insulator

Abstract

A refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator includes a fourth panel for sectioning off a storage chamber formed inside a main body from a machine room disposed at one side of the main body. The main body is formed of a vacuum insulator. The fourth panel is formed from a combination of a vacuum panel of the vacuum insulator and a block of a non-vacuum insulator. Therefore, even if the fourth panel does not have a separate bellows pipe structure and a sealable pass-through structure, a penetrating component passing therethrough from the storage chamber to the machine room can pass through a pass-through part passing through the inside of the block of the non-vacuum insulator in the Z-axis direction.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an insulator and, more particularly, to a refrigerator provided with an insulator.[Background Art]

[0002] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-1960320 (Publication Date: July 15, 2019, hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 1") discloses a refrigerator having a connecting pipe with a corrugated pipe structure provided in a vacuum space between an inner case and an outer case. According to Patent Document 1, both ends of the connecting pipe are connected from the vacuum space to a communication port of an inner case and a communication port of an outer case. The connecting pipe is formed of a thin metal plate, and a side wall of the connecting pipe is constructed with a bellows-type corrugated structure. Since the connecting pipe in Patent Document 1 penetrates a vacuum insulator, sealing is required to prevent vacuum leakage. In order to manufacture such a pass-through structure that requires sealing, the assembly process becomes complicated, and airtight joining such as welding needs to be performed, which may lead to deterioration in manufacturability.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to providing a refrigerator having a structure capable of solving the aforementioned problems.

[0004] A first objective is to provide a refrigerator in which a sealable pass-through structure required in a fourth panel of a vacuum insulator can be replaced with a simplified pass-through structure, when forming a pass-through structure in order for defrosting water generated from an evaporator or wiring of various components in a storage chamber to pass through the fourth panel.

[0005] A second objective is to provide a refrigerator capable of forming the fourth panel in a three-dimensional shape.

[0006] A third objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that facilitates manufacturing of the fourth panel and / or can improve manufacturability and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0007] A fourth objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that can maintain thermal insulation performance and / or minimize heat leakage at corner portions of a panel.[Technical Solution]

[0008] An insulator of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. In another example, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulator. The insulator may be provided in the form of a panel.

[0009] The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include at least one panel. A plurality of the panels may be connected by a joint. The present disclosure may include a first panel forming a first surface (e.g., side surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present disclosure may include a second panel forming a second surface (e.g., rear surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present disclosure may include a third panel forming a third surface (e.g., top surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present disclosure may include a fourth panel forming a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the refrigerator. One or more of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may be provided in multiple parts. The panel may be an insulator or a vacuum insulator. The first panel may include one first panel forming the first surface of the refrigerator, and another first panel forming the second surface of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may provide at least a portion of a wall forming a storage chamber of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the main body of the refrigerator.

[0010] In the present disclosure, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may include a panel formed by a first insulator and a second insulator having a different thermal conductivity per unit thickness from the first insulator. In the present disclosure, a first panel including a portion disposed in a first direction and / or a second panel including a portion disposed in a second direction different from the first direction may be provided. A void space may be formed between the first panel and the second panel. At least one of the first panel and the second panel may include the first insulator, and / or the void space may be provided with a block that includes a portion extending in the same direction as either the first panel or the second panel and has the second insulator. One end of the block may be connected to the first panel, and / or the other end of the block may be connected to the second panel. The second insulator may be connected to or support the first insulator. The second insulator may be coupled to the first insulator. The second insulator may be defined as an insulating layer having a lower thermal conductivity per unit thickness or a lower degree of vacuum than the first insulator. For example, the first insulator may includinginclude a vacuum insulator, and / or the second insulator may includinginclude a non-vacuum insulator. The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a penetrating component. The penetrating component will be defined later. The penetrating component may be disposed at the second insulator. In the second insulator, a passage through which fluid flows or a passage through which a component passes through the second insulator may be formed. The second insulator may include a first surface disposed toward a first space and / or a second surface disposed toward a second space, and the passage may be provided to connect a through-hole formed in the first surface and / or a through-hole formed in the second surface. The passage may provide a passage that fluidly connects the first space and the second space. If at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels provides at least a portion of a wall forming the storage chamber, the first space may be defined as an internal space of the storage chamber, and / or the second space may be defined as an external space of the storage chamber, for example.

[0011] In the present disclosure, a machine room disposed in the refrigerator may be provided. The machine room is sectioned off from the storage chamber. At least one of the at least two panels includingincludes a vacuum insulator. At least one of the at least two panels includes a vacuum panel and / or a block. The block may be defined as an insulating layer having a lower thermal conductivity per unit thickness or a lower degree of vacuum than the vacuum panel. For example, the vacuum panel may includinginclude a vacuum insulator, and / or the block may includinginclude a non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum panel may be disposed between the storage chamber and the machine room, or may be provided between the internal space of the storage chamber and the external space of the storage chamber. The block is coupled to one side of the vacuum panel. The block may be provided together with the vacuum panel to section off the storage chamber and the machine room, or may be provided between the internal space of the storage chamber and the external space of the storage chamber. A flow path may be formed in the block to fluidly connect the internal space of the storage chamber and the external space of the storage chamber.

[0012] The vacuum insulator may include a first plate, a second plate, and a vacuum space provided between the first plate and the second plate. The second plate is disposed to be spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance. The support is configured to hold the vacuum space.

[0013] The non-vacuum insulator may include a first cover having a first space therein. The non-vacuum insulator may include a second cover having a second space therein. The second cover may be disposed on one side of the first cover. The second cover includes a second space that communicates with the first space. The insulator is filled with polyurethane foam in the first space and the second space.

[0014] A pass-through part is formed in the block so as to pass therethrough in one direction. A penetrating component may be disposed in the pass-through part. The pass-through part receives a penetrating component that passes therethrough from the storage chamber to the machine room or vice versa. The pass-through part includes a first pass-through part that receives a drain pipe through which defrosting water generated from an evaporator is drained. The pass-through part includes a second pass-through part that receives electrical wiring or a signal line.

[0015] The first pass-through part is formed to penetrate a portion or central portion of the block in one direction. A recess is formed toward the first pass-through part from a peripheral portion of the block, or the recess is formed to be inclined. The second pass-through part is disposed to be spaced apart from the first pass-through part, or may be disposed at one end of the block to be spaced apart from the first pass-through part.

[0016] An exhaust port for forming a vacuum space inside the vacuum insulator is received in an exhaust port housing. The exhaust port housing may be formed on at least one surface of the block.

[0017] An evaporator that evaporates refrigerant to cool the air in the storage chamber is provided in the storage chamber. The machine room receives a compressor that compresses the refrigerant and / or a condenser that condenses the refrigerant. The penetrating component includes a suction line heat exchanger. The suction line heat exchanger is received inside the panel. The suction line heat exchanger is configured to perform heat exchange by connecting the suction line, which is connected between the evaporator and the compressor, and a capillary tube that expands the refrigerant condensed in the condenser and delivers the same to the evaporator. The main body includes one or more or, a plurality of, lead-out portions is connected to the suction line heat exchanger and / or protruding from one surface of the third panel. The main body includes an outgoing lead-out portion connected to any one of the plurality of lead-out portions and extending from the storage chamber toward the machine room. The panel includes a cycle pipe housing. The cycle pipe housing is formed on one surface of the block. The cycle pipe housing receives the plurality of lead-out portions and the outgoing lead-out portion. The block extends toward the outside of the storage chamber. The block is configured to cover a portion of the panel or a portion of the vacuum panel.

[0018] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an insulating reinforcement. The insulating reinforcement may include a portion formed to protrude from the block. The insulating reinforcement may be formed to protrude from a portion of the block toward the machine room. The first pass-through part and the second pass-through part may be spaced apart from each other, and / or may be formed to penetrate the block and the insulating reinforcement.

[0019] A coupling groove is formed on one surface of the insulating reinforcement. The block may be coupled to and supported by a portion of the vacuum panel through the coupling groove.

[0020] An inclined portion may be formed to be inclined on one surface of the block.

[0021] An evaporator is provided in the storage chamber. A return duct is formed on one surface of the inclined portion to be inclined at a predetermined distance from the inclined portion. The return duct may form an air passage through which air circulates from the storage chamber to the evaporator.[Advantageous Effects]

[0022] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the following effects can be achieved.

[0023] First, the main body forming the exterior of the refrigerator includingincludes a vacuum insulator, while the panel sectioning off the main body and the machine room includingincludes a combination of a vacuum insulator and a non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum insulator forms a vacuum space with a predetermined gap between the first plate and the second plate. The non-vacuum insulator is formed by filling polyurethane foam between the first cover and the second cover.

[0024] Through this, a general pass-through structure can be applied to a portion of the fourth panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, thereby eliminating the need for the corrugated pipe structure and / or sealable pass-through structure of the prior art patents, and / or a penetrating component may pass through the pass-through part formed in the fourth panel, from the storage chamber formed inside the main body to the machine room disposed on one side of the main body.

[0025] Accordingly, the structure is simplified, making manufacturing easy and greatly contributing to a reduction of production costs. The pass-through part of the fourth panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, surrounds a penetrating component, and therefore the simplified structure can prevent cold air leakage and / or perform insulation efficiently.

[0026] For example, as long as the pass-through part is simply formed to penetrate the panel in one direction (e.g., up-down direction), penetrating components such as the drain pipe for draining defrosting water, the cycle pipe of the refrigeration cycle device, electrical wiring, and a signal line harness can be surrounded by the pass-through part. Thus, even without a separate corrugated pipe structure, insulation can be achieved between the penetrating components and the storage chamber, and since a portion of the panel where the pass-through part is formed is a non-vacuum insulator, a separate sealable pass-through structure is unnecessary.

[0027] In order for an exhaust port for vacuuming air out of a vacuum insulator panel to be surrounded and accommodated by the panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, an exhaust port housing is formed on at least one surface of the panel. Through this, the exhaust port housing is formed to be recessed in the shape of a general groove in the panel, and therefore the simplified structure allows for easy manufacturing and can reduce the production costs.

[0028] Second, the panel may be three-dimensionally formed to include the vacuum panel, which is a vacuum insulator, the block, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the first block, and / or the insulating reinforcement. The vacuum panel is configured to section off the storage chamber of the main body and the machine room. The block may be coupled to the vacuum panel. The first block is formed to protrude from one side of the vacuum panel. Furthermore, the insulating reinforcement may be formed to protrude from one surface of the vacuum panel.

[0029] The panel allows the insulating layer at a corner portion where at least two panels are connected together through the block and / or the first block to be increased in thickness by protruding it inward of the refrigerator, thereby preventing heat leakage, and at the same time, it allows the insulating layer to be increased in thickness by protruding it outward of the refrigerator, thereby extending the length of a heat transfer path and / or improving thermal insulation performance.

[0030] Third, a pass-through part is formed so that the drain pipe for draining defrosting water penetrates a central portion of the fourth panel. The defrosting water pass-through part is formed to penetrate a portion or central portion of the block and / or the insulating reinforcement in one direction.

[0031] The recess is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle from an end portion of the block toward one side of the defrosting water pass-through part, thereby allowing the defrosting water to be smoothly drained.

[0032] By forming the defrosting water drain pipe to penetrate the block or the insulating reinforcement, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the length of the heat transfer path is increased, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the defrosting water drain pipe.

[0033] Fourth, by providing a soft insulating material between the block of the panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body, which is a vacuum insulator, the fourth panel and the main body can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.

[0034] Fifth, the insulating reinforcement, which is a non-vacuum insulator, may be formed to protrude integrally from one surface of the block. The insulating reinforcement is provided with the coupling groove which is coupled to the vacuum panel, so that the non-vacuum insulator can be coupled by assembling the vacuum insulator. Accordingly, a separate support frame for coupling the panel is unnecessary and / or the assemblability of the panel can be improved.

[0035] Sixth, the inclined portion may be formed on a portion of the block, which is a non-vacuum insulator. Through this, the inclined portion minimizes the volume of the block protruding into the refrigerator, thereby maximizing the inner capacity of the refrigerator. The inclined portion can maintain smooth flow in the return passage of the second storage chamber.

[0036] Seventh, by providing a soft insulating material between a portion of the panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body, which is a vacuum insulator, the panel and the main body can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.[Description of Drawings]

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a conceptual view for explaining a vacuum insulator provided in the refrigerator of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a conceptual view for explaining a third plate provided in the plate of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a conceptual view for explaining a heat transfer resistor provided in the plate of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which the main body of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with panels of a vacuum insulator. FIG. 6 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a block and the like are provided on one side of the main body in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which defrosting water generated from an evaporator of a second storage chamber in FIG. 6 passes through a pass-through part of the block and moves to a machine room. FIG. 8 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an exhaust port and the like protruding from a panel of the vacuum insulator in FIG. 6 are received in a housing of the block. FIG. 9 is a conceptual view showing the block viewed from various angles in FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an insulating reinforcement is further provided on one side of the block in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a first block and the like are in another embodiment coupled to the main body according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. 11, which is a conceptual view showing the exhaust ports accommodated in an insulation block, a first sub-block 1491, and / or a second sub-block 1492. FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled between the block and the second panel. FIG. 14 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled to the block. [Mode for Invention]

[0038] Hereinafter, a common description which describes portions commonly defined across all embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0039] Optionally, an insulator of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. Optionally, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion connected to the first insulator, or may include a portion disposed to overlap the first insulator in at least one direction. The insulator may be a vacuum insulator including a vacuum space, or a non-vacuum insulator which does not include a vacuum space. The insulator may be a combination of the vacuum insulator and the non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum space provided in the second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the vacuum space provided in the first insulator. The vacuum space provided in the second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the vacuum space provided in the first insulator. The vacuum space provided in the second insulator may include a portion disposed to overlap the vacuum space provided in the first insulator in at least one direction. The insulator may be provided in the form of a panel. In the present disclosure, the following description will be given with respect to a "panel", and an embodiment in which the term "panel" is replaced with the term "insulator" may also be included within the present disclosure. For example, in the present disclosure, the following description assumes that at least two panels of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator, it may be understood or interpreted that at least two insulators of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator.

[0040] Optionally, the refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a main body. The main body may include at least one storage chamber. The main body may further include a partition wall that separates a first storage chamber and a second storage chamber. A first storage chamber joint may include a first first-storage-compartment joint, a second sub-chamber joint, and / or a third first-storage-compartment joint. The second storage chamber joint may be provided on one side of the second storage chamber. The second storage chamber joint may include a first joint, a second joint, and / or a third joint.

[0041] The partition wall may include the vacuum insulator and / or the non-vacuum insulator. The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a door. The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a machine room disposed on one side of the main body. In the machine room, one or more of the following may be arranged: a compressor, heat-dissipating components (e.g., a condenser, a heat-dissipating portion of a thermoelectric module, or a heat sink that exchanges heat with the heat-dissipating portion of the thermoelectric module), and a cooling fan. The machine room may include at least one of the following: a first cover (e.g., side cover) forming at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., side surface) for the machine room, a second cover (e.g., back cover) forming at least a portion of a second surface (e.g., rear surface), a third cover (e.g., upper cover) forming at least a portion of a third surface (e.g., top surface), a fourth cover (e.g., bottom cover) forming at least a portion of a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface), and a fifth cover (e.g., front cover) forming at least a portion of a fifth surface (e.g., front surface). One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth covers may be provided as a single component or as multiple components. The machine room of the refrigerator of the present disclosure may include the insulator.

[0042] The panel may include one or more of a first plate, a second plate, and a side plate. A vacuum space may be provided between the first plate and the second plate. The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include at least one panel. The present disclosure may include: a first panel forming at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., side surface) of the refrigerator; a second panel forming at least a portion of a second surface (e.g., rear surface) of the refrigerator; a third panel forming at least a portion of a third surface (e.g., top surface) of the refrigerator; a fourth panel forming at least a portion of a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the refrigerator; and a fifth panel forming at least a portion of a fifth surface (e.g., front surface) of the refrigerator. One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces of the refrigerator may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the main body or at least a portion of a wall forming the door. One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a single component or as multiple components. The joint may be provided to connect corners of the refrigerator or to connect a first wall and a second wall which form the refrigerator's wall. The joint may be provided to connect the panel to another component (e.g., another panel). The joint may be provided to connect at least two or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided in multiple parts, and the joint may be provided to connect the plurality of panels to each other. The joint may include a first surface, a second surface, and / or a third surface. The first surface of the joint may cover at least a portion of at least one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The second surface of the joint may cover at least a portion of at least another one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The third surface of the joint may be connected to the first surface of the joint and / or the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the joint may be connected to a corner of the first surface of the joint and / or a corner of the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the joint may be formed to be inclined with respect to at least one of the first surface of the joint and the second surface of the joint. At least some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a panel having a first thermal insulation performance per unit thickness, and at least some others of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a panel having a second thermal insulation performance per unit thickness. The first thermal insulation performance and the second thermal insulation performance may be different from each other.

[0043] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a duct. The duct may include a first duct, a second duct, and / or a third duct. The first duct may supply cold air to the first storage chamber or the second storage chamber. The second duct may receive an evaporator. The third duct may be connected in communication with the first duct and the second duct. The third duct may include a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, a fourth surface, and / or a fifth surface. The first surface of the third duct may surround the first surface of the joint. The second surface of the third duct may surround the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the third duct may surround the third surface of the joint. The third duct may further include a fourth surface. The fourth surface of the third duct may be disposed to extend from the first surface of the third duct or face the second storage chamber. The fifth surface of the third duct may be disposed to extend from the second surface of the third duct or to face the evaporator.

[0044] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a block. The block may include a portion extending in the same direction as one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The block may include a portion extending in a different direction from one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The block may include a first surface (e.g., left surface), a second surface (e.g., right surface), a third surface (e.g., rear surface), a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface), a fifth surface (e.g., top surface), and a sixth surface (e.g., front surface). Some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces of the refrigerator may be provided in the form of a panel, and some others of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces of the refrigerator may be provided in the form of a block. The block may be provided as the non-vacuum insulator. For example, the block may be a block cover and / or polyurethane (PU) foam filling the inside of the block cover. The block may include one or more of a first block portion (e.g., side block portion), a second block portion (e.g., rear block portion or front block portion), and a third block portion (e.g., bottom block portion or top block portion). Each of the first, second, and third block portions may be provided in multiple parts. At least two or more of the first, second, and third block portions may be connected and provided as the joint. The third block portion may form one surface of the first storage chamber and / or may form one surface of the machine room. The third block portion may be provided as a partition wall, or may form one surface of the first storage chamber.

[0045] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an insulating reinforcement. The insulating reinforcement may include a portion connected to one side of the block or a portion formed to protrude from the block.

[0046] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a hinge. The hinge may be disposed on one side of the insulator. The hinge may be disposed on the main body and / or door of the refrigerator.

[0047] The hinge may include one or more of: a hinge fixing part that is coupled to at least one of the insulator, the main body of the refrigerator, and the door of the refrigerator; a hinge shaft; and a hinge connecting portion that protrudes and extends from the hinge fixing part. The hinge may include one or more of: a first hinge (e.g., upper hinge) disposed on one side of a wall forming the first storage chamber; a second hinge (e.g., middle hinge) disposed on the partition wall; and a third hinge (e.g., lower hinge) on a wall forming the second storage chamber. The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include one or more of: a hinge reinforcing frame for reinforcing the strength of the hinge; a cover to which the hinge is coupled; and a hinge reinforcing plate that is configured to be connected to or received in the panel. The hinge reinforcing frame may include one or more of first, second, third, and fourth frame portions. At least two of the first, second, third, and fourth frame portions may extend in different directions.

