refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator is provided. According to an embodiment, the refrigerator includes a cabinet forming a storage space; a door that is configured to open and close the storage space and that includes a panel forming an outer appearance of a front surface thereof and including a touch part; and a touch assembly provided on a rear surface of the panel and configured to detect a touch through the touch part, in which the touch assembly includes a light-emitting part configured to provide light; and a first reflector configured to guide light provided from the light-emitting part toward the touch part, the first reflector includes a light irradiating part to which light provided from the light-emitting part is irradiated; and a light diffusion part extending from the light irradiating part, and a plurality of grooves are formed on a front surface of the light diffusion part.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

[0002] In general, refrigerators are home appliances that allow food to be stored at low temperatures in an internal storage space shielded by a refrigerator door, and are configured to store stored food in optimal condition by cooling the interior of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle.

[0003] In line with the trend of changing eating habits and the advancement of product sophistication, refrigerators are becoming larger and more multifunctional, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices that take user convenience into consideration are being released.

[0004] For example, a refrigerator equipped with a door opening device to facilitate the opening of the refrigerator door is being developed. Specifically, the refrigerator equipped with a door opening device is configured so that the door automatically opens by the door opening device in response to a user's operation.

[0005] Meanwhile, the touch part for operating the door opening device is provided on the front surface of the door, but the conventional touch part is formed by printing or applying a separate injection molding material, which has the problem of poor nighttime visibility and reduced usability.SUMMARY

[0006] An object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator having improved nighttime visibility of a touch part of a door opening device touch part formed on the front surface of the door.

[0007] An object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator having an improved outer appearance by providing light uniformly in each area toward the front surface of the door from a touch assembly for operating a door opening device.

[0008] According to one embodiment to solve the above problem, a refrigerator includes a cabinet forming a storage space; a door that is configured to open and close the storage space and that includes a panel forming an outer appearance of a front surface thereof and including a touch part; and a touch assembly provided on a rear surface of the panel and configured to detect a touch through the touch part, in which the touch assembly includes a light-emitting part configured to provide light; and a first reflector configured to guide light provided from the light-emitting part toward the touch part, in which the first reflector includes a light irradiating part to which light provided from the light-emitting part is irradiated; and a light diffusion part extending from the light irradiating part, and in which a plurality of grooves are formed on a front surface of the light diffusion part.

[0009] The first reflector may be disposed in front of the light-emitting part, and the light-emitting part may be configured to irradiate light to a rear surface of the light irradiating part.

[0010] The light-emitting parts may be disposed behind one end part of the first reflector and behind the other end part of the first reflector, respectively.

[0011] The touch assembly may include a touch module that detects the touch through the touch part, and the first reflector may include a reflector hole through which at least a portion of the touch module is penerated.

[0012] The reflector hole may include a circular opening, and a recessed opening recessed from the circular opening toward the light irradiating part, and in which the light diffusion part may have a branched shape with the recessed opening interposed therebetween.

[0013] The touch module may include a touch substrate on which a touch sensor is disposed, and the light-emitting part may be disposed on the touch substrate.

[0014] The touch module may further include a touch gasket disposed on the touch sensor and extending toward the panel, and the touch gasket may be disposed so as to penetrate the reflector hole.

[0015] The light-emitting parts may be disposed on one side of the touch gasket and the other side of the touch gasket, respectively, and the light diffusion part may be disposed to surround the touch gasket.

[0016] The touch assembly may further include a touch case including a touch module accommodation part that accommodates the touch module, a touch cover covering a front surface of the touch module, and a film member including a light-transmitting part that is disposed in front of the first reflector and transmits light in a shape corresponding to the touch part, and the touch cover may include a reflector accommodation part formed to be recessed on a front surface thereof and in which the first reflector is accommodated.

[0017] The plurality of grooves may be arranged spaced apart from each other in an extension direction of the light diffusion part, and the distance between adjacent grooves may decrease as the grooves get farther away from the light irradiating part.

[0018] The plurality of grooves may form virtual extension lines extending in their respective extension directions, and an angle between the extension lines formed by adjacent grooves may decrease as the distance from the light irradiating part increases.

[0019] The light diffusion part may include a first part connected to the light irradiating part, and a second part formed by branching from the first part to both sides, the plurality of grooves may include a plurality of first grooves formed on a front surface of the first part, and a plurality of second grooves formed on a front surface of the second part, and an average distance between adjacent first grooves among the plurality of first grooves may be smaller than an average distance between adjacent second grooves among the plurality of second grooves.

[0020] The panel may be made of a metal material, and the touch assembly may further include a second reflector disposed in front of the first reflector and configured to guide light provided from the first reflector to the touch part.

[0021] A touch hole opened to partially expose the second reflector may be formed in the touch part.

[0022] The touch assembly may further include a supporter on which the second reflector is mounted and attached to a rear surface of the panel, and the supporter includes a supporter touch part which is disposed at a position corresponding to the touch part and through which touch manipulation is performed.

[0023] The second reflector may include a light-receiving part configured to receive light provided from the first reflector; and a first reflector light-emitting part protruding forward from the light-receiving part, and the first reflector light-emitting part may be disposed inside the touch part.

[0024] The second reflector may further include protrusions protruding from one side of the light-receiving part and the other side of the light-receiving part, respectively, and a second reflector light emitting part protruding forward from the protrusion, and the second reflector light emitting part may be disposed inside the touch part.

[0025] The touch assembly may further include a supporter on which the second reflector is mounted and attached to a rear surface of the panel, and the supporter may include an opening into which the first reflector light-emitting part is inserted and exposed forward.

[0026] The second reflector may include a reflector touch part exposed by the touch part and configured to allow touch manipulation; a reflector recessed part disposed to surround the reflector touch part; and a reflector plate part disposed to surround the reflector recessed part.

[0027] The reflector plate part may be attached to a rear surface of the panel through an adhesive, the reflector touch part may include a shielding layer formed on a rear surface thereof, and the shielding layer may include a printed light-transmitting part formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the touch part.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a touch assembly for operating a door opening device includes a light-emitting part, so that nighttime visibility of a touch part formed on the front of the door can be improved.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the touch assembly has a reflector including a plurality of grooves, so that light provided from a touch part formed on the front surface of the door is uniform in each area, thereby improving the appearance.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator with the door open according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a door body, which is one component of a door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a panel assembly, which is one component of a door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a front view illustrating a touch assembly according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a reflector according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 11 is a front view illustrating a reflector according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 7.

[0042] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to another embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13.

[0044] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a process for forming the panel illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0045] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an optical path formed in a reflector according to one embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution provided from the touch part of the door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 18 is a front view illustrating a reflector according to another embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution provided at the touch part of the door of a refrigerator to which a reflector according to the embodiment of FIG. 18 is applied.

[0049] FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the light path formed in a reflector according to a comparative example.

[0050] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution provided at the touch part of the door of a refrigerator to which the reflector of FIG. 20 is applied.

[0051] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a panel assembly, which is a component of a door of a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0052] FIGS. 23 and 24 are a cross-sectional perspective view and a cross-sectional view illustrating a touch part of a door provided in a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 25 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to another embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a second touch assembly included in a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating a second reflector included in a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 28 is a front view illustrating a second reflector included in a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0057] FIGS. 29 and 30 are a cross-sectional perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a touch part of a door provided in a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 31 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to another embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 32 is a front perspective view illustrating a second reflector according to another embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 33 is a rear view illustrating a second reflector according to another embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 34-34 of FIG. 32.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0062] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments in which the idea of the present disclosure is presented, and other regressive disclosures or other embodiments included within the scope of the idea of the present disclosure can be easily proposed by adding, changing, deleting, or the like other components.

[0063] In order to clearly and briefly explain the present disclosure, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same drawing reference numerals are used for identical or extremely similar parts throughout the specification.

[0064] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given simply for the convenience of writing this specification, and do not in themselves impart any particularly important meaning or role. Accordingly, the above "module" and "part" may be used interchangeably.

[0065] In this specification, it should be understood that the terms “comprises” or “has” and the like are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0066] Additionally, in this specification, terms such as first, second, or the like may be used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0067] Hereinafter, a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator with the door open according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage space 10a and a door 20 for opening and closing the storage space 10a. Although not illustrated, the cabinet 10 may be equipped with components that constitute a refrigeration cycle for cooling the storage space 10a.

[0070] The cabinet 10 may include an outer case 11 forming the outer appearance and an inner case 12 forming the interior of the storage space 10a. An insulating material may be filled between the outer case 11 and the inner case 12.

[0071] A door opening device 30 may be provided on the upper part of the cabinet 10. For example, the door opening device 30 may be disposed at the center of the upper surface of the cabinet 10. The door opening device 30 may be embedded in an insulating material.

[0072] The door opening device 30 may include a rod 37 that protrudes forward through the front surface of the cabinet 10. The rod 37 of the door opening device 30 can push the rear surface of the door 20 to open the door 20.

[0073] The door 20 may be rotatably mounted on the front surface of the cabinet 10. The refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment may include an upper hinge 41 and a lower hinge 42 provided at the upper end and the lower end of the door 20, respectively. The upper hinge 41 and the lower hinge 42 are coupled to the upper and lower surfaces of the cabinet 10, respectively, so that the door 20 can be rotated with respect to the cabinet 10.

[0074] A door closing device 43 may be provided on the lower surface of the door 20. The door closing device 43 may be connected to the lower hinge 42. For example, the door closing device 43 may be connected to the lower hinge 42 when the door 20 is open, so that the door 20 is forced to rotate in the closing direction.

[0075] Meanwhile, the door opening device 30 and door closing device 43 described above are merely exemplary, and various other structures that are driven by the user's manipulation to open and close the door 20 may be applied.

[0076] Meanwhile, the door opening device 30 and the door closing device 43 can be operated by manipulating the touch part 221a provided on the door 20. The touch part 221a can function as a configuration for inputting operation of the refrigerator 1 in addition to the door opening device 30 and the door closing device 43.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a door 20 of a refrigerator 1 may include a door body 21 and a panel assembly 22 mounted on the front surface of the door body 21.

[0078] The door body 21 is axially connected to the upper hinge 41 and the lower hinge 42 to open and close the storage space 10a.

[0079] The upper and lower surfaces of the door body 21 may be provided with the same structure in which an upper hinge 41 and a lower hinge 42 can be coupled to each other in both ends in the left and right direction. Accordingly, the upper hinge 41 and the lower hinge 42 may be selectively mounted on one of the left and right ends of the door body 21. The disposition of the upper hinge 41 and the lower hinge 42 with respect to the door body 21 may be selectively possible according to the rotational direction of the door 20.

[0080] For example, the door 20 can be used in common so that it can rotate around the left end or around the right end. The upper hinge 41 and the lower hinge 42 can be selectively mounted at positions corresponding to the rotation axis of the door 20.

[0081] Meanwhile, a hinge cover 44 can be mounted on one of both ends of the upper surface of the door body 21 in the left and right direction where the upper hinge 41 is not mounted to shield the space where the upper hinge 41 is mounted.

[0082] A handle part 217 may be provided on the side of the door body 21. The handle part 217 may be recessed inward from the side of the door body 21. The handle part 217 may not be exposed when viewed from the front. The handle part 217 may be formed on each of both sides of the door body 21 in the left and right direction. Therefore, the required handle part 217 may be used according to the rotation direction of the door 20.

[0083] The panel assembly 22 can be mounted on the front surface of the door body 21. The panel assembly 22 can form the outer appearance of the door 20. The panel assembly 22 can be detachably fixed to the door body 21. For example, the lower end of the panel assembly 22 can be supported on the lower end of the door body 21, and the upper end of the panel assembly 22 can be fixed by the decoration cover 24 while being mounted on the upper end of the door body 21.

