Refrigerator

Abstract

To provide a technical proposal that relates to a refrigerator comprising a storage chamber for storing stored objects in a dry state, and can easily adjust humidity in the storage chamber to humidity suitable for dry storage.SOLUTION: A refrigerator according to an embodiment comprises: a cold air generation part for generating cold air; a first storage chamber for storing stored objects; a second storage chamber for storing stored objects in a drier condition than the first storage chamber; a first path for supplying the cold air generated by the cold air generation part, to the inside of the first storage chamber from the cold air generation part, and returning it to the cold air generation part from the inside of the first storage chamber; and a second path for supplying the cold air generated by the cold air generation part, to the inside of the second storage chamber from the cold air generation part, and returning it to the cold air generation part from the inside of the second storage chamber. The first path and the second path are provided as separate paths.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a refrigerator. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a need for refrigerators to store stored items such as seaweed, dried shiitake mushrooms, flour, tea leaves, rice crackers, snacks, etc. in a dry state. For example, the refrigerator disclosed in Patent Document 1 is equipped with a drying chamber within the refrigerating compartment, and the humidity within this drying chamber is controlled by adjusting the volume of cold air and by heating with a heater. The refrigerator in Patent Document 1 can meet the need to store stored items in a dry state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-141977 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, there has been a demand for storing stored items such as vegetables in a moist state, and in order to meet this demand, models have been provided that are designed to increase the humidity in the storage compartment. However, if a dry compartment as described above is provided in this type of refrigerator, the humidity in the storage compartment becomes high, making it impossible to sufficiently reduce the humidity in the dry compartment to a level suitable for dry storage.

[0005] This embodiment provides a technical solution for a refrigerator having a storage compartment for storing stored items in a dry state, which makes it easy to adjust the humidity in the storage compartment to a humidity level suitable for dry storage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The refrigerator of this embodiment comprises a cold air generating unit that generates cold air, a first storage chamber that stores stored items, a second storage chamber that stores stored items in a drier state than the first storage chamber, a first path that supplies the cold air generated by the cold air generating unit from the cold air generating unit to the first storage chamber and returns it from the first storage chamber to the cold air generating unit, and a second path that supplies the cold air generated by the cold air generating unit from the cold air generating unit to the second storage chamber and returns it from the second storage chamber to the cold air generating unit, and the first path and the second path are provided as separate paths. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration example of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a crisper according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a control system of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing a configuration example of a crisper according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a crisper according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing a configuration example of a crisper according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional plan view (part 1) schematically illustrating a configuration example of a crisper according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional plan view (part 2) schematically illustrating a configuration example of a crisper according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a crisper according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing a configuration example of a crisper according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing a configuration example of a crisper according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a crisper according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments of the refrigerator will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments, substantially the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0009] (First embodiment) The refrigerator 10 shown in Fig. 1 has a rectangular insulated box body 11 that forms the outer shell of the refrigerator, and multiple storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 are formed inside the storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. Various items, such as food, can be cooled and stored inside the storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. Although not shown in detail, the insulated box body 11 is configured with a thermal insulating material between an inner box and an outer box. The thermal insulating material that forms the insulated box body 11 can be, for example, a vacuum insulation panel, urethane foam, or a thermal insulating molded body made of a thermal insulating material.

[0010] In this case, storage compartment 12 is a refrigerator compartment maintained in the refrigerator temperature range. Hereinafter, storage compartment 12 may be referred to as "refrigerator compartment 12." In this case, storage compartment 13 is a vegetable compartment maintained in the refrigerator temperature range. Hereinafter, storage compartment 13 may be referred to as "vegetable compartment 13." In this case, storage compartment 14 is an ice making compartment maintained in the freezing temperature range. Hereinafter, storage compartment 14 may be referred to as "ice making compartment 14." In this case, storage compartment 15 is a small freezing compartment maintained in the freezing temperature range. Hereinafter, storage compartment 15 may be referred to as "small freezing compartment 15." In this case, storage compartment 16 is a large freezing compartment maintained in the freezing temperature range. Hereinafter, storage compartment 16 may be referred to as "large freezing compartment 16."

[0011] Refrigerating compartment 12 is the uppermost storage compartment among multiple storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 provided in refrigerator 10. Vegetable compartment 13 is provided below refrigerating compartment 12 and is located at or near the center in the vertical direction of insulated box 11. Ice making compartment 14 and small freezing compartment 15 are provided below vegetable compartment 13 and are lined up in the left-right direction of refrigerator 10 within insulated box 11. Large freezing compartment 16 is provided below ice making compartment 14 and small freezing compartment 15 within insulated box 11. Large freezing compartment 16 is the lowermost storage compartment among multiple storage compartments 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 provided in refrigerator 10.

