Heat insulator

Abstract

A refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator comprises a main body that forms the exterior of the refrigerator. The main body comprises at least two panels including vacuum insulating bodies. The door is rotatably installed on the surface of the main body. A machine room is arranged in part of the main body. A hinge is arranged on part of the door. The hinge supports the door to be rotatable. The hinge comprises a hinge coupler, a hinge shaft, and a hinge connection portion. The hinge coupler is coupled to a front cover forming one surface of the machine room. The hinge shaft is coupled to the door. The hinge connection portion connects the hinge coupler and the hinge shaft. A hinge reinforcing frame is attached to the front cover facing a direction opposite to the hinge coupler. Accordingly, the hinge reinforcing frame can prevent the door from sagging.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] As related prior art for solving the problem of door sagging, Korean Registered Patent No. 10-1432301 (published on August 20, 2014; hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document") discloses a refrigerator that prevents the door from sagging by reinforcing the rigidity of a bracket. The refrigerator of the Patent Document includes: a bracket coupled to a hinge; side reinforcing members provided at both side edges of a main body and connected to the bracket; and a reinforcing portion formed by bending upward a predetermined portion of the bottom surface of the bracket so as to connect to the bracket's surface and bottom surface. When the bracket, side reinforcing members, and reinforcing portion of the Patent Document are applied to a conventional foam-insulated refrigerator, they can be joined by drilling holes into the foam insulation or the main body. However, when applied to a vacuum insulated refrigerator, there is a risk of vacuum leakage if welding or hole drilling is performed on the surface of a vacuum insulating body of the main body. Furthermore, if a first case of the vacuum insulating body, which is made of metal material, is increased beyond a certain thickness to reinforce strength, heat transfer through the first case occurs, thereby degrading thermal insulation performance. Thus, it is difficult to simultaneously achieve both improved thermal insulation performance and reinforced strength.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

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

[0004] The first objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that can prevent door sagging by reinforcing the strength of a hinge while maintaining the thermal insulation performance of a main body including a vacuum insulating body.

[0005] The second objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that can prevent cold air leakage and / or vacuum leakage caused by deformation of a first case made of metallic material.

[0006] The third objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that can in another embodiment secure the strength of the hinge.[Technical Solution]

[0007] An insulating body of the present disclosure may be provided as at least one insulating body. For example, the insulating body 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 insulating body of the present disclosure may include a first insulating body and a second insulating body. The second insulating body may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulating body. The second insulating body may be connected to the first insulating body by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulating body may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulating body. The second insulating body may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulating body. The insulating body may be provided in the form of a panel.

[0008] 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. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may be provided in multiple parts. The panel may be an insulating body or a vacuum insulating body. The first panel may include one first panel forming one of first surfaces of the refrigerator, and another first panel forming another of second surfaces 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 compartment 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.

[0009] The present disclosure may include: a main body forming the exterior of a refrigerator and / or including at least one panel including a vacuum insulating body; and a door for opening and closing an opening of the main body. A machine room may be provided which is arranged on a portion of the main body. A hinge may be provided which is disposed on a portion of the main body and / or the door to support the door. A hinge reinforcing frame may be provided to reinforce the strength of the hinge. The hinge may include a hinge coupler. The hinge coupler may be formed on one side of the main body and / or the door. The hinge coupler may be coupled to a cover. The cover may provide a surface forming the main body (e.g., the machine room) and / or the door. An example of the cover may be a front cover. In the present disclosure, although the "front cover" is described as an example, embodiments in which the "front cover" is replaced with the "cover" are also included within the scope of the disclosure. The hinge may include a hinge coupler coupled to a front cover forming a surface of the machine room. The hinge may include a hinge shaft coupled to the door and / or the main body. The hinge may include a hinge connection portion connecting the hinge coupler and the hinge shaft. The hinge reinforcing frame may be coupled to the front cover. The hinge reinforcing frame may be coupled to the front cover in a direction opposite to the hinge coupler.

[0010] The hinge coupler may be formed to protrude from one end of the hinge connection portion. The hinge coupler may be coupled to the front cover. The hinge reinforcing frame may include one or more of first, second, third, and fourth frames. The hinge reinforcing frame may include a first frame extending to be connected to the front cover. The hinge coupler and the first frame may be coupled by a first fastener. The hinge coupler and the first frame may be coupled by the first fastener with the front cover interposed therebetween.

[0011] The first fastener may include a screw, and / or the first fastener may be coupled by passing through at least one of a coupling hole of the hinge coupler, a through-hole of the front cover, and a coupling hole of the first frame.

[0012] A part of the first frame may extend farther (e.g., higher) than a part (e.g., upper end) of the hinge coupler, and / or another part of the first frame may extend farther (e.g., lower) than another part (e.g., lower end) of the hinge coupler.

[0013] The hinge reinforcing frame may include a second frame formed to protrude in one direction from a part (e.g., upper end) of the first frame.

[0014] A hinge reinforcing plate may be accommodated in the fourth panel. The fourth panel may form one surface of the main body. The hinge reinforcing plate may be accommodated in a fourth panel forming a fourth surface of the main body, among the at least two panels. The second frame may be coupled to the fourth panel and / or the hinge reinforcing plate by a second fastener.

[0015] The support frame may extend to support one surface of the fourth panel. The support frame may include a first coupler and / or a second coupler. A support frame extending to support one surface of the fourth panel forming a surface of the main body among the at least two panels may further be provided. The first coupler may be provided on at least one of both ends of the support frame. The first coupler may be coupled to a surface of a first panel forming a first surface of the main body among the at least two panels. The second frame may be arranged to overlap the first coupler and coupled to the first coupler.

[0016] The support frame may include a second coupler extending from the first coupler. The support frame may include a coupler coupled to a cover forming one surface of the machine room.

[0017] The hinge reinforcing frame may include a third frame formed to protrude from one end of the second frame. A support frame coupled to a portion of the cover forming one surface of the machine room may be provided. The third frame may be coupled to a surface of the support frame by a third fastener.

[0018] The hinge reinforcing frame may include a fourth frame formed to protrude from one end of the first frame.

[0019] The hinge reinforcing frame may include one or more of: a first frame; a second frame formed by bending from a first end of the first frame; a third frame formed by bending from one end of the second frame; and a fourth frame formed by bending from a second end of the first frame.

[0020] At least one of the first to fourth frames may be formed in the shape of a plate having a uniform thickness. They may be provided in a configuration in which one side is open.

[0021] The first fastener may be positioned lower than a second fastener penetrating the second frame and / or a third fastener penetrating the third frame.

[0022] The support frame may extend to support one surface of the fourth panel forming a surface of the main body among the at least two panels. Both ends of the support frame may be coupled to side covers forming one surface of the main body. The hinge reinforcing frame may be disposed between the front cover and the support frame. A surface of the hinge reinforcing frame may be coupled to the front cover and / or the support frame, or first and second surfaces of the hinge reinforcing frame may be coupled to the front cover and the support frame, respectively.