[0084] A touch assembly 100 may be provided between the door body 21 and the panel assembly 22. A touch part 221a may be formed in a portion of the panel assembly 22 corresponding to the touch assembly 100.

[0085] The touch assembly 100 and the touch part 221a may be positioned at a position that is offset from one of both sides of the door 20 in the left and right direction. In other words, the touch assembly 100 and the touch part 221a may be formed at a position adjacent to the handle part 217. Accordingly, the user's manipulation through the touch part 221a may be performed together with the grip of the handle part 217. Of course, the touch assembly 100 and the touch part 221a may be provided on only one of both sides of the door 20 in the left and right direction.

[0086] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the structure of the door body 21 and panel assembly 22 constituting the door 20 will be examined in more detail.

[0087] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a door body, which is one component of a door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, the door body 21 may include a body plate 211 forming the front surface, a door liner 216 forming the rear surface, an upper cap decoration 212 forming the upper surface, and a lower cap decoration 213 forming the lower surface. The internal space formed by combining the body plate 211, the door liner 216, the upper cap decoration 212, and the lower cap decoration 213 may be filled with an insulating material.

[0089] The body plate 211 may be formed in a plate shape and may be formed of a metal material to maintain the strength of the door body 21. A plate opening 2113 may be formed in the body plate 211. A mounting part 218 for accommodating the touch assembly 100 may be provided in the plate opening 2113. The plate opening 2113 and the mounting part 218 may be provided on each of both sides of the body plate 211 in the left and right direction. Accordingly, the touch assembly 100 may be selectively mounted on one of both sides in the left and right direction according to the rotational direction of the door 20.

[0090] The door liner 216 may be formed of a resin material and may form the rear surface of the door 20. The door liner 216 may be provided with a gasket along the perimeter thereof. The gasket may be in close contact with the front surface of the cabinet 10 when the door 20 is closed, thereby sealing the storage space 10a.

[0091] The door body 21 may further include side decorations 214 forming both sides in the left and right direction. The side decorations 214 may extend from the upper end to the lower end of the door body 21. A pair of side decorations 214 disposed on both sides in the left and right direction may be formed in the same shape.

[0092] A handle part 217 may be mounted on the side decoration 214. The handle part 217 may form a space that is recessed inwardly so that a user can insert a hand, and may be opened laterally. A handle hole 2142 may be formed on the side decoration 214 for mounting the handle part 217. The handle part 217 may be disposed on the inside of the door body 21 and may be configured such that the recessed space is exposed through the handle hole 2142.

[0093] The door body 21 may further include a side frame 215. The side frame 215 may be disposed on both sides of the inside of the door body 21 in the left and right direction and may extend in the vertical direction. The side decoration 214 may be supported from the inside to reinforce the strength of the door body 21. For example, the side decoration 214 may be formed of a steel material and may be disposed to be embedded in an insulating material.

[0094] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a panel assembly, which is one component of a door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 5, the panel assembly 22 may include a panel 221, an upper bracket 222, and a lower bracket 223.

[0096] The panel 221 forms the front surface of the panel assembly 22 and can form the outer appearance of the front surface of the door 20. The size of the panel 221 can correspond to the size of the front surface of the door 20, and thus, the panel 221 can form the entire outer appearance of the front surface of the door 20. The panel 221 may be referred to as a front plate. For example, the panel 221 may be formed of a glass material.

[0097] A touch part 221a may be formed on the panel 221. The touch part 221a may be formed in a portion of the panel 221 corresponding to the position of the touch assembly 100. The touch part 221a may refer to a portion of the panel 221 that can manipulate the touch assembly 100 through touch. The touch part 221a may not be visible from the front of the panel 221. As will be described later, the touch part 221a may be visible when the light-emitting part is activated through a user's approach, a voice command, or a terminal device manipulation. For example, the touch part 221a may be formed in a circular shape.

[0098] The upper bracket 222 can be fixed to the upper end of the rear surface of the panel 221. The upper bracket 222 can be formed to extend from the left end to the right end of the upper end of the panel 221. The upper bracket 222 can be coupled to the upper cap decoration 212 of the door body 21.

[0099] The lower bracket 223 can be fixed to the lower end of the rear surface of the panel 221. The lower bracket 223 can be formed to extend from the left end to the right end of the lower end of the panel 221. The lower bracket 223 can be coupled to the lower cap decoration 213 of the door body 21.

[0100] In other words, the upper end of the panel assembly 22 can be fixed to the upper cap decoration 212 by the upper bracket 222, and the lower end of the panel assembly 22 can be fixed to the lower cap decoration 213 by the lower bracket 223. Through the structure, the panel assembly 22 can be detachably mounted to the door body 21.

[0101] The panel assembly 22 may further include a buffer member 224. The buffer member 224 may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 221. The buffer member 224 may be formed of a compressible sponge or foam material. The buffer member 224 may support between the panel 221 and the body plate 211 when the panel assembly 22 is mounted. Therefore, the panel assembly 22 may be prevented from moving when the door 20 is opened and closed. The front surface of the door 20 may be prevented from being pressed and deformed.

[0102] Hereinafter, the detailed structure of the touch assembly 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

[0103] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a front view illustrating a touch assembly according to one embodiment.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment may include a touch assembly 100 disposed at the rear of a panel 221. The touch assembly 100 may receive a signal from a touch part 221a formed on the panel 221. For example, the signal received from the touch part 221a may be a touch signal. Meanwhile, the signal received by the touch assembly 100 may be a signal for operating the door opening device 30. In other words, when a user touches the touch part 221a, the touch assembly 100 receives the touch signal, thereby operating the door opening device 30.

[0105] A touch assembly 100 according to one embodiment may include a touch case 110, a touch cover 120 mounted on the front surface of the touch case 110, a touch module 130 accommodated in the touch case 110, a reflector 140 mounted on the touch cover 120, and a film member 150 disposed on the front surface of the touch cover 120.

[0106] The touch case 110 may include a case body 111 defining a first recessed part 111a in which at least a portion of the touch cover 120 is accommodated, a touch module accommodation part 112 disposed inside the first recessed part 111a and defining a second recessed part 112a in which the touch module 130 is accommodated, and a case fixing part 114 formed to protrude from the upper end of the case body 111.

[0107] The case body 111 can form the outer appearance of the touch case 110. For example, the case body 111 can be formed in a flat shape including a first recessed part 111a that is recessed at the rear.

[0108] The touch case 110 may further include a case restraint part 113 that protrudes from one surface of the case body 111 defining the upper end part of the first recessed part 111a. The case restraint part 113 may restrain the touch cover 120. In other words, the touch cover 120 may be restrained by the case restraint part 113 and mounted on the touch case 110. For example, the case restraint part 113 may be formed to protrude from the upper end edge of the case body 111 defining the first recessed part 111a toward the first recessed part 111a.

[0109] The touch module accommodation part 112 may be formed inside the first recessed part 111a. The touch module accommodation part 112 may include a second recessed part 112a that is recessed at the rear. Accordingly, the first recessed part 111a may be partitioned by the touch module accommodation part 112 into a second recessed part 112a and an outer region of the second recessed part 112a. The second recessed part 112a of the touch module accommodation part 112 may be formed by being recessed in the same direction as the first recessed part 111a. A touch module 130 may be accommodated in the second recessed part 112a.

[0110] The case fixing part 114 can be fixed to the mounting part 218 provided on the body plate 211. In other words, the touch assembly 100 can be mounted to the mounting part 218 through the case fixing part 114.

[0111] The touch cover 120 can be mounted on the touch case 110. For example, the touch cover 120 can be detachably mounted on the touch case 110. The touch cover 120 can cover the touch module 130 accommodated in the second recessed part 112a from the front.

[0112] The touch cover 120 may include a cover plate 121, a cover mounting part 122 disposed on the upper end of the cover plate 121, and a cover protrusion 123 disposed on the lower end of the cover plate 121.

[0113] The cover plate 121 can form the outer appearance of the touch cover 120. When the touch cover 120 is mounted on the touch case 110, the cover plate 121 can cover the first recessed part 111a of the touch case 110.

[0114] The cover plate 121 may include a plate hole 121h opened in the center. The plate hole 121h may be formed to pass through at least a portion of the touch module 130. For example, a touch gasket 133, which will be described later, may be disposed through the plate hole 121h.

[0115] The cover plate 121 may include a reflector accommodation part 121a disposed around the plate hole 121h. The reflector accommodation part 121a may be disposed to surround the plate hole 121h.

[0116] A reflector 140 can be accommodated in the reflector accommodation part 121a. The reflector accommodation part 121a can be formed to correspond to the shape of the reflector 140. For example, the reflector 140 can be mounted while being restrained by a restraint part formed in the reflector accommodation part 121a. The reflector accommodation part 121a can be formed to be recessed toward the touch case 110 more than the film accommodation part 121b described below.

[0117] A penetration hole that is open in the front and rear direction may be formed in the reflector accommodation part 121a. The penetration hole may be formed at a position corresponding to the light emitting part 132. For example, the penetration hole may be formed at the upper end and the lower end of the reflector 140. As will be described later, light irradiated from the light emitting part 132 may be irradiated to the reflector 140 through the penetration hole formed in the reflector accommodation part 121a.

[0118] The cover plate 121 may further include a film accommodation part 121b disposed around the reflector accommodation part 121a. The film accommodation part 121b may be disposed to surround the reflector accommodation part 121a.

[0119] A film member 150 can be accommodated in the film accommodation part 121b. For example, the film member 150 can be attached to the film accommodation part 121b. The film member 150 accommodated in the film accommodation part 121b can cover at least a portion of the reflector 140 accommodated in the reflector accommodation part 121a from the front. The film accommodation part 121b can be formed to be recessed toward the touch case 110 more than the frontmost surface of the cover plate 121. For example, the shape of the outer appearance of the film accommodation part 121b can be formed to correspond to the outer appearance of the film member 150.

[0120] The cover mounting part 122 can be fixed by the case restraint part 113 of the touch case 110. The cover mounting part 122 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction, and can be formed to be restrained by the case restraint part 113. For example, when the touch cover 120 is inserted into the first recessed part 111a of the touch case 110, the cover mounting part 122 can be restrained and fixed by the case restraint part 113.

[0121] The cover protrusion 123 may be formed to protrude downward from the lower end of the cover plate 121. The cover protrusion 123 may be supported by a portion of the case body 111 that defines the front opening surface of the first recessed part 111a. The touch cover 120 may be mounted by the cover mounting part 122 being restrained by the case restraint part 113 while the cover protrusion 123 is supported by the case body 111.

[0122] A touch module 130 may be provided between the touch case 110 and the touch cover 120. For example, the touch module 130 may be accommodated in the second recessed part 112a of the touch case 110. The touch module 130 may detect a touch signal received from a touch part 221a formed on the panel 221. In other words, when a user touches the touch part 221a, the touch module 130 may detect the touch signal.

[0123] The touch module 130 may include a touch substrate 131, a light emitting part 132 disposed on one surface of the touch substrate 131, and a touch gasket 133 disposed on one surface of the touch substrate 131.

[0124] The touch substrate 131 can support the light emitting part 132 and the touch gasket 133. The touch substrate 131 can be accommodated in the second recessed part 112a of the touch case 110. For example, the touch substrate 131 can have a shape extending in the vertical direction. The shape of the touch substrate 131 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the second recessed part 112a.