[0012] The refrigerator compartment 12 has a rectangular opening 12a on its front surface. The front opening 12a of the refrigerator compartment 12 is opened and closed by two storage compartment doors 12D[R] and 12D[L] that can pivot left and right, i.e., two double-door refrigerator compartment doors that open like doors. That is, the front opening 12a of the refrigerator compartment 12 is opened and closed by at least two storage compartment doors, in this case, the right refrigerator compartment door 12D[R] and the left refrigerator compartment door 12D[L]. The refrigerator compartment door may be a single storage compartment door that opens and closes the front opening 12a of the refrigerator compartment 12. Alternatively, the front opening 12a of the refrigerator compartment 12 may be opened and closed by three or more storage compartment doors.

[0013] Vegetable compartment 13 has a rectangular opening 13a on its front. Front opening 13a of vegetable compartment 13 is opened and closed by a storage compartment door that can move in the front-to-rear direction, a so-called drawer-type vegetable compartment door 13D. Ice compartment 14 has a rectangular opening 14a on its front. Front opening 14a of ice compartment 14 is opened and closed by a storage compartment door that can move in the front-to-rear direction, a so-called drawer-type ice compartment door 14D. Small freezer compartment 15 has a rectangular opening 15a on its front. Front opening 15a of small freezer compartment 15 is opened and closed by a storage compartment door that can move in the front-to-rear direction, a so-called drawer-type small freezer compartment door 15D. Large freezer compartment 16 has an opening 16a on its front. Front opening 16a of large freezer compartment 16 is opened and closed by a storage compartment door that can move in the front-to-rear direction, a so-called drawer-type large freezer compartment door 16D.

[0014] A chilled compartment 17 is also provided within the refrigerator compartment 12. The chilled compartment 17 is a storage compartment formed by partitioning off part of the space within the refrigerator compartment 12. In this case, the chilled compartment 17 is formed in the lower part of the refrigerator compartment 12. The position and size of the chilled compartment 17 within the refrigerator compartment 12 can be changed as appropriate.

[0015] As shown in Fig. 2, a storage container 21 is provided inside the vegetable compartment 13. The storage container 21 is made of, for example, resin. The storage container 21 is formed in a box shape with an opening on the top surface, and storage items can be placed inside through the opening. The storage container 21 is attached to the back surface of the vegetable compartment door 13D, and can move back and forth together with the vegetable compartment door 13D.

[0016] The refrigerator 10 also has a refrigeration function unit 22. The refrigeration function unit 22 has a refrigeration cooling compartment 23, a refrigeration cooler 24, and a refrigeration blower 25. The refrigeration cooling compartment 23 is provided at the back, i.e., rear, of the vegetable compartment 13. A first cool air outlet 23a and a second cool air outlet 23b are provided at the upper part of the front surface of the refrigeration cooling compartment 23. A cool air return port 23c is provided at the lower part of the front surface of the refrigeration cooling compartment 23. The refrigeration cooler 24 and the refrigeration blower 25 are provided within the refrigeration cooling compartment 23.

[0017] Refrigerator cooler 24 is an example of a cold air generating unit, and together with a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and other components (not shown), constitutes a well-known refrigeration cycle. In this refrigeration cycle, the compressor circulates a refrigerant, causing refrigerator cooler 24 to cool the surrounding air and generate cold air. Refrigerator blower 25 is an example of an air blowing unit, and blows air through refrigerator cooler 24. Due to the blowing action of refrigerator blower 25, the cold air generated by refrigerator cooler 24 is supplied into vegetable compartment 13 from first cold air outlet 23a and second cold air outlet 23b, thereby cooling the interior of vegetable compartment 13 to a predetermined refrigeration temperature range.

[0018] Refrigerator cooling compartment 23 is also connected to refrigerator compartment 12 via cold air duct 23d. Therefore, the cold air generated by refrigerator cooler 24 is also supplied into refrigerator compartment 12 by the blowing action of refrigerator blower 25, thereby cooling the inside of refrigerator compartment 12 to a predetermined refrigeration temperature range. The cold air supplied into refrigerator compartment 12 then flows into vegetable compartment 13 through a communication port (not shown) that connects refrigerator compartment 12 and vegetable compartment 13.

[0019] Furthermore, the cold air supplied from refrigeration cooling compartment 23 into vegetable compartment 13 and the cold air flowing from refrigeration compartment 12 into vegetable compartment 13 is returned to refrigeration cooling compartment 23 from cold air return port 23c by the blowing action of refrigeration blower 25, cooled again by refrigeration cooler 24, and supplied into refrigeration compartment 12 and vegetable compartment 13. This circulation of cold air keeps refrigeration compartment 12 and vegetable compartment 13 cooled to a predetermined refrigeration temperature range.