[0048] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a support frame. The support frame may support one surface of the panel. The support frame may include a coupling portion. The block may be supported on the machine room by the support frame. The support frame may include a first support frame and / or a second support frame.

[0049] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an inner cover. The inner cover may be disposed between the cover of the machine room and the hinge reinforcing frame (e.g., the first frame portion).

[0050] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a decoration. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the insulator. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the main body and / or door of the refrigerator. For example, the decoration may be disposed on an outer surface of the insulator or on an outer surface of the refrigerator.

[0051] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a hot line. The hot line may be disposed on a surface of the insulator. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the main body and / or door of the refrigerator. The hot line may be disposed between the decoration and the surface of the insulator. The hot line may be disposed between the decoration and the surface of the refrigerator and / or between the decoration and the surface of the door.

[0052] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a casing. The casing may be an exterior casing or an interior casing. The exterior casing may be connected to the second plate. The exterior casing may be provided to cover at least a portion of the second plate. The exterior casing may be provided in contact with the second plate or spaced apart from the second plate by a predetermined distance. The interior casing may be connected to the twelfth plate. The interior casing may be provided to cover at least a portion of the first plate. The interior casing may be provided in contact with the first plate or spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance.

[0053] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a drawer and / or a drawer guide. The drawer guide may be provided with a first storage chamber drawer guide provided in the first storage chamber. The first storage chamber drawer guide may include at least one of a first plate (e.g., side plate), a second plate (e.g., bottom plate), a third plate (e.g., top plate), and a fourth plate (e.g., middle plate).

[0054] The drawer guide may include a second storage chamber drawer guide provided in the second storage chamber.

[0055] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a shelf and / or a shelf support frame.

[0056] [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention] is divided into the foregoing [Common Description] and the following [Description Based on Drawings]. In the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], each specific matter described for implementing the invention may be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], a combination of at least two or more of the specific matters described for implementing the invention may also be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, in the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], each paragraph of the [Common Description] section or the section described based on the drawings, as well as a combination of such paragraphs, may be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure. In another example, in the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], each sentence of the [Common Description] section or the section described based on the drawings, as well as a combination of such sentences, may be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Hereinafter, based on each drawing, the [Description Based on Drawings] section describing the present disclosure will be set forth.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include plates 11, 12, and 14. In the present disclosure, the term "plate" may refer to at least one of the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14. Optionally, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a vacuum space 15. The vacuum space 15 may be formed by walls provided by the plates 11, 12, and 14. The vacuum space 15 may have a thickness in a first direction. The plates 11, 12, and 14 may include: the first plate 11; and the second plate 12. The first plate 11 may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The second plate 12 may include a portion extending in another direction different from the first direction. Optionally, the plates may include a side plate 14 including a portion extending in the first direction. For example, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be provided such that the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14 may be each provided as separate components, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. In another example, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be provided such that at least two of the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14 are integrally provided, and such that the separate components are connected to one another. In yet another example, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be provided such that portions connecting the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14 are each integrally provided. In this case, the first plate 11 may be provided as a separate component, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. Alternatively, the second plate 12 may be provided as a separate component, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. Alternatively, the side plate 14 may be provided as a separate component, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a third plate disposed on at least a portion of the insulator 10 or connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, 14. The third plate may include a portion provided to be thinner than or equal in thickness to the plates 11, 12, and 14. The third plate may include a portion provided to be thicker than the plates 11, 12, and 14. The third plate may be disposed in the vacuum space 15 or disposed outside the vacuum space 15. Examples of the third plate may include a heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34, a deformation resistor 13, and the like, as described in the present disclosure.

[0059] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 (thermal insulator) for reducing the amount of heat transfer between a first space provided adjacent to the first plate 11 and a second space provided adjacent to the second plate 12, or for reducing the amount of heat transfer between the first plate 11 and the second plate 12. A heat transfer resistor that reduces the amount of heat transfer by conduction may be defined as a conduction resistance sheet 26a and 26b, and a heat transfer resistor that reduces the amount of heat transfer by radiation may be defined as a radiation resistance sheet 23. The heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may be provided as a porous material 34 or as a filler 34. A filler whose inside is filled with a porous material may be defined as the porous material 34. The heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may include at least one of the radiation resistance sheet 23, the porous material 34, the filler 34, and the conduction resistance sheet 26a and 26b, or a mixture of at least two thereof. The heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may be provided so as not to be connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14 or make contact with the plates 11, 12, and 14. A shield 24 may be provided for insulation outside the heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34. A connecting frame 17 may be provided outside the heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34. The insulator 10 may include a conduit penetrating the vacuum space 15. The conduit may be formed by providing a pipe wall 32 as a separate component, or may be provided in such a manner that the pipe wall 32 is omitted and only a through-hole is formed in the plate. The side plate 14 may be provided adjacent to the conduit, or the heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may be provided adjacent to the conduit.

[0060] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a deformation resistor 13 connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14 to increase the internal deformation resistance of the plates 11, 12, and 14. When the deformation resistor is provided in the form of a plate, the deformation resistor may be referred to as a deformation resistant plate.

[0061] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a support 19 that is connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 13 and holds the vacuum space 15. The support 19 may include a bar 20 having a portion extending in the first direction, which is the thickness direction of the vacuum space 15. The support 19 may include a support plate 22 having a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The support 19 may include a plurality of bars 20 and a connecting plate 21 connecting the plurality of bars 20. The support 19 may include at least one of the bars 20, the connecting plate 21, and the support plate 22 or a combination of at least two thereof.

[0062] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a component coupling portion that provides a portion on which the components 24, 28, and 32 are disposed or supported. For example, when the component coupling portion is provided in the form of a plate, the component coupling portion may be referred to as a component coupling plate. A component connected to the component coupling portion may include a penetrating component configured to penetrate at least a portion of the insulator 10 or at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14. A component connected to the component coupling portion may include a surface component configured to be connected to a surface of the insulator 10 or to be connected to a surface of the plates 11, 12, and 14. The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which a fluid (e.g., electricity, refrigerant, water, and air) passes. The penetrating component may be provided in the form of a tube. The tube may include a straight tube and / or a curved tube. The tube may be provided in multiple parts, or may extend in one direction. The penetrating component may include at least one of the tube, a first lead-out portion, and a second lead-out portion. In the present disclosure, the term "fluid" is defined as any kind of object that flows. The fluid may include a moving solid, liquid, gas, and electricity. The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which a refrigerant for heat exchange passes, such as a suction line heat exchanger (SLHX) or a refrigerant pipe. The SLHX may be understood as a suction line heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between a refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator and a refrigerant before being introduced into the evaporator. The penetrating component may be a wire that supplies electricity to the apparatus. The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which air can pass, such as a duct or port along whose surface fluid flows. The port may include an exhaust port that provides a path for air to escape from a space formed between the first plate 11 and the second plate 12, in order to form the vacuum space 15. The penetrating component may be a path through which a fluid such as cooling water, hot water, ice, and defrosting water can pass. Examples of the surface component may include peripheral insulation, a side panel, injected foam, pre-prepared resin, a hinge, a latch, a basket, a drawer, a shelf, a light, a sensor, an evaporator 7, a front decoration, a hotline, a heater, an outer cover, and an inner cover.

[0063] Through FIGS. 1 to 4, the terms plate, first plate, second plate, side plate, third plate, vacuum space, heat transfer resistor, conduction resistance sheet, radiation resistance sheet, porous material, filler, component coupling portion, joint, support, bar, support plate, connecting plate, deformation resistor, deformation resistance plate, component coupling portion, component coupling plate, penetrating component, surface component, duct, and port have been defined. In the present disclosure, when the above terms are used for portions other than the portions with respect to which the explanations of FIGS. 1 to 4 are described, the terms used shall be interpreted as defined in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0064] In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is connected to object B" may be defined as object A being directly connected to at least a portion of object B, or at least a portion of object A being connected to at least a portion of object B through an intermedium disposed between objects A and B. In a modification, the expression "object A is connected to object B" may include object A and object B being integrally prepared in such a manner as to be connected by the aforementioned method. In the present disclosure, examples of connection may include supporting, combining, and sealing, as described below. In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is supported by object B" may be defined as object A being restricted in movement in one or more of the +X, -X, +Y, -Y, +Z, and -Z axis directions by object B. In the present disclosure, examples of supporting may include combining and sealing, as described below. In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is combined with object B" may be defined as object A being restricted in movement in one or more of the X, Y, and Z axis directions by object B. In the present disclosure, an example of combining may include sealing, as described below. In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is sealed to object B" may be defined as a state in which movement of fluid is not permitted at a portion where object A and object B are connected. In the present disclosure, at least a portion of one or more objects, i.e., object A and object B, may be defined as including: a portion of object A, the entirety of object A, a portion of object B, the entirety of object B, a portion of object A and a portion of object B, a portion of object A and the entirety of object B, the entirety of object A and a portion of object B, and the entirety of object A and the entirety of object B. In the present disclosure, the expression "plate A may be a wall defining space A" may be defined as at least a portion of plate A being a wall forming at least a portion of space A. That is, at least a portion of plate A may be a wall forming space A, or plate A may be a wall forming at least a portion of space A. In the present disclosure, a central portion of an object may be defined as a portion located in the center when the object is divided into three equal parts along the lengthwise direction of the object. A peripheral portion of the object may be defined as a portion located on one side or the other side of the central portion among the three equal parts. The peripheral portion of the object may include a surface adjoining the central portion and a surface opposite thereto. The surface opposite thereto may be defined as a border or corner of the object. In the present disclosure, the degree of deformation resistance indicates the extent to which the object resists deformation, which may be defined as a value determined by a shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, and the processing method of the object. In the present disclosure, the degree of heat transfer resistance indicates the extent to which the object resists heat transfer, which may be defined as a value determined by a shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, and the processing method of the object. In the present disclosure, the degree of heat transfer resistance may be defined as at least one of the degree of conduction resistance, the degree of radiation resistance, and the degree of convection resistance or a combination of at least two thereof. In the following description, the terms "upper side," "lower side," "right side," "left side," "front side," and "rear side" shall be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5. An example of "+Z" may mean "upper side," an example of "-Z" may mean "lower side," an example of "+Y" may mean "right side," an example of "-Y" may mean "left side," an example of "+X" may mean "front side," and an example of "-X" may mean "rear side." In this specification, the front-rear direction as used herein may be an example of the X-axis direction, the left-right direction may be an example of the Y-axis direction, and the up-down direction may be an example of the Z-axis direction.

[0065] The insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be applied to a refrigerator 1. The refrigerator 1 may include a main body 2 provided with a cavity 9 for storing storage items, and a door 3 provided to open and close the main body 2. A cold source for supplying cold air to the cavity 9 may be provided. For example, the cold source may be an evaporator 7 that evaporates refrigerant to take heat. The refrigerator may include a compressor 4 that compresses the refrigerant. The refrigerator may include a condenser 5 that condenses the compressed refrigerant. The condenser 5 may be connected to an expander 6 that expands the condensed refrigerant.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which the main body 100 of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with panels of a vacuum insulator.

[0067] FIG. 6 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a block 127 and the like are provided on one side of the main body 100 in FIG. 5.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which defrosting water generated from an evaporator 116 of a second storage chamber 106 in FIG. 6 passes through a pass-through part 130 of the block 127 and moves to a machine room 122.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an exhaust port and the like protruding from a panel of the vacuum insulator in FIG. 6 are received in a housing of the block 127.

[0070] FIG. 9 is a conceptual view showing the block 127 viewed from various angles in FIG. 8.

[0071] FIG. 10 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an insulating reinforcement 148 is further provided on one side of the block 127 in FIG. 9.

[0072] A refrigerator according to the present disclosure includes a main body 100 and a door (see FIG. 20). The main body 100 forms the exterior of the refrigerator. The main body 100 may include one 1031 of first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, a second panel 101, a fourth panel 104, and / or a third panel 102.

[0073] The main body 100 may include at least two panels. For example, at least two panels including the main body 100 may include one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, a second panel 101, a fourth panel 104, and a third panel 102. The second panel 101 forms one surface of the refrigerator. As an example of the one surface, one surface of the refrigerator may be formed. The third panel 102 forms another surface of the refrigerator. One 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels form yet another surface of the refrigerator. As an example of the yet another surface, one surface of the refrigerator may be formed. One 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels may be disposed to face each other in one direction. The fourth panel 104 forms one surface of the refrigerator. As an example of the one surface, a lower surface of the refrigerator may be formed.

[0074] A machine room 122, which will be described later, may be installed on the fourth panel 104. As one example, the machine room 122 may be disposed on one side of the fourth panel 104. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0075] The vacuum insulator may form at least one of the second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, and the fourth panel 104 or a portion of at least thereof. The second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 and another 1032 of at least two first panels, and the fourth panel 104 may each be formed in a rectangular shape.

[0076] In this embodiment, the second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 of the first panels, and / or another 1032 of the first panels is configured to be a vacuum insulator. In this embodiment, the second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels are including a vacuum insulator. However, the fourth panel 104, which will be described later, shows a configuration it includingincludes a combination of a non-vacuum insulator and a vacuum insulator. The fourth panel 104, which will be described later, may be at least partially including a non-vacuum insulator or at least partially including a vacuum insulator.

[0077] A storage chamber is formed inside the main body 100. The storage chamber is formed to be open toward one direction (e.g., forward) of the main body 100. The storage chamber includes a second storage chamber 106 and / or a first storage chamber 105. The second storage chamber 106 and / or the first storage chamber 105 may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Z-axis direction or Y-axis direction of the main body 100.

[0078] The door includes a first storage chamber door 108 and / or a second storage chamber door 109. The second storage chamber 106 and the first storage chamber 105 may be sectioned off by a partition wall 107. The partition wall 107 may extend in one direction (e.g., horizontally) along the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction from one surface of one 1031 of the first panels to one surface of another 1032 of the first panels.

[0079] The partition wall 107 may be positioned between one-third and two-thirds of the height in one direction from the fourth panel 104, when the height (vertical distance) between the fourth panel 104 and the third panel 102 is divided into three equal parts. In this embodiment, the partition wall 107 is illustrated as disposed approximately one-third of the height in one direction from the fourth panel 104.

[0080] The partition wall 107 may be formed in a rectangular shape. The partition wall 107 may have a thickness in the Z-axis direction. The partition wall 107 may extend longer in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction relative to the thickness.

[0081] A first storage chamber joint and / or an insulation block of the first storage chamber 105 may be installed on one surface of the first storage chamber 105.

[0082] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 are disposed at corners where panels forming the first storage chamber 105 are connected. For example, the first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 include a first sub-chamber joint 110 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and the third panel 102 are connected, and / or a second sub-chamber joint 111 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels are connected.

[0083] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be formed of an insulating layer 1273 such as polyurethane (PU) foam. Accordingly, heat leakage through the corners where the panels are connected can be minimized.

[0084] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be injection-molded using a plastic material so as to surround the insulating layer 1273.

[0085] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be coupled to one surface of a panel including a vacuum insulator by means of a component coupling portion. The component coupling portion may be implemented as a bolt plate 118 and 1112 with a bolt portion 1181 or 1113 formed therein or as a frame.

[0086] A coupling portion 1111 may be formed to protrude on one side of the first storage chamber joints 110 and 111. The coupling portion 1111 may be coupled to the bolt portion 1113 of the bolt plate 1112. Through this, the coupling portion 1111 and the bolt plate 1112 are coupled together, so that the first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be installed on one surface of the first storage chamber 105.

[0087] Meanwhile, a second storage chamber joint 112 and 113 and / or a second storage chamber insulating block 114 may be installed on one surface of the second storage chamber 106.

[0088] The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are disposed at corners where panels forming the second storage chamber 106 are connected. The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are formed to extend in the Z-axis direction. The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are configured to connect adjacent panels together.

[0089] The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are formed of an insulating layer 1273 such as polyurethane (PU) foam. A joint cover surrounding the insulating layer 1273 of the second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 may be injection-molded using a plastic material. Accordingly, the second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 can block heat leakage through the corners where the panels are connected.

[0090] The second storage chamber insulating block 114 may extend along one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels in the X-axis direction and / or the Z-axis direction. The second storage chamber insulating block 114 may include an insulating layer 1273 such as polyurethane (PU) foam and / or a block cover surrounding the same. Accordingly, the second storage chamber insulating block 114 can expand the insulation area of the second storage chamber joints 112 and 113.

[0091] A second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be formed on one surface of the second storage chamber insulating block 114 so as to protrude in the Y-axis direction. The second storage chamber drawer guide 115 extends in the X-axis direction.

[0092] Accordingly, when the second storage chamber drawer 156 is inserted into or pulled out of the second storage chamber 106, it may guide the sliding movement of the second storage chamber drawer 156.

[0093] The second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be integrally formed with the second storage chamber insulating block 114. The second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be integrally formed with the block cover of the second storage chamber insulating block 114. In this case, the second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be formed of the same material as the block cover, for example, a plastic material.

[0094] An evaporator 116 is disposed in the second storage chamber 106. The evaporator 116 may extend in the Z-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The evaporator 116 may include a refrigerant pipe through which refrigerant flows and / or a plurality of heat exchange fins formed in a plate shape to expand the heat exchange area of the refrigerant. The evaporator 116 generates cold air by heat exchange between the air in the second storage chamber 106 and the refrigerant.

[0095] The evaporator 116 may be coupled to the second panel 101 by means of an evaporator coupling frame 117. The evaporator coupling frame 117 may be coupled to the second panel 101 using a component coupling portion such as the bolt plate 118. The bolt plate 118 includes at least one bolt portion 1181. The bolt plate 118 may be bonded to the second panel 101 by an adhesive means such as glue. The bolt plate 118 and 1112 may couple a target object to a panel including a vacuum insulator by holding the bolt portion 1181 and 1113 and the target object together.

[0096] A defrost heater (not shown) is installed on the evaporator 116. The defrost heater extends along the refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 116 and / or is configured to heat the refrigerant pipe. The defrost heater can remove frost attached to the evaporator 116 by heating.

[0097] A sump 119 may be provided on one side of the evaporator 116. The sump 119 is configured to surround a portion of the evaporator 116 and / or to receive defrost water flowing down from the evaporator 116. The sump 119 receives one side of the evaporator 116.

[0098] The sump 119 may include a rear wall, a front wall, a side wall, and / or a bottom wall. The rear wall forms one surface of the sump 119 and / or extends in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction so as to surround the evaporator 116. A first bottom wall 1191 extending from the rear wall may be formed to be inclined downward toward a drain outlet 1193, which will be described later.

[0099] The front wall forms one surface of the sump 119 and / or extends in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction so as to surround one surface of the evaporator 116. A second bottom wall 1192 extending from the front wall may be formed to be inclined downward toward the drain outlet 1193, which will be described later.

[0100] The side wall forms one surface of the sump 119 and / or extends in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction so as to surround one surface of the evaporator 116.

[0101] The bottom wall forms the bottom surface of the sump 119 and / or extends to be inclined at a predetermined angle to a horizontal line in the Y-axis direction so as to surround the bottom surface of the evaporator 116.

[0102] The drain outlet 1193 is formed to penetrate the center of the bottom wall in the Z-axis direction. The bottom wall may be formed to be inclined downward from the side wall toward the drain outlet 1193. Accordingly, defrosting water does not remain in the sump 119 but can be effectively discharged through the drain outlet 1193.

