Grille-fan assembly for refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention provides a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator equipped with a discharge guide duct for guiding the flow of some of the cold air discharged through a cold air discharge section, thereby enabling the cold air to be discharged while being concentrated toward a specific location within the storage compartment.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator that guides the supply of cold air to a storage chamber where a stored item is stored. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a home appliance that stores various foods for a long time using cold air generated by the circulation of refrigerant according to a freezing cycle.

[0003] A refrigerator of this type is provided with one or more storage compartments partitioned from one another for freezing and storing objects.

[0004] The above-mentioned storage room may include a freezer room for frozen storage of objects to be stored and a refrigerator room for refrigerated storage of objects to be stored, and may include two or more freezer rooms or two or more refrigerator rooms.

[0005] In addition, an evaporator is provided on the rear wall of the cabinet, which is the rear part of the storage room, and a grill fan assembly is installed in front of the evaporator to guide the cold air, which has undergone heat exchange while passing through the evaporator, to be supplied to the storage room.

[0006] That is, the air inside the cabinet passes through the evaporator by the blowing force of the grill fan assembly, and heat exchange occurs to generate cold air; the cold air thus generated is then supplied to each part of the storage room by the guidance of the grill fan assembly.

[0007] As such, the grill pan assembly is disclosed in Public Utility Model No. 2000-0019894 (Prior Art 1), Registered Patent No. 10-1149231 (Prior Art 2), Registered Patent No. 10-1852677 (Prior Art 3), Registered Patent No. 10-0854817 (Prior Art 4), Registered Patent No. 10-0918445 (Prior Art 5), Registered Patent No. 10-1659622 (Prior Art 6), etc.

[0008] However, in the case of conventional grill fan assemblies, the flow of cold air could not be supplied evenly to all parts of the storage chamber.

[0009] In other words, because the cold air discharge is configured to occur only forward, the supply of cold air to the spaces on both sides of the storage room was not smooth.

[0010] Consequently, the items located in the side spaces of the storage room were not sufficiently supplied with cold air, so their storage quality was inevitably relatively lower compared to the items located in the central space.

[0011] Meanwhile, an ice tray for making ice is provided in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator.

[0012] However, conventional general ice trays had a problem in that the freezing time of the water contained in the ice tray or the quality of the ice varied depending on the temperature conditions inside the freezer.

[0013] In other words, by not frequently opening the freezer and maintaining a constant temperature, the ice-making time can be shortened and good quality ice can be obtained. On the other hand, if the freezer is frequently opened and a constant temperature cannot be maintained, the ice-making time is long and the inside of the ice is not properly frozen.

[0014] In particular, considering that the ice tray is primarily located at the front of the freezer for ease of use, the cold air discharged from the grill fan assembly located at the rear of the freezer does not sufficiently reach the ice tray, inevitably leading to lower ice-making efficiency and resulting in a problem where a large amount of hollow cubes are generated. Prior art literature

[0015] Published Patent No. 10-2006-0129664 Published Patent No. 10-2009-0101525 Registered Patent No. 10-1659622 Registered Patent No. 10-0918445 The problem to be solved

[0016] The present invention aims to solve the various problems of the aforementioned prior art, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a new type of refrigerator grill fan assembly that enables cold air supplied to a freezer to be uniformly distributed to the left and right spaces within the freezer.

[0017] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a new type of refrigerator grill fan assembly that allows cold air supplied to a freezer to be concentrated and supplied toward an ice tray located on one side of the freezer, while also ensuring smooth supply of cold air to a stored item located at the bottom of the ice tray on that side.

[0018] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a new type of refrigerator grill fan assembly that enables smooth supply of cold air to the area even when the ice tray is located in the front space of the freezer. means of solving the problem

[0019] The refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention, for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, is provided with a discharge guide duct for guiding the flow of some of the cold air discharged through the cold air discharge section. As a result, the cold air can be discharged while being concentrated toward a specific location within the storage chamber.

[0020] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is provided with a discharge guide duct installed in a first cold air discharge section located above the blower fan module. This allows a portion of the cold air discharged into the upper space within the storage room through the first cold air discharge section to be guided toward a desired direction.

[0021] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention presents a discharge guide duct formed as a tubular body protruding forward from a first cold air discharge section. As a result, cold air passing through the first cold air discharge section can be guided by the discharge guide duct to flow to a specific direction and a specific location, and then supplied to that area.

[0022] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is characterized in that the first cold air discharge section is formed to be longer horizontally than the blower fan module. As a result, the cold air supplied to the storage room through the first cold air discharge section can be supplied to the entire upper space of the storage room.

[0023] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is provided such that a discharge guide duct is installed to surround at least a portion of the first cold air discharge section. By doing so, a portion of the cold air passing through the first cold air discharge section can be guided to a specific location by the discharge guide duct.

[0024] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is provided such that the discharge guide duct is formed to wrap around a portion of one end of the first cold air discharge section. This minimizes interference with the flow of cold air supplied through the first cold air discharge section, while also allowing cold air to be supplied to the side and front of the area where the first cold air discharge section is formed.

[0025] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is formed such that the rear end portion of the discharge guide duct surrounds the front perimeter of the first cold air discharge section. As a result, the cold air discharged through the first cold air discharge section can flow smoothly under the guidance of the discharge guide duct, and in addition, since the installation and removal of the discharge guide duct are easily performed, it can be replaced with a type according to the user's needs.

[0026] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention presents a discharge guide duct formed as a tubular body that protrudes further forward than the first cold air discharge section. This enables intensive supply of cold air to the front space within the storage room.

[0027] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is characterized in that the discharge guide duct is formed such that the conduit gradually narrows as it extends forward. This allows cold air to be concentrated and sprayed at a specific location.

[0028] The structure formed to gradually narrow the above-mentioned conduit can have its vertical width gradually reduced as it moves forward, or its horizontal width gradually reduced as it moves forward.

[0029] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is provided such that the discharge guide duct is formed to face outward as it extends forward. This allows cold air to be supplied to the side front of the first cold air discharge section.

[0030] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is provided such that the cold air inlet side portion of the discharge guide duct is formed to be inclined, taking into account the slope formed by each grill rib of the first cold air discharge section. As a result, the cold air passing through the first cold air discharge section can be smoothly transmitted to the discharge guide duct and then flow smoothly along the discharge guide duct.

[0031] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is provided such that the front end portion of the discharge guide duct is formed to face forward. As a result, the cold air discharged from the discharge guide duct can be discharged intensively toward the front without spreading to the sides.

[0032] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention presents a plurality of grill ribs formed on the inner surface of the front end of the discharge guide duct. This makes it possible to determine the discharge direction of cold air passing through the discharge guide duct.

[0033] Furthermore, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention presents a discharge guide duct formed by dividing it vertically. This enables injection molding despite the folded and rounded structure.

[0034] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention presents a second cold air discharge section and a third cold air discharge section formed on the grill fan, located below the position of the blower fan module. This allows sufficient cold air to be supplied not only to the upper space within the storage room but also to the central space (or lower space) within the storage room.