[0020] Refrigerator 10 also includes a freezer cooling function unit (not shown) for cooling ice-making compartment 14, small freezer compartment 15, and large freezer compartment 16 to a predetermined freezing temperature range. The freezer cooling function unit is configured to include a freezer cooler and a freezer blower in a freezer cooling chamber located, for example, at the back of large freezer compartment 16. The freezer cooling function unit is configured to supply cold air generated by the freezer cooler to ice-making compartment 14, small freezer compartment 15, and large freezer compartment 16 by the blowing action of the freezer blower. The cold air supplied to ice-making compartment 14, small freezer compartment 15, and large freezer compartment 16 is then returned to the freezer cooling chamber by the blowing action of the freezer blower, where it is cooled again by the freezer cooler and supplied to ice-making compartment 14, small freezer compartment 15, and large freezer compartment 16. By circulating the cold air in this manner, the ice making compartment 14, the small freezing compartment 15, and the large freezing compartment 16 are kept cooled to a predetermined freezing temperature range.

[0021] The refrigerator 10 also includes a moist storage chamber 30 and a dry storage chamber 31. In this embodiment, the moist storage chamber 30 and the dry storage chamber 31 are formed inside the storage container 21. More specifically, the refrigerator 10 is configured such that the inside of the storage container 21 is divided into the moist storage chamber 30 and the dry storage chamber 31 by a partition wall 32. In this case, the moist storage chamber 30 is provided at the front of the storage container 21, and the dry storage chamber 31 is provided at the rear of the storage container 21.

[0022] The moist storage compartment 30 is an example of a first storage compartment, and is intended to store stored items such as vegetables and fresh foods in a moist, i.e., non-dried state. On the other hand, the dry storage compartment 31 is an example of a second storage compartment, and is intended to store stored items such as seaweed, dried shiitake mushrooms, flour, tea leaves, rice crackers, snacks, etc. in a dry state. In other words, the dry storage compartment 31 is intended to store stored items in a drier, relatively lower humidity state than the moist storage compartment 30.

[0023] The refrigerator 10 also includes a moist storage chamber path 33 and a dry storage chamber path 34. The moist storage chamber path 33 is an example of a first path, and serves as a circulation path for supplying the cold air generated by the refrigerating cooler 24 from the refrigerating cooler 24 into the moist storage chamber 30 and returning it from the moist storage chamber 30 to the refrigerating cooler 24. On the other hand, the dry storage chamber path 34 is an example of a second path, and serves as a circulation path for supplying the cold air generated by the refrigerating cooler 24 from the refrigerating cooler 24 into the dry storage chamber 31 and returning it from the dry storage chamber 31 to the refrigerating cooler 24.

[0024] The refrigerator 10 is configured such that the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are provided as separate paths. More specifically, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are separated by a partition member 35 at their upstream portions formed above the upper end of the storage container 21. Furthermore, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are separated by a partition wall 32 at their intermediate portions formed within the storage container 21. Furthermore, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are not separated at their downstream portions formed below the lower end of the storage container 21.

[0025] Therefore, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are separate paths that are independent of each other in their upstream and intermediate portions, excluding the downstream portion below the bottom end of the storage container 21. Furthermore, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are configured so that their upstream and intermediate portions, excluding the downstream portion below the bottom end of the storage container 21, do not intersect or merge with each other. Furthermore, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 are configured so that their downstream portion below the bottom end of the storage container 21 is a common path.

[0026] The partition wall 32 and the partition member 35 are preferably made of a material that can at least block the passage of moisture, such as a resin material or a metal material. The partition wall 32 and the partition member 35 are preferably configured to be free of holes or slits that allow the passage of moisture.

[0027] Furthermore, the portion of the moist storage chamber path 33 upstream of the upper end of the storage container 21 functions as a moist storage chamber inlet 33a that allows air to flow into the moist storage chamber 30. The moist storage chamber inlet 33a is an example of a first inlet. Furthermore, the portion of the dry storage chamber path 34 upstream of the upper end of the storage container 21 functions as a dry storage chamber inlet 34a that allows air to flow into the dry storage chamber 31. The dry storage chamber inlet 34a is an example of an inlet and a second inlet.

[0028] The bottom surface of storage container 21 is closed, and a moist storage chamber outlet hole 33b is formed in the portion of this closed surface that forms the bottom surface of moist storage chamber 30, allowing air to flow out from inside moist storage chamber 30. Moist storage chamber outlet hole 33b is an example of a first outlet portion. Furthermore, a dry storage chamber outlet hole 34b is formed in the portion of the closed surface of storage container 21 that forms the bottom surface of dry storage chamber 31, allowing air to flow out from inside dry storage chamber 31. Dry storage chamber outlet hole 34b is an example of an outlet portion and a second outlet portion.