[0125] The light emitting part 132 may be disposed on the touch substrate 131. The light emitting part 132 may irradiate light toward the reflector 140. The light irradiated by the light emitting part 132 toward the reflector 140 may illuminate the touch part 221a of the panel 221. For example, the light emitting parts 132 may be provided in pairs in the vertical direction of the touch substrate 131. A touch gasket 133 may be placed between the pair of light emitting parts 132.

[0126] The light emitting part 132 can provide light when a user approaches the door 20. In other words, the light emitting part 132 can provide light toward the touch part 221a to guide the position of the touch part 221a when the user approaches the door 20. For example, the refrigerator 1 can include a proximity detection sensor to detect whether a user is approaching.

[0127] Meanwhile, although not illustrated, a touch sensor (not illustrated) may be provided on one surface of the touch substrate 131. The touch sensor may be disposed in the central part of the touch substrate 131. For example, the touch sensor may be configured as a capacitive touch sensor that recognizes a user's touch through a change in capacitance.

[0128] A touch gasket 133 may be provided on the touch substrate 131. The touch gasket 133 may be placed on the touch sensor provided on the touch substrate 131. The touch gasket 133 may be placed to overlap the touch sensor. In other words, the touch sensor may be placed between the touch gasket 133 and the touch substrate 131.

[0129] The touch gasket 133 may be configured to connect between the touch part 221a and the touch sensor. In other words, the touch gasket 133 may extend from one side of the touch substrate 131 corresponding to the position of the touch sensor, and may extend toward the rear surface of the touch part 221a.

[0130] The touch gasket 133 may be formed of a compressible material. For example, the touch gasket 133 may be formed of a compressible foam material and may transmit static electricity changes upon touching the touch part 221a to the touch sensor. For example, the touch gasket 133 may be configured such that a conductive fiber or metal foil forms an outer shell.

[0131] The touch gasket 133 can be compressed by coming into contact with the touch part 221a when the panel assembly 22 is mounted. The touch gasket 133 can be formed to have a smaller cross-sectional area than the touch part 221a.

[0132] The touch gasket 133 may be disposed to penetrate the plate hole 121h of the cover plate 121. The touch gasket 133 may be disposed to penetrate the reflector hole 140h of the reflector 140 described later. The touch gasket 133 may be disposed to penetrate the film hole 151h provided in the film member 150. The front end of the touch gasket 133 may be in contact with at least a portion of the film member 150.

[0133] A reflector 140 can be accommodated in the reflector accommodation part 121a of the touch cover 120. The reflector 140 can be mounted on the touch cover 120. Light can be irradiated to the reflector 140 from the light emitting part 132. Light can be irradiated to the reflector 140 from the light emitting part 132 through the penetration hole formed in the reflector accommodation part 121a.

[0134] The light emitted from the light emitting part 132 can travel along the shape of the reflector 140. The reflector 140 can provide the emitted light toward the front. For example, the reflector 140 guides the emitted light toward the film member 150, and the light transmitted through the film member 150 can be emitted toward the front of the door 20 through the touch part 221a of the panel 221. Therefore, the shape of the reflector 140 can be configured to correspond to the shape of the touch part 221a of the panel 221.

[0135] The detailed structure of the reflector 140 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11.

[0136] A film member 150 can be accommodated in the film accommodation part 121b of the touch cover 120. The film member 150 can partially shield the reflector 140 to diffuse or block light provided from the reflector 140.

[0137] The film member 150 may include a first film 151 disposed opposite one side of the film accommodation part 121b and a second film 152 disposed on the first film 151. The first film 151 may be disposed between the second film 152 and the touch cover 120, and the second film 152 may be disposed between the first film 151 and the panel 221.

[0138] The first film 151 may include a film hole 151h through which the touch gasket 133 penetrates. The film hole 151h may be disposed in the central part of the first film 151 and may be formed to be open in the front and rear direction.

[0139] The first film 151 may include a base film 1511 and a shielding layer 1512 disposed on the base film 1511. The shielding layer 1512 may be disposed between the base film 1511 and the second film 152.

[0140] The base film 1511 can diffuse light provided from the reflector 140. For example, the base film 1511 can receive light from the reflector 140, diffuse the light, and provide the light toward the second film 152. The base film 1511 may be referred to as a diffusion sheet, a diffusion film, or the like.

[0141] The shielding layer 1512 may be formed by being printed on the base film 1511. The shielding layer 1512 may block light transmitted through the base film 1511. The shielding layer 1512 may include a light-transmitting part 151a. Light passing through the light-transmitting part 151a of the shielding layer 1512 may be provided to the second film 152, and light passing through a portion other than the light-transmitting part 151a may be blocked. In other words, the light-transmitting part 151a of the shielding layer 1512 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the touch part 221a of the panel 221.

[0142] Meanwhile, the film hole 151h of the first film 151 can be formed by opening across the base film 1511 and the shielding layer 1512.

[0143] The second film 152 can transmit light provided from the first film 151 and provide the light to the panel 221. The second film 152 can be provided to prevent refraction of light provided to the panel 221. The second film 152 can be attached to the rear surface of the panel 221. For example, the second film 152 can be referred to as an anti-reflection film or a polarizing film.

[0144] Hereinafter, the detailed structure of the reflector 140 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11.

[0145] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a reflector according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a front view illustrating a reflector according to one embodiment.

[0146] When the touch assembly 100 is not mounted on the panel 221, the touch gasket 133 may be formed to protrude forward from the front surface of the reflector 140. As described above, the touch gasket 133 is formed of a compressible material and can be compressed when the touch assembly 100 is mounted on the panel 221.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, light emitted from the light emitting part 132 may be diffused through the reflector 140 and provided forward. For example, a pair of light emitting parts 132 may be provided in pairs. The pair of light emitting parts 132 may be respectively disposed at the rear of the upper end and the lower end of the reflector 140. Accordingly, the pair of light emitting parts 132 may respectively irradiate light to the rear surface of the upper end and the rear surface of the lower ends of the reflector 140.

[0148] A reflector 140 according to one embodiment can uniformly provide light received from the rear at the upper end and the lower end toward the front in each region. A reflector 140 according to one embodiment can include a reflector hole 140h opened in the central part. A touch gasket 133 can be disposed to pass through the reflector hole 140h.

[0149] For example, the reflector 140 may be made of a material that transmits light. For example, the reflector 140 may be made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of polycarbonate (PC), polycyclohexane-dimethylene terephthalate glycol (PCTG), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene (PS), and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

[0150] A reflector 140 according to one embodiment may include a light irradiating part 141 forming an upper end and a lower end, a light diffusion part 142 connecting a pair of light irradiating parts 141, and a plurality of grooves 143 formed on one surface of the light diffusion part 142.

[0151] A reflector 140 according to one embodiment may have a symmetrical structure in the vertical direction. A pair of light irradiating parts 141 may have substantially the same structure and may be disposed facing each other. Meanwhile, a reflector 140 according to one embodiment may have a symmetrical structure in the left and right direction. The light diffusion part 142 may have a symmetrical structure in the left and right direction.

[0152] The light irradiating part 141 may be a portion that receives light from the light emitting part 132 of the reflector 140. For example, the light emitting part 132 disposed at the rear of the reflector 140 may irradiate light to the rear part 1411 of the light irradiating part 141 of the reflector 140. The light irradiated to the rear part 1411 of the light irradiating part 141 may move to the light diffusion part 142.

[0153] The light irradiating part 141 may include a rear part 1411 onto which light is irradiated from the light emitting part 132 and a front part 1412 that is inclined with respect to the front surface of the light diffusion part 142. For example, the rear part 1411 of the light irradiating part 141 may be flush with the rear part of the light diffusion part 142. Meanwhile, the front part 1412 of the light irradiating part 141 may be formed to be inclined with respect to the front surface of the light diffusion part 142.

[0154] Through the structure, light that enters the reflector 140 through the rear part 1411 of the light irradiating part 141 can be reflected by the front part 1412 of the light irradiating part 141 and move to the light diffusion part 142. The light that moves to the light diffusion part 142 can be provided toward the panel 221.

[0155] The light emitting part 132 may be disposed to overlap the front part 1412 of the light irradiating part 141 in the front and rear direction. The light emitting part 132 may be disposed on the inside of the front part 1412 of the light irradiating part 141 in the vertical direction. Accordingly, light irradiated from the light emitting part 132 can stably enter the light irradiating part 141, and light loss irradiated to the outside of the light irradiating part 141 can be minimized.

[0156] The light diffusion part 142 can connect the light irradiating part 141 forming the upper end of the reflector 140 and the light irradiating part 141 forming the lower end thereof. The light diffusion part 142 can receive light from the light irradiating part 141 and illuminate the touch part 221a. Therefore, the light diffusion part 142 can have a shape for emitting light in a shape corresponding to the touch part 221a formed on the panel 221. For example, the light diffusion part 142 can have a partally circular shape corresponding to the shape of the touch part 221a.

[0157] Meanwhile, the reflector 140 may include a virtual center point CP disposed at the center. The center point CP of the reflector 140 may be defined as the intersection of a vertical virtual line (VL) that bisects the reflector 140 in the left and right direction and a horizontal virtual line (HL) that bisects the reflector 140 in the vertical direction.

[0158] The light diffusion part 142 may have a structure that is symmetrical in the vertical direction with respect to the horizontal virtual line (HL). The light diffusion part 142 may extend downward from the upper light irradiating part 141 to the lower light irradiating part 141. Meanwhile, the light diffusion part 142 may be viewed as extending upward from the lower light irradiating part 141 to the upper light irradiating part 141.

[0159] The light diffusion part 142 may have a symmetrical structure in the left and right direction with respect to the vertical virtual line VL. The light diffusion part 142 extending downward from the upper light irradiating part 141 may branch and extend to both sides. In addition, the light diffusion part 142 extending upward from the lower light irradiating part 141 may branch and extend to both sides.

[0160] The light diffusion part 142 can define a reflector hole 140h that is open in the front and rear direction. The light diffusion part 142 that extends in the vertical direction can be branched and extended to both sides with respect to the reflector hole 140h.

[0161] The reflector hole 140h may include a circular opening 140a that is opened in a circular shape and a recessed opening 140b formed on the upper and lower sides of the circular opening 140a. The circular opening 140a and the recessed opening 140b may be spatially connected. In other words, for convenience of explanation, the circular opening 140a and the recessed opening 140b are regions of the reflector hole 140h, and the circular opening 140a and the recessed opening 140b may be formed integrally to constitute the reflector hole 140h.

[0162] The circular opening 140a may be opened to have a circular shape centered on the center point CP of the reflector 140. In other words, the inner surface of the light diffusion part 142 defining the circular opening 140a may have an arc shape centered on the center point CP of the reflector 140. The inner surface of the light diffusion part 142 defining the circular opening 140a may have a symmetrical structure with respect to a vertical virtual line VL in the left and right direction.

[0163] The recessed opening 140b may be formed by being recessed from the circular opening 140a toward the light irradiating part 141. A pair of recessed openings 140b are provided, and each recessed opening 140b may be formed at the upper and lower parts of the circular opening 140a, respectively.

[0164] The recessed opening 140b can be defined by the portion where the light diffusion part 142 branches. In other words, the light diffusion part 142 can form a shape that branches to both sides in the left and right direction through the recessed opening 140b that is recessed from the circular opening 140a toward the light irradiating part 141. The width of the recessed opening 140b in the left and right direction can be formed to become smaller as it goes from the circular opening 140a toward the light irradiating part 141. In other words, the width of the inner surface of the light diffusion part 142 in the left and right direction defining the recessed opening 140b can be formed to become smaller as it goes from the circular opening 140a toward the light irradiating part 141.

