit. Furthermore, the cable guides 342 can have vertical openings, allowing the second connecting cable 913 to pass through the cable guide 342 and be guided in a vertical direction.

[0107] Multiple side-restricting protrusions 343 may be formed in the vertical direction and may be arranged at positions corresponding to the side-restricting portion 412 for insertion therein. The side-restricting protrusions 343 may be formed in a hook shape and may engage or press-fit within the side-restricting portion 412, thereby restricting one side end of the panel assembly 30. The side-restricting protrusions 343 may be spaced apart in the vertical direction. In one example, the side-restricting protrusions 343 may be provided on the upper and lower parts of the side body 341.

[0108] Therefore, the third PCB assembly 60 can be arranged along the periphery of the display 33 via cables 912, 913, and 914, which are connected to the lower second PCB assembly 70 and the upper first PCB assembly 80 via side guides 34.

[0109] The third PCB assembly 60 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0110] Figure 10 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of part A in the image. Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of the third PCB assembly, which is a component of the panel assembly. Figure 12 It is along Figure 4 A three-dimensional cross-section taken from line 12–12.

[0111] As shown in the figure, the third PCB assembly 60 can be composed of multiple PCBs 611 and 612, which can be stacked in three dimensions and aligned.

[0112] In one example, PCBs 611 and 612 may include a source PCB 611 connected to the display 33 to drive the display 33, and a T-con (timing controller) PCB 612 connected to the source PCB 611 and the weighing PCB 71 to transmit drive commands for the display 33 to the source PCB 611. The source PCB 611 may be referred to as the first PCB, and the T-con PCB 612 may be referred to as the second PCB or the timing control PCB.

[0113] The source PCBs 611 can be arranged as a top-bottom pair on one side of the display 33. Each source PCB 611 can be connected to the display 33 via a display cable 331, which can be a flexible flat cable. Multiple source PCBs 611 can be arranged aligned vertically. Of course, two or more source PCBs 611 can be provided according to design requirements.

[0114] The T-con PCB 612 can be disposed behind the source PCB 611, and when viewed from the rear, the T-con PCB 612 and the source PCB 611 can be arranged in a stacked structure. Furthermore, when viewed from the rear, at least a portion of the source PCB 611 and the T-con PCB 612 can overlap each other.

[0115] One side of the source PCB 611 and one side of the T-con PCB 612 can be connected to each other via a connecting cable 62. The connecting cable 62 can be formed of a flexible cable and can be bent in the vertical direction to connect the sides of the source PCB 611 and the T-con PCB 612 located closer to the side edge of the front panel 31. In one example, the connecting cable 62 can be a flexible flat cable (FFC).

[0116] In this configuration, the source PCB 611 and T-con PCB 612 can be stacked in the front-to-back direction while located in the rear region of the bezel 311. Therefore, when viewed from the front, the T-con PCB 612, the source PCB 611, and the connecting cable 62 are not exposed.

[0117] The second PCB assembly 70 may include a source housing 63 and a T-con housing 64, which may also be referred to as the first housing and the second housing, respectively.

[0118] The source housing 63 may include a first base 631 attached to the rear surface of the front panel 31 and configured to receive the source PCB 611, and a first flange 632 projecting rearwardly along the periphery of the first base 631. The first flange 632 may be partially formed along a portion of the entire periphery of the first base 631. The source PCB 611 may be disposed within the space defined by the first flange 632. Therefore, interference with the source PCB 611 can be prevented even when the T-con PCB 612 and the T-con housing 64 are stacked.

[0119] A first opening 634 for the connection cable 62 to enter and exit may be formed along the periphery of the first flange 632. A housing support 635 for supporting the T-con housing 64 may be formed on the first base 631. A fastening hole 636 for fastening members to pass through the source housing 63 may be formed in the housing support 635. A plurality of housing supports 635 may be formed along the first base 631 in the vertical direction.

[0120] A side limiting protrusion 634, projecting rearward and connecting to the door body 40, may be formed on the first base 631. The side limiting protrusion 634 may be formed as a hook-like structure and may be inserted into the side limiting portion 412. Multiple side limiting protrusions 634 may be formed along the first base 631 in a vertical / vertical direction. The side limiting protrusion 634 may be located at a position corresponding to the side limiting portion 412. The side limiting protrusion 634 may have the same shape as the side limiting protrusion 343 formed on the side guide 34. To distinguish it from the side limiting protrusion 343 of the side guide 34, the side limiting protrusion 634 may be referred to as a housing side protrusion.