[0029] The refrigerator 10 also includes a path opening / closing unit 36 ​​at an upstream portion of the dry storage chamber path 34. The path opening / closing unit 36 ​​is an example of a second path closing unit, and is capable of opening and closing the dry storage chamber path 34. In this case, the path opening / closing unit 36 ​​is provided at the entrance portion of the dry storage chamber inlet portion 34a, which is part of the dry storage chamber path 34, and is capable of opening and closing the upstream portion of the dry storage chamber path 34. The path opening / closing unit 36 ​​can be configured, for example, by a damper or shutter that can open and close the dry storage chamber path 34.

[0030] The control device 40 illustrated in Fig. 3 is mainly configured with, for example, a microcomputer, and can control the overall operation of the refrigerator 10 based on a control program and various setting information. The opening and closing operation of the path opening / closing unit 36 ​​is controlled by the control device 40. The control device 40 can also control the generation and circulation of cold air by the refrigeration cooler 24 and the refrigeration blower 25 described above. The control device 40 also executes the control program to virtually realize a defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 by software. The defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 may be realized by hardware or a combination of software and hardware.

[0031] The defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 is an example of a defrosting operation execution unit, and is capable of executing a defrosting operation to melt frost adhering to the refrigeration cooler 24. More specifically, the defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 drives the refrigeration blower 25 in a state where the generation of cold air by the refrigeration cooler 24 is stopped, that is, in a state where the circulation of refrigerant by a compressor (not shown) is stopped. In this way, the defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 melts and removes the frost adhering to the refrigeration cooler 24.

[0032] Furthermore, the control device 40 can perform moist control, which drives the refrigeration blower 25 while the defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 is performing the defrosting operation, to blow air through the refrigeration cooler 24. This moist control makes it possible to supply moist air containing moisture generated from the refrigeration cooler 24 during the defrosting operation into the refrigerator compartment 12 and the vegetable compartment 13. This makes it possible to keep the refrigerator compartment 12 and the vegetable compartment 13 moist, that is, to increase the humidity.

[0033] Furthermore, when the control device 40 executes moist control while the defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 is executing a defrosting operation, the control device 40 closes the dry storage chamber path 34 using the path opening / closing unit 36. This allows the control device 40 to prevent moist air containing moisture generated in the refrigerating cooler 24 by the defrosting operation from flowing into the dry storage chamber 31. This makes it possible to prevent the humidity in the dry storage chamber 31 from increasing. On the other hand, moist air can be supplied to the moist storage chamber 30, making it possible to prevent the humidity in the moist storage chamber 30 from decreasing.

[0034] The refrigerator 10 described above includes a moist storage compartment path 33 that supplies the cold air generated by the refrigerating cooler 24 from the refrigerating cooler 24 into the moist storage compartment 30 and returns it from the moist storage compartment 30 to the refrigerating cooler 24, and a dry storage compartment path 34 that supplies the cold air generated by the refrigerating cooler 24 from the refrigerating cooler 24 into the dry storage compartment 31 and returns it from the dry storage compartment 31 to the refrigerating cooler 24. When the defrosting operation execution processing unit 41 executes the defrosting operation, the path opening / closing unit 36 ​​closes the dry storage compartment path 34. This prevents moist air containing moisture generated in the refrigerating cooler 24 by the defrosting operation from flowing into the dry storage compartment 31. This makes it easier to adjust the humidity in the dry storage compartment 31 to a humidity level suitable for dry storage in a refrigerator 10 that includes a dry storage compartment 31 for storing items in a dry state.

[0035] In addition, according to the refrigerator 10, the moist storage chamber path 33 includes a moist storage chamber inlet 33a that allows air to flow into the moist storage chamber path 33 and a moist storage chamber outlet 33b that allows air to flow out from the moist storage chamber 30. Meanwhile, the dry storage chamber path 34 includes a dry storage chamber inlet 34a that allows air to flow into the dry storage chamber path 34 and a dry storage chamber outlet 34b that allows air to flow out from the dry storage chamber path 34. In other words, the moist storage chamber path 33 and the dry storage chamber path 34 each include separate inlet and outlet portions for cold air. This increases the independence of the two paths 33, 34, and, for example, can prevent moist air from entering the dry storage chamber path 34 from the moist storage chamber path 33 and can prevent dry air from entering the moist storage chamber path 33 from the dry storage chamber path 34.

[0036] (Second embodiment) According to the exemplary configuration illustrated in FIG. 4, the refrigerator 10 includes a humidity adjustment unit 50. The humidity adjustment unit 50 is configured, for example, by providing a humidity control material in a resin case having a plurality of holes or slits that allow ventilation. The humidity control material is made of, for example, a moisture-absorbing sheet such as a nonwoven fabric, moisture-absorbing spheres such as silica gel, or a moisture-absorbing porous material, and is capable of physically adsorbing moisture. The humidity control material may be capable of chemically adsorbing moisture or may be capable of electrically adsorbing moisture.