[0165] A plurality of grooves 143 may be formed on the front surface of the light diffusion part 142. The grooves 143 may be formed on the front surface of the light diffusion part 142 and may be formed to be recessed toward the rear surface. The plurality of grooves 143 may be arranged from the upper end to the lower end of the light diffusion part 142. The plurality of grooves 143 may be formed to be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of grooves 143 may be formed across the width direction of the light diffusion part 142. In other words, the plurality of grooves 143 may extend in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the light diffusion part 142.

[0166] The groove 143 can amplify the scattering of light moving inside the light diffusion part 142 and provide a greater light quantity toward the panel 221.

[0167] Meanwhile, the reflector 140 may be surface-treated to amplify light scattering. The surface roughness of the reflector 140 may be increased through the surface treatment. For example, the surface treatment may be formed by partially etching and injection molding a region corresponding to a portion to be surface-treated in a mold for manufacturing the reflector 140.

[0168] For example, in a reflector 140 according to one embodiment, the surface treatment may be performed in a region where a groove 143 is disposed. In another example, in a reflector 140, the surface treatment may be performed in the light diffusion part 142.

[0169] The distance between adjacent grooves 143 among the plurality of grooves 143 may be set in various ways. For example, the distance between adjacent grooves 143 may decrease from the upper end of the light diffusion part 142 toward the horizontal virtual line HL. Additionally, the distance between adjacent grooves 143 may decrease from the lower end of the light diffusion part 142 toward the horizontal virtual line HL.

[0170] Meanwhile, a plurality of grooves 143 may be formed with the same width W. However, this is not limited to the case, and a plurality of grooves 143 may be formed with different widths W.

[0171] Additionally, the plurality of grooves 143 may extend toward the center point CP of the reflector 140. In other words, the extension direction of the plurality of grooves 143 may extend in a radial direction with respect to the center point CP of the reflector 140.

[0172] For example, among the plurality of grooves 143, the three grooves 143 closest to the light irradiating part 141 are sequentially referred to as the first unit groove 1431, the second unit groove 1432, and the third unit groove 1433 and are described in detail.

[0173] The first unit groove 1431 and the second unit groove 1432 may be spaced apart from each other by a first distance d1, and the second unit groove 1432 and the third unit groove 1433 may be spaced apart from each other by a second distance d2. In this case, the first distance d1 may be greater than the second distance d2.

[0174] According to one embodiment, a reflector 140 may be formed with a first extension line 1431a passing through the center of the first unit groove 1431 and the center point CP of the reflector 140, a second extension line 1432a passing through the center of the second unit groove 1432 and the center point CP of the reflector 140, and a third extension line 1433a passing through the center of the third unit groove 1433 and the center point CP of the reflector 140.

[0175] The first extension line 1431a and the second extension line 1432a can form an angle having a first angle a1. The second extension line 1432a and the third extension line 1433a can form an angle having a second angle a2. For example, the first angle a1 can be greater than the second angle a2.

[0176] In other words, the closer it gets to the horizontal virtual line HL, the smaller the angle formed by the extension lines of adjacent grooves 143. Through the structure, the distance between adjacent grooves 143 can decrease as it moves from the upper end or the lower end of the light diffusion part 142 toward the horizontal virtual line HL.

[0177] As described above, since the scattering of light in the light diffusion part 142 is amplified by the groove 143, the light quantity provided to the touch part 221a of the panel 221 can increase as the distance between adjacent grooves 143 becomes smaller. Accordingly, in the case of the present disclosure, the distance between adjacent grooves 143 becomes smaller as the distance from the light irradiating part 141 adjacent to the light emitting part 132 increases, so that the light provided from the touch part 221a of the panel 221 can be uniformly provided to each region.

[0178] Hereinafter, the detailed structure of the panel 221 will be described with reference to FIG. 12.

[0179] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 7.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 12, a panel 221 included in a panel assembly 22 according to one embodiment may include a base part 2211, a first printed layer 2212 disposed on the base part 2211, a second printed layer 2213 disposed on the first printed layer 2212, and a third printed layer 2214 disposed on the second printed layer 2213.

[0181] The base part 2211 can form the overall outer appearance of the panel 221. The base part 2211 can be composed of a material that transmits light. Accordingly, the base part 2211 can transmit light provided from the rear and provide it toward the front. For example, the base part 2211 can be composed of glass.

[0182] The first printing layer 2212 may be formed on the rear surface of the base part 2211. The first printing layer 2212 may have a characteristic color and determine a color visible from the front of the panel 221. Therefore, the first printing layer 2212 may be referred to as a color printing layer.

[0183] The second printing layer 2213 may be formed on the rear surface of the first printing layer 2212. The second printing layer 2213 may correct the color of light provided from the rear surface of the panel 221. In other words, the light provided from the rear surface of the panel 221 may pass through the second printing layer 2213, thereby improving the reliability of the color that appears when passing through the first printing layer 2212. Therefore, the second printing layer 2213 may be referred to as a color correction printing layer.

[0184] Meanwhile, in the panel 221, at least one of the first printing layer 2212 and the second printing layer 2213 may be omitted.

[0185] The third printing layer 2214 may be formed on the rear surface of the second printing layer 2213. The third printing layer 2214 may block light provided from the rear surface of the panel 221. The third printing layer 2214 may include a third printing layer opening 2214h that is formed by being partially opened. In the third printing layer 2214, the region of ​​the third printing layer opening 2214h may transmit light, and the region other than the third printing layer opening 2214h may block light. Therefore, the third printing layer 2214 may be referred to as a shielding printing layer.

[0186] Since the third printing layer opening 2214h of the third printing layer 2214 transmits light, the outer boundary of the third printing layer opening 2214h can define the touch part 221a. In other words, the touch part 221a of the panel 221 can be defined as the inner region of ​​the outer boundary of the third printing layer opening 2214h.

[0187] According to a refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment, a touch assembly 100 for operating a door opening device 30 is provided with a light-emitting part 132, so that nighttime visibility of a touch part 221a formed on the front surface of the door 20 can be improved.

[0188] According to a refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment, the touch assembly 100 has a reflector 140 including a plurality of grooves 143, so that light provided from a touch part 221a formed on the front surface of the door 20 can be uniformly distributed across each region, thereby improving the outer appearance.

[0189] Meanwhile, the present disclosure may have various other embodiments in addition to the aforementioned embodiments. Below, other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Components of other embodiments that are identical to those of the aforementioned embodiments may be omitted from description and illustration, and may be described using the same drawing references. In other words, only structures that differ from the embodiments described above will be described below, and other components not described may be identical to those of the embodiments described above.

[0190] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to another embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a process for forming the panel illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0191] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment is different from the refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment in that it includes a panel 221’ of a different structure.

[0192] A panel 221’ included in a refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment may include a base part 2211, a first printed layer 2212’ disposed on the base part 2211, a second printed layer 2213’ disposed on the first printed layer 2212’, and a third printed layer 2214 disposed on the second printed layer 2213’.

[0193] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the panel 221’ may include a printed layer opening 221h formed in an area corresponding to the touch part 221a’. The printed layer opening 221h may be formed by penetrating the first to third printed layers 2212', 2213', 2214. For example, the rear surface of the base part 2211 may be exposed through the printed layer opening 221h.

[0194] The printing layer opening 221h may include a first printing layer opening 2212h formed in the first printing layer 2212', a second printing layer opening 2213h formed in the second printing layer 2213', and a third printing layer opening 2214h formed in the third printing layer 2214.

[0195] The printing layer opening 221h according to the present embodiment can be formed by applying a printing material forming the first to third printing layers 2212', 2213', 2214 onto one surface of the base part 2211 and then irradiating the base part 2211 with a laser beam LS using a laser device 50. At this time, the wavelength of the laser beam LS can be set according to the printing material forming the first to third printing layers 2212', 2213', 2214. In other words, the wavelength of the laser beam LS can be set to a wavelength that forms the printing layer opening 221h in the first to third printing layers 2212', 2213', 2214 but does not damage the base part 2211.

[0196] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an optical path formed in a reflector according to one embodiment. FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution provided from the touch part of the door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0197] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, in a reflector 140 according to one embodiment, light that enters the light irradiating part 141 from the light emitting part 132 can move to the light diffusion part 142. The light that moves to the light diffusion part 142 can be amplified by scattering in a groove 143 formed on the front surface of the light diffusion part 142.

[0198] Meanwhile, the light diffusion part 142 of the reflector 140 according to one embodiment may naturally decrease in light quantity as it moves away from the light irradiating part 141, but the distance between adjacent grooves 143 may be formed to become smaller as it moves away from the light irradiating part 141. Through this, the light quantity provided from the light diffusion part 142 toward the panel 221 may be uniformly formed for each region of ​​the light diffusion part 142.

[0199] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the reflector 140 according to one embodiment can allow light to travel along the first optical path LP1. The thickness of the arrow indicating the first optical path LP1 in FIG. 16 may indicate the light quantity. In other words, the reflector 140 according to one embodiment can provide generally uniform light toward the panel 221 for each region of ​​the light diffusion part 142.

[0200] Meanwhile, FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution that appears on a touch part 221a formed on a panel 221 of a refrigerator 1 including a reflector 140 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 17, it can be confirmed that a generally uniform light quantity distribution is illustrated in each region of ​​the circular touch part 221a.

[0201] FIG. 18 is a front view illustrating a reflector according to another embodiment. FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution provided at the touch part of the door of a refrigerator to which a reflector according to the embodiment of FIG. 18 is applied.

[0202] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may include a reflector hole 1400h opened in a circular shape. For example, the reflector hole 1400h in the present embodiment may be formed to be opened in a circular shape centered on a virtual center point CP disposed at the center of the reflector 1400. Meanwhile, compared to the reflector 140 according to the above-described embodiment, the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment has differences in the shape of the reflector hole 1400h and the shape and arrangement structure of the grooves 146, 147, 148, 149.

[0203] A reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may include a light irradiating part 141 from which light is irradiated from a light emitting part 132, a first light diffusion part 144 extending from the light irradiating part 141 toward a reflector hole 1400h, and a second light diffusion part 145 extending from each of both ends of the first light diffusion part 144.

[0204] In the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment, the light irradiating part 141 may be substantially the same as the light irradiating part 141 of the reflector 140 according to one embodiment.

[0205] The first light diffusion part 144 of the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may extend from the light irradiating part 141 toward the reflector hole 1400h. The inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 may be connected to the outer end part of the first light diffusion part 144. The light irradiating part 141 and the first light diffusion part 144 may be distinguished by a portion where the inclined front part 1412 of the light irradiating part 141 and the front surface of the first light diffusion part 144 meet.

[0206] The first light diffusion part 144 may be configured to transmit light irradiated by the light irradiating part 141 toward the second light diffusion part 145. For example, the first light diffusion part 144 may be disposed between the light irradiating part 141 and the second light diffusion part 145. In addition, the first light diffusion part 144 may be disposed between the second light diffusion parts 145 extending from each of both ends.

[0207] The first light diffusion part 144 can define the upper and lower boundaries of the reflector hole 1400h, respectively. For example, the lower end part of the first light diffusion part 144 disposed above the reflector hole 1400h can define the upper boundary of the reflector hole 1400h. In addition, the upper end part of the first light diffusion part 144 disposed below the reflector hole 1400h can define the lower boundary of the reflector hole 1400h.

[0208] The second light diffusion part 145 can extend from both sides of the first light diffusion part 144 in the left and right direction. The second light diffusion part 145 can connect the first light diffusion part 144 on the upper side and the first light diffusion part 144 on the lower side. For example, the second light diffusion part 145 on one side can connect one side of the first light diffusion part 144 on the upper side and one side of the first light diffusion part 144 on the lower side. The second light diffusion part 145 on the other side can connect the other side of the first light diffusion part 144 on the upper side and the other side of the first light diffusion part 144 on the lower side.