[0023] An inner cover may be disposed between the front cover and the first frame. A boss part may be formed to protrude from the inner cover so as to surround the first fastener. The first fastener may penetrate the hinge coupler and / or the front cover and be coupled to the boss part.[Advantageous Effects]

[0024] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the following effects can be achieved.

[0025] First, in a support structure of the hinge that supports the door to be movable along a surface of the main body, the hinge coupler is coupled not to the main body but to the machine room. Through this, even when the main body includes a vacuum insulating body, there is no need to form the coupling holes through the main body since the hinge coupler is not coupled to the main body. Therefore, there is no risk of cold air leakage and / or vacuum leakage caused by forming holes in the vacuum insulating body.

[0026] Second, the hinge reinforcing frame may include at least one among the first to fourth frames. The first frame is coupled to the front cover of the machine room, to which the hinge coupler is coupled. By being coupled to the front cover of the machine room, the first frame increases the thickness of the front cover that supports the hinge coupler, thereby enhancing the support strength of the hinge coupler.

[0027] Third, the second frame is formed by bending from a portion (e.g., upper end) of the first frame, thereby increasing the strength of the hinge reinforcing frame. In addition, the second frame is coupled to a surface of the machine room, which is spaced apart in a direction opposite to the hinge shaft where the load of the door is applied, with respect to the front cover or inner cover supporting the hinge coupler - for example, to the extension portion of the first panel or a surface of the fourth panel, thereby more stably supporting the hinge shaft coupled to the door.

[0028] Fourth, the third frame may be coupled to the first portion of the support frame, which is coupled to a portion of the side cover of the machine room. Through this, the third frame is coupled to the support frame, which is spaced apart in a direction opposite to the hinge shaft from the front cover or the inner cover, thereby achieving additional strength for the hinge coupler.

[0029] Fifth, the fourth frame may be formed by bending from the lower end of the first frame. The fourth frame is arranged in a direction opposite to the second frame with respect to the first coupling holes of the first frame, thereby reinforcing the strength of the hinge reinforcing frame in a balanced manner with respect to the hinge coupler.

[0030] Sixth, the first frame forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame. The second frame forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame. The third frame forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame. The fourth frame forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame. The hinge reinforcing frame can prevent the door from sagging by reinforcing the strength of the hinge.

[0031] Seventh, at least one of the first to fourth frames may include a polygon or a shape formed by three sides of a quadrilateral. Through this, the manufacturing of the hinge reinforcing frame becomes easier, and the material costs and / or manufacturing costs can be reduced.[Description of Drawings]

[0032] 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 insulating body 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 perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a conceptual view showing a third hinge installed at a machine room arranged on a portion of the main body in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII (an imaginary line passing through the center of a first coupling hole) in FIG. 6, showing a hinge reinforcing frame coupled to the machine room. FIG. 8 is a plan view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7, showing the coupling relationship among the hinge, the hinge reinforcing frame, and a support frame. FIG. 9a is a front view taken along line IXA-IXA in FIG. 8, showing the hinge coupled to a front cover. FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view taken along line IXB-IXB in FIG. 8 (or along line IXB-IXB in FIG. 9a), showing the hinge reinforcing frame coupled to the support frame. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X-X in FIG. 7, showing the hinge reinforcing frame and the support frame coupled to each other. FIG. 11 is a 3D view showing the hinge and the hinge reinforcing frame decoupled from each other, as illustrated in FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a conceptual view showing the hinge reinforcing frame viewed from various angles as illustrated in FIG. 11. FIG. 12a is a plan view showing the hinge reinforcing frame as viewed from above. FIG. 12b is a front view showing the hinge reinforcing frame as viewed from the front. FIG. 12c is a side view showing the hinge reinforcing frame as viewed from the side. [Mode for Invention]

[0033] Hereinafter, a common description which describes portions commonly defined across all embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0034] Optionally, an insulating body of the present disclosure may be provided as a single insulating body. For example, the insulating body may include: a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. Optionally, the insulating body of the present disclosure may include a first insulating body and a second insulating body. The second insulating body may be provided as a separate component distinct from the first insulating body. The second insulating body may be connected to the first insulating body by a connector. In the present disclosure, the connector may be defined as a joint. The second insulating body may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulating body. The second insulating body may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first insulating body. The second insulating body may include a portion connected to the first insulating body, or may include a portion disposed to overlap the first insulating body in at least one direction. The insulating body may be a vacuum insulating body including a vacuum space, or a non-vacuum insulating body which does not include a vacuum space. The insulating body may be a combination of the vacuum insulating body and the non-vacuum insulating body. The vacuum space provided in the second insulating body may include a portion extending in the same direction as the vacuum space provided in the first insulating body. The vacuum space provided in the second insulating body may include a portion extending in a direction different from the vacuum space provided in the first insulating body. The vacuum space provided in the second insulating body may include a portion disposed to overlap the vacuum space provided in the first insulating body in at least one direction. The insulating body may be provided in the form of a panel. In the present disclosure, for example, the following description will be given with respect to a "panel", and an embodiment in which the term "panel" is replaced with the term "insulating body" 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 insulating bodies of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator.

[0035] Optionally, the refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a main body. The main body may include at least one storage compartment. The main body may further include a partition that separates a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment. A first storage compartment joint may include a first sub compartment joint, a second sub compartment joint, and / or a third sub compartment joint. The second storage compartment joint may be provided on one side of the second storage compartment. The second storage compartment joint may include a first joint, a second joint, and / or a third joint.

[0036] The partition may include the vacuum insulating body and / or the non-vacuum insulating body. 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 insulating body.

[0037] 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 edges 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 an corner of the first surface of the joint and / or an 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.

[0038] The insulating body 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 compartment or the second storage compartment. 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 compartment. 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.

[0039] The insulating body 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 insulating body. 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 compartment and / or may form one surface of the machine room. The third block portion may be provided as a partition, or may form one surface of the first storage compartment.

[0040] The insulating body or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include an insulation reinforcing portion. The insulation reinforcing portion may include a portion connected to one side of the block or a portion formed to protrude from the block.

[0041] The insulating body or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a hinge. The hinge may be disposed on one side of the insulating body. The hinge may be disposed on the main body and / or door of the refrigerator.

[0042] The hinge may include one or more of: a hinge coupler that is coupled to at least one of the insulating body, the main body of the refrigerator, and the door of the refrigerator; a hinge shaft; and a hinge connection portion that protrudes and extends from the hinge coupler. 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 compartment; a second hinge (e.g., middle hinge) disposed on the partition; and a third hinge (e.g., lower hinge) on a wall forming the second storage compartment. The insulating body 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 frames. At least two of the first, second, third, and fourth frames may extend in different directions.

[0043] The insulating body 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 coupler. 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.

[0044] The insulating body 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).

[0045] The insulating body or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a decoration. The decoration may be disposed on a surface of the insulating body. 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 insulating body or on an outer surface of the refrigerator.