[0121] Meanwhile, the source housing 63 can be formed in a number corresponding to the source PCB 611. In one example, the source housing 63 can consist of two separate housings, each configured to accommodate a corresponding source PCB 611. In this case, a connection 633 can be formed between the lower end of the upper source housing 63 and the upper end of the lower source housing 63, thereby connecting the two housings together. Of course, the source housing 63 can also be constructed as a single structure, in which two source PCBs 611 are mounted within a common source housing 63.

[0122] The T-con housing 64 may be located behind the source housing 63 and may include a second base 641 configured to receive the T-con PCB 612 and a second flange 642 projecting rearward along the periphery of the second base 641.

[0123] The second flange 642 may be partially formed along a portion of the entire periphery of the second base 641. The T-con PCB 612 may be disposed within the space defined by the second flange 642. Therefore, the T-con PCB 612 may not interfere with the source housing 63 and source PCB 611 disposed below it.

[0124] A second opening 644 for the connection cable 62 to enter and exit can be formed along the periphery of the second flange 642. The T-con housing 64 can be formed to have dimensions corresponding to the T-con PCB 612 and smaller than the source PCB 611. Furthermore, the T-con housing 64 can be located between vertically arranged upper and lower pair of source PCBs 611. Therefore, the first opening 634 and the second opening 644 can be aligned with each other in the front-to-back direction.

[0125] A fastening portion 643 for fastening a fastening member 637, such as a screw, may be formed on the rear surface of the second base 641 corresponding to the housing support portion 635. The fastening portion 643 may be recessed forward and open so that the fastening member 637 can pass through. When the T-con housing 64 is aligned in front of the source housing 63, the fastening portion 643 may be aligned with the fastening hole 636.

[0126] The first PCB assembly 80, the second PCB assembly 70, the side guide 34, and the third PCB assembly 60 can be arranged along the periphery of the display 33 and along the rear periphery of the front panel 31. The first PCB assembly 80, the second PCB assembly 70, the side guide 34, and the third PCB assembly 60 can protrude further rearward than the display 33 and can be accommodated in a recessed space formed in the front surface of the door body 40.

[0127] The mounting structure of the door body 40 and the display 33 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] Figure 13 It is along Figure 2 The sectional view taken from line 13–13. Figure 14 It is along Figure 2 A three-dimensional cross-section taken from line 14–14.

[0129] As shown in the figure, the door body 40 can form a heat insulation layer 400 by filling the interior of the assembly that connects the front frame 41, door liner 42, side frame 45, upper cover 43, lower cover 44 and body panel assembly 50 with a foaming agent. That is, the central portion of the door body 40 can be configured to allow observation of the rear space through the body panel assembly 50, and the peripheral portion of the door body 40 outside the body panel assembly 50 can be insulated by the heat insulation layer 400.

[0130] The body panel assembly 50 may be formed of multiple transparent panels. For example, the body panel assembly 50 may include a first panel 51 forming a front surface, a third panel 53 forming a rear surface, and a second panel 52 located between the first panel 51 and the third panel 53. The first panel 51, the second panel 52, and the third panel 53 may be formed of a transparent glass material. At least a portion of the first panel 51, the second panel 52, and the third panel 53 may be composed of low-emissivity (Low-e) glass. The first panel 51 may be referred to as the front body panel, the second panel 52 as the intermediate body panel, and the third panel 53 as the rear body panel.

[0131] A first spacer 541 may be disposed between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 to connect the first panel 51 and the second panel 52. The first spacer 541 may be formed along the periphery of the first panel 51 and the second panel 52. A sealant 55 may be applied to the outside of the first spacer 541 to further seal the ends of the first panel 51, the second panel 52, and the first spacer 541. Therefore, the space between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 can be hermetically sealed to form a first thermal insulation layer 501. The first thermal insulation layer 501 may be in a vacuum state or filled with a thermal insulation gas.