[0035] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is formed such that a second cold air discharge unit and a third cold air discharge unit are respectively located on both sides of the grill fan. This allows sufficient cold air to be supplied to the spaces on both sides within the storage compartment. Effects of the invention

[0036] As described above, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention has the effect of enabling a portion of the cold air discharged through the cold air discharge section to be concentrated and supplied toward a specific location, because a discharge guide duct is provided in front of the cold air discharge section.

[0037] In other words, since cold air can be continuously supplied toward the ice tray inside the freezer, the problem of ice quality fluctuating due to changes in the overall temperature inside the freezer or changes in the flow of cold air within the freezer can be resolved.

[0038] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention has the effect of enabling cold air to be supplied directly from immediately behind the ice tray toward the rear of the ice tray, because the discharge guide duct is formed as a tubular body protruding forward from the first cold air discharge part.

[0039] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention has the effect of allowing cold air to be concentrated and sprayed at a specific location because the discharge guide duct is formed so that the conduit gradually narrows as it moves forward.

[0040] In addition, the refrigerator grill pan assembly of the present invention Since the front end of the discharge guide duct is formed to face forward, the cold air discharged from the discharge guide duct has the effect of being discharged intensively forward without spreading to the sides.

[0041] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention has the effect of enabling injection molding because the discharge guide duct is formed by dividing it into upper and lower sections.

[0042] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is configured such that only a portion of the cold air discharged through the first cold air discharge section flows into the discharge guide duct, while the remainder flows forward or to the side without colliding with the discharge guide duct. This configuration provides the effect of concentrating and supplying some of the cold air toward the ice tray, while allowing the remaining cold air to be smoothly supplied to the stored materials surrounding the ice tray.

[0043] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention has the effect of enabling smooth supply of cold air to the ice tray even when the ice tray is located in the front space of the freezer due to the discharge guide duct. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the external structure of a refrigerator to which a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the internal structure of a refrigerator to which a refrigerator grill pan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of a refrigerator to which a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of a refrigerator to which a refrigerator grill pan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of section “A” in Fig. 4. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a key part illustrating the application state of a structure for supplying or recovering cold air to or from the ice-making chamber of a refrigerator to which a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a front view illustrating a shroud among a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a rear view illustrating a shroud of a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a front view illustrating a grill pan among a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a rear view illustrating a grill pan among a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a rear view illustrating the state in which each fan module and a shroud are coupled to the grill pan of a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of section “B” of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a rear view illustrating an example of a state in which each fan module is coupled to the grill pan and each guide is received in the receiving rib of a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view illustrating the cold air flow state by each cold air discharge part of the grill fan in a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a front view illustrating a fan module of a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a rear view illustrating a fan module of a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a front view of a grill pan shown to explain the state in which a discharge guide duct of a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed. FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a discharge guide duct of a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a plan view illustrating a discharge guide duct of a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating the internal structure of the lower pipe body of the discharge guide duct of a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 22 and 23 are side views illustrating a discharge guide duct of a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the flow of cold air during freezing operation in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 25 is an enlarged view of a key part illustrating the cold air flow during freezing operation for a freezer compartment of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 26 is a rear view of a grill pan shown to explain the cold air flow during freezing operation in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator to which a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 27 is an enlarged view of a key part illustrating the flow of cold air in the inlet-side flow path formed in the shroud during freezing operation of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 28 is a reference diagram illustrating the state in which cold air is supplied to an ice tray during freezing operation for a freezer compartment of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 29 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the flow of cold air during freezing operation in the ice-making chamber of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of a key part illustrating the cold air flow during freezing operation for an ice-making chamber of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 31 is a state diagram showing the flow of cold air supply to and return to the ice-making chamber during ice-making operation for a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0045] Hereinafter, a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached FIGS. 1 to 31.

[0046] Figure 1 attached is a perspective view illustrating the external structure of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the internal structure of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Additionally, Figure 3 attached is a schematic front cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Figure 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of a refrigerator to which a grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0047] As illustrated in these drawings, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a cabinet (10) having a refrigerator compartment (11) and a freezer compartment (12), and a refrigerator door (20) having an ice-making compartment (21).

[0048] The above refrigerator room (11) is a storage room provided for refrigerating stored items and is opened and closed by a refrigerator door (20), and the above freezer room (12) is a storage room provided for freezing stored items and is opened and closed by a freezer door (40).

[0049] In addition, a first evaporator (31) is provided in the rear portion of the refrigerator room (11) among the rear walls of the cabinet (10), and a second evaporator (32) is provided in the rear portion of the freezer room (12). The first evaporator (31) is an evaporator provided to supply cold air to the refrigerator room (11), and the second evaporator (32) is an evaporator provided to supply cold air to the freezer room (12) and the ice-making room (21). This is as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0050] And, the refrigerator room (11) is provided in the upper space within the cabinet (10), and the freezer room (12) is provided in the lower space within the cabinet (10). Each of these storage rooms (refrigerator room and freezer room) (11, 12) is separated from one another by a partition wall (14) that divides the space within the cabinet (10) vertically.

[0051] In addition, the above refrigerator door (20) is a door for opening and closing the refrigerator (11) and is made of a rotary door.

[0052] The above ice-making room (21) is installed on the inner side of the refrigerator door (20) (the side located inside the refrigerator when the refrigerator door is closed). This ice-making room (21) is a storage room in which an ice tray (not shown) for making ice is provided in the refrigerator door (20).

[0053] In addition, the freezer door (40) may be a drawer-type door that opens and closes the freezer (12). Of course, the freezer door (40) may also be a rotary door.

[0054] Additionally, an ice tray (12a) is provided within the freezer (12), and this ice tray (12a) is located in the upper space within the freezer (12).

[0055] And, a grill fan assembly (1, 2) is provided in front of each evaporator (31, 32) in the cabinet (10).

[0056] The above grill pan assembly (1, 2) can be divided into a grill pan assembly (2) provided in a refrigerator room (11) and a grill pan assembly (1) provided in a freezer room (12).

[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention, a grill pan assembly (1) provided in a freezer (12) is used as an example, and the storage room is used as an example of the freezer (12).

[0058] As shown in the attached FIG. 7, the refrigerator grill fan assembly (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention described above is largely composed of a shroud (100), a grill fan (200), a cold air passage (300) for storage, a blower fan module (410), and a discharge guide duct (600). In particular, a portion of the cold air discharged to the cold air discharge section (210, 220, 230, 240) of the grill fan (200) by the operation of the blower fan module (410) can be concentrated and provided toward the ice tray (12a) by the discharge guide duct (600).

[0059] In particular, in the embodiments to be described later, the cold air discharge sections (210, 220, 230, 240) are provided as a first cold air discharge section (210), a second cold air discharge section (220), a third cold air discharge section (230), and a fourth cold air discharge section (240), and the discharge guide duct (600) is provided as an example of the first cold air discharge section (210).

[0060] The refrigerator grill pan assembly (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention is described in more detail for each component as follows.

[0061] First, the shroud (100) will be explained with reference to the attached FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0062] FIG. 7 attached is an exploded perspective view illustrating a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a front view illustrating a shroud of a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a rear view illustrating a shroud of a grill pan assembly for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] As shown in these drawings, the shroud (100) is a portion that forms the rear wall of the refrigerator grill fan assembly (1).