[0046] The insulating body or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a hot line. The hot line may be disposed on a surface of the insulating body. 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 insulating body. 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.

[0047] The insulating body 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 first 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.

[0048] The insulating body 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 compartment drawer guide provided in the first storage compartment. The first storage compartment 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).

[0049] The drawer guide may include a second storage compartment drawer guide provided in the second storage compartment.

[0050] The insulating body or refrigerator of the present disclosure may include a shelf and / or a shelf support frame.

[0051] [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.

[0052] Hereinafter, based on each drawing, the [Description Based on Drawings] section describing the present disclosure will be set forth.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the insulating body 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 insulating body 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 insulating body 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 insulating body 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 insulating body 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 insulating body 10 of the present disclosure may include a third plate disposed on at least a portion of the insulating body 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.

[0054] Optionally, the insulating body 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 insulating body 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.

[0055] Optionally, the insulating body 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.

[0056] Optionally, the insulating body 10 of the present disclosure may include a supporter 19 that is connected to at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 13 and holds the vacuum space 15. The supporter 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 supporter 19 may include a support plate 22 having a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The supporter 19 may include a plurality of bars 20 and a connecting plate 21 connecting the plurality of bars 20. The supporter 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.

[0057] Optionally, the insulating body 10 of the present disclosure may include a component coupler that provides a portion on which the components 24, 28, and 32 are disposed or supported. For example, when the component coupler is provided in the form of a plate, the component coupler may be referred to as a component coupling plate. A component connected to the component coupler may include a pass-through component configured to penetrate at least a portion of the insulating body 10 or at least a portion of the plates 11, 12, and 14. A component connected to the component coupler may include a surface component configured to be connected to a surface of the insulating body 10 or to be connected to a surface of the plates 11, 12, and 14. The pass-through component may be a component that forms a path through which a fluid (e.g., electricity, refrigerant, water, and air) passes. The pass-through 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 pass-through 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 pass-through 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 pass-through component may be a wire that supplies electricity to the apparatus. The pass-through 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 pass-through component may be a path through which a fluid such as cooling water, hot water, ice, and defrost 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.

[0058] 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 coupler, joint, support, bar, support plate, connecting plate, deformation resistor, deformation resistance plate, component coupler, component coupling plate, pass-through 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The insulating body 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.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 6 is a conceptual view showing a third hinge 129 installed at a machine room 110 arranged on a portion of the main body 100 in FIG. 5.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII (an imaginary line passing through the center of a first coupling hole 1301) in FIG. 6, showing a hinge reinforcing frame 136 coupled to the machine room 110.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a plan view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7, showing the coupling relationship among the hinge 129, the hinge reinforcing frame 136, and a support frame 114.

[0065] FIG. 9a is a front view taken along line IXA-IXA in FIG. 8, showing the hinge 129 coupled to a front cover 111. FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view taken along line IXB-IXB in FIG. 8 (or along line IXB-IXB in FIG. 9a), showing the hinge reinforcing frame 136 coupled to the support frame 114.

[0066] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X-X in FIG. 7, showing the hinge reinforcing frame 136 and the support frame 114 coupled to each other.

[0067] FIG. 11 is a 3D view showing the hinge 129 and the hinge reinforcing frame 136 decoupled from each other, as illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0068] FIG. 12 is a conceptual view showing the hinge reinforcing frame 136 viewed from various angles as illustrated in FIG. 11. FIG. 12a is a plan view showing the hinge reinforcing frame 136 as viewed from above. FIG. 12b is a front view showing the hinge reinforcing frame 136 as viewed from the front. FIG. 12c is a side view showing the hinge reinforcing frame 136 as viewed from the side.

[0069] The refrigerator according to the present disclosure includes the main body 100 and / or a door 108 and 109. The main body 100 forms the exterior of the refrigerator. The main body 100 may include at least two panels 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0070] A machine room 110 may be installed on a portion of the fourth panel 104. The fourth panel 104 may separate the storage compartment and machine room 110 of the main body 100.

[0071] A vacuum insulating body may form at least a portion of at least one of the second panel 101, the third panel 102, the first panel 103, the fourth panel 104, and the door 108 and 109. In this embodiment, the vacuum insulating body may be applied to each of the second panel 101, the third panel 102, the first panel 103, and the door 108 and 109. At least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels 101, 102, 103, and 104 may include a non-vacuum insulating body or a combination of a non-vacuum insulating body and a vacuum insulating body. The fourth panel 104 may include a non-vacuum insulating body or a combination of a non-vacuum insulating body and a vacuum insulating body. In this embodiment, the fourth panel 104 is shown to include a non-vacuum insulating body.

[0072] For example, the fourth panel 104, which is a non-vacuum insulating body, may include a panel cover 1041 forming the exterior of the panel and / or a polyurethane foam 1042 formed by injecting a polyurethane foaming liquid into the inside of the panel cover 1041 and then molding the foam.

[0073] A storage compartment is formed inside the main body 100. The storage compartment includes a first storage compartment 105 and / or a second storage compartment 106. The second storage compartment 106 may be maintained at a preset first temperature, for example, -20 °C, although it is not limited to the preset first temperature. The first storage compartment 105 may be maintained at a preset second temperature, for example, +5 °C, although it is not limited to the preset second temperature.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first storage compartment 105 and / or the second storage compartment 106 are shown to be arranged on one side (e.g., the upper side) and the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the main body 100. However, the positions of the first storage compartment 105 and the second storage compartment 106 may be reversed.

[0075] The first storage compartment 105 and the second storage compartment 106 may be sectioned off by a partition 107. The partition 107 extends in one direction (e.g., horizontally) between one 1031 of the first panels and another 1032 of the first panels. The partition 107 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the third panel 102 and the fourth panel 104.

[0076] The partition 107 may be positioned between one-third and two-thirds of the height in one direction (e.g., upward) 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 107 is illustrated as disposed approximately one-third of the height in one direction (e.g., upward) from the fourth panel 104.

[0077] The fourth panel 104 is disposed between the main body 100 and the machine room 110. The fourth panel 104 is configured to separate the storage compartment and machine room 110 of the main body 100. The fourth panel 104 forms a surface of the main body 100. The fourth panel 104 may also form a surface of the machine room 110.

[0078] A support frame 114 may be coupled to a portion of the machine room 110 so as to support the fourth panel 104. The support frame 114 may be formed in the shape of a plate made of metallic material.

[0079] The support frame 114 may be coupled to a surface of the fourth panel 104. The support frame 114 may extend between a first side cover and a second side cover 1132 of the machine room 110, which will be described later. The support frame 114 may have a -shaped cross-sectional shape to enhance strength. One side (e.g., left end portion) of the support frame 114 may be coupled to the first side cover of the machine room 110, which will be described later, and / or the other side (e.g., right end portion) of the support frame 114 may be coupled to the second side cover 1132 of the machine room 110, which will be described later.

[0080] The support frames 114 may be provided in plurality. At least two support frames 114 are disposed to be spaced apart in one direction of the fourth panel 104 and are coupled to a surface of the fourth panel 104. The support frames 114 include a first support frame 115 and / or a second support frame.