[0103] A drain pipe 1194 is connected to the bottom wall. The drain pipe 1194 is connected to communicate with the drain outlet 1193 and / or extends in the Z-axis direction and / or penetrates the fourth panel 104, which will be described later, and / or is connected to the machine room 122. Through this configuration, defrosting water may move to the machine room 122 via the drain pipe 1194. The drain pipe 1194 is connected to a connecting pipe or connecting hose that connects the machine room 122 and the outside, so that the defrosting water can be discharged to the outside through the connecting pipe.

[0104] Cold air generated by the evaporator 116 may be supplied from the second storage chamber 106 to the first storage chamber 105 through a cold air passage connected to the second storage chamber 106 and the first storage chamber 105. Cold air may return from the first storage chamber 105 to the second storage chamber 106 through a return passage connected to the first storage chamber 105 and / or the second storage chamber 106.

[0105] A circulation fan 120 may be installed in the cold air passage or the return passage. The circulation fan 120 provides power to the cold air so that the cold air can flow along the cold air passage or along the return passage.

[0106] A return duct 121 forming the return passage may be provided on one surface of the block 127 of the fourth panel 104, which will be described later. The return duct 121 may be formed to be inclined together with an inclined portion 133 of the block 127, which will be described later, so that the flow of air along the return duct 121 can be smoothly maintained.

[0107] The evaporator 116 may be connected to components of a refrigeration cycle device by a cycle pipe. For example, the cycle pipe includes a first pipe connecting the evaporator 116 and an expander and / or a second pipe connecting the evaporator 116 and a compressor 123.

[0108] The first pipe is configured to deliver the refrigerant expanded in the expander (capillary tube) to the evaporator 116. The second pipe is configured to deliver the refrigerant evaporated by the evaporator 116 to the compressor 123.

[0109] A suction line may be integrally connected to a portion of the second pipe. The suction line is a refrigerant pipe connected between the evaporator 116 and the compressor 123, and it draws the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator 116 into the compressor 123. A suction line heat exchanger 145 (hereinafter referred to as SLHX) is constructed by sealing or welding a capillary tube to an outer circumferential surface of the suction line by soldering or the like. Through this, the SLHX connects the capillary tube and the suction line to each other surface-to-surface on the suction side of the compressor 123 so that heat exchange occurs.

[0110] The machine room 122 is provided on one side of the main body 100. The machine room 122 is configured to support the main body 100.

[0111] The machine room 122 includes a receiving space capable of receiving devices such as the compressor 123, a condenser, and a cooling fan 124. The machine room 122 may be formed in a rectangular shape.

[0112] The machine room 122 includes a front cover 1221, a back cover 1222, a side cover, and / or a bottom cover 1226.

[0113] The front cover 1221 forms one surface of the machine room 122. The back cover 1222 forms one surface of the machine room 122. The front cover 1221 and / or the back cover 1222 extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0114] The side cover forms one surface of the machine room 122. The side cover extends in the X-axis direction to connect the front cover 1221 and the back cover 1222. The side cover includes a first side cover 1223 and a second side cover 1224.

[0115] The first side cover 1223 may form a first surface of the machine room 122. One end and / or the other end of the first side cover 1223 is coupled to the front cover 1221 and / or the back cover 1222.

[0116] The second side cover 1224 may form a second surface of the machine room 122. One end and / or the other end of the second side cover 1224 is coupled to the front cover 1221 and / or the back cover 1222.

[0117] The bottom cover 1226 extends in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The Y-axis and X-axis corners of the bottom cover 1226 are coupled to at least one of the front cover 1221, the back cover 1222, and the first and second side covers 1224.

[0118] Rollers are rotatably installed at X- and Y-axial ends of the bottom cover 1226. Accordingly, the rollers become movable as they rotate along the ground, thereby facilitating transportation of the refrigerator.

[0119] The second panel 101 of the main body 100 and / or the back cover 1222 of the machine room 122 may be aligned in the Z-axis direction and / or may form the same plane. One 1031 of the first panels of the main body 100 and another 1032 of the first panels and at least one of the side covers of the machine room 122 may be aligned in the Z-axis direction and / or may form the same plane. The door and / or the front cover 1221 of the machine room 122 may be aligned in the Z-axis direction and / or may form the same plane.

[0120] The compressor 123 and / or the condenser are installed on one surface of the bottom cover 1226. The compressor 123 and / or the condenser may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction.

[0121] At least one of the compressor 123 and the condenser may be disposed to be spaced apart by a first distance from the back cover 1222 toward one direction (e.g., forward) and / or spaced apart by a second distance from the front cover 1221 toward another direction (rearward). In this case, the first distance and the second distance may be different from each other.

[0122] A cooling fan 124 may be disposed between the compressor 123 and the condenser. The cooling fan 124 is configured to provide power to the air. The cooling fan 124 is configured such that outside air flows in one direction. In this embodiment, the cooling fan 124 is configured such that outside air flows from the compressor 123, passes through the cooling fan 124, and flows to the condenser.

[0123] An air intake opening 1225 may be formed in the first side cover 1223. An exhaust port may be formed in the second side cover 1224. The air intake opening 1225 and / or the compressor 123 may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction and / or to face each other. The condenser and / or the exhaust port may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction and / or to face each other.

[0124] The air intake opening 1225 and / or the exhaust port may be formed in a louver shape. The air intake opening 1225 and / or the exhaust port may be provided with a through-hole extending in the Z-axis direction.

[0125] Accordingly, the cooling fan 124 draws in outside air through the air intake opening 1225. The drawn air passes through the compressor 123 and cools the compressor 123 by heat exchange with the compressor 123. The air that has passed through the compressor 123 then flows through the cooling fan 124 and passes through the condenser, thereby cooling the condenser by heat exchange with the condenser. Subsequently, the air that has passed through the condenser may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust port.

[0126] The fourth panel 104 is disposed between the main body 100 and the machine room 122. The fourth panel 104 is configured to separate the storage chamber of the main body 100 and the machine room 122. The fourth panel 104 forms one surface of the main body 100. The fourth panel 104 may also form one surface of the machine room 122.

[0127] The fourth panel 104 includes a vacuum panel 125 and / or a block 127.

[0128] The vacuum panel 125 forms a portion of the fourth panel 104, and the block 127 forms another portion of the fourth panel 104.

[0129] The vacuum panel 125 includingincludes a vacuum insulator. The vacuum panel 125 may include a first plate 1251, a second plate 1252, and / or a support. The first plate 1251 is disposed to face the second storage chamber 106. The second plate 1252 is disposed to face the outside of the main body 100. In this embodiment, the second plate 1252 of the vacuum panel 125 is disposed to face the machine room 122. The support is configured to hold a vacuum space 1253 formed between the first plate 1251 and the second plate 1252.

[0130] The vacuum panel 125 has a predetermined thickness and extends in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and may be formed in a rectangular shape. The Y-axis length of the vacuum panel 125 corresponds to the distance between one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels.

[0131] The first end and / or second end of the vacuum panel 125 may be coupled to one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels.

[0132] The X-axis length of the vacuum panel 125 is shorter than the X-axis length of one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels. The vacuum panel 125 is disposed in such a way as to be connectable to the door. One end of the vacuum panel 125 is disposed to be spaced apart from the second panel 101 by a predetermined distance.

[0133] An opening 126 between the vacuum panel 125 and the second panel 101 is configured to be covered by the block 127, which will be described later. The opening 126 may be disposed to overlap the evaporator 116 in the Z-axis direction. The opening 126 extends in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The Y-axis length of the opening 126 is longer than the X-axis width of the opening 126. The X-axis width of the opening 126 may be formed to correspond to the X-axis width of the evaporator 116.

[0134] The block 127 includingincludes a non-vacuum insulator. The block 127 is formed to include polyurethane foam (hereinafter abbreviated as PU foam).

[0135] The block 127 includes a first cover 1223 and 1224 , a second cover 1222 , and / or an insulating layer 1273.

[0136] The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 form the external shape of the fourth panel 104. The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be made of a plastic material. The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be formed by injection molding.

[0137] An insulating layer 1273 such as PU foam may be foam-molded between the first cover 1223 and 1224 and the second cover 1222 . A polyurethane foaming liquid may be injected into an inner space of the first cover 1223 and 1224 and the second cover 1222 through a foaming liquid injection port (not shown), and then foam-molded.

[0138] Through this, the block 127 is formed by foam-molding using a polyurethane foam material, so there is no need to maintain a vacuum state, thus making a sealable pass-through structure unnecessary and / or facilitating the formation of a first pass-through part 131 and / or a second pass-through part 132 inside the block 127 without destroying the insulation of the block 127.

[0139] The first cover 1223 and 1224 is configured to cover at least a portion of the insulating layer 1273. The second cover 1222 is configured to cover one side of the insulating layer 1273.

[0140] The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be connected to each other by an adhesive means such as glue. The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be coupled by various coupling means such as screw fastening with a screw or snap-fit coupling with a hook, as well as being connected with glue.

[0141] The block 127 is disposed on one side of the second panel 101. The block 127 is configured to cover the opening 126 between the second panel 101 and the vacuum panel 125. A portion of the block 127 may be disposed to overlap the vacuum panel 125.

[0142] A coupling groove may be formed on one side of the block 127. A portion of the vacuum panel 125 may be received in the coupling groove. The vacuum panel 125 may be coupled to the coupling groove of the block 127. Accordingly, the block 127 may be coupled by assembling to the vacuum panel 125 and at least one of one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels.

[0143] The block 127 may be formed to protrude in one direction from the vacuum panel 125. The block 127 extends along the Y-axis direction of the vacuum panel 125.

[0144] The block 127 is disposed between the vacuum panel 125 and the second panel 101. The block 127 is configured to connect the fourth panel 104 and / or the second panel 101. The block 127 is disposed to cover the opening 126 so as to block heat leakage through the opening 126.

[0145] One surface of the block 127 is disposed to face and overlap the second panel 101 in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the block 127 and the second panel 101 can double-block heat leakage by the overlapping structure of the insulating layer 1273, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and a vacuum insulator.

[0146] A seating portion 1281 and 1282, a recess 129, and / or a drain groove 1293 are provided on one surface of the block 127. The seating portions 1281 and 1282 are formed in a rectangular planar shape. The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are seated on and connected to the seating portions 1281 and 1282, and / or the second storage chamber joints 112 and113 may be supported by the seating portions 1281 and 1282. The seating portions may include a first seating portion 1281 and a second seating portion 1282.

[0147] The first seating portion 1281 is disposed at an end portion of the block 127. A first second storage chamber joint 112 which is disposed at a corner where one 1031 of the first panels and the second panel 101 are connected, is seated on and supported by the first seating portion 1281.

[0148] The second seating portion 1282 is disposed at an end portion of the block 127. A second second storage chamber joint 113, which is disposed at a corner where another 1032 of the first panels and the second panel 101 are connected, is seated on and supported by the second seating portion 1282.

[0149] The pass-through part 130 is formed to penetrate the block 127 in the Z-axis direction. The pass-through part 130 receives a penetrating component so that the penetrating component can penetrate the block 127. The penetrating component may include a drain pipe 1194 and / or wiring such as an electric wire.

[0150] The pass-through part 130 may include a first pass-through part 131 and / or a second pass-through part 132. The first pass-through part 131 receives the drain pipe 1194 of the sump 119. The first pass-through part 131 may be formed to correspond to the shape of the drain pipe 1194. In this embodiment, the first through part 131 is illustrated as formed in a circular tube shape.

[0151] The recess 129 is disposed between the first seating portion 1281 and / or the second seating portion 1282. The recess 129 is formed to be inclined at an angle corresponding to the bottom wall of the sump 119. The recess 129 may be connected to the bottom wall and / or may support the sump 119. Accordingly, the recess 129, together with the bottom wall of the sump 119, guides the flow of defrosting water to the drain outlet 1193, thereby facilitating drainage of the defrosting water.

[0152] The drain groove 1293 is formed at the center of the recess 129. The recess 129 includes a first recess 1291 and / or a second recess 1292. The recess 129 includes a first recess 1291, which is formed to be inclined in one direction or downward from the first seating portion 1281 to the drain groove 1293, and / or a second recess 1292, which is formed to be inclined in one direction or downward from the second seating portion 1282 to the drain groove 1293.

[0153] The drain groove 1293 is formed to be recessed in one direction at the bottom of the recess 129. The first pass-through part 131 is formed to penetrate in the Z-axis direction of the block 127 from the drain groove 1293. The first pass-through part 131 may also be formed to penetrate the insulating reinforcement 148, which will be described later.

[0154] Through this, the drain pipe 1194 may be received in the first pass-through part 131 and / or penetrate the block 127 through the first pass-through part 131 or be connected to a separate connecting pipe. The first pass-through part 131 surrounds the drain pipe 1194, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the drain pipe 1194.

[0155] The second pass-through part 132 receives a pipe in which wiring such as an electric wire is embedded. The pipe may be formed with a corrugated structure that is adjustable in length or easily bendable.

[0156] The second pass-through part 132 may be formed in the first seating portion 1281 or the second seating portion 1282. In this embodiment, the second pass-through part 132 is illustrated as formed to penetrate in the Z-axis direction on one side of the second seating portion 1282. The second pass-through part 132 has a circular cross-sectional shape that is smaller than the rectangular area of the second seating portion 1282. The cross-sectional shape of the second pass-through part 132 is not limited to a circle and may be formed in various shapes such as polygons.

[0157] The second pass-through part 132 may also be formed to penetrate the insulating reinforcement 148, which will be described later.

[0158] Through this, the pipe may be received in the second pass-through part 132 and / or penetrate the block 127 through the second pass-through part 132. The second pass-through part 132 surrounds the pipe, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the pipe.

[0159] The block 127 may be provided with an inclined portion 133. The inclined portion 133 is disposed to face the second storage chamber 106. The inclined portion 133 is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle to a vertical line. The inclined portion 133 is formed to be inclined downward so that the thickness of the block 127 in the X-axis direction increases from one end of the block 127 toward the other end.

[0160] Through this, the inclined portion 133 can maintain the thermal insulation performance of the block 127 and / or minimize the inner capacity of the refrigerator.

[0161] The return duct 121 may be provided on one surface of the inclined portion 133. The return duct 121 forms a suction flow path on one side to draw in air from the second storage chamber 106. The return duct 121 may be formed to be spaced a predetermined distance apart from the inclined portion 133 and / or to be inclined with respect to the inclined portion 133.

[0162] One end of the return duct 121 may be connected in communication with the space in which the evaporator 116 is received, and / or the other end of the return duct 121 may be connected in communication with the second storage chamber 106.

[0163] The other end of the return duct 121 is disposed to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the first plate 1251 of the vacuum panel 125. An intake opening is formed between the other end of the return duct 121 and the first plate 1251 of the vacuum panel 125.

[0164] Through this, the air from the second storage chamber 106 is drawn into the return duct 121 through the intake opening and may return to the evaporator 116.

[0165] An exhaust port is formed to protrude from the first plate 1251 of the vacuum insulator. The exhaust port is configured to discharge at least a portion of the air in the vacuum space 1253 to the outside in order to maintain the vacuum space 1253 in a vacuum state.

[0166] The second panel 101, one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, and / or the vacuum panel 125 may each be independently manufactured as a vacuum insulator. Accordingly, one exhaust port may be provided for each panel.

[0167] For example, the exhaust ports may include a first exhaust port 136, a second exhaust port 137, a third exhaust port 138, and / or a fourth exhaust port 139. The first exhaust port 136 may be formed to protrude in one direction from a portion of the first plate 134 of the second panel 101. The second exhaust port 137 may be formed to protrude in a first direction from the first plate 134 of one 1031 of the first panels. The third exhaust port 138 may be formed to protrude in a second direction from the first plate 134 of another 1032 of the first panels. The fourth exhaust port 139 may be formed to protrude in one direction from the vacuum panel 125.

[0168] Exhaust port housings 140, 141, 142, and 143 may include a first exhaust port housing 140, a second exhaust port housing 141, a third exhaust port housing 142, and / or a fourth exhaust port housing 143. The exhaust port housings 140, 141, 142, and 143 may include the first exhaust port housing 140 through fourth exhaust port housings 143 so as to receive the exhaust ports protruding from each panel.

[0169] The first exhaust port housing 140 is formed to be recessed in one direction (e.g., forward) on one surface of the block 127 facing the second panel 101 so as to receive the first exhaust port 136 protruding from the second panel 101. The first exhaust port housing 140 is disposed on one side of the block 127. The first exhaust port housing 140 is disposed so as not to overlap the first pass-through part 131 and / or the second pass-through-part 132.

[0170] For example, the first exhaust port housing 140 may be spaced apart by a first distance in a first direction along one surface of the block 127 from a first surface of the block 127 facing one 1031 of the first panels. The first exhaust port housing 140 may be disposed to be spaced apart by a second distance in a second direction along one surface of the block 127 from a second surface of the block 127 facing another 1032 of the first panels. The first distance and the second distance may differ from each other. In this embodiment, the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0171] The first exhaust port housing 140 may be disposed between the first pass-through part 131 and the second pass-through part 132.

[0172] Through this, the first exhaust port housing 140 encloses the first exhaust port 136 of the second panel 101 by accommodating it, thereby preventing heat leakage through the first exhaust port 136 of the second panel 101. The first exhaust port housing 140 can avoid interference with the first pass-through part 131 and the second pass-through part 132 and / or block heat transfer with the drain pipe 1194 or the pipe. The first exhaust port housing 140 can avoid interference with a lead-out portion 146 of the suction line heat exchanger 145, which will be described later, and / or block heat exchange with the lead-out portion 146 of the suction line heat exchanger 145.

[0173] The second exhaust port housing 141 (see FIG. 12(a)) may be formed to be recessed in a first direction in a first sub-block 1491, which will be described later, so as to receive the second exhaust port 137 protruding from one 1031 of the first panels.

[0174] The third exhaust port housing 142 (see FIG. 12(a)) may be formed to be recessed in a second direction in a second sub-block 1492, which will be described later, so as to receive the exhaust port protruding from another 1032 of the first panels.

[0175] The fourth exhaust port housing 143 may be formed to be recessed in one direction in the block 127 so as to receive the fourth exhaust port 139 protruding from the vacuum panel 125. The fourth exhaust port housing 143 is disposed in the block 127 to be spaced apart in one direction (e.g., forward) from the first pass-through part 131.

[0176] The suction line heat exchanger 145 may be received inside the second panel 101. A plurality of lead-out portions 146 may be provided to protrude from the second panel 101. Among the plurality of lead-out portions 146, a first lead-out portion 1461 is configured to connect the capillary tube and the suction line heat exchanger 145. Among the plurality of lead-out portions 146, a second lead-out portion 1462 is configured to connect the evaporator 116 and the suction line heat exchanger 145. Among the plurality of lead-out portions 146, a third lead-out portion 1463 is configured to connect the compressor 123 and the suction line heat exchanger 145.

[0177] An outgoing lead-out portion 147 may be connected to the third lead-out portion 1463. The outgoing lead-out portion 147 may extend from the second storage chamber 106 to the machine room 122. In this case, the outgoing lead-out portion 147 may penetrate the block 127.

[0178] The block 127 may include a cycle pipe housing 144.

[0179] The cycle pipe housing 144 may be formed to be recessed in one direction (e.g., forward) on one surface of the block 127 so as to receive the plurality of lead-out portions 146 protruding from one surface of the second panel 101.

[0180] The cycle pipe housing 144 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the block 127 facing one 1031 of the first panels by a third distance in a first direction along one surface of the block 127, and / or to be spaced apart from the block 127 facing another 1032 of the first panels by a fourth distance in a second direction along one surface of the block 127. The third distance and the fourth distance may differ from each other. In this embodiment, the fourth distance is greater than the third distance.

[0181] The third lead-out portion 1463 may be disposed between the first lead-out portion 1461 and the second lead-out portion 1462.