[0064] At this time, a second evaporator (32) is located at the rear of the freezer room (12) among the rear walls of the cabinet (10), and the shroud (100) is located in front of the second evaporator (32).

[0065] An inlet hole (110) for a freezer is formed through the above shroud (100).

[0066] The above-mentioned inlet hole (110) for the freezer is a hole formed to allow cold air, which has been heat-exchanged by passing through the second evaporator (32) located at the rear of the freezer (12), to flow into the space between the grill fan (200) and the shroud (100). At this time, the blower fan module (410) is installed on the front of the shroud (100) at the portion where the inlet hole (110) for the freezer is formed.

[0067] In particular, the inlet hole (110) for the freezer is formed to be located in the center when viewed from the left and right sides of the shroud (100), and is formed to be located in the upper part when viewed from the top and bottom sides of the shroud (100).

[0068] That is, by positioning the inlet hole (110) for the freezer room at the center, the cold air passing through the inlet hole (110) for the freezer room and rotating along the freezer fan (411) is radiated evenly to the surrounding area, and by positioning the inlet hole (110) for the freezer room at the upper part, the position of the blower fan module (410) is positioned further up than the second evaporator (32).

[0069] If the position of the blower fan module (410) is positioned such that it coincides with or partially overlaps the second evaporator (32) in the front and back directions, the storage space of the freezer (12) will inevitably be reduced by the combined thickness of the front and back of the second evaporator (32) and the front and back of the blower fan module (410). Considering this, it is desirable to maximize the storage space of the freezer (12) by arranging the second evaporator (32) and the blower fan module (410) so that they do not coincide in the front and back directions.

[0070] Next, the grill pan (200) will be explained with reference to the attached FIG. 7 and FIG. 10 to 15.

[0071] FIG. 7 attached is an exploded perspective view to explain a refrigerator grill pan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a front view to explain a grill pan among the refrigerator grill pan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a rear view to explain a grill pan among the refrigerator grill pan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a rear view to explain the state in which each fan module and shroud are coupled to the grill pan among the refrigerator grill pan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] As shown in these drawings, the grill pan (200) is a portion forming the front wall of the refrigerator grill pan assembly (1) and is located in front of the shroud (100).

[0073] A first cold air discharge section (210) is formed in this grill pan (200).

[0074] The first cold air discharge section (210) is an open section that supplies cold air to the upper space within the freezer (12).

[0075] In addition, the first cold air discharge unit (210) is formed at a higher portion than the portion where the blower fan module (410) is located, and preferably is positioned adjacent to the upper surface of the grill fan (200).

[0076] That is, by positioning the first cold air discharge unit (210) at the uppermost part of the freezer (12), cold air discharge through the first cold air discharge unit (210) can be smoothly carried out even if the blower fan module (410) is positioned at the upper side.

[0077] Additionally, the first cold air discharge section (210) is formed as an elongated hole with a longer left-right length compared to the inlet hole (110) for the freezer. Preferably, it is formed extending from one side wall of the inlet flow path formed in the grill pan (200) to the other side wall so that cold air striking the upper surface of the grill pan (200) can be smoothly discharged through the first cold air discharge section (210).

[0078] In particular, the first cold air discharge unit (210) is formed as a tube protruding forward. That is, the cold air passing through the first cold air discharge unit (210) is given straightness, and as a result, the cold air passing through the first cold air discharge unit (210) is discharged straight forward without spreading up and down, and can supply cold air up to the front side (rear wall of the freezer door) inside the freezer (12).

[0079] And, a plurality of grilles (211) are formed in the first cold air discharge unit (210).

[0080] The above grille rib (211) is a rib that guides the direction of discharge of cold air discharged to the first cold air discharge section (210).

[0081] The above-mentioned grilles (211) are spaced apart from each other and may be formed to be inclined toward the front or toward both sides.

[0082] In addition, a second cold air discharge section (220), a third cold air discharge section (230), and a fourth cold air discharge section (240) are formed in the grill pan (200).

[0083] These second cold air discharge section (220), third cold air discharge section (230), and fourth cold air discharge section (240) are open sections that supply cold air to the intermediate space within the freezer (12).

[0084] That is, considering that the first cold air discharge unit (210) is configured to supply cold air only to the upper space within the freezer (12), the supply of cold air to the middle space may be relatively insufficient compared to the upper space. Thus, by providing the additional second cold air discharge unit (220), the third cold air discharge unit (230), and the fourth cold air discharge unit (240), sufficient cold air can be supplied to the middle space within the freezer (12).

[0085] These second cold air discharge section (220), third cold air discharge section (230), and fourth cold air discharge section (240) can be formed along the bottom surface (322c) of the extended side flow path (322) formed on the grill pan (200) side of the cold air flow path (300) for the storage room to be described later.

[0086] That is, cold air flowing along the above storage room cold air channel (300) passes sequentially through the second cold air discharge section (220), the third cold air discharge section (230), and the fourth cold air discharge section (240) while flowing along the bottom surface (322c) of the above expansion side channel section (322) and is discharged into the freezer room (12).

[0087] Here, the second cold air discharge section (220) is formed on one side of the expanded flow path section (322) (right side in the drawing when viewing the grill pan from the front), the third cold air discharge section (230) is formed on the other side of the expanded flow path section (322) (left side in the drawing when viewing the grill pan from the front), and the fourth cold air discharge section (240) is formed between the second cold air discharge section (220) and the third cold air discharge section (230).

[0088] That is, while the cold air flows along the cold air flow path (300) for the storage room on the grill fan (200) side, it passes sequentially through the second cold air discharge section (220), the fourth cold air discharge section (240), and the third cold air discharge section (230) so that it can be additionally supplied to the freezer room (12).

[0089] In particular, the second cold air discharge section (220) and the third cold air discharge section (230) are positioned at each end of the bottom surface (322c) of the expanded side flow path section (322).

[0090] This structure allows the cold air discharged into the freezer (12) to be sufficiently supplied to both side spaces within the freezer (12), and by separating the second cold air discharge unit (220) and the third cold air discharge unit (230) as far as possible from the fourth cold air discharge unit (240), the flow of cold air discharged from each cold air discharge unit (220, 230, 240) is prevented from colliding with each other.

[0091] Meanwhile, the first cold air discharge unit (210) is formed to be larger than the combined size of the second cold air discharge unit (220), the third cold air discharge unit (230), and the fourth cold air discharge unit (240), so that most of the cold air blown by the blower fan module (410) is supplied into the freezer room (12) through the first cold air discharge unit (210).

[0092] And, grilles (221, 231) are formed in the second cold air discharge section (220) and the third cold air discharge section (230).

[0093] At this time, each grille (221, 231) is structured to provide directionality to the cold air discharged through the corresponding second cold air discharge section (220) and third cold air discharge section (230), and it is preferable that at least some of the grilles (221, 231) are formed at an angle so as to guide the cold air passing through the corresponding section toward the side of the freezer (12).

[0094] In addition, the second cold air discharge unit (220) and the third cold air discharge unit (230) may be formed as tubular bodies protruding forward.