[0081] The first support frame 115 is disposed to be spaced apart from one end (e.g., front end) of the surface of the fourth panel 104 by a predetermined first distance. The second support frame is disposed to be spaced apart from the other end (e.g., rear end) of the surface of the fourth panel 104 by a predetermined second distance.

[0082] The support frame 114 may include a first portion 1151, a second portion 1152, and / or a third portion 1154.

[0083] The first portion 1151 is disposed to face the surface of the fourth panel 104 and may be coupled to the fourth panel 104. The second portion 1152 is formed to protrude from a part (e.g., front end) of the first portion 1151. The third portion 1154 is formed to protrude from another part (e.g., rear end) of the first portion 1151. The second portion 1152 and the third portion 1154 are disposed to face each other in one direction.

[0084] The door 108 and 109 includes a first storage compartment door 108 and / or a second storage compartment door 109.

[0085] The first storage compartment door 108 may be movably installed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the main body 100 so as to open and close the first storage compartment 105. One side (e.g., the left side or the right side) of the first storage compartment door 108 may be movably coupled to the main body 100 by a hinge 127, 128, and 129. In this embodiment, one side (e.g., the right side) of the first storage compartment door 108 is shown to be coupled to the main body 100 by the hinge 127, 128, and 129.

[0086] However, when a plurality of main bodies 100 are arranged adjacent to each other in one direction, a first hinge may be installed on one side (e.g., the right side) of the main body 100 on one side (e.g., the right side), and / or one side (e.g., the right side) of the first storage compartment door 108 on one side (e.g., the right side) may be coupled to the first hinge. A second hinge may be installed on the other side (e.g., the left side) of the main body 100 on the other side (the left side), and / or the other side (e.g., the left side) of the first storage compartment door 108 on the other side (e.g., the left side) may be coupled to the second hinge.

[0087] The second storage compartment door 109 may be movably or slidably installed on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the main body 100 so as to open and close the second storage compartment 106. In this embodiment, the second storage compartment door 109 is illustrated as movably installed on the main body 100.

[0088] The hinge 129 includes a first hinge 127 (upper hinge) installed on the third panel 102, a second hinge 128 (middle hinge) installed on the partition 107, and / or a third hinge 129 (lower hinge) installed on the machine room 110. Here, a detailed description of the third hinge 129 will be provided later.

[0089] A first surface and / or second surface of the first storage compartment door 108 is movably installed on a surface of the main body 100 by the first hinge 127 and / or the second hinge 128.

[0090] A first surface and / or second surface of the second storage compartment door 109 is movably installed on a surface of the main body 100 by the second hinge 128 and / or the third hinge 129.

[0091] When the door is closed, a surface of the door comes into contact with a surface of the main body 100. A gasket 118 is disposed between the surface of the door and the surface of the main body 100. The gasket 118 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber. Accordingly, the gasket 118 can prevent cold air from leaking through a gap between the door and the main body 100.

[0092] The door 108 and 109 may include a vacuum insulating body and / or a non-vacuum insulating body. A portion of the door may include a vacuum insulating body, and another portion of the door 108 and 109 may include a non-vacuum insulating body.

[0093] For example, a surface of the door 108 and 109 may be disposed to face one side (e.g., outer side) of the refrigerator, and / or may include a vacuum insulating body. A receiving groove 119 may be formed on the surface of the door 108 and 109, which is a non-vacuum insulating body, to accommodate a gasket coupler 1181 protruding from the gasket 118.

[0094] When the door 108 and 109 is opened, a surface of the main body 100 may be exposed to the outside. A decoration 120 (front decoration) is disposed on the surface of the main body 100. The decoration 120 may be formed of a plastic material. Accordingly, the decoration 120 can enhance the external appearance of the main body 100 by finishing the surface of the main body 100. The decoration 120 is configured to cover a surface of the fourth panel 104.

[0095] A hotline 121 may be further installed inside the decoration 120. A hotline receiver 122 and 1261 may be formed in the decoration 120 and 126.

[0096] The hotline 121 is disposed between the decoration 120 and 126 and the surface of the fourth panel 104. The hotline 121 is received in the hotline receiver 122. Accordingly, the decoration 120 may surround the hotline 121 to block heat exchange between the cold air in the storage compartment and the hotline 121.

[0097] The hotline 121 is a refrigerant pipe through which refrigerant flows, which receives heat from the condenser and emits the heat, thereby minimizing dew condensation caused by the temperature difference between the outside air and the cold air.

[0098] The machine room 110 is configured to accommodate components such as a compressor, a condenser, and / or a cooling fan therein. The machine room 110 includes a front cover 111, a back cover, a side cover 113, and a bottom cover which form the exterior. The front cover 111, the back cover, the side cover 113, and the bottom cover are made of metal material having sufficient strength to bear the load of the refrigerator and have a relatively large thickness. For example, the covers of the machine room 110 have a larger thickness than that of plates 123, 124, and 125 of a vacuum insulating body.

[0099] The front cover 111 forms a surface of the machine room 110. The back cover forms a surface of the machine room 110. The front cover 111 and the back cover are each extended.

[0100] The side cover 113 forms a side surface of the machine room 110. The side cover 113 extends in one direction to connect the front cover 111 and the back cover. The side cover 113 includes a first side cover and a second side cover 1131.

[0101] The first side cover may form one surface (e.g., left surface) of the machine room 110. The first side cover may be coupled to the front cover 111 and / or the back cover, or a portion (e.g., front end portion) of the first side cover and / or another portion (e.g., rear end portion) thereof may be coupled to one side (left end) of the front cover 111 and the back cover.

[0102] The second side cover 1131 may form another surface (right surface) of the machine room 110. The second side cover 1131 may be coupled to the front cover 111 and / or the back cover, or a portion (e.g., front end portion) of the second side cover 1131 and / or another portion (rear end portion) thereof may be coupled to another side (e.g., right end) of the front cover 111 and / or the back cover.

[0103] An corner of the bottom cover is coupled to the front cover 111, the back cover, and the first and / or second side cover 1131.

[0104] A roller is movably installed at a first end portion and / or a second end portion of the bottom cover. Accordingly, the roller can move along the ground, thereby facilitating transportation of the refrigerator.

[0105] The second panel 101 of the main body 100 and the back cover of the machine room 110 may be aligned to form the same plane. The first panel 103 of the main body 100 and the side cover 113 of the machine room 110 may be aligned to form the same plane. The doors and the front cover 111 of the machine room 110 may be aligned to form the same plane.

[0106] The compressor and / or the condenser are installed on a surface of the bottom cover. The compressor and the condenser may be disposed to be spaced apart in one direction.

[0107] At least one of the compressor and the condenser may be disposed to be spaced apart from the back cover by a first distance and / or to be spaced apart from the front cover 111 by a second distance. In this case, the first distance and the second distance may be different from each other.