[0209] The second light diffusion part 145 can define the boundaries of the reflector hole 1400h in the left and right direction, respectively. For example, the other end part of the second light diffusion part 145 disposed on one side of the reflector hole 1400h can define the one-side boundary of the reflector hole 1400h. In addition, the one end part of the second light diffusion part 145 disposed on the other side of the reflector hole 1400h can define the other-side boundary of the reflector hole 1400h.

[0210] Meanwhile, the second light diffusion part 145 may have a curved shape with a predetermined curvature. For example, the curvature of the second light diffusion part 145 may be formed to be constant for each region. The center of curvature of the second light diffusion part 145 may be the virtual center point CP of the reflector 1400. In other words, the distance from the second light diffusion part 145 to the virtual center point CP of the reflector 1400 may be formed to be constant for each region.

[0211] The description of the virtual center point CP of the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may be equally applied to the description of the virtual center point CP of the reflector 140 according to one embodiment. For example, the virtual center point CP of the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may be formed at the center of gravity of the reflector 1400.

[0212] The reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may include a plurality of grooves 146, 147, 148, 149 formed on the front surface. For example, the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment may include a first groove 146 and a second groove 147 formed on the front surface of the first light diffusion part 144, and a third groove 148 and a fourth groove 149 formed on the front surface of the second light diffusion part 145.

[0213] Below, the shape and disposition of the first to fourth grooves 146, 147, 148, 149 are described in detail.

[0214] A plurality of first grooves 146 and a plurality of second grooves 147 can be formed on the front surface of the first light diffusion part 144.

[0215] A plurality of first grooves 146 may be disposed adjacent to the reflector hole 1400h. The plurality of first grooves 146 may be disposed in the central part of the first light diffusion part 144. The first grooves 146 may be partially disposed in the first light diffusion part 144. The plurality of first grooves 146 may be disposed along the inner end part of the first light diffusion part 144.

[0216] The first groove 146 may extend from the inner end part of the first light diffusion part 144 defining the reflector hole 1400h toward the light irradiating part 141. The first groove 146 may not extend from the first light diffusion part 144 to the portion connected to the light irradiating part 141. In other words, one end part of the first groove 146 may be disposed at the inner end part of the first light diffusion part 144 defining the reflector hole 1400h, and the other end part of the first groove 146 may be disposed on the inner side of the first light diffusion part 144.

[0217] The first groove 146 may be disposed at a first distance L1 from the light irradiating part 141. The first distance L1 may be defined as the shortest distance between the first groove 146 and the inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 that meets the first light diffusion part 144.

[0218] A plurality of second grooves 147 may extend from an inner end part of the first light diffusion part 144 defining a reflector hole 1400h toward an outer end part. The second grooves 147 may be disposed across the first light diffusion part 144. For example, one end part of the second groove 147 may be disposed at an inner end part of the first light diffusion part 144, and the other end part may be disposed at an outer end part of the first light diffusion part 144. The length of the second groove 147 in the extension direction may be greater than the length of the first groove 146 in the extension direction.

[0219] A plurality of second grooves 147 may be disposed on one side and the other side of a plurality of first grooves 146, respectively. In other words, a plurality of second grooves 147 may be disposed on both sides with a plurality of first grooves 146 interposed therebetween.

[0220] The second groove 147 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the light irradiating part 141 by a second distance L2. The second distance L2 may be defined as the shortest distance between the second groove 147 and an imaginary surface extending from the inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 that meets the first light diffusion part 144. The second distance L2 may be smaller than the first distance L1.

[0221] Meanwhile, the first light diffusion part 144 may include a first sub-light diffusion part 1441 in which a plurality of first grooves 146 are disposed and a second sub-light diffusion part 1442 in which a plurality of second grooves 147 are disposed. In other words, the first sub-light diffusion part 1441 may be defined as a region in the first light diffusion part 144 in which a plurality of first grooves 146 are disposed. The second sub-light diffusion part 1442 may be defined as a region in the first light diffusion part 144 in which a plurality of second grooves 147 are disposed.

[0222] A plurality of third grooves 148 and a plurality of fourth grooves 149 can be formed on the front surface of the second light diffusion part 145.

[0223] A plurality of third grooves 148 may be arranged along the extension direction of the second light diffusion part 145. The plurality of third grooves 148 may be arranged from one end part of the second light diffusion part 145 connected to the first light diffusion part 144 toward the fourth groove 149. The third grooves 148 may extend in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the second light diffusion part 145.

[0224] In the plurality of third grooves 148, the distance between adjacent third grooves 148 may decrease as they get farther away from the first light diffusion part 144. In addition, in the plurality of third grooves 148, the distance between adjacent third grooves 148 may decrease as they get closer to the fourth groove 149. In other words, the distance between adjacent third grooves 148 may decrease as one moves from the first light diffusion part 144 toward the horizontal virtual line HL.

[0225] Meanwhile, a plurality of third grooves 148 may be formed with the same width W. For example, the first to fourth grooves 146, 147, 148, 149 may all be formed with the same width W.

[0226] Additionally, the plurality of third grooves 148 may extend toward the center point CP of the reflector 1400. In other words, the extension direction of the plurality of third grooves 148 may extend in a radial direction with respect to the center point CP of the reflector 1400.

[0227] For example, among the plurality of third grooves 148, the three third grooves 148 closest to the first light diffusion part 144 are sequentially referred to as the first sub-groove 1481, the second sub-groove 1482, and the third sub-groove 1483 and are described in detail.

[0228] The first sub-groove 1481 and the second sub-groove 1482 may be spaced apart from each other by a third distance d3, and the second sub-groove 1482 and the third sub-groove 1483 may be spaced apart from each other by a fourth distance d4. In this case, the third distance d3 may be greater than the fourth distance d4.

[0229] According to one embodiment, a reflector 1400 may be formed with a first extension line 1481a passing through the center of the first sub-groove 1481 and the center point CP of the reflector 1400, a second extension line 1482a passing through the center of the second sub-groove 1482 and the center point CP of the reflector 1400, and a third extension line 1483a passing through the center of the third sub-groove 1483 and the center point CP of the reflector 1400.

[0230] The first extension line 1481a and the second extension line 1482a can form an angle having a first angle b1. The second extension line 1482a and the third extension line 1483a can form an angle having a second angle b2. For example, the first angle b1 can be greater than the second angle b2.

[0231] In other words, as it gets closer to the horizontal virtual line HL, the angle formed by the extension lines of the adjacent third grooves 148 may decrease. Through the above structure, the distance between the adjacent third grooves 148 may decrease as it gets closer to the horizontal virtual line HL from the upper end or the lower end of the light diffusion part 142.

[0232] As described above, since the scattering of light in the light diffusion part 142 is amplified due to the third groove 148, the light quantity provided to the touch part 221a of the panel 221 can increase as the distance between adjacent third grooves 148 becomes smaller. Accordingly, in the case of the present disclosure, the distance between adjacent third grooves 148 becomes narrower as the distance from the light irradiating part 141 adjacent to the light emitting part 132 increases, so that the light provided from the touch part 221a of the panel 221 can be uniformly provided to each region.

[0233] The third groove 148 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the light irradiating part 141 by a third distance (L3). The third distance L3 may be defined as the shortest distance between the third groove 148 and an imaginary surface extending from the inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 that meets the first light diffusion part 144. In other words, the third distance L3 may be defined as the shortest distance from the imaginary surface extending from the inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 to the third groove 148 that is disposed closest to the first light diffusion part 144 among the plurality of third grooves 148. The third distance L3 may be greater than the first distance L1 and the second distance L2.

[0234] A plurality of fourth grooves 149 may be formed in a region adjacent to a horizontal virtual line HL in the second light diffusion part 145. Among the plurality of fourth grooves 149, adjacent fourth grooves 149 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other at equal distances. In other words, the fourth groove 149 may be defined as a groove 149 in which the distance between adjacent grooves 149 in the second light diffusion part 145 is constant. For example, the distance between adjacent fourth grooves 149 may be set to the minimum among the grooves 146, 147, 148, 149 formed in the reflector 1400.

[0235] A plurality of third grooves 148 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the plurality of fourth grooves 149, respectively. In other words, the plurality of third grooves 148 may be disposed on both sides with the plurality of fourth grooves 149 interposed therebetween.

[0236] The fourth groove 149 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the light irradiating part 141 by a fourth distance L4. The fourth distance L4 may be defined as the shortest distance between the fourth groove 149 and an imaginary surface extending from the inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 that meets the first light diffusion part 144. In other words, the fourth distance L4 may be defined as the shortest distance from an imaginary surface extending from the inner end part of the light irradiating part 141 to the fourth groove 149 that is disposed closest to the first light diffusion part 144 among the plurality of fourth grooves 149. The fourth distance L4 may be greater than the first distance L1, the second distance L2, and the third distance L3.

[0237] Meanwhile, the second light diffusion part 145 may include a third sub-light diffusion part 1451 in which a plurality of third grooves 148 are disposed and a fourth sub-light diffusion part 1452 in which a plurality of fourth grooves 149 are disposed. In other words, the third sub-light diffusion part 1451 may be defined as a region in the second light diffusion part 145 in which a plurality of third grooves 148 are disposed. The fourth sub-light diffusion part 1452 may be defined as an area in the second light diffusion part 145 in which a plurality of fourth grooves 149 are disposed.

[0238] In this embodiment, the reflector 1400 may be surface-treated to amplify light scattering. The surface treatment may increase the surface roughness of the reflector 1400. For example, the surface treatment may be formed by partially etching and injection molding a region corresponding to a desired surface treatment in a mold for manufacturing the reflector 1400.

[0239] For example, in the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment, the surface treatment may be performed on the grooves 146, 147, 148, 149. As another example, in the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment, the surface treatment may be performed on the first light diffusion part 144 and the first groove 146.

[0240] Meanwhile, FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating the distribution of the light quantity appearing on the touch part 221a formed on the panel 221 of the refrigerator 1 including the reflector 1400 according to the present embodiment. Looking at FIG. 19, it can be confirmed that the circular touch part 221a illustrates a generally uniform light quantity in each region.

[0241] As described above, since the scattering of light in the first light diffusion part 144 is amplified by the first groove 146 and the second groove 147, the light quantity provided from the first light diffusion part 144 to the panel 221 can increase. Accordingly, the light provided from the touch part 221a of the panel 221 can be provided more uniformly to each region.

[0242] FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the light path formed in a reflector according to a comparative example. FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution provided at the touch part of the door of a refrigerator to which the reflector of FIG. 20 is applied.

[0243] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the reflector 140'' according to the present comparative example may not have a groove formed on the front surface of the light diffusion part 142''. In the reflector 140'' according to the present comparative example, light entering the light irradiating part 141 from the light emitting part 132 may move to the light diffusion part 142''. The light moving to the light diffusion part 142’’ may be scattered within the light diffusion part 142’’ and provide light toward the panel 221.

[0244] Meanwhile, the light quantity moving along the light diffusion part 142’’ may naturally decrease as it moves away from the light irradiating part 141.

[0245] As illustrated in FIG. 20, the reflector 140'' according to a comparative example can allow light to travel along the second optical path LP2. The thickness of the arrow indicating the second optical path LP2 in FIG. 20 may indicate the light quantity. In other words, the light quantity in the light diffusion part 142’’ of the reflector 140'' according to this comparative example may decrease as it moves away from the light irradiating part 141. Accordingly, the light quantity provided by the light diffusion part 142’’ to the panel 221 may decrease as it moves away from the light irradiating part 141.