[0095] That is, the cold air passing through the two cold air discharge sections (220, 230) is given straightness, and as a result, the cold air passing through the cold air discharge sections (220, 230) is discharged straight forward without spreading up and down, and can supply cold air up to the front side inside the freezer (12).

[0096] In addition, the fourth cold air discharge unit (240) is formed as a tubular body with a closed front and open sides. That is, the cold air passing through the fourth cold air discharge unit (240) is discharged toward the two side walls inside the freezer (12). This allows sufficient cold air to be supplied to the stored items located on the rear side walls inside the freezer (12). This is as illustrated in the attached FIG. 15.

[0097] In addition, it is preferable that the fourth cold air discharge unit (240) be positioned at a different height from the second cold air discharge unit (220) or the third cold air discharge unit (230) and be configured to discharge cold air into a space at that height.

[0098] That is, if the fourth cold air discharge unit (240) is located at the same height as the second cold air discharge unit (220) or the third cold air discharge unit (230), the cold air discharged from both sides of the fourth cold air discharge unit (240) may collide with and interfere with the flow of cold air discharged forward through the other cold air discharge units (220, 230).

[0099] Preferably, the fourth cold air discharge section (240) is formed in the central portion of the bottom surface (322c) of the expanded flow path section (322). That is, considering that the central portion of the bottom surface (322c) of the expanded flow path section (322) is positioned lower than the ends of both sides, by forming the fourth cold air discharge section (240) in the center of the bottom surface (322c) of the expanded flow path section (322), the cold air discharged through the fourth cold air discharge section (240) is prevented from colliding with the flow of cold air discharged forward through the other cold air discharge sections (220, 230).

[0100] In addition, the grill pan (200) is further provided with a suction guide (250) that guides the flow of recovered cold air flowing through the freezer (12).

[0101] At this time, the suction guide (250) is formed at the bottom of the grill pan (200) so that the cold air recovered after circulating inside the freezer (12) flows into the lower end of the second evaporator (32).

[0102] In addition, the suction guide (250) is formed to be inclined at an angle (or round) that is the same (or similar) to the wall surface forming the rear bottom of the freezer (12) as it extends toward the lower end. That is, cold air flowing along the bottom surface inside the freezer (12) is guided by the suction guide (250) and flows smoothly to the lower end of the second evaporator (32).

[0103] In addition, a temperature sensor (260) is installed in the grill pan (200).

[0104] The above temperature sensor (260) is a sensor for detecting the temperature inside the freezer (120) and is configured to be located on one side of each part of the grill pan (200).

[0105] Next, a cold air passage (300) for storage room is described.

[0106] The above-mentioned cold air passage (300) for the storage room is a passage that guides cold air, which flows in between the grill pan (200) and the shroud (100) through the inlet hole (110) for the freezer room formed in the shroud (100), to be supplied to the freezer room (12).

[0107] These cold air passages (300) for storage rooms are formed by being recessed into at least one of the opposing surfaces between the shroud (100) and the grill pan (200).

[0108] In an embodiment of the present invention, the cold air passage (300) for the storage chamber is formed in parts on both opposing surfaces between the shroud (100) and the grill pan (200).

[0109] That is, a part of the cold air passage (300) for the storage room is formed in the shroud (100) and another part is formed in the grill pan (200), so that a complete cold air passage (300) for the storage room is formed between the shroud (100) and the grill pan (200) by the combination between the shroud (100) and the grill pan (200).

[0110] Of course, although not shown, the above-mentioned cold air passage (300) for the storage room may be formed only in the shroud (100) or only in the grill pan (200).

[0111] The above-mentioned cold air passage (300) for the storage room includes an inlet side passage section (311, 321) and an extension side passage section (312, 322).

[0112] At this time, the inlet side flow path (311, 321) is a flow path that forms the area where the blower fan module (410) is installed, and the expansion side flow path (312, 322) is a flow path that forms the bottom of the inlet side flow path (311, 321) and is formed to be expanded on both sides compared to the inlet side flow path (311, 321).

[0113] In particular, the inlet side flow path (311) formed on the front of the shroud (100) is formed to protrude (or be sunken) further toward the rear of the shroud (100) compared to the extension side flow path (312) formed on the front of the shroud (100), and the extension side flow path (322) formed on the back of the grill pan (200) is formed to protrude (or be sunken) further toward the front of the grill pan (200) compared to the inlet side flow path (312) formed on the back of the grill pan (200).

[0114] That is, the second evaporator (32), located on the rear side of the shroud (100), is formed so that its upper surface is positioned lower than the inlet port (110) for the freezer. Considering this, the inlet side flow path (311, 321) is formed to protrude further rearward than the expansion side flow path (312, 322) to maximize the space within the freezer (12), and the expansion side flow path (322) is formed to protrude further forward than the inlet side flow path (321) to secure space for cold air to flow.

[0115] At this time, the boundary portion between the inlet side flow path and the expansion side flow path is formed in a sloped or rounded manner so that the cold air flowing through the inlet side flow path of the shroud can flow smoothly into the expansion side flow path of the grill pan.

[0116] In addition, the bottom surface (312c, 322c) of the above-mentioned expansion side flow section (312, 322) is formed to gradually slope downward from both ends toward the center.

[0117] That is, considering that the cold air flowing through the storage room cold air channel (300) flows along the same direction as the rotation direction of the refrigeration fan (411), the cold air is designed to flow smoothly along the perimeter walls (312a, 312b, 322a, 322b) and bottom surfaces (312c, 322c) within the expansion side channel section (312, 322).

[0118] In particular, the perimeter walls (312a, 312b, 322a, 322b) within the expansion side flow section (312, 322) are configured to include inclined side walls (312a, 322a) formed to gradually expand outward while extending from the inflow side flow section (311, 321), and vertical side walls (312b, 322b) connected to the bottom surface while being bent downward from the end of the inclined side walls (312a, 322a). Of course, the inclined side walls (312a, 322a) may be formed in a rounded shape, and the vertical side walls (312b, 322b) may be formed in an inclined shape or in a rounded shape.

[0119] The shape formed by the perimeter walls (312a, 312b, 321a, 321b) within the expanded side flow sections (312, 322) is shaped to take into account the flow direction of cold air rotating along the circumference of the blower fan module (410), thereby preventing problems such as flow resistance occurring in specific parts during the flow of cold air, and maximizing the flow rate of cold air supplied to the freezer (12).

[0120] Meanwhile, the first cold air discharge section (210) formed in the grill pan (200) is located at the uppermost part of the inlet side flow path section (321) formed in the grill pan (200).

[0121] In addition, the second cold air discharge section (220) and the third cold air discharge section (230) formed in the grill pan (200) are respectively located at both ends of the bottom surface (322c) of the extended flow path section (322) formed in the grill pan (200).

[0122] The fourth cold air discharge section (240) formed in the grill pan (200) is located in the central portion of the bottom surface (322c) of the expanded flow path section (322) formed in the grill pan (200).

[0123] That is, each of the above cold air discharge sections (210, 220, 230, 240) is formed at the upper corner, both corners, and lower corner of the cold air flow path (300) for storage, so that the discharge of cold air through each of the cold air discharge sections (210, 220, 230, 240) can be smoothly carried out.