[0108] The cooling fan may be disposed between the compressor and the condenser. The cooling fan is configured to provide motion to air. The cooling fan is configured so that outside air flows in one direction. In this embodiment, the cooling fan is configured such that outside air flows from the compressor, passes through the cooling fan, and then flows to the condenser.

[0109] An intake port 1131 may be formed in the second side cover 1132. An exhaust port may be formed in the first side cover. The intake port 1131 and the compressor may be disposed to be spaced apart in one direction and to face each other. The condenser and the exhaust port may be disposed to be spaced apart in one direction and to face each other.

[0110] The intake port 1131 and the exhaust port may be formed in the shape of a narrow, elongated through-hole. The through-hole is formed to penetrate the side cover 113 in one direction.

[0111] Accordingly, the cooling fan may draw outside air through the intake port 1131. The drawn air may pass through the compressor and cool the compressor through heat exchange with the compressor. The air that has passed through the compressor may then pass through the cooling fan and flow to the condenser, cooling the condenser through heat exchange with the condenser. Subsequently, the air that has passed through the condenser may be discharged to the outside through the exhaust port.

[0112] The vacuum insulating body includes a first plate 123, a second plate 124, and / or a side plate 125 which are made of metallic material. As a result, when the door includes a vacuum insulating body, the thermal insulation performance may be improved; however, the weight of the door may increase compared to a door of a foam-insulated refrigerator.

[0113] Among the first hinge 127, the second hinge 128, and the third hinge 129, the hinge 129 on which the door exerts the heaviest load may be the third hinge 129. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the support strength of the third hinge 129.

[0114] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the hinge 129 refers to the third hinge 129.

[0115] When the hinge 129 is coupled to a vacuum insulating body, problems of cold air leakage and / or vacuum leakage may occur. Therefore, the hinge 129 is not coupled to the main body 100 including a vacuum insulating body, but needs to be coupled to the machine room 110. For example, the hinge 129 may be coupled to the front cover 111.

[0116] The hinge 129 may include a hinge coupler 130, a hinge shaft 134, and / or a hinge connection portion 133. The hinge 129 is formed of a metallic material to bear the load of the door.

[0117] The hinge coupler 130 is coupled to the front cover 111. The hinge coupler 130 may be formed in the shape of a polygonal (e.g., approximately rectangular) plate. The length of the hinge coupler 130 in a first direction (e.g., left-right direction) may be extended longer than the width of the hinge coupler 130 in a second direction (e.g., up-down direction).

[0118] The hinge coupler 130 is connected and coupled to the front cover 111. Coupling holes 1301 and 1302 are formed to penetrate the hinge coupler 130 in one direction. The coupling holes 1301 and 1302 are disposed to be spaced apart in one direction of the hinge coupler 130. The coupling holes 1301 and 1302 include a first coupling hole 1301 disposed on one side of the hinge coupler 130 and / or a second coupling hole 1302 disposed on the other side of the hinge coupler 130.

[0119] A boss part 1311 may be formed to protrude in one direction (e.g., rearward) from a surface of the front cover 111 or from an inner cover 131, which will be described later, toward an internal space of the machine room 110. In this embodiment, the boss part 1311 is shown to be formed to protrude from the inner cover 131. At least two boss parts 1311 may be disposed on the inner cover 131 to be spaced apart in one direction.

[0120] The boss part 1311 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. A female thread 1312 may be formed to penetrate the boss part 1311 in one direction. The female thread 1312 and the coupling holes 1301 and 1302 are arranged to overlap each other.

[0121] The front cover 111 may further include an inner cover 131 to enhance the strength of the hinge 129. The thickness of the inner cover 131 may be formed to be greater than the thickness of the front cover 111. The front cover 111 may form the exterior of the machine room 110 and / or the inner cover 131 may form a surface of the machine room 110.

[0122] The front cover 111 and the inner cover 131 are arranged to overlap, thereby forming a double layer. Through this, the two layers of the front cover 111 and the inner cover 131 can provide supporting force for the hinge 129.

[0123] A through-hole may be formed in the front cover 111 in one direction so that fasteners 132a and 132b to be described later passes therethrough.

[0124] The fasteners 132a and 132b may be implemented as a screw or the like. The fasteners 132a and 132b may be formed of a metallic material and have a size and strength enough to bear the load of the refrigerator. The fasteners 132a and 132b may pass through the coupling holes 1301 and 1302 of the hinge coupler 130, the through-hole of the front cover 111, and / or the boss part 1311 of the inner cover 131 and be coupled to the boss part 1311. Through this, the hinge coupler 130 may be coupled to the front cover 111 and the inner cover 131 by the fasteners 132a and 132b.

[0125] The fasteners 132a and 132b includes a first fastener 132a coupled through the first coupling hole 1301 and / or a second fastener 132b coupled through the second coupling hole 1302. The fasteners 132a and 132b may be disposed to be spaced apart in one direction.

[0126] The hinge connection portion 133 may be formed to protrude from a part (e.g., upper end) of the hinge coupler 130 toward one side (e.g., a lower side) of the second storage compartment door 109. The hinge connection portion 133 may be formed to be bent in one direction (e.g., vertically) from the hinge coupler 130. The hinge connection portion 133 and the hinge coupler 130 may form an L-shaped structure.

[0127] A part of the hinge connection portion 133 may be arranged to overlap the second storage compartment door 109. The protrusion length of the hinge connection portion 133, which protrudes from the hinge coupler 130 toward one side (e.g., a lower side) of the second storage compartment door 109, does not extend beyond the second storage compartment door 109.

[0128] The hinge shaft 134 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The hinge shaft 134 is extended. The hinge shaft 134 may be formed to protrude from the hinge connection portion 133 toward the second storage compartment door 109, or may be coupled to the hinge connection portion 133 through a through-hole formed in a part (e.g., a front end portion) of the hinge connection portion 133. In this embodiment, the hinge shaft 134 is shown to be formed to integrally protrude from the hinge connection portion 133.

[0129] A hinge shaft receiver 135 is recessed toward one side from a surface of the second storage compartment door 109. The hinge shaft 134 is accommodated in the hinge shaft receiver 135. A bush or bearing may be installed between the hinge shaft receiver 135 and the hinge shaft 134. The bush or bearing is coupled to the hinge shaft receiver 135 and / or the hinge shaft 134 so as to surround the hinge shaft 134. The bush or bearing supports the second storage compartment door 109 so that the second storage compartment door 109 can move with respect to the hinge shaft 134. The second storage compartment door 109 may be coupled to the hinge connection portion 133 so as to be movable with respect to the hinge shaft 134.

[0130] The thickness of the hinge connection portion 133 and or the hinge coupler 130 may be greater than the thickness of the front cover 111 and / or the inner cover 131 in order to enhance the strength of the hinge 129. In another example, the thickness of the hinge connection portion 133 or the hinge coupler 130 may be greater than or equal to the sum of the thicknesses of the front cover 111 and the inner cover 131.