[0246] Meanwhile, FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the light quantity distribution that appears on the touch part 221a formed on the panel 221 of the refrigerator 1 including the reflector 140'' according to the present comparative example. Looking at FIG. 21, it can be seen that a large light quantity distribution is illustrated in the region adjacent to the light irradiating part 141, and the light quantity decreases as it gets farther away from the light irradiating part 141.

[0247] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a panel assembly, which is a component of a door of a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 22, the panel assembly 1220 may include a panel 1221, an upper bracket 1222, and a lower bracket 1223.

[0249] The panel 1221 forms the front surface of the panel assembly 1220 and may form the outer appearance of the front surface of the door 20. The size of the panel 1221 may correspond to the size of the front surface of the door 20. Accordingly, the panel 1221 may form the entire outer appearance of the front surface of the door 20. The panel 1221 may be referred to as a front plate. For example, the panel 1221 may be formed of a metal material.

[0250] The panel 1221 may include a touch part 1221a where a user's touch manipulation is performed. The touch part 1221a may be formed on one side of the front surface of the panel 1221. The touch part 1221a may be defined as a region where a user's touch manipulation is performed on the panel 1221.

[0251] An open touch hole 1221h may be formed in the touch part 1221a. The touch hole 1221h may expose the touch assembly 1100 to the front. For example, the touch hole 1221h may expose the second touch assembly 1100B to the front. In the following description, the description regarding the touch part 1221a may be understood as the description regarding the portion of the second touch assembly 1100B exposed through the touch hole 1221h.

[0252] The touch part 1221a may be formed at a position corresponding to the touch assembly 1100 on the panel 1221. The touch part 1221a may refer to a portion of the panel 1221 in which an open touch hole 1221h is formed to expose the second touch assembly 1100B forward. For example, the touch part 1221a may be formed in a circular shape.

[0253] The upper bracket 1222 can be fixed to the upper end of the rear part of the panel 1221. The upper bracket 1222 can be formed to extend from the left end to the right end of the upper end of the panel 1221. The upper bracket 1222 can be coupled to the upper cap decoration 212 of the door body 21.

[0254] The lower bracket 1223 can be fixed to the lower end of the rear surface of the panel 1221. The lower bracket 1223 can be formed to extend from the left end to the right end of the lower end of the panel 1221. The lower bracket 1223 can be coupled to the lower cap decoration 213 of the door body 21.

[0255] In other words, the upper end of the panel assembly 1220 can be fixed to the upper cap decoration 212 by the upper bracket 1222, and the lower end of the panel assembly 1220 can be fixed to the lower cap decoration 213 by the lower bracket 1223. Through the above structure, the panel assembly 1220 can be detachably mounted to the door body 21.

[0256] The panel assembly 1220 may further include a buffer member 1224. The buffer member 1224 may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 1221. The buffer member 1224 may be formed of a compressible sponge or foam material. The buffer member 1224 may support between the panel 1221 and the body plate 211 when the panel assembly 1220 is mounted. Accordingly, the panel assembly 1220 may be prevented from moving when the door 20 is opened and closed. The front surface of the door 20 may be prevented from being pressed and deformed.

[0257] The panel assembly 1220 may further include a magnet 1225. The magnet 1225 may be fixed to both ends of the rear surface of the panel 1221 in the left and right direction. The magnet 1225 may extend in the vertical direction, and a plurality of magnets may be continuously disposed along the both ends of the panel 1221. When the panel assembly 1220 is mounted on the door body 21, the magnet 1225 may be attached to the body plate 211 made of a steel material by magnetic force. Therefore, the both ends of the panel assembly 1220 in the left and right direction may be further fixed while mounted on the door body 21.

[0258] Hereinafter, the mounting structure of the touch assembly 1100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 to 25.

[0259] FIGS. 23 and 24 are a cross-sectional perspective view and a cross-sectional view illustrating a touch part of a door provided in a refrigerator according to another embodiment. FIG. 25 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to another embodiment.

[0260] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 25, the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment may include a touch assembly 1100 disposed at the rear of the panel 1221.

[0261] The touch assembly 1100 may include a first touch assembly 1100A including a touch module 1130 and a second touch assembly 1100B disposed in front of the first touch assembly 1100A. The second touch assembly 1100B is disposed between the first touch assembly 1100A and the panel 1221 and may be mounted on the rear surface of the panel 1221.

[0262] The second touch assembly 1100B can receive a touch signal and transmit it to the first touch assembly 1100A. The touch signal may be a signal for operating the door opening device 30. In other words, when a user touches the second touch assembly 1100B through the touch part 1221a, the second touch assembly 1100B transmits the touch signal to the first touch assembly 1100A, and the first touch assembly 1100A detects this and allows the door opening device 30 to operate.

[0263] As will be described later, the first touch assembly 1100A may include a light emitting part 1132. The light emitting part 1132 of the first touch assembly 1100A may provide light to the second touch assembly 1100B. The second touch assembly 1100B may provide light received from the first touch assembly 1100A to the front of the door 20 through the touch part 1221a.

[0264] The light emitting part 1132 can provide light when a user approaches the door 20. In other words, the light emitting part 1132 can provide light toward the touch part 1221a to guide the position of the touch part 1221a when the user approaches the door 20. As an example, the refrigerator 1 can include a proximity detection sensor to detect whether a user is approaching.

[0265] First, the structure of the first touch assembly 1100A will be described.

[0266] A first touch assembly 1100A according to the present embodiment may include a touch case 1110, a touch cover 1120 mounted on the front surface of the touch case 1110, a touch module 1130 accommodated in the touch case 1110, a first reflector 1140 mounted on the touch cover 1120, and a film member 1150 disposed on the front surface of the touch cover 1120.

[0267] The touch case 1110 may include a case body 1111 defining a first recessed part 1111a in which at least a portion of the touch cover 1120 is accommodated, a touch module accommodation part 1112 disposed inside the first recessed part 1111a and defining a second recessed part 1112a in which the touch module 1130 is accommodated, and a case fixing part 1114 formed to protrude from the upper end of the case body 1111.

[0268] The case body 1111 can form the outer appearance of the touch case 1110. For example, the case body 1111 can be formed in a flat shape including a first recessed part 1111a that is recessed at the rear.

[0269] The touch case 1110 may further include a case restraint part 1113 that protrudes from one surface of the case body 1111 defining the upper end part of the first recessed part 1111a. The case restraint part 1113 may restrain the touch cover 1120. In other words, the touch cover 1120 may be restrained by the case restraint part 1113 and mounted on the touch case 1110. For example, the case restraint part 1113 may be formed to protrude from the upper end edge of the case body 1111 defining the first recessed part 1111a toward the first recessed part 1111a.

[0270] The touch module accommodation part 1112 may be formed inside the first recessed part 1111a. The touch module accommodation part 1112 may include a second recessed part 1112a that is recessed at the rear. Accordingly, the first recessed part 1111a may be partitioned by the touch module accommodation part 1112 into a second recessed part 1112a and an outer region of the second recessed part 1112a. The second recessed part 1112a of the touch module accommodation part 1112 may be formed by being recessed in the same direction as the first recessed part 1111a. A touch module 1130 may be accommodated in the second recessed part 1112a.

[0271] The case fixing part 1114 can be fixed to the mounting part 218 provided on the body plate 211. In other words, the first touch assembly 1100A can be mounted to the mounting part 218 through the case fixing part 1114.

[0272] The touch cover 1120 can be mounted on the touch case 1110. For example, the touch cover 1120 can be detachably mounted on the touch case 1110. The touch cover 1120 can cover the touch module 1130 accommodated in the second recessed part 1112a from the front.

[0273] The touch cover 1120 may include a cover plate 1121, a cover mounting part 1122 disposed on the upper end of the cover plate 1121, and a cover protrusion 1123 disposed on the lower end of the cover plate 1121.

[0274] The cover plate 1121 can form the outer appearance of the touch cover 1120. When the touch cover 1120 is mounted on the touch case 1110, the cover plate 1121 can cover the first recessed part 1111a of the touch case 1110.

[0275] The cover plate 1121 may include a plate hole 1121h opened in the center. The plate hole 1121h may be formed so that at least a portion of the touch module 1130 passes through it. For example, a touch gasket 1133, which will be described later, may be disposed through the plate hole 1121h.

[0276] The cover plate 1121 may include a reflector accommodation part 1121a disposed around the plate hole 1121h. The reflector accommodation part 1121a may be disposed to surround the plate hole 1121h.

[0277] A first reflector 1140 can be accommodated in the reflector accommodation part 1121a. The reflector accommodation part 1121a can be formed to correspond to the shape of the first reflector 1140. For example, the first reflector 1140 can be mounted while being restrained by a restraint part formed in the reflector accommodation part 1121a. The reflector accommodation part 1121a can be formed to be recessed toward the touch case 1110 more than the film accommodation part 1121b described below.

[0278] A light-emitting hole that is open in the front and rear direction may be formed in the reflector accommodation part 1121a. The light-emitting hole may be formed at a position corresponding to the light-emitting part 1132. For example, the light-emitting hole may be formed at the upper end and the lower end of the first reflector 1140. As will be described later, light irradiated from the light-emitting part 1132 may be irradiated to the first reflector 1140 through the light-emitting hole formed in the reflector accommodation part 1121a.

[0279] The cover plate 1121 may further include a film accommodation part 1121b disposed around the reflector accommodation part 1121a. The film accommodation part 1121b may be disposed to surround the reflector accommodation part 1121a.

[0280] A film member 1150 can be accommodated in the film accommodation part 1121b. For example, the film member 1150 can be attached to the film accommodation part 1121b. The film member 1150 accommodated in the film accommodation part 1121b can cover at least a portion of the first reflector 1140 accommodated in the reflector accommodation part 1121a from the front. The film accommodation part 1121b can be formed to be recessed toward the touch case 1110 rather than a front-most surface of the cover plate 1121. For example, the outer appearance shape of the film accommodation part 1121b can be formed to correspond to the outer appearance of the film member 1150.

[0281] The cover mounting part 1122 can be fixed by the case restraint part 1113 of the touch case 1110. The cover mounting part 1122 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction and can be formed to be restrained by the case restraint part 1113. For example, when the touch cover 1120 is inserted into the first recessed part 1111a of the touch case 1110, the cover mounting part 1122 can be restrained and fixed by the case restraint part 1113.

[0282] The cover protrusion 1123 may be formed to protrude downward from the lower end of the cover plate 1121. The cover protrusion 1123 may be supported by a portion of the case body 1111 that defines the front opening surface of the first recessed part 1111a. The touch cover 1120 may be mounted by the cover mounting part 1122 being restrained by the case restraint part 1113 while the cover protrusion 1123 is supported by the case body 1111.

[0283] A touch module 1130 may be provided between the touch case 1110 and the touch cover 1120. For example, the touch module 1130 may be accommodated in the second recessed part 1112a of the touch case 1110. The touch module 1130 may detect a touch signal received from the second touch assembly 1100B. In other words, when a user touches the second touch assembly 1100B through the touch part 1221a, the touch module 1130 may detect the touch.

[0284] The touch module 1130 may include a touch substrate 1131, a light emitting part 1132 disposed on one surface of the touch substrate 1131, and a touch gasket 1133 disposed on one surface of the touch substrate 1131.

[0285] The touch substrate 1131 can support the light-emitting part 1132 and the touch gasket 1133. The touch substrate 1131 can be accommodated in the second recessed part 1112a of the touch case 1110. For example, the touch substrate 1131 can have a shape extending in the vertical direction. The shape of the touch substrate 1131 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the second recessed part 1112a.