[0124] Additionally, guides (131, 132, 133, 134) may be formed on the opposing surfaces between the shroud (100) and the grill pan (200).

[0125] That is, by providing the above guide (131, 132, 133, 134), the cold air flowing along the cold air passage (300) for the storage room can be smoothly supplied toward each cold air discharge part (210, 220, 230, 240) of the grill fan (200).

[0126] In an embodiment of the present invention, each of the guides (131, 132, 133, 134) is formed on the front surface of the shroud (100).

[0127] These guides (131, 132, 133, 134) include a first guide (131) that guides the flow of cold air to the first cold air discharge unit (210), a second guide (132) that guides the flow of cold air to the second cold air discharge unit (220), a third guide (133) that guides the flow of cold air to the third cold air discharge unit (230), and a fourth guide (134) that guides the flow of cold air to the fourth cold air discharge unit (240).

[0128] At this time, the first guide (131) is formed to protrude roundly from the center of one side wall of the inlet side channel (311) among the perimeter walls of the cold air channel (300) for storage room, the second guide (132) is formed to be inclined or rounded from one perimeter of the blower fan module (410) to the area where the second cold air discharge part (220) is located, the third guide (133) is formed to be inclined or rounded from the boundary area between the inlet side channel (311) and the expansion side channel (312) to the area where the third cold air discharge part (230) is located, and the fourth guide (134) is formed to be inclined or rounded from the boundary area between the inlet side channel (311) and the expansion side channel (312) to the area where the fourth cold air discharge part (240) is located.

[0129] In addition, receiving guides (271, 272, 273, 274) are formed on the back surface of the grill pan (200) to accommodate each of the guide guides (131, 132, 133, 134). At this time, each of the receiving guides (271, 272, 273, 274) is formed to accommodate each of the guide guides (131, 132, 133, 134), and serves to prevent cold air flowing along the cold air passage (300) for the storage room from leaking between each of the guide guides (131, 132, 133, 134) and the grill pan (200). This is as illustrated in the attached FIG. 14.

[0130] Next, the blower fan module (410) will be described with reference to the attached FIG. 16 and FIG. 17.

[0131] The attached FIG. 16 is a front view illustrating a fan module of a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a rear view illustrating a fan module of a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] As shown in these drawings, the blower fan module (410) is configured to blow cold air that has passed through the second evaporator (32) into the cold air flow path (300) for the storage room.

[0133] The above-mentioned blower fan module (410) is installed on the shroud (100) while being positioned opposite to the inlet hole (110) for the freezer of the shroud (100).

[0134] This blower fan module (410) is formed by including a refrigeration fan (411) and a first installation frame (412).

[0135] Here, the above freezing fan (411) is formed as a slim centrifugal fan, thereby reducing the thickness (width in the front-to-back direction) of the grill fan assembly (1).

[0136] This refrigeration fan (411) is configured to include a hub section (411a), a rim section (411b), and a plurality of impellers (411c).

[0137] The above-mentioned hub portion (411a) is a part that is axially coupled to the fan motor (413), and is formed to protrude forward (in the direction toward the cold air inflow side) as it approaches the center, while the rear portion is formed to expand rapidly toward the end.

[0138] And, the rim portion (411b) is a portion formed to surround the circumference of the hub portion (411a). This rim portion (411b) is formed as a cylindrical rim.

[0139] And, the impeller (411c) is a part provided to guide the direction of cold air blowing. A plurality of these impellers (411c) are arranged spaced apart from each other and each has a certain slope (or roundness) so that cold air passes between them.

[0140] In addition, the first installation frame (412) is a part where the refrigeration fan (411) is installed, and is configured so that the fan motor (413) of the refrigeration fan (411) is fixedly installed.

[0141] The first installation frame (412) is configured to be coupled to a plurality of fastening ribs (141, 142, 143) formed on the shroud (100). At this time, each of the fastening ribs (141, 142, 143) is formed at a position considering the size and wind direction of the refrigeration fan (411).

[0142] Meanwhile, the refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an ice-making fan module (420).

[0143] The above ice-making fan module (420) is configured to blow cold air that has passed through the second evaporator (32) into the cold air duct (51) for the ice-making room. At this time, the other end of the cold air duct (51) for the ice-making room is configured to align with the guide duct (22) formed in the refrigerator door (20) when the refrigerator door (20) in which the ice-making room (21) is provided is closed, thereby supplying cold air to the guide duct (22), and the guide duct (22) is configured to extend to the ice-making room (21) and supply cold air to the ice-making room (21).

[0144] The above ice-making fan module (420) comprises a blower fan (hereinafter referred to as “ice-making fan”) (421) and a second installation frame (422), and is installed in a duct connection part (500).

[0145] Here, the ice-making fan (421) is formed as a slim centrifugal fan, thereby reducing the thickness (width in the front-to-back direction) of the grill fan assembly (1).

[0146] This ice-making fan (421) is configured to include a hub section (421a), a rim section (421b), and a plurality of impellers (421c).

[0147] The above-mentioned hub portion (421a) is a part that is axially coupled to the fan motor (423), and is formed to protrude forward (in the direction toward the cold air inflow side) as it approaches the center, while the rear portion is formed to expand rapidly toward the end.

[0148] And, the rim portion (421b) is a portion formed to surround the circumference of the hub portion (421a). This rim portion (421b) is formed as a cylindrical rim.

[0149] And, the impeller (421c) is a part provided to guide the direction of cold air blowing. A plurality of these impellers (421c) are spaced apart from each other and are formed so that cold air passes between them, each having a certain slope (or round).

[0150] In particular, the above-mentioned ice-making fan (421) is provided as a fan with the same structure and size as the refrigeration fan (411) of the blower fan module (410).

[0151] That is, the ice-making fan (421) and the refrigeration fan (411) (or the ice-making fan module and the blower fan module) can be used interchangeably, thereby enabling standardization of the product design through the interchangeability of the fan modules.

[0152] In addition, the second installation frame (422) is a part where the ice-making fan (421) is installed, and is configured so that the fan motor (423) of the ice-making fan (421) is fixedly installed.

[0153] The second installation frame (422) is configured to be coupled to a plurality of fastening ribs (541, 542, 543) formed in the duct connection part (500). At this time, each of the fastening ribs (541, 542, 543) is formed at a position considering the size and wind direction of the ice-making fan (421).

[0154] Meanwhile, the above duct connection part (500) is configured to guide the cold air, which has undergone heat exchange while passing through the second evaporator (32) after the ice-making fan module (420) is installed, to flow into the cold air duct (51) for the ice-making room.

[0155] This duct connection part (500) is configured to be installed on the side opposite to the side where the temperature sensor (260) is located among the two sides of the grill fan (200), and is configured to include a duct housing (510) and a duct body (520).

[0156] Here, the duct housing (510) is configured such that the second installation frame (422) is installed.

[0157] This duct housing (510) includes a body wall (512) having an inlet hole (511) for an ice-making room formed therein, and a perimeter wall (513) surrounding the body wall (512).

[0158] At this time, the cold air that has been heat-exchanged while passing through the second evaporator (32) is introduced into the inlet port (511) for the ice-making room.