[0131] To reinforce the support strength of hinge 129, a hinge reinforcing frame 136 is coupled to the front cover 111. When the inner cover 131 is coupled to the front cover 111, the hinge reinforcing frame 136 may be coupled to the inner cover 131.

[0132] 155 The hinge reinforcing frame 136 includes a first frame 1361. The first frame 1361 is formed in the shape of a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) plate. The length of the first frame 1361 in a first direction (up-down direction) may be extended longer than the width of the first frame 1361 in a second direction (e.g., left-right direction).

[0133] The width of the first frame 1361 may be formed to correspond to the lateral width of the hinge coupler 130.

[0134] The first frame 1361 may be tightly attached to a surface of the front cover 111 or to the inner cover 131. In this embodiment, the first frame 1361 is shown to be tightly attached to the inner cover 131.

[0135] The first frame 1361 includes first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b. The first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b are formed to penetrate the first frame 1361 in one direction. The first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b are formed to correspond to the coupling holes 1301 and 1302. For example, the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b and / or the coupling holes 1301 and 1302 may be formed as a closed curve (e.g., circle).

[0136] The first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b are arranged concentrically to the coupling holes 1301 and 1302 of the hinge coupler 130, centered on an imaginary line passing in one direction through the centers of the coupling holes 1301 and 1302.

[0137] However, the diameter of the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b may be greater than or equal to the diameter of the coupling holes 1301 and 1302. In this embodiment, the diameter of the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b is shown to be greater than the diameter of the coupling holes 1301 and 1302. The diameter of the female thread 1312 of the boss part 1311 is formed to correspond to the diameter of the coupling holes 1301 and 1302.

[0138] The outer circumferential diameter of the boss part 1311 is greater than the diameter of the coupling holes 1301 and 1302. The thickness of the boss part 1311 is formed between the outer circumferential surface and inner circumferential surface of the boss part 1311. The thickness of the boss part 1311 may be greater than or equal to the thickness of the inner cover 131. In this embodiment, the thickness of the boss part 1311 is shown to be greater than the thickness of the inner cover 131.

[0139] The diameter of the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b is formed to correspond to the outer circumferential diameter of the boss part 1311. The surrounding perimeter of the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b is configured to enclose the outer circumferential surface of the boss part 1311 of the inner cover 131. The boss part 1311 of the inner cover 131 may be inserted through the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b and coupled to the first frame 1361. Through this, the first frame 1361, together with the front cover 111 and the inner cover 131, forms a three-layer structure, thereby enhancing the support strength of the hinge coupler 130. The first frame 1361 may be restrained from moving in one direction (e.g., up-down direction) with respect to the boss part 1311.

[0140] The first frame 1361 may be force-fitted to the boss part 1311 through the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b. Through this, the first frame 1361 may be restrained from moving in one direction along the boss part 1311.

[0141] At least two first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b are coupled to at least two boss parts 1311 spaced apart in one direction, thereby restrain the movement of the first frame 1361.

[0142] The support frame 114 includes a first coupler 116. The support frame 114 is configured to be coupled to a portion of the first panel 103 by the first coupler 116. The first coupler 116 is provided at both ends of the support frame 114.

[0143] The first coupler 116 extends from one end of the support frame 114 in one direction (e.g., left-right direction) toward one side (e.g., a lower side) of the first panel 103.

[0144] A portion (e.g., front end portion) of the first coupler 116 of the first support frame 115 is disposed adjacent to a portion of the front cover 111, and / or another portion (e.g., a rear end portion) of the first coupler 116 of the first support frame 115 is disposed to be spaced apart from a portion of the first coupler 116 of the second support frame in one direction.

[0145] A coupling hole 1161 is formed in a portion and / or another portion of the first coupler 116, or the coupling hole 1161 is formed in a portion (e.g., front end portion) and / or another portion (e.g., rear end portion) of the first coupler 116. The coupling hole 1161 is formed to penetrate the first coupler 116, so that the fasteners 132a and 132b such as screws to be described later can pass through the coupling hole 1161.

[0146] The first panel 103 includes a vacuum insulating body, and includes a first plate 123, a second plate 124, and a side plate 125. A vacuum space 126 is formed between the first plate 123 and the second plate 124. A support is provided between the first plate 123 and the second plate 124. The support is configured to hold the vacuum space 126.

[0147] The first plate 123 is disposed toward the storage compartment inside the refrigerator. The second plate 124 is disposed toward the outside of the refrigerator. The side plate 125 is connected to the second plate 124 extending from the first plate 123, forming a side surface of the vacuum space 126.

[0148] The side plate 125 may be connected to the second plate 124 by sealing or welding. A sealing line or welding line may be formed at the portion where the side plate 125 and the second plate 124 are connected.

[0149] An extension portion 1241 is provided at a portion of the second plate 124. The extension portion 1241 is formed to be bent in one direction from a lower end of the second plate 124.

[0150] The first coupler 116 may be coupled to the extension portion 1241 of the second plate 124 by the fasteners 132a and 132b such as screws and 132b passing through a coupling hole 1161.

[0151] The second coupler 117 is formed to be bent toward one side from one direction (e.g., lateral) side surface of the first coupler 116. The second coupler 117 is disposed to face the side cover 113 of the machine room 110. The coupling hole 1161 is formed to penetrate the second coupler 117 in one direction, so that the second coupler 117 is coupled to the side cover 113 by the fasteners 132a and 132b such as screws.

[0152] Through this, both ends of the support frame 114 may be coupled to the first panel 103 by the first coupler 116. Both ends of the support frame 114 may be coupled to and supported on the side cover 113 of the machine room 110 by the second coupler 117.

[0153] The hinge reinforcing frame 136 may include a second frame 1363. The second frame 1363 and the first frame 1361 may be coupled and connected integrally or together. The second frame 1363 may be formed to protrude in one direction (e.g., rearward) from a portion (e.g., upper end) of the first frame 1361. The first frame and the second frame 1363 are connected to each other in one direction (e.g., vertical direction).

[0154] The length of the second frame 1363 in a first direction (e.g., left-right direction) may be greater than or equal to the width of the second frame 1363 in a second direction (e.g., front-rear direction). In this embodiment, the length of the second frame 1363 in the first direction (e.g., left-right direction) is shown to be longer than the width of the second frame 1363 in the second direction (e.g., front-rear direction).

[0155] The width of the second frame 1363 in the second direction (e.g., front-rear direction) may be formed to correspond to the gap between the front cover 111 or the inner cover 131 and the first support frame 115. In this embodiment, the width of the second frame 1363 in the second direction (e.g., front-rear direction) is shown to correspond to the gap between the inner cover 131 and the first support frame 115. Through this, the second frame 1363 may connect the first frame 1361 and a third frame 1365 to be described later, and / or the first frame 1361 may be tightly coupled to the inner cover 131. The third frame 1365 may be closely coupled to the second portion 1152 of the first support frame 115.