[0132] A second spacer 542 may be disposed between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53 to connect the second panel 52 and the third panel 53. The second spacer 542 may be formed along the periphery of the second panel 52 and the third panel 53. A sealant 55 may be applied to the outside of the second spacer 542 to further seal the ends of the second panel 52, the third panel 53, and the second spacer 542. Therefore, the space between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53 can be hermetically sealed to form a second thermal insulation layer 502. The second thermal insulation layer 502 may be in a vacuum state or filled with thermal insulation gas.

[0133] Meanwhile, the main panel assembly 50 may also have a structure in which the first panel 51 and the third panel 53 are combined to form a single heat insulation space.

[0134] The total thickness of the main panel assembly 50 does not need to protrude beyond the front end of the door body 40. With the panel assembly 30 installed, the display 33 and the first panel 51 can be arranged facing each other. In this installed state, the rear surface of the display 33 and the front surface of the first panel 51 can contact each other, and the central portion of the panel assembly 30 can be supported by the door body 40.

[0135] Simultaneously, the protrusion 531 may be formed along the periphery of the rear surface of the body panel assembly 50, that is, along the periphery of the third panel 53. The protrusion 531 may form the end of the third panel 53 and may protrude outward beyond the second spacer 542 to contact the front frame 41. A heater 47 may be provided on the protrusion 531.

[0136] In detail, the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 may have the same size, and the third panel 53 may be formed to be larger than the first panel 51 and the second panel 52. Therefore, the protruding portion 531 may protrude further outward than the first panel 51 and the second panel 52.

[0137] With the main panel assembly 50 installed, the rear surface of the third panel 53 can contact and be supported by a portion of the door liner 42 defining the liner opening 421. The front surface of the third panel 53 can be supported by the end of the front frame 41. That is, the protrusion 531 can protrude outward beyond the liner opening 421, such that the rear side of the protrusion 531 contacts the heat insulation layer 400, while its front side contacts the front frame 41 and the heater 47.

[0138] The body panel assembly 50 can be fixed to the door body 40 via the protrusion 531, and the heater 47 mounted on the protrusion 531 can prevent condensation from occurring inside the receiving space 401.

[0139] The front periphery of the door body 40 can be formed by a front frame 41. The front frame 41 can be positioned corresponding to the periphery of the body panel assembly 50 and can form a receiving space 401, in which a component disposed on the rear side of the panel assembly 30 can be accommodated.

[0140] The front frame 41 can be formed in a rectangular frame shape, and the outer periphery of the front frame 41 can be connected to the side frame 45, the upper cover 43, and the lower cover 44. A frame opening 411 can be formed on the inner side of the front frame 41, so that the body panel assembly 50 can pass through the opening.

[0141] Specifically, the front frame 41 may include a frame side 414. The frame side 414 may be connected to the side frame 45. The frame side 414 may be bent to support the rear periphery of the front panel 31.

[0142] The front frame 41 may further include a frame receiving portion 410 for forming the receiving space 401. The frame receiving portion 410 can be bent multiple times. Therefore, the receiving space 401 can be formed into a multi-step recessed space through the frame receiving portion 410.

[0143] For example, the frame receiving portion 410 may include a rearwardly extending first portion 415 and a second portion 416 extending from the first portion 415 toward the periphery of the body panel assembly 50. The second portion 416 may form a surface facing the rear surface of the front panel 31.

[0144] A side limiting portion 412 may be formed on the second portion 416, protruding forward. A rearwardly recessed side limiting groove 413 may be formed in the side limiting portion 412. For example, the side limiting portion 412 may consist of a pair of spaced-apart ribs, and the side limiting groove 413 may be formed between the pair of ribs. Side limiting protrusions 343 and 634 may be press-fitted into the side limiting groove 413. For this purpose, the ends of the side limiting portion 412 may be formed in a hook shape to engage with the side limiting protrusions 343 and 634.

[0145] Multiple side limiting portions 412 can be provided on the left and right sides of the front frame 41, and can be formed at positions corresponding to the side limiting protrusions 343 and 634. Therefore, without any additional fastening operation, when the panel assembly 30 is aligned and pushed into the receiving space 401, the two side ends of the panel assembly 30 can be fixed to the door body 40.