[0159] In addition, a plurality of fastening ribs (541, 542, 543) to which the second installation frame (422) is coupled are formed protrudingly on the front surface of the body wall (512).

[0160] And, the perimeter wall (513) of the duct housing (510) is formed in a rounded shape to surround the ice-making fan module (420) and is formed to be open in a tangential direction on one side. That is, cold air introduced into the duct housing (510) through the inlet hole (511) for the ice-making room flows along the inside of the perimeter wall (513) by the operation of the ice-making fan module (420) and is discharged toward the part that is open in the tangential direction.

[0161] At this time, the open portion of the above-mentioned perimeter wall (513) is configured to be connected to a cold air duct (51) for an ice-making room.

[0162] In addition, a drain hole (514) is formed in the perimeter wall (513) for discharging condensate generated (or flowing into) the interior. The drain hole (514) is formed by opening the lower end portion of the perimeter wall (513).

[0163] Additionally, the duct body (520) is a part that closes the duct housing (510) from the external environment and is formed to cover the duct housing (510) and is fastened to the duct housing (510) with screws.

[0164] In addition, the duct body (520) is coupled and fixed to the grill pan (200). At this time, it is preferable that the duct housing (510) is also connected collectively using a screw for coupling between the duct body (520) and the grill pan (200).

[0165] Next, the discharge guide duct (600) will be explained with reference to the attached FIGS. 19 to 23.

[0166] FIG. 19 attached is an exploded perspective view illustrating a discharge guide duct of a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 20 is a plan view illustrating a discharge guide duct of a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating the internal structure of a lower pipe body among the discharge guide ducts of a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are side views illustrating a discharge guide duct of a refrigerator grill fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] As illustrated in these drawings, the discharge guide duct (600) is configured to guide the discharge location (or direction) of cold air discharged from the first cold air discharge unit (210) to the freezer room (12).

[0168] In an embodiment of the present invention, the discharge guide duct (600) is configured to concentrate and discharge cold air into an ice tray (12a) in a freezer (12). That is, by ensuring that cold air is continuously concentrated and supplied to the ice tray (12a), the quality of the ice produced in the ice tray (12a) can be improved.

[0169] This discharge guide duct (600) is provided on the front of the grill fan (200) and is formed as a hollow tubular body. That is, cold air is guided to flow along the discharge guide duct (600).

[0170] Additionally, the discharge guide duct (600) is installed to surround at least a portion of the first cold air discharge section (210). This structure allows only a portion of the cold air discharged through the first cold air discharge section (210) to be guided by the discharge guide duct (600).

[0171] That is, since the discharge guide duct (600) is configured to receive only a portion of the cold air passing through the first cold air discharge section (210) and guide the flow, sufficient cold air can be supplied in the front of the first cold air discharge section (210) or in a direction not guided by the discharge guide duct (600) (a direction opposite to the side where the ice tray is located).

[0172] In particular, it is preferable that the rear end portion (cold air inlet portion) of the discharge guide duct (600) is formed to surround a part of one end of the first cold air discharge section (210).

[0173] This is to ensure that the cold air supplied to the freezer (12) through the first cold air discharge unit (210) is not subject to flow interference from the cold air discharged through the discharge guide duct (600), so that the cold air supplied to the freezer (12) by the first cold air discharge unit (210) can be supplied as evenly as possible to all parts of the freezer (12).

[0174] At this time, the discharge guide duct (600) is formed such that the rear end portion surrounds the front circumference of the first cold air discharge unit (210). That is, by allowing a part of the first cold air discharge unit (210) to be accommodated within the rear end portion of the discharge guide duct (600), the cold air discharged through the first cold air discharge unit (210) can be fully guided by the discharge guide duct (600) without external leakage.

[0175] Of course, since the discharge guide duct (600) and the first cold air discharge unit (210) form a fitting-type coupling structure, the installation position of the discharge guide duct (600) can be accurately guided when they are coupled to each other. In addition, coupling and separation are easy.

[0176] In addition, since the discharge guide duct (600) is detachable, it may be replaced with a discharge guide duct of a different type (different shape) depending on the user's needs or the type or location of the ice tray (21a).

[0177] In addition, it is formed as a tubular body that protrudes further forward from the first cold air discharge section (210). This structure allows the cold air discharged after passing through the first cold air discharge section (210) and then via the discharge guide duct (600) to be supplied intensively and sufficiently to the front space within the storage room (12).

[0178] That is, even if the ice tray (12a) is located at the front of the freezer (12), the cold air passing through the first cold air discharge unit (210) can be continuously supplied to the ice tray (12a) under the guidance of the discharge guide duct (600).

[0179] At this time, it is preferable that the cold air discharge side of the discharge guide duct (600) be formed to have a length sufficient to be positioned adjacent to the rear of the ice tray (12a).

[0180] In addition, the discharge guide duct (600) is formed so that the passage gradually narrows as it moves forward. That is, a portion of the cold air that has passed through the first cold air discharge section (210) flows into the discharge guide duct (600) and is then gradually concentrated and sprayed toward a specific location (ice tray).

[0181] Here, the structure forming the above-mentioned conduit to gradually narrow can be configured in various ways. That is, it can be configured so that the vertical width gradually decreases as it moves toward the front of the discharge guide duct (600), or so that the horizontal width gradually decreases as it moves toward the front of the discharge guide duct (600).

[0182] For example, the bottom surface of the discharge guide duct (600) may be formed to gradually slope upward (or round) as it moves forward, or one side of the discharge guide duct (600) may be formed to slope (or round) so as to be adjacent to another side as it moves forward. This structure is the same as the structure shown in the embodiment.

[0183] Of course, although not explicitly shown, both the upper and lower surfaces of the discharge guide duct (600) may be formed so as to face the central portion as they move forward (sloped or rounded), or both the left and right sides of the discharge guide duct (600) may be formed so as to face the central portion as they move forward (sloped or rounded). This shape, in which the flow path narrows from the upper and lower sides or both sides toward the central portion, can be applied when a storage material for continuous cold air supply is located in front of the first cold air discharge section (210) (especially in front of the central portion).

[0184] In addition, the discharge guide duct (600) is formed to face outward as it moves forward. That is, by forming the discharge guide duct (600) so that it moves away from the first cold air discharge section (210) as it moves forward, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon in which cold air discharged through other parts of the first cold air discharge section (210) (parts not covered by the discharge guide duct) collides with the discharge guide duct (600) and causes flow resistance.

[0185] At this time, the cold air inlet side portion of the discharge guide duct (600) is formed to be inclined by the angle of inclination formed by each grille (211) of the first cold air discharge section (210), thereby allowing the cold air passing through each grille (211) to flow smoothly along the inner wall surface of the discharge guide duct (600). That is, flow resistance that may occur at the cold air inlet side portion of the discharge guide duct (600) is prevented (or minimized), thereby enabling smooth flow of cold air.

[0186] In particular, it is preferable that the front end portion of the discharge guide duct (600) be formed to face forward (round or bent). That is, the cold air discharged from the discharge guide duct (600) is concentrated and discharged into the ice tray (12a) located in front of it without spreading to the sides.