[0156] A bent portion 112 is provided at a portion of the front cover 111. The bent portion 112 is formed to protrude from a portion (e.g., upper end) of the front cover 111so as to cover a part of the second frame 1363. The bent portion 112 may extend along a portion of the front cover 111. Through this, the bent portion 112 can enhance the strength of the front cover 111.

[0157] The bent portion 112 is arranged to overlap and / or be connected to the second frame 1363. Through this, the bent portion 112 and the second frame 1363 are supported against each other, thereby reinforcing the support strength of the hinge 129.

[0158] A second coupling hole 1364 may be formed in the second frame 1363. The second coupling hole 1364 may be disposed adjacent to a portion (e.g., right end portion) of the second frame 1363. In this embodiment, one second coupling hole 1364 may be provided, but the number of second coupling holes 1364 is not limited to this.

[0159] The second coupling hole 1364 may be arranged to overlap a coupling hole 1161 formed in a portion (e.g., front end portion) of the first coupler 116. Through this, the fasteners 132a and 132b such as screws may pass through the second coupling hole 1364, the coupling hole 1161 of the first coupler 116, and / or the coupling hole 1161 of the extension portion 1241 and be coupled to the second frame 1363, the first coupler 116, and / or the extension portion 1241. The second frame 1363, the first coupler 116, and / or the extension portion 1241 may be tightly attached and coupled to other components by the fasteners 132a and 132b. Through this, two or more among the second frame 1363, the support frame 114, and the first panel 103 may be coupled together. Therefore, two or more among the second frame 1363, the support frame 114, and the first panel 103 are arranged to overlap, which increases the thickness, thereby not only enhancing the support strength of the hinge 129 but also increasing the support strength of the first panel 103.

[0160] In another example, the second frame 1363 may be coupled to a hinge reinforcing plate 137, or may be coupled to a hinge reinforcing plate 137 accommodated inside the fourth panel 104. The hinge reinforcing plate 137 may be made of a metallic material. A coupling groove 1371 may be formed in a portion (e.g., front end portion) of the hinge reinforcing plate 137. The fasteners 132a and 132b such as screws may pass through the second coupling hole 1364 of the second frame 1363 and be coupled to the coupling groove 1371 of the hinge reinforcing plate 137. Through this, the hinge reinforcing plate 137 is coupled to the second frame 1363, thereby increasing the support strength of the hinge coupler 130.

[0161] The hinge reinforcing frame 136 may include a third frame 1365. The third frame 1365 may be connected integrally to the second frame 1363. The third frame 1365 may be formed to protrude from a portion (e.g., rear end) of the second frame 1363.

[0162] The length of the third frame 1365 in a first direction (e.g., left-right direction) may be formed to correspond to the width of the second frame 1363 in the first direction (e.g., left-right direction). The width of the third frame 1365 in a second direction (e.g., up-down direction) may be formed to be shorter than the length of the first frame 1361 in the second direction (e.g., up-down direction).

[0163] The third frame 1365 may be arranged to face the first frame 1361, spaced apart from each other.

[0164] The third frame 1365 is arranged to be tightly attached in one direction to the second portion 1152 of the first support frame 115. Third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b are formed to penetrate the third frame 1365 in one direction. At least two third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b are arranged to be spaced apart in one direction of the third frame 1365.

[0165] The at least two third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b may be arranged to face the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b in one direction, spaced apart from each other.

[0166] A coupling hole 1161 may be formed to penetrate the second portion 1152 of the first support frame 115 in one direction. The coupling hole 1161 of the second portion 1152 may be formed to correspond to the third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b of the third frame 1365. Fasteners 1367a and 1367b such as screws may pass through the third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b of the third frame 1365 and / or the coupling hole 1161 of the second portion 1152 of the support frame 114 and be coupled to the third frame 1365 and / or the support frame 114. Through this, the third frame 1365 and the support frame 114 may be firmly coupled to each other via the third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b and / or the coupling hole 1161 of the second portion 1152.

[0167] The third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b of the third frame 1365 may be positioned higher than the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b of the first frame 1361. This is because the coupling position of the support frame 114, which is coupled to the side cover 113 of the machine room 110, is located higher than the coupling position of the hinge coupler 130, which is coupled to the front cover 111 of the machine room 110.

[0168] For supporting the fourth panel 104 and / or the hinge reinforcing frame 136, it is preferable that the support frame 114 be installed in a portion of the machine room 110.

[0169] The hinge reinforcing frame 136 may include a fourth frame 1368. The fourth frame 1368 may be formed to protrude from a portion (e.g., lower end) of the first frame 1361. The length of the fourth frame 1368 in a first direction (e.g., left-right direction) may be formed to be longer than the width of the fourth frame 1368 in a second direction (e.g., front-rear direction).

[0170] The fourth frame 1368 may be arranged to face and or be spaced apart from the second frame 1363. The width of the fourth frame 1368 in the first direction (e.g., front-rear direction) may be formed to be smaller than or equal to the width of the second frame 1363 in the first direction (e.g., front-rear direction). In this embodiment, the width of the fourth frame 1368 in the first direction (e.g., front-rear direction) is shown to be smaller than the width of the second frame 1363 in the first direction (e.g., front-rear direction).

[0171] The hinge reinforcing frame 136 may be configured to include at least one among the above-described first frame 1361, second frame 1362, third frame 1363, and fourth frame 1368. The first frame 1361, second frame 1362, third frame 1363, and / or fourth frame 1368 may be integrally formed in a polygonal shape (e.g., rectangular shape). However, the hinge reinforcing frame 136 may be formed in a polygonal shape (e.g., rectangular shape) with one side open, rather than in the form of a closed-loop. The width of the third frame 1365 in a first direction (e.g., up-down direction) may be shorter than the length of the first frame 1361 in the first direction (e.g., up-down direction), and / or the width of the fourth frame 1368 in a first direction (e.g., front-rear direction) may be shorter than the width of the second frame 1363 in the first direction (e.g., front-rear direction). Through this, the third frame 1365 and the fourth frame 1368 are arranged to be spaced apart without being connected to each other.

[0172] Through this, the hinge reinforcing frame 136, formed in a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) structure with one side open, may be manufactured by bending a rectangular metal plate through press working to form the first frame 1361, the second frame 1362, the third frame 1363, and / or the fourth frame 1368. The hinge reinforcing frame 136 may be formed with the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b through the third coupling holes 1366a and 1366b respectively for the first frame 1361 through the third frame 1365 by press working. Accordingly, the hinge reinforcing frame 136 may be easily manufactured while securing the support strength of the hinge 129. The material cost and / or manufacturing cost of the hinge reinforcing frame 136 can be reduced.

[0173] Therefore, according to the present disclosure, in a support structure of the hinge 129 that supports the door to be movable along a surface of the main body 100, the hinge coupler 130 is coupled to the machine room 110. Through this, even when the main body 100 includes a vacuum insulating body, the hinge coupler 130 does not need to have the coupling holes 1301 and 1302 formed through the main body 100. Therefore, there is no risk of cold air leakage and / or vacuum leakage caused by forming holes in the vacuum insulating body.