[0146] The frame receiving portion 410 may include a third portion 417 extending rearwardly from the end of the second portion 416. The third portion 417 may extend to the third panel 53. The third portion 417 may contact the outer end of the third panel 53 to support the body panel assembly 50.

[0147] A panel support portion 418 may be formed on the front frame 41. The panel support portion 418 may extend from the frame receiving portion 410 toward the body panel assembly 50. For example, the panel support portion 418 may extend from the third portion 417. The panel support portion 418 may extend toward the body panel assembly 50 from a position forward spaced from the end of the third portion 417.

[0148] The panel support portion 418 can extend to contact the front surface of the third panel 53, and can also extend to contact the protruding portion 531. Therefore, the end of the third panel 53 can be supported by the panel support portion 418 and the third portion 417.

[0149] The panel support portion 418 may extend to the sealant 55. A heater mounting portion 419 for accommodating the heater 47 may be formed at the end of the panel support portion 418. The heater mounting portion 419 may be recessed so that the heater 47 can be inserted therein. Therefore, with the heater 47 mounted in the heater mounting portion 419, the heater 47 can contact the peripheral surface of the third panel 53 and heat the end of the third panel 53.

[0150] The panel support 418 and the heater 47 can be formed along the periphery of the main panel assembly 50. Therefore, when the heater 47 is operated, the periphery of the third panel 53 can be heated, thereby preventing cold air from being transmitted into the receiving space 401 and preventing condensation from occurring within the receiving space 401. That is, the PCB assemblies 60, 70, and 80 of the panel assembly 30 exposed within the receiving space 401 can be prevented from being damaged by condensation within the receiving space 401.

[0151] The front frame 41 can be injection molded from plastic material and can be integrally formed in a single construction of a structure for accommodating and fixing the panel assembly 30 and a structure for fixing the body panel assembly 50.

[0152] Meanwhile, a lower support portion 441 for supporting the lower end of the panel assembly 30 can protrude from the lower cover 44. A lower limiting protrusion 442 can be formed on the lower support portion 441 to protrude upward. A lower limiting groove 725 for the lower limiting protrusion 442 to be inserted can be formed at the lower end of the second PCB bracket 72 of the panel assembly 30. Therefore, when the panel assembly 30 is disposed within the receiving space 401 of the door body 40, the lower part of the panel assembly 30 can be supported by the lower support portion 441, and the limiting state can be maintained by the engagement between the lower limiting protrusion 442 and the lower limiting groove 725.

[0153] An upper opening 431 for inserting the upper limiting portion 802 of the first PCB bracket 80 can be formed on the front surface of the upper cover 43. With the panel assembly 30 mounted on the door body 40, the upper limiting portion 802 can be located inside the upper cover 43. An upper limiting groove 803 formed on the upper surface of the upper limiting portion 802 can be exposed through the opening on the upper surface of the upper cover 43. When the cover 48 is installed, an upper limiting protrusion 483 formed on the cover 48 can be inserted into the upper limiting groove 803.

[0154] Therefore, when the panel assembly 30 is installed on the door body 40, and the upper limiting groove 803 is exposed above the upper cover 43, the cover 48 can be connected to the upper cover 43 to limit the upper part of the panel assembly 30.

[0155] As described above, the panel assembly 30 can be limited by the door body 40 at its upper end, lower end, and two sides. With the panel assembly 30 installed, the rear surface of the panel assembly 30, i.e., the display 33, can be supported by the front surface of the main panel assembly 50. Furthermore, the PCB assemblies 60, 70, and 80 arranged along the periphery of the panel assembly 30 can be located within the receiving space 401.

[0156] Meanwhile, during the installation of panel assembly 30, cables can be detachably connected for electrical connections between components of panel assembly 30. That is, cable connection and disconnection operations can be performed simultaneously during the attachment or removal of panel assembly 30.

[0157] The construction of the cables of the panel assembly 30, their connections, and the cable arrangement structure of the door body 40 will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0158] Figure 15 This is a partial perspective view showing the upper part of the door body. Figure 16 It is an exploded perspective view showing the wiring layout of the upper part of the door and the top cover.

[0159] As shown in the figure, a hinge mounting portion 432 for mounting a hinge device that rotatably connects the door 21 to the cabinet 10 may be recessed at one end of the upper surface of the door 21. The hinge mounting portion 432 may also be formed at one end of the upper cover 43.