[0187] In addition, a plurality of grilles (601) are formed on the inner surface of the front end of the discharge guide duct (600). That is, the discharge direction of the cold air passing through the discharge guide duct (600) can be determined through the additional formation of the grilles (601).

[0188] Meanwhile, the discharge guide duct (600) can be formed by dividing it vertically (see attached FIG. 19).

[0189] That is, considering that the discharge guide duct (600) is formed with an up-and-down tilt (slanted or rounded) structure and a left-and-right tilt structure, difficulties in injection molding may arise. Accordingly, by dividing the discharge guide duct (600) into upper and lower sections, injection molding for each part is made possible.

[0190] These discharge guide ducts (600) can be divided into an upper pipe body (610) with an open bottom surface and a lower pipe body (620) with an open top surface.

[0191] At this time, one side of the upper pipe (610) and the lower pipe (620) is formed to be open so that the first cold air discharge unit (210) can be accommodated in that area, and the other side of the upper pipe (610) and the lower pipe (620) is formed to be closed so that it can wrap around the outer wall surface of the end side of the first cold air discharge unit (210).

[0192] In particular, a locking projection (611) and a locking ring (621) are formed on the opposing surfaces (or opposing parts) of the upper tube (610) and lower tube (620) respectively to interlock with each other, thereby allowing the upper tube (610) and lower tube (620) to be joined together to form an integrated structure.

[0193] In addition, a fastening hole (622) may be formed in the lower portion of the lower tube (620). At this time, the fastening hole (622) is a hole for screw fastening with the grill pan (200).

[0194] In the following, the process of controlling the temperature of each storage room (12, 21) by the operation of the refrigerator grill fan assembly (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention described above will be explained in more detail.

[0195] First, the process for controlling the temperature of the freezer (12) will be explained with reference to the attached FIGS. 24 to 27.

[0196] The temperature control of the above-mentioned freezer room (12) is performed by the operation of the blower fan module (410) and the compressor (not shown). That is, the operation for temperature control of the freezer room (12) is performed by the rotation of the freezer fan (411) by power supply to the blower fan module (410) and the heat exchange operation of the second evaporator (32) by the operation of the compressor.

[0197] And, when the refrigeration fan (411) of the above-mentioned blower fan module (410) is operated, the air inside the freezer room (12) flows through the second evaporator (32) by the air blowing force of the above-mentioned refrigeration fan (411), and heat exchange occurs as it passes through the second evaporator (32).

[0198] Additionally, the heat-exchanged air (cold air) passes through the inlet hole (110) for the freezer room of the shroud (100) and enters the cold air passage (300) for the storage room, then flows along the circumference of the freezer fan (411) and flows toward each wall surface within the cold air passage (300) for the storage room, and continues to flow along each wall surface of the cold air passage (300) for the storage room and is supplied into the freezer room (120) through each cold air discharge part (210, 220, 230, 240) formed in the grill fan (200).

[0199] At this time, the cold air flowing toward the upper wall surface within the above-mentioned cold air channel (300) for the storage room is supplied to the upper space within the freezer room (12) through the first cold air discharge unit (210).

[0200] At the same time, the cold air flowing toward the perimeter walls (312a, 312b, 322a, 322b) and bottom surfaces (312c, 322c) within the cold air channel (300) for the storage room flows along the perimeter walls (312a, 312b, 322a, 322b) and bottom surfaces (312c, 322c) of the cold air channel (300) for the storage room, and while flowing along each wall surface (312a, 312b, 322a, 322b, 312c, 322c) of the cold air channel (300) for the storage room, it sequentially passes through the second cold air discharge section (220), the fourth cold air discharge section (240), and the third cold air discharge section (230) formed along the bottom surfaces (312c, 322c) of the cold air channel (300) for the storage room. It is supplied to the intermediate space inside the freezer (12).

[0201] At this time, approximately half or more of the cold air passing through the inlet port (110) for the freezer is discharged into the upper space of the freezer (12) through the first cold air discharge unit (210), and the remaining cold air is discharged into the middle space of the freezer (12) through the second cold air discharge unit (220), the fourth cold air discharge unit (240), and the third cold air discharge unit (230).

[0202] Cold air that was not discharged into the intermediate space within the freezer (12) through the above-mentioned second cold air discharge unit (220), fourth cold air discharge unit (240), and third cold air discharge unit (230) is circulated again to the location where the first cold air discharge unit (210) is located.

[0203] Additionally, while the cold air passes through each cold air discharge unit (210, 220, 230, 240) and is supplied to the freezer (12), it is guided in the direction of discharge by each grille (211, 221, 231) formed in each cold air discharge unit (210, 220, 230, 240). That is, the cold air can be evenly discharged to the entire area within the freezer (12) by each grille (211, 221, 231).

[0204] In particular, since the bottom surface (bottom surface of the expanded side channel) (312c, 322c) of the cold air channel (300) for the storage room is formed to be inclined (or rounded), the cold air passing through the second cold air discharge section (220) can flow smoothly to the fourth cold air discharge section (240) and the third cold air discharge section (230) while flowing along the bottom surface (312c, 322c) of the cold air channel (300) for the storage room.

[0205] Accordingly, the above freezer (12) provides an even supply of cold air to the upper space, the middle space, and both sides.

[0206] Meanwhile, some of the cold air that flows through the storage room cold air channel (300) and passes through the first cold air discharge unit (210) to be discharged into the freezer room (12) is introduced into the discharge guide duct (600) installed in the first cold air discharge unit (210), and continues to flow along the discharge guide duct (600) and is supplied into the freezer room (12).

[0207] And, as the cold air flows along the discharge guide duct (600), the flow velocity gradually increases and it becomes concentrated in a specific direction. That is, because the discharge guide duct (600) is formed so that the flow path gradually narrows as it moves toward the side where the cold air is discharged compared to the side where the cold air from the first cold air discharge section (210) flows in, the flow velocity gradually increases and becomes concentrated.

[0208] At this time, the cold air discharge side portion of the discharge guide duct (600) is formed by bending (or slanting or rounding) and protruding (protruding forward) so as to be positioned adjacent to the rear of the ice tray (12a), so that cold air can be continuously sprayed toward the ice tray (12a) from immediately behind the ice tray (12a). This can be confirmed through the cold air flow shown in the attached FIG. 28.

[0209] Thus, ice making using the above ice tray (12a) is carried out smoothly, and high-quality ice can be obtained.

[0210] In addition, when the cold air is discharged into the ice tray (12a) through the discharge guide duct (600), it is provided in a state where the direction is determined according to the guidance of each grille (601) formed on the cold air outlet side of the discharge guide duct (600). For example, the cold air may be concentrated and provided to a specific part of the rear of the ice tray (12a) by the grille (601), or it may be provided evenly over the entire rear of the ice tray (12a).

[0211] Additionally, the cold air is supplied toward the front and one side (opposite to the side where the ice tray is located) through the remaining portion of the first cold air discharge unit (210), excluding the portion covered by the discharge guide duct (600). At this time, considering that the discharge guide duct (600) is located at one end portion of the first cold air discharge unit (210) and is formed to gradually tilt outward as it moves forward, the cold air supplied toward the front and one side of the first cold air discharge unit (210) is smoothly discharged into the freezer (12) without being affected by the discharge guide duct (600).