[0037] The humidity control material absorbs moisture from the surrounding air when the humidity is higher than a predetermined reference value, and releases moisture into the surroundings when the humidity is lower than the predetermined reference value. By being equipped with a humidity control material having such properties, the humidity control unit 50 can adjust the humidity of the air passing through the humidity control unit 50.

[0038] More specifically, when the humidity of the air passing through the humidity adjustment unit 50 is higher than a predetermined reference value, the humidity adjustment unit 50 absorbs the moisture contained in the air to adjust the humidity of the air to the predetermined reference value. When the humidity of the air passing through the humidity adjustment unit 50 is lower than the predetermined reference value, the humidity adjustment unit 50 releases moisture to the surroundings to adjust the humidity of the air to the predetermined reference value. The humidity adjustment unit 50 is preferably equipped with a humidity-regulating material that has moisture absorption and release properties that enable it to adjust the humidity of the air passing through the humidity adjustment unit 50 to the predetermined reference value.

[0039] The refrigerator 10 of the second embodiment is provided with a humidity adjusting unit 50 in each of the moist storage compartment inlet 33a, the moist storage compartment outlet 33b, the dry storage compartment inlet 34a, and the dry storage compartment outlet 34b. The humidity adjusting unit 50 is preferably provided so as to completely block the moist storage compartment inlet 33a, the moist storage compartment outlet 33b, the dry storage compartment inlet 34a, and the dry storage compartment outlet 34b like a filter, but may also be provided so as to partially block the moist storage compartment inlet 33a, the moist storage compartment outlet 33b, the dry storage compartment inlet 34a, and the dry storage compartment outlet 34b.

[0040] Of these, the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the dry storage chamber inlet 34a adjusts the humidity of the air flowing into the dry storage chamber 31 to a predetermined reference value. As a result, the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the dry storage chamber inlet 34a prevents the humidity inside the dry storage chamber 31 from rising above the predetermined reference value.

[0041] Furthermore, the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the dry storage chamber outlet hole 34b adjusts the humidity of the air to a predetermined reference value when air attempts to flow into the dry storage chamber 31 from the bottom of the storage container 21, that is, when air attempts to flow back into the dry storage chamber 31. In this way, the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the dry storage chamber outlet hole 34b prevents the humidity inside the dry storage chamber 31 from rising above the predetermined reference value.

[0042] In addition to the inlet port 34a for the dry storage chamber, which is the entrance port for air into the dry storage chamber 31, a humidity adjustment section 50 is also provided in the outlet port 34b for the dry storage chamber, which is the exit port for air from the dry storage chamber 31, thereby making it possible to further lower the humidity inside the dry storage chamber 31.

[0043] Furthermore, the humidity adjustment unit 50 provided in the moist storage chamber inlet 33a adjusts the humidity of the air flowing into the moist storage chamber 30 to a predetermined reference value. As a result, the humidity adjustment unit 50 provided in the moist storage chamber inlet 33a prevents the humidity inside the moist storage chamber 30 from rising more than necessary. Furthermore, by suppressing an increase in humidity inside the moist storage chamber 30 adjacent to the dry storage chamber 31, an increase in humidity inside the dry storage chamber 31 is indirectly suppressed.

[0044] The refrigerator 10 may not be provided with a humidity adjusting unit 50 in the moist storage chamber inlet 33a or the moist storage chamber outlet 33b. Alternatively, the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the moist storage chamber inlet 33a or the moist storage chamber outlet 33b may be provided with a humidity adjusting material having lower moisture absorption performance than the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the dry storage chamber inlet 34a or the dry storage chamber outlet 34b.

[0045] Furthermore, the humidity adjusting unit 50 provided in the moisture preservation chamber outlet hole 33b adjusts the humidity of the air flowing out from the moisture preservation chamber 30 to a predetermined reference value. This makes it possible to prevent highly humid air from flowing out from the moisture preservation chamber 30.

[0046] The refrigerator 10 may be configured so that the moist storage chamber outlet 33b does not include the humidity adjustment unit 50. The refrigerator 10 may be configured so that at least one of the dry storage chamber inlet 34a and the dry storage chamber outlet 34b includes the humidity adjustment unit 50, and the other does not include the humidity adjustment unit 50.

[0047] The humidity adjustment unit 50 may be provided at any location in the moist storage chamber path 33. The humidity adjustment unit 50 may also be provided at any location in the dry storage chamber path 34. The humidity adjustment unit 50 may be provided so as to block a cross section perpendicular to the direction in which air flows in the moist storage chamber path 33 or the dry storage chamber path 34, that is, a so-called air passage cross section, like a filter, or may be provided so as to block a portion of it.