[0160] A hinge hole 433 for inserting the rotation shaft of the hinge device can be formed in the hinge mounting portion 432. Furthermore, a wire hole 434 for the door cable 921 to pass through can be formed on one side of the hinge hole 433.

[0161] The door cable 921 may have connectors 922 and 923 at both ends. Connector 923 can be connected to one end of the door cable 921 extending outward through the hinge mounting portion 432 of the door body 40, and can be easily connected to a cable connected to the control unit 11 of the cabinet 10. That is, the door cable 921 can be detachably connected and disconnected when the door 21 is separated or installed.

[0162] Connector 922 can be located at the other end of door cable 921 and can be exposed through connector opening 402 formed in the upper part of receiving space 401 of door body 40. Therefore, during installation of panel assembly 30, connector 910 located at panel cable 911 of panel assembly 30 can be connected to connector 922 of door cable 921 within receiving space 401. That is, during installation of panel assembly 30, cable 911 connected to panel assembly 30 can be easily connected and disconnected without directly passing through door body 40 or connecting to control unit 11 of cabinet 10.

[0163] Meanwhile, an inwardly recessed cover space 430 can be formed on the upper surface of the cover 43, and a cover through hole 435 for the cover connecting cable 931 to pass through can be formed inside the cover space 430. The cover through hole 435 can be opened to allow the cover space 430 and the receiving space 401 to communicate with each other, and the cover connecting cable 931 can pass through the cover through hole 435.

[0164] Connector 932 may be disposed at one end of cover connection cable 931 and may be connected to the first PCB assembly 80. The other end of cover connection cable 931 may extend into cover space 430 and connector 933 disposed at the end of cover connection cable 931 may be connected to connector 942 connected to cover cable 941 of cover cover 48.

[0165] Meanwhile, the foam injection port 436 can open on both sides of the upper surface of the cover 43. The foam injection port 436 can open at both ends of the cover space 430, so that the foaming liquid can be injected into the interior of the door body 40.

[0166] Cover 48 can be installed on the upper surface of cover 43. Cover 48 can cover the cover space 430 and form part of the upper surface of door 21.

[0167] Multiple upper engagement protrusions 483 inserted into the upper engagement groove 802 may be formed on the lower surface of the cover 48. In addition, cover fastening holes 484 for fastening the cover 48 to the upper cover 43 by fastening members may be formed on both sides of the cover 48.

[0168] Meanwhile, the cover 48 may be equipped with a microphone 482 for receiving user voice commands and a speaker 481 for outputting sound. The microphone 482 and speaker 481 may be fixedly mounted on the lower surface of the cover 48 and connected to the cover cable 941. A connector 942 may be provided at the end of the cover cable 941. Therefore, when the cover 48 is mounted on the upper cover 43, the connector 942 of the cover cable 941 may be connected to the connector 933 of the cover connection cable 931.

[0169] A microphone hole may be opened in the cover 48 at a position corresponding to the microphone 482, allowing the user's voice to be transmitted to the microphone 482. In addition, the cover 48 may be provided with a speaker cover 485 that covers the speaker 481 from above.

[0170] The operation of the refrigerator 1 having the above-described structure according to the embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0171] Figure 17 This is a block diagram showing the control signal flow of a refrigerator. Figure 18 This is a view showing whether the door is open or closed.

[0172] As shown in the figure, in the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the state of the display window 312 can change in various ways depending on the operation of the display 33.

[0173] The operation of the display 33, door light 111, speaker 481, and heater 47 can be controlled by the control unit 11. Furthermore, the control unit 11 can control the operation of the refrigerator 1 based on user manipulation detected by the touch sensor 32, user proximity or manipulation detected by the sensing device 112, or recognition of user voice commands input via the microphone 482. The sensing device 112 may include a tap sensor, a proximity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0174] For example, when the display 33 is off and the display panel 33 is not in operation, the display window 312 may be opaque, and the space behind the door 21 may appear dark, making it impossible to see through the display window 312. At this time, the lighting device 111 may be in the off state.