[0182] An outgoing through-hole is provided in the cycle pipe housing 144 so that the outgoing lead-out portion 147 can pass therethrough. The outgoing through-hole is formed to penetrate in one direction from the cycle pipe housing 144 toward the machine room 122. Through this, the outgoing lead-out portion 147 may penetrate the block 127 through the outgoing through-hole in the cycle pipe housing 144 and extend to the machine room 122 or be connected to the compressor 123.

[0183] The insulating reinforcement 148 is further provided on one side of the block 127. The insulating reinforcement 148 extends from the block 127 to the machine room 122. Through this, the insulating reinforcement 148 can minimize heat leakage through gaps between the end portions of the block 127 without affecting the inner capacity of the refrigerator.

[0184] The insulating reinforcement 148 is configured to expand the insulation area from the block 127 to the machine room 122 so as to enhance thermal insulation performance.

[0185] The insulating reinforcement 148 is formed to protrude in one direction from one surface of the block 127. The thickness of the insulating reinforcement 148 in the Z-axis direction may be less than or equal to the thickness of the block 127 in the Z-axis direction.

[0186] The insulating reinforcement 148 extends in the Y-axis direction along one surface of the block 127.

[0187] The insulating reinforcement 148 may be formed to extend in the X-axis direction of the block 127. The block 127 and / or the insulating reinforcement 148 may be disposed to overlap the vacuum panel 125 in the Z-axis direction. One surface of the insulating reinforcement 148 and one surface of the block 127 form the same plane, and may be connected to the second panel 101.

[0188] The length the insulating reinforcement 148 extends in one direction (e.g., forward) from one surface of the vacuum panel 125 may be less than or equal to the length of one end (e.g., front end) of the block 127. One surface of the insulating reinforcement 148 may be positioned rearward of one end (e.g., front end) of the block 127.

[0189] A coupling groove 1481 may be formed on one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The coupling groove 1481 is disposed to face one surface of the vacuum panel 125. The coupling groove 1481 is formed to be depressed on one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The coupling groove 1481 extends in the Y-axis direction along one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The coupling groove 1481 may be formed in a shape corresponding to a portion of the vacuum panel 125 so as to receive the portion of the vacuum panel 125. Through this, the vacuum panel 125 may be coupled to one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panel. The insulating reinforcement 148 may be coupled to the vacuum panel 125 through the coupling groove 1481. Through this, the block 127 may be coupled between the second panel 101 and the vacuum panel 125.

[0190] The first pass-through part 131 and / or the second pass-through part 132 may be formed to penetrate the block 127 and / or the insulating reinforcement 148 in the Z-axis direction.

[0191] A protrusion 1482 may further be provided on the insulating reinforcement 148. The protrusion 1482 is formed to protrude further from one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The protrusion length of the protrusion 1482 of the insulating reinforcement 148 corresponds to the thickness of the second panel 101 in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the second panel 101 may be seated on and supported by the protrusion 1482 of the insulating reinforcement 148.

[0192] The protrusion 1482 extends in the Z-axis direction. One surface of the protrusion 1482 may form the same plane as one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148.

[0193] FIG. 11 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a first block 149 and the like are in another embodiment coupled to the main body 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. 11, which is a conceptual view showing the exhaust ports accommodated in an insulation block, a first sub-block 1491, and / or a second sub-block 1492.

[0195] This embodiment differs from the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 10 described above in that the first block 149 is coupled to one side of the vacuum panel 125.

[0196] The first block 149 is disposed at a corner where the vacuum panel 125 meets one 1031 of the first panels or where the vacuum panel 125 meets another 1032 of the first panels. The first block 149 is formed to extend in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction. The first block 149 may extend in one direction (e.g., forward) from the end portions (e.g., both ends) of the block 127.

[0197] The first block 149 may be formed to protrude in one direction from an end portion of the vacuum panel 125.

[0198] The first block 149 is a non-vacuum insulator. The first block 149 may be formed of the same material as the block 127. For example, the first block 149 may be formed by foam-molding polyurethane foam in the space between a cover 1271 disposed on one side and a cover 1272 disposed on the other side. The covers 1271 and 1272 of the first block 149 may be injection-molded using a plastic material.

[0199] The thickness of the first block 149 in the Y-axis direction is formed between the first block 149 facing the storage chamber and the first block 149 facing the first panel.

[0200] The length the first block 149 extends in the X-axis direction is smaller than the X-axis length of one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels. The first block 149 may be formed to correspond to the shape of a first portion (e.g., inclined portion 133) and / or a second portion (e.g., vertical surface) formed on one surface of the block 127, and may be coupled thereto. One end of the first block 149 is disposed adjacent to one end of one 1031 of the first panels and / or another of the first panels.

[0201] The height of the first block 149 in the Z-axis direction is smaller than the length of the first block 149 in the X-axis direction. The height of the first block 149 in the Z-axis direction may be formed differently from the thickness of the first block 149 in the Y-axis direction. The height of the first block 149 in the Z-axis direction may be formed to be less than or equal to the height of the block 127.

[0202] The first block 149 includes a first sub-block 1491 and / or a second sub-block 1492. The first block 149 includes the first sub-block 1491 disposed to face one 1031 of the first panels in the Y-axis direction and / or the second sub-block 1492 disposed to face another 1032 of the first panels in the Y-axis direction.

[0203] One 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels may be configured to surround the first block 149 of the fourth panel 104. At least two of one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, and the first block 149 may be disposed to overlap each other in the Y-axis direction. Through this, one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels, which is a vacuum insulator, and the first block 149, which is a non-vacuum insulator, can double-block heat leakage.

[0204] The first exhaust port housing 140 is formed to be depressed on one surface of the block 127. The first exhaust port housing 140 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the first exhaust port 136. Through this, the first exhaust port housing 140 can receive the first exhaust port 136 protruding from the second panel 101. One surface of the block 127 may be connected to the first plate 134 of the second panel 101.

[0205] The second exhaust port housing 141 is formed to be depressed in the first sub-block 1491. The second exhaust port housing 141 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the second exhaust port 137. Through this, the second exhaust port housing 141 can receive the second exhaust port 137 protruding from one 1031 of the first panels. The first sub-block 1491 may be connected to the first plate 134 of one 1031 of the first panels.

[0206] The third exhaust port housing 142 is formed to be depressed in the second sub-block 1492. The third exhaust port housing 142 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the third exhaust port 138. Through this, the third exhaust port housing 142 can receive the third exhaust port 138 protruding from another 1032 of the first panels. The second sub-block 1492 may be connected to the first plate 134 of another 1032 of the first panels.

[0207] The fourth exhaust port housing 143 is formed to be depressed on one surface of the block 127 so as not to overlap the first pass-through part 131 and the like. The fourth exhaust port housing 143 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the fourth exhaust port 139. Through this, the fourth exhaust port housing 143 can receive the fourth exhaust port 139 protruding from the vacuum panel 125. One surface of the block 127 may be connected to the first plate 1251 of the vacuum panel 125.

[0208] The first storage chamber joint 150, 151, and 152 may include a first sub-chamber joint 150 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and the third panel 102 are connected. The first storage chamber joint 150, 151, and 152 may include a second sub-chamber joint 151 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and one 1031 of the first panels or the second panel 101 and another 1032 of the first panels are connected. The first storage chamber joint 150, 151, and 152 may include a third first storage chamber joint 152 disposed at a corner where the third panel 102 and one 1031 of the first panels or the third panel 102 and another 1032 of the first panels are connected.

[0209] Other components are identical or similar to those of the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10, so redundant description will be omitted.

[0210] FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled between one surface of the block 127 and the second panel 101.

[0211] FIG. 14 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled to the block 127.

[0212] A soft insulating material may be coupled to at least one surface of the block 127. The soft insulating material may be molded using, for example, carbon felt and / or porous material.

[0213] The soft insulating material may include a first soft insulating material 153, a second soft insulating material 154, and / or a third soft insulating material 155. The soft insulating material may be disposed between the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and a panel, which is a vacuum insulator.

[0214] The first soft insulating material 153 may be disposed between one 1031 of the first panels and the block 127. The first soft insulating material 153 may be coupled to the first sub-block 1491. The first soft insulating material 153 is tightly attached while facing one 1031 of the first panels.

[0215] The second soft insulating material 154 may be disposed between another 1032 of the first panels and the block 127. The second soft insulating material 154 may be coupled to the second sub-block 1492. The second soft insulating material 154 is tightly attached while facing another 1032 of the first panels.

[0216] The third soft insulating material 155 may be disposed between the second panel 101 and one surface of the block 127. The third soft insulating material 155 may be coupled to one surface of the block 127. The third soft insulating material 155 is tightly attached while facing the second panel 101.

[0217] The first soft insulating material 153, the second soft insulating material 154, and / or the third soft insulating material 155 may be bonded to three surfaces of the block 127 by an adhesive means such as glue.

[0218] The block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body 100, which is a vacuum insulator, may be tightly attached to each other by the soft insulating material. The soft insulating material can prevent cold air from leaking through gaps between the block 127 and the main body 100.

[0219] However, the soft insulating material may also be disposed between surfaces where the block 127 or the coupling groove 1481 of the insulating reinforcement 148 and the vacuum panel 125 are connected together. Through this, the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the vacuum panel 125, which is a vacuum insulator, can be tightly attached to each other. The soft insulating material can prevent cold air from leaking through gaps between the block 127 and the vacuum panel 125.

[0220] Other components are identical or similar to those of the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, so redundant description will be omitted.

[0221] Accordingly, according to the present disclosure, the main body 100 forming the exterior of the refrigerator includingincludes a vacuum insulator, while the fourth panel 104 sectioning off the main body 100 and the machine room 122 includingincludes a combination of a vacuum insulator and a non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum insulator forms a vacuum space 1341 and 1253 with a predetermined gap between the first plate 134 and 1251 and the second plate 135 and 1252. The non-vacuum insulator is formed by filling polyurethane foam between the first cover 1223 and 1224 and the second cover 1222 .

[0222] Through this, a general pass-through structure can be applied to a portion of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, thereby eliminating the need for the corrugated pipe structure and / or sealable pass-through structure of the prior art patents, and / or a penetrating component may pass through the pass-through part 130 formed in the fourth panel 104, from the storage chamber formed inside the main body 100 to the machine room 122 disposed on one side of the main body 100.

[0223] Accordingly, the structure is simplified, making manufacturing easy and greatly contributing to a reduction of production costs. The pass-through part 130 of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, surrounds a penetrating component, and therefore the simplified structure can prevent cold air leakage and / or perform insulation efficiently.

[0224] For example, as long as the pass-through part 130 is simply formed to penetrate the fourth panel 104 in the Z-axis direction, penetrating components such as the drain pipe 1194 for draining defrosting water, the cycle pipe of the refrigeration cycle device, electrical wiring, and a signal line harness can be surrounded by the pass-through part 130. Thus, even without a separate corrugated pipe structure, insulation can be achieved between the penetrating components and the storage chamber, and since a portion of the fourth panel 104 where the pass-through part 130 is formed is a non-vacuum insulator, a separate sealable pass-through structure is unnecessary.

[0225] In order for an exhaust port for vacuuming air out of a vacuum insulator panel to be surrounded and accommodated by the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, an exhaust port housing is formed on at least one surface of the fourth panel 104. Through this, the exhaust port housing is formed to be recessed in the shape of a general groove in the fourth panel 104, and therefore the simplified structure allows for easy manufacturing and can reduce the production costs.

[0226] In addition, the fourth panel 104 may be three-dimensionally formed to include the vacuum panel 125, which is a vacuum insulator, the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the first block 149, and / or the insulating reinforcement 148. The vacuum panel 125 is configured to section off the storage chamber of the main body 100 and the machine room 122. The block 127 may be coupled to the vacuum panel 125. The first block 149 is formed to protrude from the vacuum panel 125. Furthermore, the insulating reinforcement 148 may be formed to protrude in one direction from one surface of the vacuum panel 125.

[0227] Besides, the fourth panel 104 allows the insulating layer 1273 at a corner portion where at least two panels are connected together through the block 127 and / or the first block 149 to be increased in thickness by protruding it inward of the refrigerator, thereby preventing heat leakage, and at the same time, it allows the insulating layer 1273 to be increased in thickness by protruding it outward of the refrigerator, thereby extending the length of a heat transfer path and / or improving thermal insulation performance.

[0228] Furthermore, a pass-through part 130 is formed so that the drain pipe 1194 for draining defrosting water penetrates a central portion of the fourth panel 104. The defrosting water pass-through part 130 is formed to penetrate a portion or central portion of the block 127 and / or the insulating reinforcement 148 in the Z-axis direction.

[0229] The recess 129 is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle from an end portion of the block 127 toward one side of the defrosting water pass-through part 130, thereby allowing the defrosting water to be smoothly drained.

[0230] By forming the defrosting water drain pipe 1194 to penetrate the block 127 or the insulating reinforcement 148, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the length of the heat transfer path is increased, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the defrosting water drain pipe 1194.

[0231] In addition, by providing a soft insulating material between the block 127 of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body 100, which is a vacuum insulator, the fourth panel 104 and the main body 100 can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.

[0232] The insulating reinforcement 148, which is a non-vacuum insulator, may be formed to protrude integrally from one surface of the block 127. The insulating reinforcement 148 is provided with the coupling groove 1481 which is coupled to the vacuum panel 125, so that the non-vacuum insulator can be coupled by assembling the vacuum insulator. Accordingly, a separate support frame for coupling the fourth panel 104 is unnecessary and / or the assemblability of the fourth panel 104 can be improved.

[0233] In addition, the inclined portion 133 may be formed on a portion of the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator. Through this, the inclined portion 133 minimizes the volume of the block 127 protruding into the refrigerator, thereby maximizing the inner capacity of the refrigerator. The inclined portion 133 can maintain smooth flow in the return passage of the second storage chamber 106.

[0234] Furthermore, by providing a soft insulating material between a portion of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body 100, which is a vacuum insulator, the fourth panel 104 and the main body 100 can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.

[0235] [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF MAIN ELEMENTS]1:refrigerator2:main body3:door4:compressor5:condenser6:expander7:evaporator8:machine room9:cavity10:vacuum insulator10a:first vacuum insulator10b:second vacuum insulator11:first plate11a:first portion11b:second portion11c:extended portion11d:branched portion12:second plate12a:first portion12b:second portion12c:third portion12d:extended portion12e:branched portion13:third plate14:side plate14a:first portion14b:second portion14c:extended portion14d:branched portion15:vacuum space16:vacuum space extension portion16a:X-direction extension portion16b:Y-direction extension portion17:connecting frame18:sealing bar19:support20:bar21:connecting plate22:support plate23:radiation resistance sheet25:shield26:conduction resistance sheet28:additional insulator29a:central insulator29b:peripheral insulator30:joint31:port32:conduit33:film34:porous material100:main body101:second panel102:third panel103:side panel1031:one of first panel1032:one of second panel104:fourth panel105:first storage chamber106:second storage chamber107:partition wall108:first storage chamber door109:second storage chamber door110:first first storage joint111:second first storage joint1111:coupling portion1112:bolt plate1113:bolt portion112:first second storage chamber joint113:Second second storage chamber joint114:second storage chamber insulation115:second storage chamber drawer guide116:evaporator117:evaporator coupling frame118:bolt plate1181:bolt portion119:sump1191:first bottom wall1192:second bottom wall1193:drain outlet1194:drain pipe120:circulation fan121:return duct122:machine room1221:front cover1222:back cover1223:first side cover1224:second side cover1225:air intake opening1226:bottom cover123:compressor124:cooling fan125:vacuum panel1251:first plate1252:second plate1253:vacuum space126:opening127:block1271:first cover1272:second cover1273:insulating layer1281:first seating portion1282:second seating portion129:recess1291:first recess1292:second recess1293:drain groove130:pass-through part131:first pass-through part132:second pass-through part133:inclined portion134:first plate135:second plate136:first exhaust port137:second exhaust port138:third exhaust port139:fourth exhaust port140:first exhaust port housing141:second exhaust port housing142:third exhaust port housing143:fourth exhaust port housing144:cycle pipe housing1441:outgoing through-hole145:suction line heat exchanger146:lead-out portion1461:first lead-out portion1462:second lead-out portion1463:third lead-out portion147:outgoing lead-out portion148:insulating reinforcement1481:coupling groove1482:protrusion149:first block1491:first sub-block 14911492:second sub-block 1492150:first sub-chamber joint151:second sub-chamber joint152:third first storage chamber joint153:first soft insulating material154:second soft insulating material155:third soft insulating material156:second storage chamber drawer

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0038]Hereinafter, a common description which describes portions commonly defined across all embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0039]Optionally, an insulator of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. Optionally, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion c...

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an insulator and, more particularly, to a refrigerator provided with an insulator.[Background Art]

[0002] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-1960320 (Publication Date: July 15, 2019, hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 1") discloses a refrigerator having a connecting pipe with a corrugated pipe structure provided in a vacuum space between an inner case and an outer case. According to Patent Document 1, both ends of the connecting pipe are connected from the vacuum space to a communication port of an inner case and a communication port of an outer case. The connecting pipe is formed of a thin metal plate, and a side wall of the connecting pipe is constructed with a bellows-type corrugated structure. Since the connecting pipe in Patent Document 1 penetrates a vacuum insulator, sealing is required to prevent vacuum leakage. In order to manufacture such a pass-through structure that requires sealing, the assembly process becomes complicated, and airtight joining such as welding needs to be performed, which may lead to deterioration in manufacturability.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to providing a refrigerator having a structure capable of solving the aforementioned problems.

[0004] A first objective is to provide a refrigerator in which a sealable pass-through structure required in a fourth panel of a vacuum insulator can be replaced with a simplified pass-through structure, when forming a pass-through structure in order for defrosting water generated from an evaporator or wiring of various components in a storage chamber to pass through the fourth panel.

[0005] A second objective is to provide a refrigerator capable of forming the fourth panel in a three-dimensional shape.

[0006] A third objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that facilitates manufacturing of the fourth panel and / or can improve manufacturability and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0007] A fourth objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that can maintain thermal insulation performance and / or minimize heat leakage at corner portions of a panel.[Technical Solution]

[0008] An insulator of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. In another example, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulator. The insulator may be provided in the form of a panel.

[0009] The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include at least one panel. A plurality of the panels may be connected by a joint. The present disclosure may include a first panel forming a first surface (e.g., side surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present disclosure may include a second panel forming a second surface (e.g., rear surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present disclosure may include a third panel forming a third surface (e.g., top surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present disclosure may include a fourth panel forming a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the refrigerator. One or more of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may be provided in multiple parts. The panel may be an insulator or a vacuum insulator. The first panel may include one first panel forming the first surface of the refrigerator, and another first panel forming the second surface of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may provide at least a portion of a wall forming a storage chamber of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the main body of the refrigerator.