[0212] And, while the freezing operation of supplying cold air to the above-mentioned freezer (12) is being performed, the temperature inside the freezer (12) is continuously checked by the temperature sensor (260) installed in the grill fan (200), and if it is confirmed that the temperature inside the freezer (12) is lower than the set temperature (when the set temperature condition is satisfied), the operation of the freezing fan (411) and the freezing cycle is stopped and the supply of cold air is stopped.

[0213] Of course, if the temperature inside the freezer (12) rises above the set temperature, the freezer fan (411) and the freezer cycle operate again to supply cold air into the freezer (12).

[0214] Accordingly, the temperature inside the freezer (12) is controlled by the repetitive circulation of the aforementioned air (cold air).

[0215] Next, the operation (ice-making operation) for temperature control of the ice-making room (21) will be explained with reference to the attached FIGS. 29 to 31.

[0216] The temperature control of the above ice-making room (21) is performed by the operation of the ice-making fan (421) by supplying power to the ice-making fan module (420). At this time, the compressor may be operated or stopped depending on the operating conditions of the freezer room (12).

[0217] When the above ice-making fan (421) is operated, the air present in the freezer (12) passes through the second evaporator (32) by the air blowing force of the above ice-making fan (421) and then flows into the duct housing (510) through the inlet port (511) for the ice-making room.

[0218] Subsequently, the cold air is discharged toward the side to which the cold air duct (51) for the ice-making room is connected, guided by the perimeter wall (513) forming the duct housing (510).

[0219] And, the cold air discharged through the cold air duct (51) for the ice room flows along the cold air duct (51) for the ice room and is supplied to the ice room (21).

[0220] Additionally, the cold air supplied to the ice-making room (21) flows through the ice-making room (21), freezes the water (or other beverage) present in the ice tray (city omitted), and then returns to the freezer room (12) through the ice-making room recovery duct (52).

[0221] Afterwards, the cold air recovered into the freezer (12) flows within the freezer (12) and is then guided by the suction guide (250) formed in the grill pan (200) and recovered to the air inlet side of the second evaporator (32).

[0222] If the temperature inside the ice-making room (21) is lower than the set temperature, the operation of the ice-making fan (421) is stopped and the supply of cold air to the ice-making room (21) is stopped.

[0223] Accordingly, the temperature inside the ice-making room (21) is controlled by the repetitive circulation of the aforementioned air (cold air).

[0224] Ultimately, since the grill fan assembly for a refrigerator of the present invention is provided with a discharge guide duct (600) in front of the first cold air discharge section (210), some of the cold air discharged through the first cold air discharge section (210) can be concentrated and supplied toward a specific location.

[0225] That is, since cold air can be continuously supplied toward the ice tray (12a) inside the freezer (12), the problem of the ice quality fluctuating according to the overall temperature change inside the freezer (12) or the flow change of the cold air flowing inside the freezer (12) can be resolved.

[0226] In addition, since the discharge guide duct (600) of the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is formed as a tubular body protruding forward from the first cold air discharge part (210), cold air can be supplied directly from the rear of the ice tray (12a) toward the rear of the ice tray (12a).

[0227] In addition, the grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to the present invention is formed such that the discharge guide duct (600) gradually narrows as it moves forward, so that cold air can be concentrated and sprayed at a specific location.

[0228] In addition, the refrigerator grill pan assembly of the present invention Since the front end portion of the discharge guide duct (600) is formed to face forward, the cold air discharged from the discharge guide duct (600) can be discharged intensively toward the front without spreading to the sides.

[0229] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention can be injection molded because the discharge guide duct (600) is formed by dividing it into upper and lower sections.

[0230] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention is configured such that only a portion of the cold air discharged through the first cold air discharge unit (210) flows into the discharge guide duct (600), and the remainder flows forward or to the side without hitting the discharge guide duct (600). Therefore, while some of the cold air is concentrated and supplied toward the ice tray (12a), the remaining cold air can also be smoothly supplied to the stored materials around the ice tray (12a).

[0231] In addition, the refrigerator grill fan assembly of the present invention allows for smooth supply of cold air to the ice tray (12a) even if the ice tray (12a) is located in the front space within the freezer (12) due to the discharge guide duct (600).

Claims

Claim 1 A shroud positioned in front of an evaporator provided on the rear wall of a cabinet, having a through hole formed therein for supplying cold air to a storage room provided in the cabinet; a grill fan coupled to the front of the shroud and having a plurality of cold air discharge ports formed therein for discharging cold air into the storage room; a blower fan module positioned between the opposing surfaces of the shroud and the grill fan and blowing cold air sucked in through the inlet hole for the storage room into the freezer room; and a discharge guide duct that guides cold air discharged through one of the cold air discharge ports to be concentrated and discharged toward a specific location; wherein the cold air discharge port includes a first cold air discharge port formed as a tubular body protruding forward while positioned above the blower fan module, and the discharge guide duct is formed to protrude forward from the first cold air discharge port while being coupled to surround the front circumference of a portion of the first cold air discharge port, thereby concentrating a portion of the cold air discharged from the first cold air discharge port to provide to a specific location within the storage room or the A refrigerator grill fan assembly characterized by guiding to a different location from the first cold air discharge section. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first cold air discharge section is formed to be longer to the left and right than the blower fan module, centered on the position of the blower fan module. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the discharge guide duct is formed to surround a portion of one end of the first cold air discharge section. Claim 6 delete Claim 7 delete Claim 8 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the discharge guide duct is formed such that the conduit gradually narrows as it moves forward. Claim 9 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that the discharge guide duct is formed such that the vertical width decreases as it moves forward and the conduit gradually narrows. Claim 10 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that the bottom surface of the discharge guide duct is formed to gradually face upward as it moves forward. Claim 11 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that the discharge guide duct is formed such that the width decreases as it moves forward and the conduit gradually narrows. Claim 12 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that one side of the discharge guide duct is formed to be adjacent to the other side as it moves forward. Claim 13 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the discharge guide duct is formed to face the outer direction of the first cold air discharge section as it moves forward. Claim 14 A grill fan assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 13, characterized in that a plurality of grill ribs guiding the discharge direction of cold air are formed at an angle on the cold air outlet side of the first cold air discharge part, and the cold air inlet side portion of the discharge guide duct coupled to the first cold air discharge part is formed to be inclined by the angle of inclination formed by each grill rib of the first cold air discharge part. Claim 15 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the front end portion of the discharge guide duct is formed to face forward. Claim 16 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that a plurality of grill ribs are formed on the inner surface of the front end of the discharge guide duct to guide the discharge direction of cold air. Claim 17 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, wherein the discharge guide duct comprises an upper pipe body with an open bottom surface and a lower pipe body with an open top surface, and wherein the open surfaces of the upper pipe body and the lower pipe body are joined together to form a flow path that guides cold air flow inside. Claim 18 delete Claim 19 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cold air discharge portion formed in the grill fan includes a second cold air discharge portion and a third cold air discharge portion located lower than the position of the blower fan module. Claim 20 A refrigerator grill fan assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that the second cold air discharge unit and the third cold air discharge unit are formed to be located on both sides respectively, centered on the location of the blower fan module.

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