[0048] (Third embodiment) According to the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 5, refrigerator 10 has vegetable compartment 13 as a first storage compartment. That is, vegetable compartment 13 is provided as a storage compartment for storing stored items such as vegetables and fresh foods in a moist, i.e., non-dried, state. Dry storage compartment 31 is provided within vegetable compartment 13. More specifically, dry storage compartment 31 is provided in a section of the space formed within vegetable compartment 13 by opening vegetable compartment door 13D. Note that the position of dry storage compartment 31 within vegetable compartment 13 can be changed as needed, but considering the convenience of putting stored items in and taking them out of dry storage compartment 31, it is preferable to provide dry storage compartment 31 at the front side rather than the rear side of vegetable compartment 13.

[0049] In the above embodiment, the dry storage chamber 31 is provided in the storage container 21, which moves back and forth together with the vegetable compartment door 13D, so that when the vegetable compartment door 13D is pulled forward, the dry storage chamber 31 is also pulled forward and exposed to the outside. Therefore, the humidity inside the dry storage chamber 31 is likely to fluctuate as the vegetable compartment door 13D is pulled out.

[0050] In contrast, the dry storage chamber 31 of the third embodiment is configured to remain inside the vegetable compartment 13 even when the vegetable compartment door 13D is pulled out. Therefore, even when the vegetable compartment door 13D is pulled out, the dry storage chamber 31 is not exposed to the outside, and therefore, fluctuations in humidity inside the dry storage chamber 31 caused by the vegetable compartment door 13D being pulled out can be suppressed.

[0051] (Fourth embodiment) According to the configuration example shown in Fig. 6, the refrigerator 10 is configured to include a dehumidifying section 60 in the dry storage compartment 31. The dehumidifying section 60 is configured to be able to absorb moisture contained in the surrounding air. The dehumidifying effect of the dehumidifying section 60 in the dry storage compartment 31 can prevent the humidity in the dry storage compartment 31 from increasing.

[0052] Note that various configurations can be applied to the dehumidifying unit 60 as long as it is capable of absorbing moisture contained in the surrounding air. For example, the dehumidifying unit 60 may be configured with a moisture-absorbing material made of a porous material or a fine fiber material. Alternatively, the dehumidifying unit 60 may be configured with a chemical moisture-absorbing material such as calcium chloride. Alternatively, the dehumidifying unit 60 may be configured with a cooler that constitutes a well-known refrigeration cycle, a so-called compressor-type configuration. Alternatively, the dehumidifying unit 60 may be configured with a portion of a refrigerant pipe that constitutes a well-known refrigeration cycle through which a low-temperature refrigerant flows.

[0053] Alternatively, the dehumidifying unit 60 may be configured with a desiccant-type desiccant material such as zeolite. Alternatively, the dehumidifying unit 60 may be configured with a Peltier element, which absorbs heat in one part and generates heat in the other part when an electric current flows through it. By arranging the Peltier element with its heat absorbing part facing the interior of the dry storage chamber 31, moisture contained in the air within the dry storage chamber 31 can be condensed and removed. Furthermore, by arranging the Peltier element with its heat generating part facing the interior of the dry storage chamber 31, moisture contained in the air within the dry storage chamber 31 can be evaporated and removed.

[0054] The dehumidifying unit 60 may also be provided in a portion of the dry storage chamber path 34 upstream of the dry storage chamber 31. The dehumidifying unit 60 may also be provided both inside the dry storage chamber 31 and in a portion of the dry storage chamber path 34 upstream of the dry storage chamber 31, or may be provided in at least one of the dry storage chamber 31 and the portion of the dry storage chamber path 34 upstream of the dry storage chamber 31.

[0055] A dehumidifying unit 60 configured with a Peltier element requires wiring to supply power to the Peltier element. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 7, if the dehumidifying unit 60 is configured to require a power supply, a dry storage chamber 31 may be provided in a section of the space formed in the vegetable compartment 13 when the vegetable compartment door 13D is opened, and the dehumidifying unit 60 may be provided in this dry storage chamber 31. This configuration example eliminates the need for a configuration to move or support the wiring when the vegetable compartment door 13D is opened or closed, thereby avoiding a complicated configuration.

[0056] 8, in a configuration in which the dry storage compartment 31 is provided inside a storage container 21 that moves back and forth together with the vegetable compartment door 13D, a dehumidifying unit 60 may be provided inside the vegetable compartment 13, and the dehumidifying unit 60 may be inserted into the dry storage compartment 31 when the vegetable compartment door 13D is closed. In this case, a notch 21a that allows the dehumidifying unit 60 to enter the dry storage compartment 31 when the vegetable compartment door 13D is closed may be provided in the wall of the dry storage compartment 31. Alternatively, the refrigerator 10 may be configured such that the dehumidifying unit 60 is provided in a position around the dry storage compartment 31 when the vegetable compartment door 13D is closed, for example, at a position behind, to the left, or to the right of the dry storage compartment 31.