[0175] When the user performs a touch operation on the display window 312, the display 33 can be turned on due to the detection by the touch sensor 32. When the display 33 is turned on, such as Figure 18 As shown in (a), the screen output from the display 33 is displayed through the display window 312, and the user can view the screen. When the lighting device 111 is off, the space behind the door 21 may not be visible through the display window 312.

[0176] When a user performs a touch operation on the display window 312, the lighting device 111 can be turned on due to the detection by the touch sensor 32. When the lighting device 111 is turned on, such as Figure 18 As shown in (b), the space behind door 21 is brightened, and display window 312 makes the space behind door 21 visible.

[0177] Simultaneously, when both the display 33 and the lighting device 111 are turned on, the space behind the door 21 becomes visible through the display window 312, and at the same time, the display 33 can output an image. That is, the display window 312 can output an image on the transparent display 33 while the space behind the door 21 is visible.

[0178] The operation of the display 33 and the lighting device 111 can be controlled not only by the operation of the touch sensor 32, but also by the detection of the sensing device 112, voice input via the speaker 481, or input from other operating devices or remote devices provided in the refrigerator.

[0179] By utilizing these various screen output states, display window 312 can provide users with diverse usage environments. The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, will illustrate examples of state changes in display window 312.

[0180] Figure 19 This is a view showing an example of the state changes of the door's display window.

[0181] As shown in the figure, refrigerator 1 can switch from one screen state to another based on the user's operation.

[0182] Specifically, such as Figure 19 As shown in (a), the display 33 can be operated to output a specific screen. For example, the display 33 can output a certain screen until a specific user operation is input, while the lighting device 111 remains off so that the interior space of the refrigerator is not visible, and the image output from the display 33 can be viewed through the display window 312. As an example, the specific screen can display images of falling snow and buildings.

[0183] When the user performs a touch or tap operation on the display window 312, the output screen of the monitor 33 can change, such as Figure 19 (b) and Figure 19 As shown in (c). For example, the building image can be scaled down and appear in a reduced form at the bottom of the display window 312, similar to a snowball. At this time, the lighting device 111 can be turned on, and when the lighting device 111 is turned on, the space behind the door 21 can become visible through the display window 312.

[0184] like Figure 19 As shown in (c), when the user is visible through the display window 312 in the space behind the door 21 and performs a touch or tap operation on the display window 312 again, the lighting device 111 can be turned off, and, as Figure 19 As shown in (d), the snowball-like building image displayed in a reduced form at the bottom of display window 312 can be gradually zoomed in and returned to the previous view. Figure 19 The state shown in (a).

[0185] In this way, the display window 312 can change its screen output state in response to the user's operation, and at the same time, visualization of the space behind the door 21 can also be made possible.

[0186] Figure 20 This is another example view showing the state changes of the display window.

[0187] As shown in the figure, refrigerator 1 can obtain recipe information based on the food items stored therein, adjust the temperature of the refrigerator, and play music through display window 312.

[0188] Specifically, such as Figure 20As shown in (a), the lighting device 111 can be turned on to visualize the space behind the door 21, and at the same time, the display 33 can be turned on to display a screen providing a menu for selecting recipes. That is, the display window 312 can display a screen that allows the user to select a recipe while visually inspecting the food items stored behind the door 21.

[0189] At this time, the control unit 11 of refrigerator 1 can identify the food stored in the storage space and analyze the data based on the identified food information. Then, based on the analyzed data, an appropriate recipe can be output through the display window 312, such as... Figure 20 (b) Figure 20 (c) and Figure 20 As shown in (d).

[0190] Specifically, such as Figure 20 As shown in (a), when a user touches the recipe selection menu displayed through the display window 312, the control unit 11 can output multiple recipes based on the analyzed data. The user can then scroll or swipe the display window 312 to browse and select one of the multiple recipes, such as... Figure 20 (b) and Figure 20 As shown in (c).

[0191] When a user selects a specific recipe, the corresponding recipe screen can be fixedly displayed on display window 312, such as... Figure 20 As shown in (d). At this time, the user can adjust the size or position of the displayed recipe screen to visually inspect the food ingredients located in the space behind door 21.