[0286] The light emitting part 1132 may be disposed on the touch substrate 1131. The light emitting part 1132 may irradiate light toward the first reflector 1140. The light irradiated by the light emitting part 1132 may be provided to the front of the door 20 through the touch part 1221a via the first reflector 1140 and the second reflector 1160 described below. For example, the light emitting parts 1132 may be provided as a pair in the vertical direction of the touch substrate 1131. A touch gasket 1133 may be disposed between the pair of light emitting parts 1132.

[0287] Meanwhile, although not illustrated, a touch sensor (not illustrated) may be provided on one surface of the touch substrate 1131. The touch sensor may be disposed in the central part of the touch substrate 1131. The touch sensor may be disposed between a pair of light-emitting parts 1132. For example, the touch sensor may be configured as a capacitive touch sensor that recognizes a user's touch through a change in capacitance.

[0288] A touch gasket 1133 may be provided on the touch substrate 1131. The touch gasket 1133 may be placed on the touch sensor provided on the touch substrate 1131. The touch gasket 1133 may be placed to overlap the touch sensor in the front and rear direction. In other words, the touch sensor may be placed between the touch gasket 1133 and the touch substrate 1131.

[0289] The touch gasket 1133 can connect between the touch part 1221a and the touch sensor. The touch gasket 1133 can connect between the second touch assembly 1100B and the touch sensor. In other words, the touch gasket 1133 can extend from one side of the touch substrate 1131 corresponding to the position of the touch sensor and can extend toward the rear surface of the second touch assembly 1100B.

[0290] The touch gasket 1133 may be formed of a compressible material. For example, the touch gasket 1133 may be formed of a compressible foam material, and when a user touches the touch part 1221a, an electrostatic change may be transmitted to the touch sensor. For example, the touch gasket 1133 may be configured such that a conductive fiber or metal foil forms an outer shell.

[0291] The touch gasket 1133 can be compressed by coming into contact with the second touch assembly 1100B when the panel assembly 1220 is mounted. The touch gasket 1133 can be formed to have a smaller cross-sectional area than the touch part 1221a.

[0292] The touch gasket 1133 may be disposed to penetrate the plate hole 1121h of the cover plate 1121. The touch gasket 1133 may be disposed to penetrate the first reflector hole 1140h of the first reflector 1140 described later. The touch gasket 1133 may be disposed to penetrate the film hole 1150h provided in the film member 1150. The front end of the touch gasket 1133 may be in contact with at least a portion of the film member 1150.

[0293] A first reflector 1140 can be accommodated in the reflector accommodation part 1121a of the touch cover 1120. The first reflector 1140 can be mounted on the touch cover 1120. Light can be irradiated to the first reflector 1140 from the light emitting part 1132. Light can be irradiated to the first reflector 1140 from the light emitting part 1132 through the light-transmitting hole formed in the reflector accommodation part 1121a.

[0294] The light emitted from the light emitting part 1132 can move along the shape of the first reflector 1140. The first reflector 1140 can provide the emitted light toward the front. For example, the first reflector 1140 can guide the emitted light toward the film member 1150. The light that has passed through the film member 1150 can be provided toward the front of the door 20 through the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221 via the second touch assembly 1100B.

[0295] Since the first reflector 1140 of the present embodiment is substantially the same as the first reflector 140 described above with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11, a description of the first reflector 1140 of the present embodiment will be omitted.

[0296] A film member 1150 can be accommodated in the film accommodation part 1121b of the touch cover 1120. The film member 1150 can partially shield the first reflector 1140 to diffuse or block light provided from the first reflector 1140.

[0297] The film member 1150 may include a film hole 1150h through which the touch gasket 1133 penetrates. The film hole 1150h may be disposed at the center of the film member 1150 and may be formed to be open in the front and rear direction.

[0298] The film member 1150 may include a light-transmitting part 1150a. The light-transmitting part 1150a may be disposed to surround the film hole 1150h. For example, the light-transmitting part 1150a may be formed in a ring shape surrounding the film hole 1150h. In the film member 1150, a shielding layer that blocks light may be printed and formed in a region excluding the film hole 1150h and the light-transmitting part 1150a.

[0299] The film member 1150 can receive light from the first reflector 1140 and diffuse it. Accordingly, the film member 1150 may be referred to as a diffusion sheet, diffusion film, or the like.

[0300] Additionally, the film member 1150 can prevent refraction of light provided toward the panel 1221. Accordingly, the film member 1150 may be referred to as an anti-reflection film or a polarizing film.

[0301] FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a second touch assembly included in a refrigerator according to another embodiment. FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating a second reflector included in a refrigerator according to another embodiment. FIG. 28 is a front view illustrating a second reflector included in a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0302] Referring to FIGS. 26 to 28 along with FIG. 25, the second touch assembly 1100B according to the present embodiment may be disposed between the first touch assembly 1100A and the panel 1221. For example, the second touch assembly 1100B may be disposed between the film member 1150 and the panel 1221.

[0303] The second touch assembly 1100B can be exposed forward through a touch hole 1221h formed in the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. A user's touch input through the touch part 1221a can be transmitted to the first touch assembly 1100A through the second touch assembly 1100B.

[0304] Meanwhile, the second touch assembly 1100B can provide light provided from the first touch assembly 1100A to the front of the door 20 through the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. At least a portion of the second touch assembly 1100B can be made of a material that transmits light.

[0305] The second touch assembly 1100B according to the present embodiment may include a second reflector 1160 and a supporter 1180 on which the second reflector 1160 is mounted. The second reflector 1160 may receive light from the first touch assembly 1100A, diffuse the light, and provide the light to the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. In other words, since the light passing through the second reflector 1160 is diffused, glare caused by the light provided from the touch part 1221a may be reduced. For example, the second reflector 1160 may be referred to as a light diffusion member.

[0306] The second reflector 1160 may be mounted on the rear surface of the supporter 1180. The second reflector 1160 may be partially exposed toward the front through openings 1180a, 1180b formed in the supporter 1180. For example, most of the area of ​​the second reflector 1160 may be covered by the supporter 1180, but a portion corresponding to the openings 1180a, 1180b of the supporter 1180 may be exposed toward the front.

[0307] The second reflector 1160 may include a light-receiving part 1161, a first reflector light-emitting part 1162 protruding forward from the light-receiving part 1161, protrusions 1163 protruding upward and downward from the light-receiving part 1161, and a second reflector light-emitting part 1164 protruding forward from each protrusion 1163.

[0308] The light-receiving part 1161 is a portion that receives light from the first touch assembly 1100A and may be formed in an open manner. The light-receiving part 1161 may include a second reflector hole 1160h that is open in the front and rear direction. For example, the light-receiving part 1161 may be formed in a ring shape.

[0309] Light provided to the light-receiving part 1161 can enter the interior of the light-receiving part 1161 through the rear surface of the light-receiving part 1161. Light that enters the interior of the light-receiving part 1161 can be provided toward the first reflector light emitting part 1162 and the protrusion 1163.

[0310] The first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may be formed to protrude forward from the light-receiving part 1161. The first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may be a portion that is exposed forward through the first opening 1180a in the supporter 1180. As will be described later, the first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may be inserted into the first opening 1180a of the supporter 1180. In other words, the first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may be exposed forward by the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221.

[0311] The first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may include a reflector recessed part 1162a that is recessed toward the rear. The reflector recessed part 1162a may be formed at a position corresponding to the end parts of the light-receiving part 1161 in the left and right. Through the reflector recessed part 1162a, the first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may be formed to be separated in the vertical direction. For example, a pair of separated first reflector light-emitting parts 1162 may be formed in a symmetrical structure with respect to each other.

[0312] The second reflector 1160 according to the present embodiment forms a reflector recessed part 1162a in an area where a high light quantity is provided through the light-receiving part 1161, thereby controlling the light quantity provided forward through the first reflector light emitting part 1162. Therefore, the above structure can reduce glare to the user.

[0313] For example, the first reflector light-emitting part 1162 may be formed by surface treatment to amplify light scattering. The surface treatment may be formed by partially eroding and injection molding a region corresponding to the first reflector light-emitting part 1162 in a mold for manufacturing the second reflector 1160.

[0314] Protrusions 1163 may be disposed on the upper and lower parts of the light-receiving part 1161, respectively. The protrusion 1163 disposed on the upper part of the light-receiving part 1161 may be formed to protrude upward, and the protrusion 1163 disposed on the lower part of the light-receiving part 1161 may be formed to protrude downward. Light that enters through the light-receiving part 1161 may be provided to the protrusion 1163. The light provided to the protrusion 1163 may be provided to the second reflector light-emitting part 1164 described below. For example, the direction in which a pair of light-receiving parts 1161 face each other may intersect the direction in which a pair of reflector recessed parts 1162a face each other.

[0315] A second reflector light emitting part 1164 protruding forward may be disposed on each protrusion 1163. The second reflector light emitting part 1164 may be a portion that is exposed forward through a second opening 1180a in the supporter 1180. As will be described later, the second reflector light emitting part 1164 may be inserted into the second opening 1180b of the supporter 1180. In other words, the second reflector light emitting part 1164 may be exposed forward by the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. For example, the second reflector light emitting part 1164 may be formed by surface treatment to amplify light scattering. The surface treatment may be performed in the same manner as the surface treatment for forming the first reflector light emitting part 1162.

[0316] The second reflector light emitting part 1164 can be hook-connected to the restraint part 1183 formed on the supporter 1180. In other words, the second reflector 1160 can be mounted on the supporter 1180 through a structure in which the second reflector light emitting part 1164 is hook-connected to the restraint part 1183 of the supporter 1180. For example, the second reflector light emitting parts 1164 provided on the upper and lower ends of the second reflector 1160 can be hook-connected and mounted on the restraint part 1183 of the supporter 1180.

[0317] The second reflector 1160 may be mounted and supported on a supporter 1180. The supporter 1180 according to the present embodiment may include a supporter plate 1181 and a supporter adhesive member 1182 disposed on the front surface of the supporter plate 1181.

[0318] The support plate 1181 may have a flat shape. A second reflector 1160 may be mounted on the support plate 1181. For example, the second reflector 1160 may be mounted on the rear surface of the support plate 1181.

[0319] The supporter plate 1181 may include openings 1180a, 1180b that expose at least a portion of the second reflector 1160 forward. For example, the supporter plate 1181 may include a first opening 1180a that exposes a first reflector light emitting part 1162 of the second reflector 1160 forward, and a second opening 1180b that exposes a second reflector light emitting part 1164 of the second reflector 1160 forward. In other words, the first reflector light emitting part 1162 of the second reflector 1160 can be inserted into the first opening 1180a, and the second reflector light emitting part 1164 of the second reflector 1160 can be inserted into the second opening 1180b.

[0320] The first opening 1180a may be opened in a shape corresponding to the first reflector light emitting part 1162 of the second reflector 1160. The first opening 1180a may have a structure that matches the first reflector light emitting part 1162. In other words, the first opening 1180a may be entirely shielded by the first reflector light emitting part 1162. Through the above structure, the first reflector light emitting part 1162 may be inserted into and restrained in the first opening 1180a.

[0321] The first openings 1180a may be formed as a pair, similar to the structure of the first reflector light-emitting part 1162. The pair of first openings 1180a may be disposed in the vertical direction. A supporter touch part 1181a where touch manipulation is performed may be disposed between the pair of first openings 1180a.

[0322] In other words, the supporter touch part 1181a may refer to an area disposed between the pair of first openings 1180a in the supporter plate 1181 where touch manipulation by the user is performed.

[0323] The second opening 1180b may be formed on the outside of the first opening 1180a. The second openings 1180b may be formed in pairs. For example, the upper second opening 1180b may be positioned above the upper first opening 1180a, and the lower second opening 1180b may be disposed below the lower first opening 1180a. In other words, a pair of second openings 1180b may be disposed to surround a pair of first openings 1180a.