[0057] (Fifth embodiment) According to the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 9 , the refrigerator 10 includes a dehumidifier 70 that does not require electricity. In this case, the dehumidifier 70 is attached to the lower portion of the partition wall 32, penetrating the partition wall 32. The dehumidifier 70 includes a special filter material that functions to promote moisture transfer from one side to the other side, in this case, from the dry storage chamber 31 side to the moist storage chamber 30 side. The filter material also functions to inhibit moisture transfer from the moist storage chamber 30 side to the dry storage chamber 31 side. This exemplary configuration promotes the discharge of moisture from the dry storage chamber 31, thereby preventing an increase in humidity within the dry storage chamber 31. Furthermore, the moisture discharged from the dry storage chamber 31 is supplied to the moist storage chamber 30, preventing a decrease in humidity within the moist storage chamber 30.

[0058] (Sixth embodiment) According to the configuration example shown in Fig. 10, the refrigerator 10 is configured to include a heater 80 in the dry storage compartment 31. The heater 80 is an example of a heating unit and is configured to be able to heat the surrounding air. When the heater 80 generates heat in the dry storage compartment 31, it is possible to promote evaporation of moisture contained in the air in the dry storage compartment 31. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the humidity in the dry storage compartment 31 from increasing.

[0059] Furthermore, by using the heater 80 to heat the dry storage compartment 31 to a temperature close to the temperature of the outside air, it is possible to prevent condensation from occurring in the dry storage compartment 31 when the vegetable compartment door 13D is opened.

[0060] The heater 80 may be provided in a portion of the dry preservation chamber path 34 upstream of the dry preservation chamber 31. The heater 80 may be provided both inside the dry preservation chamber 31 and in a portion of the dry preservation chamber path 34 upstream of the dry preservation chamber 31, or may be provided in at least one of the dry preservation chamber 31 and the portion of the dry preservation chamber path 34 upstream of the dry preservation chamber 31. As shown in FIG. 11, the heater 80 may be provided outside the dry preservation chamber 31. Even if the heater 80 is provided outside the dry preservation chamber 31, the heat generated by the heater 80 is transferred into the dry preservation chamber 31, thereby sufficiently promoting evaporation of moisture contained in the air inside the dry preservation chamber 31.

[0061] (Seventh embodiment) According to the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 12, refrigerator 10 is provided with lid member 90. In this case, lid member 90 is provided so as to be able to open and close the top opening of dry storage compartment 31. Closing the top opening of dry storage compartment 31 with lid member 90 prevents moist air from inside vegetable compartment 13 or moist storage compartment 30 from flowing into dry storage compartment 31. Furthermore, even when a user opens vegetable compartment door 13D to put vegetables in or take vegetables out of moist storage compartment 30, the top opening of dry storage compartment 31 is closed by lid member 90, making it easier to maintain a low humidity state inside dry storage compartment 31.

[0062] The lid member 90 may be partially or entirely configured to be breathable, for example, by means of through-holes or slits. The lid member 90 may be configured to be rotatable in the vertical direction or slidable laterally. Alternatively, the lid member 90 may be configured to be detachably attached to the top opening of the dry storage chamber 31. The lid member 90 may be made of a material that can at least inhibit the passage of moisture, such as a resin material or a metal material. Alternatively, the lid member 90 may have a configuration similar to that of the humidity adjustment unit 50 described above.

[0063] The lid member 90 may be provided to be able to open and close the top opening of the moist storage chamber 30. According to this configuration example, it is possible to prevent moist air from leaking out of the moist storage chamber 30 and flowing into the dry storage chamber 31. The lid member 90 may be provided on both the top opening of the moist storage chamber 30 and the top opening of the dry storage chamber 31.

[0064] (Other embodiments) The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and extensions can be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. For example, the refrigerator 10 may be an embodiment in which at least two or more of the above-described embodiments are appropriately selected and combined.

[0065] Furthermore, the dry storage chamber 31 need only be configured to prevent the inflow of air that has passed through a storage chamber designed to maintain high humidity, such as the moist storage chamber 30, but has not yet passed through the cooler. The storage chamber in which the dry storage chamber 31 is installed is not limited to the vegetable compartment 13, but may be another storage chamber, or may be a chilled compartment 17 formed within the storage chamber. In this case, an air duct or partition may be arranged to prevent the air that has passed through the dry storage chamber 31 from passing through a storage chamber designed to maintain high humidity, such as the moist storage chamber 30, before passing through the cooler. This configuration can reduce the impact of low-humidity air in the dry storage chamber 31 on a storage chamber designed to maintain high humidity, such as the moist storage chamber 30. Furthermore, an air duct or partition may be arranged to prevent the air that has passed through the cooler from reaching a storage chamber designed to maintain high humidity, such as the moist storage chamber 30, without passing through the dry storage chamber 31. By configuring it in this manner, the cold air generated by the cooler can be supplied to a storage chamber designed to maintain high humidity, such as the moist storage chamber 30, without passing through the dry storage chamber 31, thereby suppressing the effect of low-humidity air in the dry storage chamber 31 on a storage chamber designed to maintain high humidity, such as the moist storage chamber 30.