[0192] Once a specific recipe has been selected via touch operation on display window 312, display 33 can output a screen showing the overall storage space of refrigerator 1, such as... Figure 20 As shown in (e), the temperature of each storage compartment can also be displayed. The control unit 11 can adjust the temperature of each storage compartment to the optimal temperature for the ingredients required for the selected recipe. In addition, the controller can control the temperature so that beverages or desserts paired with dishes prepared according to the selected recipe are kept at the appropriate temperature.

[0193] Simultaneously, desired music and images can also be output through the display window 312. For example, appropriate music and prepared dishes can be played through the speaker 481. For this purpose, such as... Figure 20 As shown in (f), a menu screen can be displayed on display window 312. In this case, since it is not necessary to check the space behind door 21, lighting device 111 can be turned off.

[0194] When a user selects a specific piece of music or a playlist via the operation menu screen, speaker 481 can output the selected music. For example... Figure 20As shown in (g), the display 33 can display a screen corresponding to the selected music, so the display window 312 can present an image that creates the desired atmosphere.

[0195] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various other embodiments are also possible. Other embodiments of the present invention may differ only in some structural aspects of the door body, while other structures may be the same. Therefore, elements identical to those in the above embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions and illustrations will be omitted. Moreover, constructions not illustrated or omitted can be understood by referring to the above embodiments.

[0196] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of a door according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0197] As shown in the figure, the door 21' of the refrigerator 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a panel assembly 30 and a door body 40. Except for the structure of the body panel assembly 50' and the front frame 41' among the components of the panel assembly 30 and the door body 40, the remaining structures may be the same as those in the above embodiment. Therefore, reference numerals not described herein may be used to refer to the corresponding components in the above embodiments.

[0198] The body panel assembly 50' may include a first panel 51, a second panel 52, and a third panel 53'. In this case, the first panel 51, the second panel 52, and the third panel 53' may be formed to have the same dimensions. A first spacer 541 may be disposed between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 to form a first heat insulation layer 501. A second spacer 542 may be disposed between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53' to form a second heat insulation layer 502. A sealant 55 may be applied around the periphery of the body panel assembly 50'.

[0199] Meanwhile, the rear surface of the main panel assembly 50', namely the third panel 53', can contact the edge of the door liner 42 and seal the liner opening 421. The front surface of the main panel assembly 50' can contact the display 33 of the panel assembly 30.

[0200] The door body 40 may have thermal insulation material 400 filling the space formed by the combination of the front frame 41', door liner 42, side frame 45, upper cover 43, and lower cover 44. The body panel assembly 50' may be installed to cover the central opening between the front frame 41' and the door liner 42.

[0201] Meanwhile, the front frame 41' can form the front surface of the door body 40 and can be arranged along the periphery of the body panel assembly 50'. The front frame 41' can define a recessed receiving space 401 to receive components located at the rear of the panel assembly 30.

[0202] Specifically, the side protrusions 343 and 634 on both sides of the front panel 31 can be inserted into the side limiting grooves 413 of the front frame 41'. Therefore, the panel assembly 30 can be securely fixed to the door body 40.

[0203] The front frame 41' can be formed in a rectangular frame shape, and the outer periphery of the front frame 41' can be connected to the side frame 45, the upper cover 43, and the lower cover 44. An inner frame opening 411 can be formed in the front frame 41', allowing the body panel assembly 50' to pass through the opening.

[0204] Specifically, the front frame 41' may include a frame side 414. The frame side 414 may be attached to the side frame 45 and may be bent to support the rear periphery of the front panel 31.

[0205] The front frame 41' may further include a frame receiving portion 410' that forms the receiving space 401. The frame receiving portion 410' may be bent multiple times, and through the frame receiving portion 410', the receiving space 401 may be formed as a multi-step recessed space.

[0206] For example, the frame receiving portion 410' may include a rearwardly extending first portion 415' and a second portion 416' extending from the first portion 415' toward the peripheral surface of the body panel assembly 50'. The second portion 416' may form a surface facing the rear surface of the front panel 31. A side restraint portion 412 may be formed on the second portion 416' and protrude forward.

[0207] The second part 416' can contact the body panel assembly 50' and can define the frame opening 411. Therefore, the body panel assembly 50' can be mounted to cover the frame opening 411. The inner surface of the second part 416' can contact the body panel assembly 50' and can be joined thereto by an adhesive member or a fastening member.