[0010] In the present disclosure, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may include a panel formed by a first insulator and a second insulator having a different thermal conductivity per unit thickness from the first insulator. In the present disclosure, a first panel including a portion disposed in a first direction and / or a second panel including a portion disposed in a second direction different from the first direction may be provided. A void space may be formed between the first panel and the second panel. At least one of the first panel and the second panel may include the first insulator, and / or the void space may be provided with a block that includes a portion extending in the same direction as either the first panel or the second panel and has the second insulator. One end of the block may be connected to the first panel, and / or the other end of the block may be connected to the second panel. The second insulator may be connected to or support the first insulator. The second insulator may be coupled to the first insulator. The second insulator may be defined as an insulating layer having a lower thermal conductivity per unit thickness or a lower degree of vacuum than the first insulator. For example, the first insulator may includinginclude a vacuum insulator, and / or the second insulator may includinginclude a non-vacuum insulator. The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a penetrating component. The penetrating component will be defined later. The penetrating component may be disposed at the second insulator. In the second insulator, a passage through which fluid flows or a passage through which a component passes through the second insulator may be formed. The second insulator may include a first surface disposed toward a first space and / or a second surface disposed toward a second space, and the passage may be provided to connect a through-hole formed in the first surface and / or a through-hole formed in the second surface. The passage may provide a passage that fluidly connects the first space and the second space. If at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels provides at least a portion of a wall forming the storage chamber, the first space may be defined as an internal space of the storage chamber, and / or the second space may be defined as an external space of the storage chamber, for example.

[0011] In the present disclosure, a machine room disposed in the refrigerator may be provided. The machine room is sectioned off from the storage chamber. At least one of the at least two panels includingincludes a vacuum insulator. At least one of the at least two panels includes a vacuum panel and / or a block. The block may be defined as an insulating layer having a lower thermal conductivity per unit thickness or a lower degree of vacuum than the vacuum panel. For example, the vacuum panel may includinginclude a vacuum insulator, and / or the block may includinginclude a non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum panel may be disposed between the storage chamber and the machine room, or may be provided between the internal space of the storage chamber and the external space of the storage chamber. The block is coupled to one side of the vacuum panel. The block may be provided together with the vacuum panel to section off the storage chamber and the machine room, or may be provided between the internal space of the storage chamber and the external space of the storage chamber. A flow path may be formed in the block to fluidly connect the internal space of the storage chamber and the external space of the storage chamber.

[0012] The vacuum insulator may include a first plate, a second plate, and a vacuum space provided between the first plate and the second plate. The second plate is disposed to be spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance. The support is configured to hold the vacuum space.

[0013] The non-vacuum insulator may include a first cover having a first space therein. The non-vacuum insulator may include a second cover having a second space therein. The second cover may be disposed on one side of the first cover. The second cover includes a second space that communicates with the first space. The insulator is filled with polyurethane foam in the first space and the second space.

[0014] A pass-through part is formed in the block so as to pass therethrough in one direction. A penetrating component may be disposed in the pass-through part. The pass-through part receives a penetrating component that passes therethrough from the storage chamber to the machine room or vice versa. The pass-through part includes a first pass-through part that receives a drain pipe through which defrosting water generated from an evaporator is drained. The pass-through part includes a second pass-through part that receives electrical wiring or a signal line.

[0015] The first pass-through part is formed to penetrate a portion or central portion of the block in one direction. A recess is formed toward the first pass-through part from a peripheral portion of the block, or the recess is formed to be inclined. The second pass-through part is disposed to be spaced apart from the first pass-through part, or may be disposed at one end of the block to be spaced apart from the first pass-through part.

[0016] An exhaust port for forming a vacuum space inside the vacuum insulator is received in an exhaust port housing. The exhaust port housing may be formed on at least one surface of the block.

[0017] An evaporator that evaporates refrigerant to cool the air in the storage chamber is provided in the storage chamber. The machine room receives a compressor that compresses the refrigerant and / or a condenser that condenses the refrigerant. The penetrating component includes a suction line heat exchanger. The suction line heat exchanger is received inside the panel. The suction line heat exchanger is configured to perform heat exchange by connecting the suction line, which is connected between the evaporator and the compressor, and a capillary tube that expands the refrigerant condensed in the condenser and delivers the same to the evaporator. The main body includes one or more or, a plurality of, lead-out portions is connected to the suction line heat exchanger and / or protruding from one surface of the third panel. The main body includes an outgoing lead-out portion connected to any one of the plurality of lead-out portions and extending from the storage chamber toward the machine room. The panel includes a cycle pipe housing. The cycle pipe housing is formed on one surface of the block. The cycle pipe housing receives the plurality of lead-out portions and the outgoing lead-out portion. The block extends toward the outside of the storage chamber. The block is configured to cover a portion of the panel or a portion of the vacuum panel.

[0018] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an insulating reinforcement. The insulating reinforcement may include a portion formed to protrude from the block. The insulating reinforcement may be formed to protrude from a portion of the block toward the machine room. The first pass-through part and the second pass-through part may be spaced apart from each other, and / or may be formed to penetrate the block and the insulating reinforcement.

[0019] A coupling groove is formed on one surface of the insulating reinforcement. The block may be coupled to and supported by a portion of the vacuum panel through the coupling groove.

[0020] An inclined portion may be formed to be inclined on one surface of the block.

[0021] An evaporator is provided in the storage chamber. A return duct is formed on one surface of the inclined portion to be inclined at a predetermined distance from the inclined portion. The return duct may form an air passage through which air circulates from the storage chamber to the evaporator.[Advantageous Effects]

[0022] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the following effects can be achieved.

[0023] First, the main body forming the exterior of the refrigerator includingincludes a vacuum insulator, while the panel sectioning off the main body and the machine room includingincludes a combination of a vacuum insulator and a non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum insulator forms a vacuum space with a predetermined gap between the first plate and the second plate. The non-vacuum insulator is formed by filling polyurethane foam between the first cover and the second cover.

[0024] Through this, a general pass-through structure can be applied to a portion of the fourth panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, thereby eliminating the need for the corrugated pipe structure and / or sealable pass-through structure of the prior art patents, and / or a penetrating component may pass through the pass-through part formed in the fourth panel, from the storage chamber formed inside the main body to the machine room disposed on one side of the main body.

[0025] Accordingly, the structure is simplified, making manufacturing easy and greatly contributing to a reduction of production costs. The pass-through part of the fourth panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, surrounds a penetrating component, and therefore the simplified structure can prevent cold air leakage and / or perform insulation efficiently.

[0026] For example, as long as the pass-through part is simply formed to penetrate the panel in one direction (e.g., up-down direction), penetrating components such as the drain pipe for draining defrosting water, the cycle pipe of the refrigeration cycle device, electrical wiring, and a signal line harness can be surrounded by the pass-through part. Thus, even without a separate corrugated pipe structure, insulation can be achieved between the penetrating components and the storage chamber, and since a portion of the panel where the pass-through part is formed is a non-vacuum insulator, a separate sealable pass-through structure is unnecessary.

[0027] In order for an exhaust port for vacuuming air out of a vacuum insulator panel to be surrounded and accommodated by the panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, an exhaust port housing is formed on at least one surface of the panel. Through this, the exhaust port housing is formed to be recessed in the shape of a general groove in the panel, and therefore the simplified structure allows for easy manufacturing and can reduce the production costs.

[0028] Second, the panel may be three-dimensionally formed to include the vacuum panel, which is a vacuum insulator, the block, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the first block, and / or the insulating reinforcement. The vacuum panel is configured to section off the storage chamber of the main body and the machine room. The block may be coupled to the vacuum panel. The first block is formed to protrude from one side of the vacuum panel. Furthermore, the insulating reinforcement may be formed to protrude from one surface of the vacuum panel.

[0029] The panel allows the insulating layer at a corner portion where at least two panels are connected together through the block and / or the first block to be increased in thickness by protruding it inward of the refrigerator, thereby preventing heat leakage, and at the same time, it allows the insulating layer to be increased in thickness by protruding it outward of the refrigerator, thereby extending the length of a heat transfer path and / or improving thermal insulation performance.

[0030] Third, a pass-through part is formed so that the drain pipe for draining defrosting water penetrates a central portion of the fourth panel. The defrosting water pass-through part is formed to penetrate a portion or central portion of the block and / or the insulating reinforcement in one direction.

[0031] The recess is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle from an end portion of the block toward one side of the defrosting water pass-through part, thereby allowing the defrosting water to be smoothly drained.

[0032] By forming the defrosting water drain pipe to penetrate the block or the insulating reinforcement, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the length of the heat transfer path is increased, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the defrosting water drain pipe.

[0033] Fourth, by providing a soft insulating material between the block of the panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body, which is a vacuum insulator, the fourth panel and the main body can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.

[0034] Fifth, the insulating reinforcement, which is a non-vacuum insulator, may be formed to protrude integrally from one surface of the block. The insulating reinforcement is provided with the coupling groove which is coupled to the vacuum panel, so that the non-vacuum insulator can be coupled by assembling the vacuum insulator. Accordingly, a separate support frame for coupling the panel is unnecessary and / or the assemblability of the panel can be improved.

[0035] Sixth, the inclined portion may be formed on a portion of the block, which is a non-vacuum insulator. Through this, the inclined portion minimizes the volume of the block protruding into the refrigerator, thereby maximizing the inner capacity of the refrigerator. The inclined portion can maintain smooth flow in the return passage of the second storage chamber.

[0036] Seventh, by providing a soft insulating material between a portion of the panel, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body, which is a vacuum insulator, the panel and the main body can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.[Description of Drawings]

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a conceptual view for explaining a vacuum insulator provided in the refrigerator of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a conceptual view for explaining a third plate provided in the plate of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a conceptual view for explaining a heat transfer resistor provided in the plate of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which the main body of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with panels of a vacuum insulator. FIG. 6 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a block and the like are provided on one side of the main body in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which defrosting water generated from an evaporator of a second storage chamber in FIG. 6 passes through a pass-through part of the block and moves to a machine room. FIG. 8 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an exhaust port and the like protruding from a panel of the vacuum insulator in FIG. 6 are received in a housing of the block. FIG. 9 is a conceptual view showing the block viewed from various angles in FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an insulating reinforcement is further provided on one side of the block in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a first block and the like are in another embodiment coupled to the main body according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. 11, which is a conceptual view showing the exhaust ports accommodated in an insulation block, a first sub-block 1491, and / or a second sub-block 1492. FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled between the block and the second panel. FIG. 14 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled to the block. [Mode for Invention]

[0038] Hereinafter, a common description which describes portions commonly defined across all embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0039] Optionally, an insulator of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. Optionally, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion connected to the first insulator, or may include a portion disposed to overlap the first insulator in at least one direction. The insulator may be a vacuum insulator including a vacuum space, or a non-vacuum insulator which does not include a vacuum space. The insulator may be a combination of the vacuum insulator and the non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum space provided in the second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the vacuum space provided in the first insulator. The vacuum space provided in the second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the vacuum space provided in the first insulator. The vacuum space provided in the second insulator may include a portion disposed to overlap the vacuum space provided in the first insulator in at least one direction. The insulator may be provided in the form of a panel. In the present disclosure, the following description will be given with respect to a "panel", and an embodiment in which the term "panel" is replaced with the term "insulator" may also be included within the present disclosure. For example, in the present disclosure, the following description assumes that at least two panels of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator, it may be understood or interpreted that at least two insulators of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator.

[0040] Optionally, the refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a main body. The main body may include at least one storage chamber. The main body may further include a partition wall that separates a first storage chamber and a second storage chamber. A first storage chamber joint may include a first first-storage-compartment joint, a second sub-chamber joint, and / or a third first-storage-compartment joint. The second storage chamber joint may be provided on one side of the second storage chamber. The second storage chamber joint may include a first joint, a second joint, and / or a third joint.

[0041] The partition wall may include the vacuum insulator and / or the non-vacuum insulator. The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a door. The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a machine room disposed on one side of the main body. In the machine room, one or more of the following may be arranged: a compressor, heat-dissipating components (e.g., a condenser, a heat-dissipating portion of a thermoelectric module, or a heat sink that exchanges heat with the heat-dissipating portion of the thermoelectric module), and a cooling fan. The machine room may include at least one of the following: a first cover (e.g., side cover) forming at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., side surface) for the machine room, a second cover (e.g., back cover) forming at least a portion of a second surface (e.g., rear surface), a third cover (e.g., upper cover) forming at least a portion of a third surface (e.g., top surface), a fourth cover (e.g., bottom cover) forming at least a portion of a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface), and a fifth cover (e.g., front cover) forming at least a portion of a fifth surface (e.g., front surface). One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth covers may be provided as a single component or as multiple components. The machine room of the refrigerator of the present disclosure may include the insulator.

[0042] The panel may include one or more of a first plate, a second plate, and a side plate. A vacuum space may be provided between the first plate and the second plate. The refrigerator of the present disclosure may include at least one panel. The present disclosure may include: a first panel forming at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., side surface) of the refrigerator; a second panel forming at least a portion of a second surface (e.g., rear surface) of the refrigerator; a third panel forming at least a portion of a third surface (e.g., top surface) of the refrigerator; a fourth panel forming at least a portion of a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the refrigerator; and a fifth panel forming at least a portion of a fifth surface (e.g., front surface) of the refrigerator. One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces of the refrigerator may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the main body or at least a portion of a wall forming the door. One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a single component or as multiple components. The joint may be provided to connect corners of the refrigerator or to connect a first wall and a second wall which form the refrigerator's wall. The joint may be provided to connect the panel to another component (e.g., another panel). The joint may be provided to connect at least two or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. One or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided in multiple parts, and the joint may be provided to connect the plurality of panels to each other. The joint may include a first surface, a second surface, and / or a third surface. The first surface of the joint may cover at least a portion of at least one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The second surface of the joint may cover at least a portion of at least another one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The third surface of the joint may be connected to the first surface of the joint and / or the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the joint may be connected to a corner of the first surface of the joint and / or a corner of the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the joint may be formed to be inclined with respect to at least one of the first surface of the joint and the second surface of the joint. At least some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a panel having a first thermal insulation performance per unit thickness, and at least some others of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a panel having a second thermal insulation performance per unit thickness. The first thermal insulation performance and the second thermal insulation performance may be different from each other.

[0043] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a duct. The duct may include a first duct, a second duct, and / or a third duct. The first duct may supply cold air to the first storage chamber or the second storage chamber. The second duct may receive an evaporator. The third duct may be connected in communication with the first duct and the second duct. The third duct may include a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, a fourth surface, and / or a fifth surface. The first surface of the third duct may surround the first surface of the joint. The second surface of the third duct may surround the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the third duct may surround the third surface of the joint. The third duct may further include a fourth surface. The fourth surface of the third duct may be disposed to extend from the first surface of the third duct or face the second storage chamber. The fifth surface of the third duct may be disposed to extend from the second surface of the third duct or to face the evaporator.

[0044] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a block. The block may include a portion extending in the same direction as one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The block may include a portion extending in a different direction from one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The block may include a first surface (e.g., left surface), a second surface (e.g., right surface), a third surface (e.g., rear surface), a fourth surface (e.g., bottom surface), a fifth surface (e.g., top surface), and a sixth surface (e.g., front surface). Some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces of the refrigerator may be provided in the form of a panel, and some others of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces of the refrigerator may be provided in the form of a block. The block may be provided as the non-vacuum insulator. For example, the block may be a block cover and / or polyurethane (PU) foam filling the inside of the block cover. The block may include one or more of a first block portion (e.g., side block portion), a second block portion (e.g., rear block portion or front block portion), and a third block portion (e.g., bottom block portion or top block portion). Each of the first, second, and third block portions may be provided in multiple parts. At least two or more of the first, second, and third block portions may be connected and provided as the joint. The third block portion may form one surface of the first storage chamber and / or may form one surface of the machine room. The third block portion may be provided as a partition wall, or may form one surface of the first storage chamber.

[0045] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an insulating reinforcement. The insulating reinforcement may include a portion connected to one side of the block or a portion formed to protrude from the block.

[0046] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a hinge. The hinge may be disposed on one side of the insulator. The hinge may be disposed on the main body and / or door of the refrigerator.

[0047] The hinge may include one or more of: a hinge fixing part that is coupled to at least one of the insulator, the main body of the refrigerator, and the door of the refrigerator; a hinge shaft; and a hinge connecting portion that protrudes and extends from the hinge fixing part. The hinge may include one or more of: a first hinge (e.g., upper hinge) disposed on one side of a wall forming the first storage chamber; a second hinge (e.g., middle hinge) disposed on the partition wall; and a third hinge (e.g., lower hinge) on a wall forming the second storage chamber. The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include one or more of: a hinge reinforcing frame for reinforcing the strength of the hinge; a cover to which the hinge is coupled; and a hinge reinforcing plate that is configured to be connected to or received in the panel. The hinge reinforcing frame may include one or more of first, second, third, and fourth frame portions. At least two of the first, second, third, and fourth frame portions may extend in different directions.

[0048] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a support frame. The support frame may support one surface of the panel. The support frame may include a coupling portion. The block may be supported on the machine room by the support frame. The support frame may include a first support frame and / or a second support frame.

[0049] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an inner cover. The inner cover may be disposed between the cover of the machine room and the hinge reinforcing frame (e.g., the first frame portion).

[0050] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a decoration. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the insulator. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the main body and / or door of the refrigerator. For example, the decoration may be disposed on an outer surface of the insulator or on an outer surface of the refrigerator.

[0051] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a hot line. The hot line may be disposed on a surface of the insulator. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the main body and / or door of the refrigerator. The hot line may be disposed between the decoration and the surface of the insulator. The hot line may be disposed between the decoration and the surface of the refrigerator and / or between the decoration and the surface of the door.

[0052] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a casing. The casing may be an exterior casing or an interior casing. The exterior casing may be connected to the second plate. The exterior casing may be provided to cover at least a portion of the second plate. The exterior casing may be provided in contact with the second plate or spaced apart from the second plate by a predetermined distance. The interior casing may be connected to the twelfth plate. The interior casing may be provided to cover at least a portion of the first plate. The interior casing may be provided in contact with the first plate or spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance.

[0053] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a drawer and / or a drawer guide. The drawer guide may be provided with a first storage chamber drawer guide provided in the first storage chamber. The first storage chamber drawer guide may include at least one of a first plate (e.g., side plate), a second plate (e.g., bottom plate), a third plate (e.g., top plate), and a fourth plate (e.g., middle plate).

[0054] The drawer guide may include a second storage chamber drawer guide provided in the second storage chamber.

[0055] The insulator or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a shelf and / or a shelf support frame.

[0056] [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention] is divided into the foregoing [Common Description] and the following [Description Based on Drawings]. In the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], each specific matter described for implementing the invention may be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], a combination of at least two or more of the specific matters described for implementing the invention may also be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, in the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], each paragraph of the [Common Description] section or the section described based on the drawings, as well as a combination of such paragraphs, may be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure. In another example, in the [Detailed Description for Implementing the Invention], each sentence of the [Common Description] section or the section described based on the drawings, as well as a combination of such sentences, may be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Hereinafter, based on each drawing, the [Description Based on Drawings] section describing the present disclosure will be set forth.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include plates 11, 12, and 14. In the present disclosure, the term "plate" may refer to at least one of the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14. Optionally, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a vacuum space 15. The vacuum space 15 may be formed by walls provided by the plates 11, 12, and 14. The vacuum space 15 may have a thickness in a first direction. The plates 11, 12, and 14 may include: the first plate 11; and the second plate 12. The first plate 11 may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The second plate 12 may include a portion extending in another direction different from the first direction. Optionally, the plates may include a side plate 14 including a portion extending in the first direction. For example, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be provided such that the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14 may be each provided as separate components, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. In another example, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be provided such that at least two of the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14 are integrally provided, and such that the separate components are connected to one another. In yet another example, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be provided such that portions connecting the first plate 11, the second plate 12, and the side plate 14 are each integrally provided. In this case, the first plate 11 may be provided as a separate component, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. Alternatively, the second plate 12 may be provided as a separate component, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. Alternatively, the side plate 14 may be provided as a separate component, and the separate components may be provided to be connected to one another. Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a third plate disposed on at least a portion of the insulator 10 or connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, 14. The third plate may include a portion provided to be thinner than or equal in thickness to the plates 11, 12, and 14. The third plate may include a portion provided to be thicker than the plates 11, 12, and 14. The third plate may be disposed in the vacuum space 15 or disposed outside the vacuum space 15. Examples of the third plate may include a heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34, a deformation resistor 13, and the like, as described in the present disclosure.