[0066] Furthermore, in general refrigerator use, stored items that are taken in and out frequently are vegetables and the like, which are preferably kept moist, rather than dry foods, which are preferably kept dry. Therefore, with refrigerator 10 in which moist storage compartment 30 is provided at the front of storage container 21 and dry storage compartment 31 is provided at the rear of storage container 21, vegetables and the like, which are taken in and out frequently and which are preferably kept moist, can be easily taken in and out of moist storage compartment 30 provided at the front of storage container 21, thereby improving convenience.

[0067] However, the refrigerator 10 may also be configured such that the moist storage compartment 30 is provided at the rear of the storage container 21 and the dry storage compartment 31 is provided at the front of the storage container 21. According to this configuration example, the dry storage compartment 31 provided at the front of the storage container 21 can be easily maintained at a higher temperature than the moist storage compartment 30, that is, at a temperature close to room temperature or normal temperature, making it easier to create a condition suitable for dry storage. Furthermore, by maintaining the dry storage compartment 31 at a higher temperature than the moist storage compartment 30, it is possible to prevent condensation from forming in the dry storage compartment 31.

[0068] Furthermore, the refrigerator 10 may be configured such that the moist storage chamber 30 is provided on one side in the left-right direction of the storage container 21, and the dry storage chamber 31 is provided on the other side in the left-right direction of the storage container 21. Furthermore, the moist storage chamber 30 and the dry storage chamber 31 may have different volumes or may have the same volume.

[0069] Furthermore, refrigerator 10 may not be configured to have a refrigeration cooling function unit 22 and a freezing cooling function unit, but may be configured to cool both the storage compartment cooled to the refrigeration temperature range and the storage compartment cooled to the freezing temperature range using a single cooling function unit.

[0070] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The present embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] In the drawing, 10 indicates a refrigerator, 13 indicates a vegetable compartment (storage compartment), 24 indicates a refrigeration cooler (cold air generating section), 25 indicates a refrigeration blower (air blowing section), 30 indicates a moist storage compartment (first storage compartment), 31 indicates a dry storage compartment (second storage compartment), 33 indicates a moist storage compartment path (first path), 33a indicates an inlet section for the moist storage compartment (first inlet section), 33b indicates an outlet hole for the moist storage compartment (first outlet section), 34 indicates a path for the dry storage compartment (second path), 34a indicates an inlet section for the dry storage compartment (inlet section, second inlet section), 34b indicates an outlet hole for the dry storage compartment (outlet section, second outlet section), 36 indicates a path opening / closing section (second path closing section), 41 indicates a defrosting operation execution processing section (defrosting operation execution section), 50 indicates a humidity adjustment section, 60 indicates a dehumidification section, and 80 indicates a heater (heating section).

Claims

1. a cold air generating unit that generates cold air; a first storage chamber for storing the stored material; a second storage chamber for storing the stored items in a drier state than the first storage chamber; a first path that supplies the cold air generated by the cold air generating unit from the cold air generating unit to the first storage chamber and returns the cold air from the first storage chamber to the cold air generating unit; a second path for supplying the cold air generated by the cold air generating unit from the cold air generating unit into the second storage chamber and returning the cold air from the second storage chamber to the cold air generating unit; Equipped with The refrigerator, wherein the first path and the second path are provided as separate paths.

2. a defrosting operation execution unit that executes a defrosting operation to melt frost adhering to the cold air generating unit; a blower that blows air passing through the cold air generating unit during the defrosting operation; a second path closing unit that closes the second path while the defrosting operation is being performed; The refrigerator according to claim 1 .

3. an inlet portion for introducing air into the second storage chamber; an outlet portion for letting air out from the second storage chamber; Equipped with The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein a humidity adjusting section for adjusting humidity is provided in at least one of the inlet section and the outlet section.

4. 2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the second storage compartment is provided within the first storage compartment.

5. a first inlet for introducing air into the first storage chamber; a first outlet portion for allowing air to flow out from the first storage chamber; a second inlet for introducing air into the second storage chamber; a second outlet portion for allowing air to flow out from the second storage chamber; The refrigerator according to claim 1 .

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1 , further comprising a dehumidifying unit in at least one of the second storage compartment and a portion of the second path upstream of the second storage compartment.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1 , further comprising a heating unit in at least one of the second storage chamber and a portion of the second path upstream of the second storage chamber.

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