[0208] The frame receiving portion 410' may include a third portion 417' extending rearward from the end of the second portion 416'. The third portion 417' may extend rearward beyond the third panel 53'.

[0209] The extended end of the third portion 417' may be provided with a heater mounting portion 419' that contacts the edge of the third panel 53'. The heater mounting portion 419' may be recessed to receive the heater 47. Therefore, when the heater 47 is mounted in the heater mounting portion 419', the heater 47 may contact the periphery of the third panel 53'. In this case, the positions of the heater 47 and the heater mounting portion 419' may correspond to the rear surface or peripheral surface of the third panel 53'.

[0210] Therefore, when the heater 47 is activated, the periphery of the body panel assembly 50' can be heated, thereby preventing cold air from being transmitted into the housing space 401 and preventing condensation from occurring therein.

[0211] The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention provides the following effects.

[0212] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the panel assembly is detachably connected to the door body, and the display panel and printed circuit board (PCB) are arranged on the panel assembly. Therefore, maintenance is convenient because the panel assembly can be separated for repair or replacement.

[0213] Furthermore, the panel assembly, in which the display and multiple PCBs are connected and assembled as a single module, can be easily attached to and removed from the door body, thereby improving assemblability. In particular, the ease of assembly and maintenance is further enhanced because the panel cables of the door panel and the door cables of the door body can be easily connected and disconnected.

[0214] Furthermore, since multiple PCBs are distributed and arranged around the perimeter of the display, the PCBs do not occupy a large portion of the interior space of the door body, thus allowing for efficient PCB arrangement and ensuring the door's thermal insulation performance.

[0215] In addition, the cold air flowing into the housing space of the door body that houses multiple PCBs and displays can be blocked by a heater, and the housing space can be heated to prevent condensation from occurring therein, thereby preventing the PCBs and displays from being damaged by condensation.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: A cabinet that forms a storage space with an opening on the front surface; as well as A door, configured to open and close the storage space. The gate includes: The door body has an opening, and the periphery of the opening is filled with heat-insulating material; A body panel assembly, the body panel assembly including a plurality of transparent panels configured to cover the opening and allow observation of the rear of the door; and A panel assembly, wherein the panel assembly is detachably mounted to the door body. The panel assembly includes: A transparent front panel, the transparent front panel forming the front surface of the door; and A transparent display, wherein the transparent display is disposed on the rear surface of the front panel. The transparent display is arranged to face the body panel assembly.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, in, The front surfaces of the transparent display and the body panel assembly overlap each other in the front-to-back direction.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, in, The transparent display is formed to have a smaller size than the front panel, and Multiple PCB components are arranged along the periphery of the transparent display on the rear surface of the front panel.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, in, The front panel is detachably installed onto the door body while the transparent display and the PCB assembly are in place.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 3, in, The plurality of PCB components are disposed between the front panel and the transparent display.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, in, The front panel includes: A display window, which overlaps with the transparent display and is configured to allow viewing through the display window; and A border, which is formed opaquely along the perimeter of the display window. The PCB assembly is covered by the frame.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 3, in, The plurality of PCB components include: A first PCB assembly is disposed above the transparent display and connected to a control unit disposed in the cabinet to transmit control signals; A third PCB assembly, wherein the third PCB assembly is disposed on one of the left and right sides of the transparent display and connected to the display; and A second PCB assembly is disposed below the transparent display and connected to the third PCB assembly and the first PCB assembly.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, in, Side guides configured to guide the cables connecting the first PCB assembly and the second PCB assembly are disposed on the rear surface of the front panel, and The side guide is positioned on the left and right sides of the transparent display, closer to the hinge mechanism connecting the door and the cabinet.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 1, The refrigerator further includes a PCB assembly disposed along the space between the front panel and the transparent display, and in, The PCB assembly includes: A first PCB, the first PCB being disposed on the side of the transparent display and connected to the display; and The second PCB is connected to the first PCB. The second PCB is disposed behind the first PCB, with at least a portion of the second PCB overlapping the first PCB.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, in, The PCB assembly further includes: A first housing, the first housing being fixed to the front panel, and a first PCB being mounted in the first housing; and A second housing is located behind the first housing, and the second PCB is mounted inside the second housing. The second housing is connected to the first housing in the front-to-back direction.

Images