[0059] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 (thermal insulator) for reducing the amount of heat transfer between a first space provided adjacent to the first plate 11 and a second space provided adjacent to the second plate 12, or for reducing the amount of heat transfer between the first plate 11 and the second plate 12. A heat transfer resistor that reduces the amount of heat transfer by conduction may be defined as a conduction resistance sheet 26a and 26b, and a heat transfer resistor that reduces the amount of heat transfer by radiation may be defined as a radiation resistance sheet 23. The heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may be provided as a porous material 34 or as a filler 34. A filler whose inside is filled with a porous material may be defined as the porous material 34. The heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may include at least one of the radiation resistance sheet 23, the porous material 34, the filler 34, and the conduction resistance sheet 26a and 26b, or a mixture of at least two thereof. The heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may be provided so as not to be connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14 or make contact with the plates 11, 12, and 14. A shield 24 may be provided for insulation outside the heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34. A connecting frame 17 may be provided outside the heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34. The insulator 10 may include a conduit penetrating the vacuum space 15. The conduit may be formed by providing a pipe wall 32 as a separate component, or may be provided in such a manner that the pipe wall 32 is omitted and only a through-hole is formed in the plate. The side plate 14 may be provided adjacent to the conduit, or the heat transfer resistor 23, 26a, 26b, and 34 may be provided adjacent to the conduit.

[0060] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a deformation resistor 13 connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14 to increase the internal deformation resistance of the plates 11, 12, and 14. When the deformation resistor is provided in the form of a plate, the deformation resistor may be referred to as a deformation resistant plate.

[0061] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a support 19 that is connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 13 and holds the vacuum space 15. The support 19 may include a bar 20 having a portion extending in the first direction, which is the thickness direction of the vacuum space 15. The support 19 may include a support plate 22 having a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The support 19 may include a plurality of bars 20 and a connecting plate 21 connecting the plurality of bars 20. The support 19 may include at least one of the bars 20, the connecting plate 21, and the support plate 22 or a combination of at least two thereof.

[0062] Optionally, the insulator 10 of the present disclosure may include a component coupling portion that provides a portion on which the components 24, 28, and 32 are disposed or supported. For example, when the component coupling portion is provided in the form of a plate, the component coupling portion may be referred to as a component coupling plate. A component connected to the component coupling portion may include a penetrating component configured to penetrate at least a portion of the insulator 10 or at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14. A component connected to the component coupling portion may include a surface component configured to be connected to a surface of the insulator 10 or to be connected to a surface of the plates 11, 12, and 14. The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which a fluid (e.g., electricity, refrigerant, water, and air) passes. The penetrating component may be provided in the form of a tube. The tube may include a straight tube and / or a curved tube. The tube may be provided in multiple parts, or may extend in one direction. The penetrating component may include at least one of the tube, a first lead-out portion, and a second lead-out portion. In the present disclosure, the term "fluid" is defined as any kind of object that flows. The fluid may include a moving solid, liquid, gas, and electricity. The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which a refrigerant for heat exchange passes, such as a suction line heat exchanger (SLHX) or a refrigerant pipe. The SLHX may be understood as a suction line heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between a refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator and a refrigerant before being introduced into the evaporator. The penetrating component may be a wire that supplies electricity to the apparatus. The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which air can pass, such as a duct or port along whose surface fluid flows. The port may include an exhaust port that provides a path for air to escape from a space formed between the first plate 11 and the second plate 12, in order to form the vacuum space 15. The penetrating component may be a path through which a fluid such as cooling water, hot water, ice, and defrosting water can pass. Examples of the surface component may include peripheral insulation, a side panel, injected foam, pre-prepared resin, a hinge, a latch, a basket, a drawer, a shelf, a light, a sensor, an evaporator 7, a front decoration, a hotline, a heater, an outer cover, and an inner cover.

[0063] Through FIGS. 1 to 4, the terms plate, first plate, second plate, side plate, third plate, vacuum space, heat transfer resistor, conduction resistance sheet, radiation resistance sheet, porous material, filler, component coupling portion, joint, support, bar, support plate, connecting plate, deformation resistor, deformation resistance plate, component coupling portion, component coupling plate, penetrating component, surface component, duct, and port have been defined. In the present disclosure, when the above terms are used for portions other than the portions with respect to which the explanations of FIGS. 1 to 4 are described, the terms used shall be interpreted as defined in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0064] In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is connected to object B" may be defined as object A being directly connected to at least a portion of object B, or at least a portion of object A being connected to at least a portion of object B through an intermedium disposed between objects A and B. In a modification, the expression "object A is connected to object B" may include object A and object B being integrally prepared in such a manner as to be connected by the aforementioned method. In the present disclosure, examples of connection may include supporting, combining, and sealing, as described below. In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is supported by object B" may be defined as object A being restricted in movement in one or more of the +X, -X, +Y, -Y, +Z, and -Z axis directions by object B. In the present disclosure, examples of supporting may include combining and sealing, as described below. In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is combined with object B" may be defined as object A being restricted in movement in one or more of the X, Y, and Z axis directions by object B. In the present disclosure, an example of combining may include sealing, as described below. In the present disclosure, the expression "object A is sealed to object B" may be defined as a state in which movement of fluid is not permitted at a portion where object A and object B are connected. In the present disclosure, at least a portion of one or more objects, i.e., object A and object B, may be defined as including: a portion of object A, the entirety of object A, a portion of object B, the entirety of object B, a portion of object A and a portion of object B, a portion of object A and the entirety of object B, the entirety of object A and a portion of object B, and the entirety of object A and the entirety of object B. In the present disclosure, the expression "plate A may be a wall defining space A" may be defined as at least a portion of plate A being a wall forming at least a portion of space A. That is, at least a portion of plate A may be a wall forming space A, or plate A may be a wall forming at least a portion of space A. In the present disclosure, a central portion of an object may be defined as a portion located in the center when the object is divided into three equal parts along the lengthwise direction of the object. A peripheral portion of the object may be defined as a portion located on one side or the other side of the central portion among the three equal parts. The peripheral portion of the object may include a surface adjoining the central portion and a surface opposite thereto. The surface opposite thereto may be defined as a border or corner of the object. In the present disclosure, the degree of deformation resistance indicates the extent to which the object resists deformation, which may be defined as a value determined by a shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, and the processing method of the object. In the present disclosure, the degree of heat transfer resistance indicates the extent to which the object resists heat transfer, which may be defined as a value determined by a shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, and the processing method of the object. In the present disclosure, the degree of heat transfer resistance may be defined as at least one of the degree of conduction resistance, the degree of radiation resistance, and the degree of convection resistance or a combination of at least two thereof. In the following description, the terms "upper side," "lower side," "right side," "left side," "front side," and "rear side" shall be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5. An example of "+Z" may mean "upper side," an example of "-Z" may mean "lower side," an example of "+Y" may mean "right side," an example of "-Y" may mean "left side," an example of "+X" may mean "front side," and an example of "-X" may mean "rear side." In this specification, the front-rear direction as used herein may be an example of the X-axis direction, the left-right direction may be an example of the Y-axis direction, and the up-down direction may be an example of the Z-axis direction.

[0065] The insulator 10 of the present disclosure may be applied to a refrigerator 1. The refrigerator 1 may include a main body 2 provided with a cavity 9 for storing storage items, and a door 3 provided to open and close the main body 2. A cold source for supplying cold air to the cavity 9 may be provided. For example, the cold source may be an evaporator 7 that evaporates refrigerant to take heat. The refrigerator may include a compressor 4 that compresses the refrigerant. The refrigerator may include a condenser 5 that condenses the compressed refrigerant. The condenser 5 may be connected to an expander 6 that expands the condensed refrigerant.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which the main body 100 of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with panels of a vacuum insulator.

[0067] FIG. 6 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a block 127 and the like are provided on one side of the main body 100 in FIG. 5.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which defrosting water generated from an evaporator 116 of a second storage chamber 106 in FIG. 6 passes through a pass-through part 130 of the block 127 and moves to a machine room 122.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an exhaust port and the like protruding from a panel of the vacuum insulator in FIG. 6 are received in a housing of the block 127.

[0070] FIG. 9 is a conceptual view showing the block 127 viewed from various angles in FIG. 8.

[0071] FIG. 10 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which an insulating reinforcement 148 is further provided on one side of the block 127 in FIG. 9.

[0072] A refrigerator according to the present disclosure includes a main body 100 and a door (see FIG. 20). The main body 100 forms the exterior of the refrigerator. The main body 100 may include one 1031 of first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, a second panel 101, a fourth panel 104, and / or a third panel 102.

[0073] The main body 100 may include at least two panels. For example, at least two panels including the main body 100 may include one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, a second panel 101, a fourth panel 104, and a third panel 102. The second panel 101 forms one surface of the refrigerator. As an example of the one surface, one surface of the refrigerator may be formed. The third panel 102 forms another surface of the refrigerator. One 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels form yet another surface of the refrigerator. As an example of the yet another surface, one surface of the refrigerator may be formed. One 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels may be disposed to face each other in one direction. The fourth panel 104 forms one surface of the refrigerator. As an example of the one surface, a lower surface of the refrigerator may be formed.

[0074] A machine room 122, which will be described later, may be installed on the fourth panel 104. As one example, the machine room 122 may be disposed on one side of the fourth panel 104. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0075] The vacuum insulator may form at least one of the second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, and the fourth panel 104 or a portion of at least thereof. The second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 and another 1032 of at least two first panels, and the fourth panel 104 may each be formed in a rectangular shape.

[0076] In this embodiment, the second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 of the first panels, and / or another 1032 of the first panels is configured to be a vacuum insulator. In this embodiment, the second panel 101, the third panel 102, one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels are including a vacuum insulator. However, the fourth panel 104, which will be described later, shows a configuration it includingincludes a combination of a non-vacuum insulator and a vacuum insulator. The fourth panel 104, which will be described later, may be at least partially including a non-vacuum insulator or at least partially including a vacuum insulator.

[0077] A storage chamber is formed inside the main body 100. The storage chamber is formed to be open toward one direction (e.g., forward) of the main body 100. The storage chamber includes a second storage chamber 106 and / or a first storage chamber 105. The second storage chamber 106 and / or the first storage chamber 105 may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Z-axis direction or Y-axis direction of the main body 100.

[0078] The door includes a first storage chamber door 108 and / or a second storage chamber door 109. The second storage chamber 106 and the first storage chamber 105 may be sectioned off by a partition wall 107. The partition wall 107 may extend in one direction (e.g., horizontally) along the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction from one surface of one 1031 of the first panels to one surface of another 1032 of the first panels.

[0079] The partition wall 107 may be positioned between one-third and two-thirds of the height in one direction from the fourth panel 104, when the height (vertical distance) between the fourth panel 104 and the third panel 102 is divided into three equal parts. In this embodiment, the partition wall 107 is illustrated as disposed approximately one-third of the height in one direction from the fourth panel 104.

[0080] The partition wall 107 may be formed in a rectangular shape. The partition wall 107 may have a thickness in the Z-axis direction. The partition wall 107 may extend longer in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction relative to the thickness.

[0081] A first storage chamber joint and / or an insulation block of the first storage chamber 105 may be installed on one surface of the first storage chamber 105.

[0082] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 are disposed at corners where panels forming the first storage chamber 105 are connected. For example, the first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 include a first sub-chamber joint 110 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and the third panel 102 are connected, and / or a second sub-chamber joint 111 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels are connected.

[0083] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be formed of an insulating layer 1273 such as polyurethane (PU) foam. Accordingly, heat leakage through the corners where the panels are connected can be minimized.

[0084] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be injection-molded using a plastic material so as to surround the insulating layer 1273.

[0085] The first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be coupled to one surface of a panel including a vacuum insulator by means of a component coupling portion. The component coupling portion may be implemented as a bolt plate 118 and 1112 with a bolt portion 1181 or 1113 formed therein or as a frame.

[0086] A coupling portion 1111 may be formed to protrude on one side of the first storage chamber joints 110 and 111. The coupling portion 1111 may be coupled to the bolt portion 1113 of the bolt plate 1112. Through this, the coupling portion 1111 and the bolt plate 1112 are coupled together, so that the first storage chamber joints 110 and 111 may be installed on one surface of the first storage chamber 105.

[0087] Meanwhile, a second storage chamber joint 112 and 113 and / or a second storage chamber insulating block 114 may be installed on one surface of the second storage chamber 106.

[0088] The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are disposed at corners where panels forming the second storage chamber 106 are connected. The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are formed to extend in the Z-axis direction. The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are configured to connect adjacent panels together.

[0089] The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are formed of an insulating layer 1273 such as polyurethane (PU) foam. A joint cover surrounding the insulating layer 1273 of the second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 may be injection-molded using a plastic material. Accordingly, the second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 can block heat leakage through the corners where the panels are connected.

[0090] The second storage chamber insulating block 114 may extend along one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels in the X-axis direction and / or the Z-axis direction. The second storage chamber insulating block 114 may include an insulating layer 1273 such as polyurethane (PU) foam and / or a block cover surrounding the same. Accordingly, the second storage chamber insulating block 114 can expand the insulation area of the second storage chamber joints 112 and 113.

[0091] A second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be formed on one surface of the second storage chamber insulating block 114 so as to protrude in the Y-axis direction. The second storage chamber drawer guide 115 extends in the X-axis direction.

[0092] Accordingly, when the second storage chamber drawer 156 is inserted into or pulled out of the second storage chamber 106, it may guide the sliding movement of the second storage chamber drawer 156.

[0093] The second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be integrally formed with the second storage chamber insulating block 114. The second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be integrally formed with the block cover of the second storage chamber insulating block 114. In this case, the second storage chamber drawer guide 115 may be formed of the same material as the block cover, for example, a plastic material.

[0094] An evaporator 116 is disposed in the second storage chamber 106. The evaporator 116 may extend in the Z-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The evaporator 116 may include a refrigerant pipe through which refrigerant flows and / or a plurality of heat exchange fins formed in a plate shape to expand the heat exchange area of the refrigerant. The evaporator 116 generates cold air by heat exchange between the air in the second storage chamber 106 and the refrigerant.

[0095] The evaporator 116 may be coupled to the second panel 101 by means of an evaporator coupling frame 117. The evaporator coupling frame 117 may be coupled to the second panel 101 using a component coupling portion such as the bolt plate 118. The bolt plate 118 includes at least one bolt portion 1181. The bolt plate 118 may be bonded to the second panel 101 by an adhesive means such as glue. The bolt plate 118 and 1112 may couple a target object to a panel including a vacuum insulator by holding the bolt portion 1181 and 1113 and the target object together.

[0096] A defrost heater (not shown) is installed on the evaporator 116. The defrost heater extends along the refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 116 and / or is configured to heat the refrigerant pipe. The defrost heater can remove frost attached to the evaporator 116 by heating.

[0097] A sump 119 may be provided on one side of the evaporator 116. The sump 119 is configured to surround a portion of the evaporator 116 and / or to receive defrost water flowing down from the evaporator 116. The sump 119 receives one side of the evaporator 116.

[0098] The sump 119 may include a rear wall, a front wall, a side wall, and / or a bottom wall. The rear wall forms one surface of the sump 119 and / or extends in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction so as to surround the evaporator 116. A first bottom wall 1191 extending from the rear wall may be formed to be inclined downward toward a drain outlet 1193, which will be described later.

[0099] The front wall forms one surface of the sump 119 and / or extends in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction so as to surround one surface of the evaporator 116. A second bottom wall 1192 extending from the front wall may be formed to be inclined downward toward the drain outlet 1193, which will be described later.

[0100] The side wall forms one surface of the sump 119 and / or extends in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction so as to surround one surface of the evaporator 116.

[0101] The bottom wall forms the bottom surface of the sump 119 and / or extends to be inclined at a predetermined angle to a horizontal line in the Y-axis direction so as to surround the bottom surface of the evaporator 116.

[0102] The drain outlet 1193 is formed to penetrate the center of the bottom wall in the Z-axis direction. The bottom wall may be formed to be inclined downward from the side wall toward the drain outlet 1193. Accordingly, defrosting water does not remain in the sump 119 but can be effectively discharged through the drain outlet 1193.

[0103] A drain pipe 1194 is connected to the bottom wall. The drain pipe 1194 is connected to communicate with the drain outlet 1193 and / or extends in the Z-axis direction and / or penetrates the fourth panel 104, which will be described later, and / or is connected to the machine room 122. Through this configuration, defrosting water may move to the machine room 122 via the drain pipe 1194. The drain pipe 1194 is connected to a connecting pipe or connecting hose that connects the machine room 122 and the outside, so that the defrosting water can be discharged to the outside through the connecting pipe.

[0104] Cold air generated by the evaporator 116 may be supplied from the second storage chamber 106 to the first storage chamber 105 through a cold air passage connected to the second storage chamber 106 and the first storage chamber 105. Cold air may return from the first storage chamber 105 to the second storage chamber 106 through a return passage connected to the first storage chamber 105 and / or the second storage chamber 106.

[0105] A circulation fan 120 may be installed in the cold air passage or the return passage. The circulation fan 120 provides power to the cold air so that the cold air can flow along the cold air passage or along the return passage.

[0106] A return duct 121 forming the return passage may be provided on one surface of the block 127 of the fourth panel 104, which will be described later. The return duct 121 may be formed to be inclined together with an inclined portion 133 of the block 127, which will be described later, so that the flow of air along the return duct 121 can be smoothly maintained.

[0107] The evaporator 116 may be connected to components of a refrigeration cycle device by a cycle pipe. For example, the cycle pipe includes a first pipe connecting the evaporator 116 and an expander and / or a second pipe connecting the evaporator 116 and a compressor 123.

[0108] The first pipe is configured to deliver the refrigerant expanded in the expander (capillary tube) to the evaporator 116. The second pipe is configured to deliver the refrigerant evaporated by the evaporator 116 to the compressor 123.

[0109] A suction line may be integrally connected to a portion of the second pipe. The suction line is a refrigerant pipe connected between the evaporator 116 and the compressor 123, and it draws the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator 116 into the compressor 123. A suction line heat exchanger 145 (hereinafter referred to as SLHX) is constructed by sealing or welding a capillary tube to an outer circumferential surface of the suction line by soldering or the like. Through this, the SLHX connects the capillary tube and the suction line to each other surface-to-surface on the suction side of the compressor 123 so that heat exchange occurs.

[0110] The machine room 122 is provided on one side of the main body 100. The machine room 122 is configured to support the main body 100.

[0111] The machine room 122 includes a receiving space capable of receiving devices such as the compressor 123, a condenser, and a cooling fan 124. The machine room 122 may be formed in a rectangular shape.

[0112] The machine room 122 includes a front cover 1221, a back cover 1222, a side cover, and / or a bottom cover 1226.

[0113] The front cover 1221 forms one surface of the machine room 122. The back cover 1222 forms one surface of the machine room 122. The front cover 1221 and / or the back cover 1222 extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0114] The side cover forms one surface of the machine room 122. The side cover extends in the X-axis direction to connect the front cover 1221 and the back cover 1222. The side cover includes a first side cover 1223 and a second side cover 1224.

[0115] The first side cover 1223 may form a first surface of the machine room 122. One end and / or the other end of the first side cover 1223 is coupled to the front cover 1221 and / or the back cover 1222.