[0174] The hinge reinforcing frame 136 may include at least one among the first frame 1361 through the fourth frame 1368. The first frame 1361 is coupled to the front cover 111 of the machine room 110, to which the hinge coupler 130 is coupled. By being coupled to the front cover 111 of the machine room 110, the first frame 1361 increases the thickness of the front cover 111 that supports the hinge coupler 130, thereby enhancing the support strength of the hinge coupler 130.

[0175] The second frame 1363 is formed by bending from a portion (e.g., upper end) of the first frame 1361, thereby increasing the strength of the hinge reinforcing frame 136. In addition, the second frame 1363 is coupled to a surface of the machine room 110, which is spaced apart in a direction opposite to the hinge shaft 134 where the load of the door is applied, with respect to the front cover 111 or inner cover 131 supporting the hinge coupler 130 - for example, to the extension portion 1241 of the first panel 103 or a surface of the fourth panel 104, thereby more stably supporting the hinge shaft 134 coupled to the door.

[0176] The third frame 1365 may be coupled to the first portion 1151 of the support frame 114, which is coupled to a portion of the side cover 113 of the machine room 110. Through this, the third frame 1365 is coupled to the support frame 114, which is spaced apart in a direction opposite to the hinge shaft 134 from the front cover 111 or the inner cover 131, thereby achieving stable strength for the hinge coupler 130.

[0177] The fourth frame 1368 may be formed by bending from one end or the lower end of the first frame 1361. The fourth frame 1368 is arranged in a direction opposite to the second frame 1363 with respect to the first coupling holes 1362a and 1362b of the first frame 1361, thereby reinforcing the strength of the hinge reinforcing frame 136 in a balanced manner with respect to the hinge coupler 130.

[0178] In addition, the first frame 1361 forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame 136. The second frame 1363 forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame 136. The third frame 1365 forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame 136. The fourth frame 1368 forms a surface of the hinge reinforcing frame 136.

[0179] Furthermore, the first, second, third, and / or fourth frames 1361, 1362, 1363, and / or 1368 may form a polygon or a shape formed by three sides of a quadrilateral. Through this, the manufacturing of the hinge reinforcing frame 136 becomes easier, and the material costs and / or manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0180] [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF MAIN ELEMENTS]1:refrigerator2:main body3:door4:compressor5:condenser6:expander7:evaporator8:machine room9:cavity10:vacuum insulating body10a:first vacuum insulating body10b:second vacuum insulating body11: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 portion19:supporter20:bar21:connecting plate22:support plate23:radiation resistance sheet25:shield26:conduction resistance sheet28:additional insulating body29a:central insulating body29b:peripheral insulating body30:joint31:port32:conduit33:film34:porous material100:main body101:second panel102:third panel103:first panel1031:one first panel1032:another first panel104:fourth panel1041:panel cover1042:polyurethane foam105:first storage compartment106:second storage compartment107:partition108:first storage compartment door109:second storage compartment door110:machine room111:front cover112:bent portion113:side cover1131:second side cover1132:intake port114:support frame115:first support frame1151:first portion1152:second portion1153:coupling hole1154:third portion116:first coupler1161:coupling hole117:second coupler118:gasket1181:gasket coupler119:receiving groove120:decoration121:hotline122:hotline receiver123:first plate124:second plate1241:extension portion125:side plate126:vacuum space127:first hinge128:second hinge129:third hinge130 :hinge coupler1301:first coupling hole1302 :second coupling hole131:inner cover1311:boss part1312:female thread132a, 132b:fastener133:hinge connection portion134:hinge shaft135:hinge shaft receiver136:hinge reinforcing frame1361:first frame1362a, 1362b:first coupling hole1363:second frame1364:second coupling hole1365:third frame1366a, 1366b:third coupling hole1367a, 1367b:fastener1368:fourth frame137:hinge reinforcing plate1371:coupling groove138:fastener

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a main body including a panel including an insulating body; a door movably installed on a surface of the main body; a hinge disposed at a portion of the door, for movably supporting the door; and a hinge reinforcing frame reinforcing the strength of the hinge.

2. The refrigerator of claim 15, wherein the hinge coupler is formed to protrude from a rear end of the hinge connection portion and is fastened to the front cover, and the hinge reinforcing frame includes a first frame extending in surface contact with the front cover, wherein the hinge coupler and the first frame are fastened by a first fastener, with the front cover interposed therebetween.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the first fastener includes a screw, and the first fastener fastens by passing through a fastening hole of the hinge coupler, a through-hole of the front cover, and a coupling hole of the first frame.

4. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein a part of the first frame extends higher than an upper end of the hinge coupler, and another part of the first frame extends lower than a lower end of the hinge coupler.

5. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the hinge reinforcing frame includes a second frame formed to protrude rearward from an upper end of the first frame.

6. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein a hinge reinforcing plate is accommodated in a fourth panel forming a fourth surface of the main body among at least two panels, and the second frame, together with the fourth panel, is fastened to the hinge reinforcing plate by a second fastener.

7. The refrigerator of claim 5, comprising a support frame extending to support one surface of the fourth panel forming a surface of the main body among at least two panels, wherein a first fastening portion is provided at an end portion of the support frame, the first fastening portion is fastened to one surface of the first panel forming a side surface of the main body among the at least two panels, and the second frame is arranged to overlap the first fastening portion and is fastened to the first fastening portion.

8. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein the support frame includes a second fastening portion extending from the first fastening portion and fastened to a side cover forming a side surface of the machine room.

9. The refrigerator of claim 5, further comprising: a third frame formed to protrude from a rear end of the second frame; and a support frame fastened to some of a plurality of side covers forming theside surface of the machine room, and wherein the third frame is fastened to a surface of the support frame by a third fastener.

10. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the hinge reinforcing frame includes a fourth frame formed to protrude rearward from a lower end of the first frame.

11. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the hinge reinforcing frame includes: a second frame formed by bending rearward from an upper end of the first frame; a third frame formed by bending in one direction from a rear end of the second frame; and a fourth frame formed by bending rearward from a lower end of the first frame.

12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the first to fourth frames are each formed in the shape of a plate with a uniform thickness, and includes a shape formed by three sides of a quadrilateral.

13. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the first fastener is positioned lower than a second fastener penetrating the second frame and a third fastener penetrating the third frame.

14. The refrigerator of claim 15, further comprising: a support frame extending to support one surface of the fourth panel forming a surface of the main body, with both ends fastened to upper ends of side covers forming a side surface of the machine room, and the hinge reinforcing frame is disposed between the front cover and the support frame, with first and second surfaces of the hinge reinforcing frame fastened to one or more of the front cover and the support frame.

15. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising a machine room arranged on a portion of the main body, wherein the hinge includes: a hinge coupler coupled to a front cover forming a surface of the machine room; a hinge shaft coupled to the door; and a hinge connection portion connecting the hinge coupler and the hinge shaft, wherein the hinge reinforcing frame is attached to the front cover facing in a direction opposite to the hinge coupler.

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