[0116] The second side cover 1224 may form a second surface of the machine room 122. One end and / or the other end of the second side cover 1224 is coupled to the front cover 1221 and / or the back cover 1222.

[0117] The bottom cover 1226 extends in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The Y-axis and X-axis corners of the bottom cover 1226 are coupled to at least one of the front cover 1221, the back cover 1222, and the first and second side covers 1224.

[0118] Rollers are rotatably installed at X- and Y-axial ends of the bottom cover 1226. Accordingly, the rollers become movable as they rotate along the ground, thereby facilitating transportation of the refrigerator.

[0119] The second panel 101 of the main body 100 and / or the back cover 1222 of the machine room 122 may be aligned in the Z-axis direction and / or may form the same plane. One 1031 of the first panels of the main body 100 and another 1032 of the first panels and at least one of the side covers of the machine room 122 may be aligned in the Z-axis direction and / or may form the same plane. The door and / or the front cover 1221 of the machine room 122 may be aligned in the Z-axis direction and / or may form the same plane.

[0120] The compressor 123 and / or the condenser are installed on one surface of the bottom cover 1226. The compressor 123 and / or the condenser may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction.

[0121] At least one of the compressor 123 and the condenser may be disposed to be spaced apart by a first distance from the back cover 1222 toward one direction (e.g., forward) and / or spaced apart by a second distance from the front cover 1221 toward another direction (rearward). In this case, the first distance and the second distance may be different from each other.

[0122] A cooling fan 124 may be disposed between the compressor 123 and the condenser. The cooling fan 124 is configured to provide power to the air. The cooling fan 124 is configured such that outside air flows in one direction. In this embodiment, the cooling fan 124 is configured such that outside air flows from the compressor 123, passes through the cooling fan 124, and flows to the condenser.

[0123] An air intake opening 1225 may be formed in the first side cover 1223. An exhaust port may be formed in the second side cover 1224. The air intake opening 1225 and / or the compressor 123 may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction and / or to face each other. The condenser and / or the exhaust port may be disposed to be spaced apart in the Y-axis direction and / or to face each other.

[0124] The air intake opening 1225 and / or the exhaust port may be formed in a louver shape. The air intake opening 1225 and / or the exhaust port may be provided with a through-hole extending in the Z-axis direction.

[0125] Accordingly, the cooling fan 124 draws in outside air through the air intake opening 1225. The drawn air passes through the compressor 123 and cools the compressor 123 by heat exchange with the compressor 123. The air that has passed through the compressor 123 then flows through the cooling fan 124 and passes through the condenser, thereby cooling the condenser by heat exchange with the condenser. Subsequently, the air that has passed through the condenser may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust port.

[0126] The fourth panel 104 is disposed between the main body 100 and the machine room 122. The fourth panel 104 is configured to separate the storage chamber of the main body 100 and the machine room 122. The fourth panel 104 forms one surface of the main body 100. The fourth panel 104 may also form one surface of the machine room 122.

[0127] The fourth panel 104 includes a vacuum panel 125 and / or a block 127.

[0128] The vacuum panel 125 forms a portion of the fourth panel 104, and the block 127 forms another portion of the fourth panel 104.

[0129] The vacuum panel 125 includingincludes a vacuum insulator. The vacuum panel 125 may include a first plate 1251, a second plate 1252, and / or a support. The first plate 1251 is disposed to face the second storage chamber 106. The second plate 1252 is disposed to face the outside of the main body 100. In this embodiment, the second plate 1252 of the vacuum panel 125 is disposed to face the machine room 122. The support is configured to hold a vacuum space 1253 formed between the first plate 1251 and the second plate 1252.

[0130] The vacuum panel 125 has a predetermined thickness and extends in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and may be formed in a rectangular shape. The Y-axis length of the vacuum panel 125 corresponds to the distance between one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels.

[0131] The first end and / or second end of the vacuum panel 125 may be coupled to one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels.

[0132] The X-axis length of the vacuum panel 125 is shorter than the X-axis length of one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels. The vacuum panel 125 is disposed in such a way as to be connectable to the door. One end of the vacuum panel 125 is disposed to be spaced apart from the second panel 101 by a predetermined distance.

[0133] An opening 126 between the vacuum panel 125 and the second panel 101 is configured to be covered by the block 127, which will be described later. The opening 126 may be disposed to overlap the evaporator 116 in the Z-axis direction. The opening 126 extends in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The Y-axis length of the opening 126 is longer than the X-axis width of the opening 126. The X-axis width of the opening 126 may be formed to correspond to the X-axis width of the evaporator 116.

[0134] The block 127 includingincludes a non-vacuum insulator. The block 127 is formed to include polyurethane foam (hereinafter abbreviated as PU foam).

[0135] The block 127 includes a first cover 1223 and 1224 , a second cover 1222 , and / or an insulating layer 1273.

[0136] The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 form the external shape of the fourth panel 104. The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be made of a plastic material. The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be formed by injection molding.

[0137] An insulating layer 1273 such as PU foam may be foam-molded between the first cover 1223 and 1224 and the second cover 1222 . A polyurethane foaming liquid may be injected into an inner space of the first cover 1223 and 1224 and the second cover 1222 through a foaming liquid injection port (not shown), and then foam-molded.

[0138] Through this, the block 127 is formed by foam-molding using a polyurethane foam material, so there is no need to maintain a vacuum state, thus making a sealable pass-through structure unnecessary and / or facilitating the formation of a first pass-through part 131 and / or a second pass-through part 132 inside the block 127 without destroying the insulation of the block 127.

[0139] The first cover 1223 and 1224 is configured to cover at least a portion of the insulating layer 1273. The second cover 1222 is configured to cover one side of the insulating layer 1273.

[0140] The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be connected to each other by an adhesive means such as glue. The first cover 1223 and 1224 and / or the second cover 1222 may be coupled by various coupling means such as screw fastening with a screw or snap-fit coupling with a hook, as well as being connected with glue.

[0141] The block 127 is disposed on one side of the second panel 101. The block 127 is configured to cover the opening 126 between the second panel 101 and the vacuum panel 125. A portion of the block 127 may be disposed to overlap the vacuum panel 125.

[0142] A coupling groove may be formed on one side of the block 127. A portion of the vacuum panel 125 may be received in the coupling groove. The vacuum panel 125 may be coupled to the coupling groove of the block 127. Accordingly, the block 127 may be coupled by assembling to the vacuum panel 125 and at least one of one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels.

[0143] The block 127 may be formed to protrude in one direction from the vacuum panel 125. The block 127 extends along the Y-axis direction of the vacuum panel 125.

[0144] The block 127 is disposed between the vacuum panel 125 and the second panel 101. The block 127 is configured to connect the fourth panel 104 and / or the second panel 101. The block 127 is disposed to cover the opening 126 so as to block heat leakage through the opening 126.

[0145] One surface of the block 127 is disposed to face and overlap the second panel 101 in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the block 127 and the second panel 101 can double-block heat leakage by the overlapping structure of the insulating layer 1273, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and a vacuum insulator.

[0146] A seating portion 1281 and 1282, a recess 129, and / or a drain groove 1293 are provided on one surface of the block 127. The seating portions 1281 and 1282 are formed in a rectangular planar shape. The second storage chamber joints 112 and 113 are seated on and connected to the seating portions 1281 and 1282, and / or the second storage chamber joints 112 and113 may be supported by the seating portions 1281 and 1282. The seating portions may include a first seating portion 1281 and a second seating portion 1282.

[0147] The first seating portion 1281 is disposed at an end portion of the block 127. A first second storage chamber joint 112 which is disposed at a corner where one 1031 of the first panels and the second panel 101 are connected, is seated on and supported by the first seating portion 1281.

[0148] The second seating portion 1282 is disposed at an end portion of the block 127. A second second storage chamber joint 113, which is disposed at a corner where another 1032 of the first panels and the second panel 101 are connected, is seated on and supported by the second seating portion 1282.

[0149] The pass-through part 130 is formed to penetrate the block 127 in the Z-axis direction. The pass-through part 130 receives a penetrating component so that the penetrating component can penetrate the block 127. The penetrating component may include a drain pipe 1194 and / or wiring such as an electric wire.

[0150] The pass-through part 130 may include a first pass-through part 131 and / or a second pass-through part 132. The first pass-through part 131 receives the drain pipe 1194 of the sump 119. The first pass-through part 131 may be formed to correspond to the shape of the drain pipe 1194. In this embodiment, the first through part 131 is illustrated as formed in a circular tube shape.

[0151] The recess 129 is disposed between the first seating portion 1281 and / or the second seating portion 1282. The recess 129 is formed to be inclined at an angle corresponding to the bottom wall of the sump 119. The recess 129 may be connected to the bottom wall and / or may support the sump 119. Accordingly, the recess 129, together with the bottom wall of the sump 119, guides the flow of defrosting water to the drain outlet 1193, thereby facilitating drainage of the defrosting water.

[0152] The drain groove 1293 is formed at the center of the recess 129. The recess 129 includes a first recess 1291 and / or a second recess 1292. The recess 129 includes a first recess 1291, which is formed to be inclined in one direction or downward from the first seating portion 1281 to the drain groove 1293, and / or a second recess 1292, which is formed to be inclined in one direction or downward from the second seating portion 1282 to the drain groove 1293.

[0153] The drain groove 1293 is formed to be recessed in one direction at the bottom of the recess 129. The first pass-through part 131 is formed to penetrate in the Z-axis direction of the block 127 from the drain groove 1293. The first pass-through part 131 may also be formed to penetrate the insulating reinforcement 148, which will be described later.

[0154] Through this, the drain pipe 1194 may be received in the first pass-through part 131 and / or penetrate the block 127 through the first pass-through part 131 or be connected to a separate connecting pipe. The first pass-through part 131 surrounds the drain pipe 1194, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the drain pipe 1194.

[0155] The second pass-through part 132 receives a pipe in which wiring such as an electric wire is embedded. The pipe may be formed with a corrugated structure that is adjustable in length or easily bendable.

[0156] The second pass-through part 132 may be formed in the first seating portion 1281 or the second seating portion 1282. In this embodiment, the second pass-through part 132 is illustrated as formed to penetrate in the Z-axis direction on one side of the second seating portion 1282. The second pass-through part 132 has a circular cross-sectional shape that is smaller than the rectangular area of the second seating portion 1282. The cross-sectional shape of the second pass-through part 132 is not limited to a circle and may be formed in various shapes such as polygons.

[0157] The second pass-through part 132 may also be formed to penetrate the insulating reinforcement 148, which will be described later.

[0158] Through this, the pipe may be received in the second pass-through part 132 and / or penetrate the block 127 through the second pass-through part 132. The second pass-through part 132 surrounds the pipe, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the pipe.

[0159] The block 127 may be provided with an inclined portion 133. The inclined portion 133 is disposed to face the second storage chamber 106. The inclined portion 133 is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle to a vertical line. The inclined portion 133 is formed to be inclined downward so that the thickness of the block 127 in the X-axis direction increases from one end of the block 127 toward the other end.

[0160] Through this, the inclined portion 133 can maintain the thermal insulation performance of the block 127 and / or minimize the inner capacity of the refrigerator.

[0161] The return duct 121 may be provided on one surface of the inclined portion 133. The return duct 121 forms a suction flow path on one side to draw in air from the second storage chamber 106. The return duct 121 may be formed to be spaced a predetermined distance apart from the inclined portion 133 and / or to be inclined with respect to the inclined portion 133.

[0162] One end of the return duct 121 may be connected in communication with the space in which the evaporator 116 is received, and / or the other end of the return duct 121 may be connected in communication with the second storage chamber 106.

[0163] The other end of the return duct 121 is disposed to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the first plate 1251 of the vacuum panel 125. An intake opening is formed between the other end of the return duct 121 and the first plate 1251 of the vacuum panel 125.

[0164] Through this, the air from the second storage chamber 106 is drawn into the return duct 121 through the intake opening and may return to the evaporator 116.

[0165] An exhaust port is formed to protrude from the first plate 1251 of the vacuum insulator. The exhaust port is configured to discharge at least a portion of the air in the vacuum space 1253 to the outside in order to maintain the vacuum space 1253 in a vacuum state.

[0166] The second panel 101, one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, and / or the vacuum panel 125 may each be independently manufactured as a vacuum insulator. Accordingly, one exhaust port may be provided for each panel.

[0167] For example, the exhaust ports may include a first exhaust port 136, a second exhaust port 137, a third exhaust port 138, and / or a fourth exhaust port 139. The first exhaust port 136 may be formed to protrude in one direction from a portion of the first plate 134 of the second panel 101. The second exhaust port 137 may be formed to protrude in a first direction from the first plate 134 of one 1031 of the first panels. The third exhaust port 138 may be formed to protrude in a second direction from the first plate 134 of another 1032 of the first panels. The fourth exhaust port 139 may be formed to protrude in one direction from the vacuum panel 125.

[0168] Exhaust port housings 140, 141, 142, and 143 may include a first exhaust port housing 140, a second exhaust port housing 141, a third exhaust port housing 142, and / or a fourth exhaust port housing 143. The exhaust port housings 140, 141, 142, and 143 may include the first exhaust port housing 140 through fourth exhaust port housings 143 so as to receive the exhaust ports protruding from each panel.

[0169] The first exhaust port housing 140 is formed to be recessed in one direction (e.g., forward) on one surface of the block 127 facing the second panel 101 so as to receive the first exhaust port 136 protruding from the second panel 101. The first exhaust port housing 140 is disposed on one side of the block 127. The first exhaust port housing 140 is disposed so as not to overlap the first pass-through part 131 and / or the second pass-through-part 132.

[0170] For example, the first exhaust port housing 140 may be spaced apart by a first distance in a first direction along one surface of the block 127 from a first surface of the block 127 facing one 1031 of the first panels. The first exhaust port housing 140 may be disposed to be spaced apart by a second distance in a second direction along one surface of the block 127 from a second surface of the block 127 facing another 1032 of the first panels. The first distance and the second distance may differ from each other. In this embodiment, the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0171] The first exhaust port housing 140 may be disposed between the first pass-through part 131 and the second pass-through part 132.

[0172] Through this, the first exhaust port housing 140 encloses the first exhaust port 136 of the second panel 101 by accommodating it, thereby preventing heat leakage through the first exhaust port 136 of the second panel 101. The first exhaust port housing 140 can avoid interference with the first pass-through part 131 and the second pass-through part 132 and / or block heat transfer with the drain pipe 1194 or the pipe. The first exhaust port housing 140 can avoid interference with a lead-out portion 146 of the suction line heat exchanger 145, which will be described later, and / or block heat exchange with the lead-out portion 146 of the suction line heat exchanger 145.

[0173] The second exhaust port housing 141 (see FIG. 12(a)) may be formed to be recessed in a first direction in a first sub-block 1491, which will be described later, so as to receive the second exhaust port 137 protruding from one 1031 of the first panels.

[0174] The third exhaust port housing 142 (see FIG. 12(a)) may be formed to be recessed in a second direction in a second sub-block 1492, which will be described later, so as to receive the exhaust port protruding from another 1032 of the first panels.

[0175] The fourth exhaust port housing 143 may be formed to be recessed in one direction in the block 127 so as to receive the fourth exhaust port 139 protruding from the vacuum panel 125. The fourth exhaust port housing 143 is disposed in the block 127 to be spaced apart in one direction (e.g., forward) from the first pass-through part 131.

[0176] The suction line heat exchanger 145 may be received inside the second panel 101. A plurality of lead-out portions 146 may be provided to protrude from the second panel 101. Among the plurality of lead-out portions 146, a first lead-out portion 1461 is configured to connect the capillary tube and the suction line heat exchanger 145. Among the plurality of lead-out portions 146, a second lead-out portion 1462 is configured to connect the evaporator 116 and the suction line heat exchanger 145. Among the plurality of lead-out portions 146, a third lead-out portion 1463 is configured to connect the compressor 123 and the suction line heat exchanger 145.

[0177] An outgoing lead-out portion 147 may be connected to the third lead-out portion 1463. The outgoing lead-out portion 147 may extend from the second storage chamber 106 to the machine room 122. In this case, the outgoing lead-out portion 147 may penetrate the block 127.

[0178] The block 127 may include a cycle pipe housing 144.

[0179] The cycle pipe housing 144 may be formed to be recessed in one direction (e.g., forward) on one surface of the block 127 so as to receive the plurality of lead-out portions 146 protruding from one surface of the second panel 101.

[0180] The cycle pipe housing 144 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the block 127 facing one 1031 of the first panels by a third distance in a first direction along one surface of the block 127, and / or to be spaced apart from the block 127 facing another 1032 of the first panels by a fourth distance in a second direction along one surface of the block 127. The third distance and the fourth distance may differ from each other. In this embodiment, the fourth distance is greater than the third distance.

[0181] The third lead-out portion 1463 may be disposed between the first lead-out portion 1461 and the second lead-out portion 1462.

[0182] An outgoing through-hole is provided in the cycle pipe housing 144 so that the outgoing lead-out portion 147 can pass therethrough. The outgoing through-hole is formed to penetrate in one direction from the cycle pipe housing 144 toward the machine room 122. Through this, the outgoing lead-out portion 147 may penetrate the block 127 through the outgoing through-hole in the cycle pipe housing 144 and extend to the machine room 122 or be connected to the compressor 123.

[0183] The insulating reinforcement 148 is further provided on one side of the block 127. The insulating reinforcement 148 extends from the block 127 to the machine room 122. Through this, the insulating reinforcement 148 can minimize heat leakage through gaps between the end portions of the block 127 without affecting the inner capacity of the refrigerator.

[0184] The insulating reinforcement 148 is configured to expand the insulation area from the block 127 to the machine room 122 so as to enhance thermal insulation performance.

[0185] The insulating reinforcement 148 is formed to protrude in one direction from one surface of the block 127. The thickness of the insulating reinforcement 148 in the Z-axis direction may be less than or equal to the thickness of the block 127 in the Z-axis direction.

[0186] The insulating reinforcement 148 extends in the Y-axis direction along one surface of the block 127.

[0187] The insulating reinforcement 148 may be formed to extend in the X-axis direction of the block 127. The block 127 and / or the insulating reinforcement 148 may be disposed to overlap the vacuum panel 125 in the Z-axis direction. One surface of the insulating reinforcement 148 and one surface of the block 127 form the same plane, and may be connected to the second panel 101.

[0188] The length the insulating reinforcement 148 extends in one direction (e.g., forward) from one surface of the vacuum panel 125 may be less than or equal to the length of one end (e.g., front end) of the block 127. One surface of the insulating reinforcement 148 may be positioned rearward of one end (e.g., front end) of the block 127.

[0189] A coupling groove 1481 may be formed on one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The coupling groove 1481 is disposed to face one surface of the vacuum panel 125. The coupling groove 1481 is formed to be depressed on one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The coupling groove 1481 extends in the Y-axis direction along one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The coupling groove 1481 may be formed in a shape corresponding to a portion of the vacuum panel 125 so as to receive the portion of the vacuum panel 125. Through this, the vacuum panel 125 may be coupled to one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panel. The insulating reinforcement 148 may be coupled to the vacuum panel 125 through the coupling groove 1481. Through this, the block 127 may be coupled between the second panel 101 and the vacuum panel 125.

[0190] The first pass-through part 131 and / or the second pass-through part 132 may be formed to penetrate the block 127 and / or the insulating reinforcement 148 in the Z-axis direction.

[0191] A protrusion 1482 may further be provided on the insulating reinforcement 148. The protrusion 1482 is formed to protrude further from one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148. The protrusion length of the protrusion 1482 of the insulating reinforcement 148 corresponds to the thickness of the second panel 101 in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the second panel 101 may be seated on and supported by the protrusion 1482 of the insulating reinforcement 148.

[0192] The protrusion 1482 extends in the Z-axis direction. One surface of the protrusion 1482 may form the same plane as one surface of the insulating reinforcement 148.

[0193] FIG. 11 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a first block 149 and the like are in another embodiment coupled to the main body 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. 11, which is a conceptual view showing the exhaust ports accommodated in an insulation block, a first sub-block 1491, and / or a second sub-block 1492.

[0195] This embodiment differs from the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 10 described above in that the first block 149 is coupled to one side of the vacuum panel 125.

[0196] The first block 149 is disposed at a corner where the vacuum panel 125 meets one 1031 of the first panels or where the vacuum panel 125 meets another 1032 of the first panels. The first block 149 is formed to extend in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction. The first block 149 may extend in one direction (e.g., forward) from the end portions (e.g., both ends) of the block 127.

[0197] The first block 149 may be formed to protrude in one direction from an end portion of the vacuum panel 125.

[0198] The first block 149 is a non-vacuum insulator. The first block 149 may be formed of the same material as the block 127. For example, the first block 149 may be formed by foam-molding polyurethane foam in the space between a cover 1271 disposed on one side and a cover 1272 disposed on the other side. The covers 1271 and 1272 of the first block 149 may be injection-molded using a plastic material.

[0199] The thickness of the first block 149 in the Y-axis direction is formed between the first block 149 facing the storage chamber and the first block 149 facing the first panel.

[0200] The length the first block 149 extends in the X-axis direction is smaller than the X-axis length of one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels. The first block 149 may be formed to correspond to the shape of a first portion (e.g., inclined portion 133) and / or a second portion (e.g., vertical surface) formed on one surface of the block 127, and may be coupled thereto. One end of the first block 149 is disposed adjacent to one end of one 1031 of the first panels and / or another of the first panels.

[0201] The height of the first block 149 in the Z-axis direction is smaller than the length of the first block 149 in the X-axis direction. The height of the first block 149 in the Z-axis direction may be formed differently from the thickness of the first block 149 in the Y-axis direction. The height of the first block 149 in the Z-axis direction may be formed to be less than or equal to the height of the block 127.

[0202] The first block 149 includes a first sub-block 1491 and / or a second sub-block 1492. The first block 149 includes the first sub-block 1491 disposed to face one 1031 of the first panels in the Y-axis direction and / or the second sub-block 1492 disposed to face another 1032 of the first panels in the Y-axis direction.

[0203] One 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels may be configured to surround the first block 149 of the fourth panel 104. At least two of one 1031 of the first panels, another 1032 of the first panels, and the first block 149 may be disposed to overlap each other in the Y-axis direction. Through this, one 1031 of the first panels and / or another 1032 of the first panels, which is a vacuum insulator, and the first block 149, which is a non-vacuum insulator, can double-block heat leakage.

[0204] The first exhaust port housing 140 is formed to be depressed on one surface of the block 127. The first exhaust port housing 140 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the first exhaust port 136. Through this, the first exhaust port housing 140 can receive the first exhaust port 136 protruding from the second panel 101. One surface of the block 127 may be connected to the first plate 134 of the second panel 101.

[0205] The second exhaust port housing 141 is formed to be depressed in the first sub-block 1491. The second exhaust port housing 141 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the second exhaust port 137. Through this, the second exhaust port housing 141 can receive the second exhaust port 137 protruding from one 1031 of the first panels. The first sub-block 1491 may be connected to the first plate 134 of one 1031 of the first panels.

[0206] The third exhaust port housing 142 is formed to be depressed in the second sub-block 1492. The third exhaust port housing 142 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the third exhaust port 138. Through this, the third exhaust port housing 142 can receive the third exhaust port 138 protruding from another 1032 of the first panels. The second sub-block 1492 may be connected to the first plate 134 of another 1032 of the first panels.

[0207] The fourth exhaust port housing 143 is formed to be depressed on one surface of the block 127 so as not to overlap the first pass-through part 131 and the like. The fourth exhaust port housing 143 is formed in a rectangular shape of a size that can receive the fourth exhaust port 139. Through this, the fourth exhaust port housing 143 can receive the fourth exhaust port 139 protruding from the vacuum panel 125. One surface of the block 127 may be connected to the first plate 1251 of the vacuum panel 125.

[0208] The first storage chamber joint 150, 151, and 152 may include a first sub-chamber joint 150 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and the third panel 102 are connected. The first storage chamber joint 150, 151, and 152 may include a second sub-chamber joint 151 disposed at a corner where the second panel 101 and one 1031 of the first panels or the second panel 101 and another 1032 of the first panels are connected. The first storage chamber joint 150, 151, and 152 may include a third first storage chamber joint 152 disposed at a corner where the third panel 102 and one 1031 of the first panels or the third panel 102 and another 1032 of the first panels are connected.

[0209] Other components are identical or similar to those of the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10, so redundant description will be omitted.

[0210] FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled between one surface of the block 127 and the second panel 101.

[0211] FIG. 14 is a conceptual view showing a configuration in which a soft insulating material is coupled to the block 127.

[0212] A soft insulating material may be coupled to at least one surface of the block 127. The soft insulating material may be molded using, for example, carbon felt and / or porous material.

[0213] The soft insulating material may include a first soft insulating material 153, a second soft insulating material 154, and / or a third soft insulating material 155. The soft insulating material may be disposed between the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and a panel, which is a vacuum insulator.

[0214] The first soft insulating material 153 may be disposed between one 1031 of the first panels and the block 127. The first soft insulating material 153 may be coupled to the first sub-block 1491. The first soft insulating material 153 is tightly attached while facing one 1031 of the first panels.

[0215] The second soft insulating material 154 may be disposed between another 1032 of the first panels and the block 127. The second soft insulating material 154 may be coupled to the second sub-block 1492. The second soft insulating material 154 is tightly attached while facing another 1032 of the first panels.

[0216] The third soft insulating material 155 may be disposed between the second panel 101 and one surface of the block 127. The third soft insulating material 155 may be coupled to one surface of the block 127. The third soft insulating material 155 is tightly attached while facing the second panel 101.

[0217] The first soft insulating material 153, the second soft insulating material 154, and / or the third soft insulating material 155 may be bonded to three surfaces of the block 127 by an adhesive means such as glue.

[0218] The block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body 100, which is a vacuum insulator, may be tightly attached to each other by the soft insulating material. The soft insulating material can prevent cold air from leaking through gaps between the block 127 and the main body 100.

[0219] However, the soft insulating material may also be disposed between surfaces where the block 127 or the coupling groove 1481 of the insulating reinforcement 148 and the vacuum panel 125 are connected together. Through this, the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the vacuum panel 125, which is a vacuum insulator, can be tightly attached to each other. The soft insulating material can prevent cold air from leaking through gaps between the block 127 and the vacuum panel 125.

[0220] Other components are identical or similar to those of the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, so redundant description will be omitted.

[0221] Accordingly, according to the present disclosure, the main body 100 forming the exterior of the refrigerator includingincludes a vacuum insulator, while the fourth panel 104 sectioning off the main body 100 and the machine room 122 includingincludes a combination of a vacuum insulator and a non-vacuum insulator. The vacuum insulator forms a vacuum space 1341 and 1253 with a predetermined gap between the first plate 134 and 1251 and the second plate 135 and 1252. The non-vacuum insulator is formed by filling polyurethane foam between the first cover 1223 and 1224 and the second cover 1222 .

[0222] Through this, a general pass-through structure can be applied to a portion of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, thereby eliminating the need for the corrugated pipe structure and / or sealable pass-through structure of the prior art patents, and / or a penetrating component may pass through the pass-through part 130 formed in the fourth panel 104, from the storage chamber formed inside the main body 100 to the machine room 122 disposed on one side of the main body 100.

[0223] Accordingly, the structure is simplified, making manufacturing easy and greatly contributing to a reduction of production costs. The pass-through part 130 of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, surrounds a penetrating component, and therefore the simplified structure can prevent cold air leakage and / or perform insulation efficiently.

[0224] For example, as long as the pass-through part 130 is simply formed to penetrate the fourth panel 104 in the Z-axis direction, penetrating components such as the drain pipe 1194 for draining defrosting water, the cycle pipe of the refrigeration cycle device, electrical wiring, and a signal line harness can be surrounded by the pass-through part 130. Thus, even without a separate corrugated pipe structure, insulation can be achieved between the penetrating components and the storage chamber, and since a portion of the fourth panel 104 where the pass-through part 130 is formed is a non-vacuum insulator, a separate sealable pass-through structure is unnecessary.

[0225] In order for an exhaust port for vacuuming air out of a vacuum insulator panel to be surrounded and accommodated by the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, an exhaust port housing is formed on at least one surface of the fourth panel 104. Through this, the exhaust port housing is formed to be recessed in the shape of a general groove in the fourth panel 104, and therefore the simplified structure allows for easy manufacturing and can reduce the production costs.

[0226] In addition, the fourth panel 104 may be three-dimensionally formed to include the vacuum panel 125, which is a vacuum insulator, the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the first block 149, and / or the insulating reinforcement 148. The vacuum panel 125 is configured to section off the storage chamber of the main body 100 and the machine room 122. The block 127 may be coupled to the vacuum panel 125. The first block 149 is formed to protrude from the vacuum panel 125. Furthermore, the insulating reinforcement 148 may be formed to protrude in one direction from one surface of the vacuum panel 125.

[0227] Besides, the fourth panel 104 allows the insulating layer 1273 at a corner portion where at least two panels are connected together through the block 127 and / or the first block 149 to be increased in thickness by protruding it inward of the refrigerator, thereby preventing heat leakage, and at the same time, it allows the insulating layer 1273 to be increased in thickness by protruding it outward of the refrigerator, thereby extending the length of a heat transfer path and / or improving thermal insulation performance.

[0228] Furthermore, a pass-through part 130 is formed so that the drain pipe 1194 for draining defrosting water penetrates a central portion of the fourth panel 104. The defrosting water pass-through part 130 is formed to penetrate a portion or central portion of the block 127 and / or the insulating reinforcement 148 in the Z-axis direction.

[0229] The recess 129 is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle from an end portion of the block 127 toward one side of the defrosting water pass-through part 130, thereby allowing the defrosting water to be smoothly drained.

[0230] By forming the defrosting water drain pipe 1194 to penetrate the block 127 or the insulating reinforcement 148, which is a non-vacuum insulator, the length of the heat transfer path is increased, thereby minimizing heat leakage through the defrosting water drain pipe 1194.

[0231] In addition, by providing a soft insulating material between the block 127 of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body 100, which is a vacuum insulator, the fourth panel 104 and the main body 100 can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.

[0232] The insulating reinforcement 148, which is a non-vacuum insulator, may be formed to protrude integrally from one surface of the block 127. The insulating reinforcement 148 is provided with the coupling groove 1481 which is coupled to the vacuum panel 125, so that the non-vacuum insulator can be coupled by assembling the vacuum insulator. Accordingly, a separate support frame for coupling the fourth panel 104 is unnecessary and / or the assemblability of the fourth panel 104 can be improved.

[0233] In addition, the inclined portion 133 may be formed on a portion of the block 127, which is a non-vacuum insulator. Through this, the inclined portion 133 minimizes the volume of the block 127 protruding into the refrigerator, thereby maximizing the inner capacity of the refrigerator. The inclined portion 133 can maintain smooth flow in the return passage of the second storage chamber 106.

[0234] Furthermore, by providing a soft insulating material between a portion of the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulator, and the main body 100, which is a vacuum insulator, the fourth panel 104 and the main body 100 can be tightly attached together easily, and cold air leakage can be prevented.

[0235] [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF MAIN ELEMENTS]1:refrigerator2:main body3:door4:compressor5:condenser6:expander7:evaporator8:machine room9:cavity10:vacuum insulator10a:first vacuum insulator10b:second vacuum insulator11:first plate11a:first portion11b:second portion11c:extended portion11d:branched portion12:second plate12a:first portion12b:second portion12c:third portion12d:extended portion12e:branched portion13:third plate14:side plate14a:first portion14b:second portion14c:extended portion14d:branched portion15:vacuum space16:vacuum space extension portion16a:X-direction extension portion16b:Y-direction extension portion17:connecting frame18:sealing bar19:support20:bar21:connecting plate22:support plate23:radiation resistance sheet25:shield26:conduction resistance sheet28:additional insulator29a:central insulator29b:peripheral insulator30:joint31:port32:conduit33:film34:porous material100:main body101:second panel102:third panel103:side panel1031:one of first panel1032:one of second panel104:fourth panel105:first storage chamber106:second storage chamber107:partition wall108:first storage chamber door109:second storage chamber door110:first first storage joint111:second first storage joint1111:coupling portion1112:bolt plate1113:bolt portion112:first second storage chamber joint113:Second second storage chamber joint114:second storage chamber insulation115:second storage chamber drawer guide116:evaporator117:evaporator coupling frame118:bolt plate1181:bolt portion119:sump1191:first bottom wall1192:second bottom wall1193:drain outlet1194:drain pipe120:circulation fan121:return duct122:machine room1221:front cover1222:back cover1223:first side cover1224:second side cover1225:air intake opening1226:bottom cover123:compressor124:cooling fan125:vacuum panel1251:first plate1252:second plate1253:vacuum space126:opening127:block1271:first cover1272:second cover1273:insulating layer1281:first seating portion1282:second seating portion129:recess1291:first recess1292:second recess1293:drain groove130:pass-through part131:first pass-through part132:second pass-through part133:inclined portion134:first plate135:second plate136:first exhaust port137:second exhaust port138:third exhaust port139:fourth exhaust port140:first exhaust port housing141:second exhaust port housing142:third exhaust port housing143:fourth exhaust port housing144:cycle pipe housing1441:outgoing through-hole145:suction line heat exchanger146:lead-out portion1461:first lead-out portion1462:second lead-out portion1463:third lead-out portion147:outgoing lead-out portion148:insulating reinforcement1481:coupling groove1482:protrusion149:first block1491:first sub-block 14911492:second sub-block 1492150:first sub-chamber joint151:second sub-chamber joint152:third first storage chamber joint153:first soft insulating material154:second soft insulating material155:third soft insulating material156:second storage chamber drawer

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0038]Hereinafter, a common description which describes portions commonly defined across all embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0039]Optionally, an insulator of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. Optionally, the insulator of the present disclosure may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion c...

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a main body including a first surface, a second surface and a fourth surface, and having a storage chamber provided between the first surface, the second surface and fourth surface; and a machine room disposed on one side of the main body, and at least a portion of at least one of the first, second, and fourth surfaces is provided as a panel.

2. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the vacuum insulator includes: a first plate; a second plate disposed to be spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance; and a support provided at a vacuum space formed between the first plate and the second plate, for holding the vacuum space.

3. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the non-vacuum insulator includes: a first cover having a first space therein; a second cover disposed on one side of the first cover and having a second space therein to communicate with the first space; and an insulating layer filled with polyurethane foam in the first space and the second space.

4. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein a pass-through part is formed to pass through the block in the Z-axis direction to receive a penetrating component that passes therethrough from the storage chamber to the machine room or vice versa, the pass-through part includes: a first pass-through part that receives a drain pipe through which defrosting water generated from an evaporator is drained; and a second pass-through part that receives electrical wiring or a signal line.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein the first pass-through part is formed to penetrate a surface of the block, a recess is formed to be inclined toward the first pass-through part from the surface of the block, and the second pass-through part is disposed at one end of the block to be spaced apart from the first pass-through part.

6. The refrigerator of claim 20, further comprising an exhaust port housing receiving an exhaust port for forming a vacuum space inside the vacuum insulator, wherein exhaust port housing is formed on at least one surface of the block.

7. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein an evaporator for evaporating refrigerant to cool the air in the storage chamber is provided in the storage chamber, the machine room receives a compressor for compressing the refrigerant and a condenser for condensing the refrigerant, and the penetrating component includes: a suction line heat exchanger received inside the second panel, that performs heat exchange by bringing a suction line connected between the evaporator and the compressor into contact with a capillary tube that expands the refrigerant condensed in the condenser and delivers the same to the evaporator; a plurality of lead-out portions connected to the suction line heat exchanger and protruding from a rear surface of the second panel; and an outgoing lead-out portion connected to any one of the plurality of lead-out portions and extending from the storage chamber toward the machine room, and the fourth panel includes a cycle pipe housing formed on a surface of the block, for receiving the plurality of lead-out portions and the outgoing lead-out portion.

8. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the vacuum panel is coupled to one of the first panels and another of the first panels, and the block is coupled to the vacuum panel and supported between the second panel and the vacuum panel.

9. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the block extends toward the outside of the storage chamber, and covers a portion of the second panel or a portion of the vacuum panel.

10. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein an insulating reinforcement protrudes from the block toward the machine room.

11. The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein the first pass-through part and the second pass-through part are spaced apart from each other, and are formed to penetrate the block and the insulating reinforcement.

12. The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein a coupling groove is formed on a surface of the insulating reinforcement, and the block is coupled to and supported by the vacuum panel through the coupling groove.

13. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein an inclined portion is formed to be inclined on a surface of the block.

14. The refrigerator of claim 13, wherein an evaporator is provided in the storage chamber, and a return duct is formed on a surface of the inclined portion to be inclined at a predetermined distance from the inclined portion, to form an air passage through which air circulates from the storage chamber to the evaporator.

15. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein a protrusion is formed to protrude from a surface of the block so as to cover an end portion of the second panel.

16. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein a soft insulating material is mounted on at least one of a surface of the block facing the second panel, a first surface of the block facing one of the first panels, and a second surface of the block facing another of the first panels.

17. The refrigerator of claim 20, wherein the fourth panel includes a first block protruding toward the storage chamber from corners of the vacuum panel, the corners adjoining one of the first panels and another of the first panels, respectively.

18. The refrigerator of claim 17, wherein a first exhaust port housing, which receives a first exhaust port protruding from the second panel, is formed on a surface of the block, a second exhaust port housing, which receives a second exhaust port protruding from one of the first panels, is formed on one surface of one of at least two first blocks, the one first block adjoining one of the first panels, a third exhaust port housing, which receives a third exhaust port protruding from another of the first panels, is formed on one surface of another of the at least two first blocks, the other first block adjoining the other of the first panels, and a fourth exhaust port housing, which receives a fourth exhaust port protruding from the vacuum panel, is formed on a lower surface of the block.

19. A refrigerator comprising: a main body forming an exterior of the refrigerator and having a storage chamber therein; a machine room disposed on one side of the main body; a fourth panel for sectioning off the storage chamber and the machine room, the fourth panel including a vacuum panel including a vacuum insulator and a block including a non-vacuum insulator; and a penetrating component passing through the block from the storage chamber toward the machine room, the vacuum panel including: a first plate; a second plate disposed to be spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance; and a support provided at a vacuum space formed between the first plate and the second plate, for holding the vacuum space, the block includes an insulating layer filled with polyurethane foam between a first cover and a second cover.

20. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the panel includes: at least one of one of first panels forming a portion of a first surface of the refrigerator, another of the first panels forming another portion of the first surface of the refrigerator, and a second panel forming at least a portion of a second surface of the refrigerator; and a fourth panel forming at least a portion of a fourth surface of the refrigerator, wherein at least one of one of the first panels, another of the first panels, and the fourth panel includes a vacuum insulator, and the fourth panel includes a vacuum insulator having a vacuum panel and a non-vacuum insulator, and further comprising a block coupled to the vacuum panel, which, together with the vacuum panel, sections off the storage chamber and the machine room.

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