[0324] A second reflector light emitting part 1164 of a second reflector 1160 can be inserted into the second opening 1180b. Meanwhile, the second opening 1180b can have an opening area larger than the size of the second reflector light emitting part 1164. In other words, the second reflector light emitting part 1164 can partially shield the second opening 1180b.

[0325] A restraint part 1183 may be formed in the second opening 1180b. For example, the restraint part 1183 may be formed to protrude from the support plate 1181 toward the second opening 1180b. The restraint part 1183 may restrain the second reflector light-emitting part 1164 of the second reflector 1160. For example, the rear surface of the second reflector light-emitting part 1164 may be supported and restrained by the front surface of the restraint part 1183. The restraint part 1183 may be formed in both of a pair of second openings 1180b. The second reflector 1160 according to the present embodiment may be mounted on the supporter 1180 through a structure in which the second reflector light-emitting part 1164 is restrained by the restraint part 1183.

[0326] A supporter adhesive member 1182 may be provided to attach the supporter plate 1181 to the panel 1221. The supporter adhesive member 1182 may be disposed on the front surface of the supporter plate 1181. The supporter adhesive member 1182 may have an opened shape to expose the light-emitting parts 1162, 1164 of the second reflector 1160 exposed by the openings 1180a, 1180b of the supporter plate 1181.

[0327] The second touch assembly 1100B according to the present embodiment may further include a touch amplification sheet 1170 disposed on the rear surface of the supporter 1180. For example, the touch amplification sheet 1170 may be disposed on the rear surface of the supporter touch part 1181a of the supporter 1180. The touch amplification sheet 1170 may amplify a touch signal generated when a user touches the supporter touch part 1181a. Accordingly, a touch signal generated when a user touches the supporter touch part 1181a may be transmitted to the touch gasket 1133 through the touch amplification sheet 1170.

[0328] The touch amplification sheet 1170 may be configured in a shape corresponding to the shape of the supporter touch part 1181a. For example, the touch amplification sheet 1170 may be configured as a circular sheet and may be formed of a carbon material. In some cases, the touch amplification sheet 1170 may be omitted. FIGS. 29 and 30 are a cross-sectional perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a touch part of a door provided in a refrigerator according to another

[0329] embodiment. FIG. 31 is a drawing illustrating an exploded perspective view of a touch assembly and a drawing of a panel according to another embodiment.

[0330] Referring to FIGS. 29 to 31, the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment differs from the refrigerator 1 according to one embodiment in the structure of the second touch assembly 1100B’.

[0331] In this embodiment, the second touch assembly 1100B’ may include a second reflector 1160’ and a reflector adhesive member 1190 that attaches the second reflector 1160’ to the rear surface of the panel 1221.

[0332] The second reflector 1160’ may be partially exposed by a touch hole 1221h formed in the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. A touch manipulation may be performed on the portion of the second reflector 1160’ exposed by the touch hole 1221h. In other words, when a user touches the portion of the second reflector 1160’ exposed by the touch hole 1221h, the touch input may be transmitted to the touch module 1130.

[0333] Meanwhile, the second reflector 1160’ can provide light provided from the first touch assembly 1100A to the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. The second reflector 1160’ can be made of a material that transmits light. For example, the second reflector 1160’ can be made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of polycarbonate (1PC), polycyclohexane-dimethylene terephthalate glycol (1PCTG), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (1ABS), polystyrene (1PS), and polymethylmethacrylate (1PMMA).

[0334] A reflector adhesive member 1190 may be provided to attach the second reflector 1160’ to the panel 1221. The reflector adhesive member 1190 may be disposed on the front surface of the second reflector 1160’. The reflector adhesive member 1190 may include an opening 1190h for exposing at least a portion of the second reflector 1160’.

[0335] In the present embodiment, the second touch assembly 1100B' may further include a touch amplification sheet 1170 disposed on the rear surface of the second reflector 1160’. The touch amplification sheet 1170 of the present embodiment may amplify a touch signal generated when a user touches the second reflector 1160’. Accordingly, a touch signal generated when a user touches the second reflector 1160’ may be transmitted to the touch gasket 1133 through the touch amplification sheet 1170.

[0336] Hereinafter, the detailed structure of the second reflector 1160’ will be described with reference to FIGS. 32 to 34.

[0337] FIG. 32 is a front perspective view illustrating a second reflector according to another embodiment. FIG. 33 is a rear view illustrating a second reflector according to another embodiment. FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 34-34 of FIG. 32.

[0338] Referring to FIGS. 32 to 34, the second reflector 1160’ according to the present embodiment may include a reflector plate part 11601’, a reflector recessed part 11602’ disposed inside the reflector plate part 11601’, and a reflector touch part 11603’ disposed inside the reflector recessed part 11602’.

[0339] In other words, the reflector touch part 11603’ may be disposed surrounded by the reflector recessed part 11602’, and the reflector recessed part 11602’ may be disposed surrounded by the reflector plate part 11601’.

[0340] The reflector plate part 11601’ may be configured in a flat shape. At least a portion of the front surface of the reflector plate part 11601’ may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 1221 via a reflector adhesive member 1190. For example, an outer region of the reflector recessed part 11602’ in the reflector plate part 11601’ may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 1221 via a reflector adhesive member 1190.

[0341] The rear surface of the reflector plate part 11601’ may be disposed facing the touch cover 1120 of the first touch assembly 1100A. For example, the shape and size of the rear surface of the reflector plate part 11601’ may correspond to the shape and size of the front surface of the touch cover 1120.

[0342] A reflector recessed part 11602’ may be disposed on the inner side of the reflector plate part 11601’. The reflector recessed part 11602’ may be formed to be recessed rearward relative to the reflector plate part 11601’. For example, the front surface of the reflector recessed part 11602’ may be disposed rearward relative to the front surface of the reflector plate part 11601’, and the rear surface of the reflector recessed part 11602’ may be disposed rearward relative to the rear surface of the reflector plate part 11601’. Accordingly, when the second reflector 1160’ is attached to the rear surface of the panel 1221, the reflector recessed part 11602’ may be disposed to be spaced apart from the rear surface of the panel 1221.

[0343] A reflector touch part 11603’ may be disposed on the inside of the reflector recessed part 11602'. The reflector touch part 11603’ may be formed in the central part of the second reflector 1160’. The reflector touch part 11603’ may be a portion exposed forward by a touch hole 1221h formed in the touch part1221a of the panel 1221 in the second reflector 1160’. The reflector touch part 11603’ may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the touch part 1221a. For example, the reflector touch part 11603’ may have a circular shape. The reflector touch part 11603’ can be partially inserted into the touch hole 1221h formed in the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221.

[0344] A touch amplification sheet 1170 may be placed on the rear surface of the reflector touch part 11603’. The reflector touch part 11603’ may transmit touch manipulations performed through the front surface to the touch amplification sheet 1170 and the touch gasket 1133.

[0345] Additionally, the reflector touch part 11603’ can transmit light provided from the first touch assembly 1100A and provide it to the front of the door 20. For example, the reflector touch part 11603’ can include a reflector body part 11603b', a first printed layer 11603a' formed on the front surface of the reflector body part 11603b', and a second printed layer 11603c' formed on the rear surface of the reflector body part 11603b'.

[0346] The reflector body part 11603b’ may be composed of at least one of the above-described light-transmitting materials of the second reflector 1160’.

[0347] The first printed layer 11603a' may be a printed layer that represents the front outer appearance color of the second reflector 1160’. For example, the first printed layer 11603a' may form the second reflector 1160’ and the panel 1221 with the same color. The first printed layer 11603a' may be composed of a light-transmitting material.

[0348] The second printing layer 11603c' may be a shielding printing layer that shields light provided from the rear. A printed light-transmitting part 1160a' may be formed on the second printing layer 11603c'. The printed light-transmitting part 1160a’ may be a portion where the second printing layer 11603c' is not formed, and may be a portion through which light provided from the rear is transmitted.

[0349] The printed light-transmitting part 1160a’may be a portion from which light is provided forward from the second reflector 1160’. In other words, the second reflector 1160’ may provide light forward according to the shape of the printed light-transmitting part 1160a’. The printed light-transmitting part 1160a’may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the touch part 1221a of the panel 1221. For example, the printed light-transmitting part 1160a’may be configured in a ring shape.

[0350] Meanwhile, in the above description, the reflector touch part 11603’ is described as having a structure including a reflector body part 11603b', a first printing layer 11603a', and a second printing layer 11603c', but this is not limited thereto, and the reflector plate part 11601’ and the reflector recessed part 11602’ may also be configured with the same structure.

[0351] According to the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment, the touch assembly 1100 for operating the door opening device 30 is provided with a light-emitting part 1132, so that the nighttime visibility of the touch part 1221a formed on the front surface of the door 20 can be improved.

[0352] According to the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment, the first touch assembly 1100A has a first reflector 1140 including a plurality of grooves 1143, so that light provided from the touch part 1221a formed on the front surface of the door 20 is uniform in each region, thereby improving the outer appearance.

[0353] According to the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment, the outer appearance can be improved by structurally preventing glare of the touch part 1221a through a double reflector structure such as a first reflector 1140 and a second reflector 1160’ in the door 20 including a panel 1221 made of metal material.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising:a cabinet forming a storage space;a door that is configured to open and close the storage space and that includes a panel forming an outer appearance of a front surface thereof and including a touch part; anda touch assembly provided on a rear surface of the panel and configured to detect a touch through the touch part,wherein the touch assembly includes:a light-emitting part configured to provide light; anda first reflector configured to guide light provided from the light-emitting part toward the touch part,wherein the first reflector includes:a light irradiating part to which light provided from the light-emitting part is irradiated; and a light diffusion part extending from the light irradiating part, andwherein a plurality of grooves are formed on a front surface of the light diffusion part.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the first reflector is disposed in front of the light-emitting part, and wherein the light-emitting part is configured to irradiate light to a rear surface of the light irradiating part.

3. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the light-emitting parts are disposed behind one end part of the first reflector and behind the other end part of the first reflector, respectively.

4. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the touch assembly includes a touch module that detects the touch through the touch part, and wherein the first reflector includes a reflector hole through which at least a portion of the touch module is penetrated.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4,wherein the reflector hole includes:a circular opening, anda recessed opening recessed from the circular opening toward the light irradiating part, andwherein the light diffusion part has a branched shape with the recessed opening interposed therebetween.

6. The refrigerator of claim 4,wherein the touch module includes a touch substrate on which a touch sensor is disposed, andwherein the light-emitting part is disposed on the touch substrate.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6,wherein the touch module further includes a touch gasket disposed on the touch sensor and extending toward the panel, and wherein the touch gasket is disposed so as to penetrate the reflector hole.

8. The refrigerator of claim 7,wherein the light-emitting parts are disposed on one side of the touch gasket and the other side of the touch gasket, respectively, andwherein the light diffusion part is disposed to surround the touch gasket.

9. The refrigerator of claim 4,wherein the touch assembly further includes:a touch case including a touch module accommodation part that accommodates the touch module,a touch cover covering a front surface of the touch module, and a film member including a light-transmitting part that is disposed in front of the first reflector and transmits light in a shape corresponding to the touch part, andwherein the touch cover includes a reflector accommodation part formed to be recessed on a front surface thereof and in which the first reflector is accommodated.

10. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the plurality of grooves are arranged spaced apart from each other in an extension direction of the light diffusion part, andwherein the distance between adjacent grooves decreases as the grooves get farther away from the light irradiating part.

11. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the plurality of grooves form virtual extension lines extending in their respective extension directions, andwherein an angle between the extension lines formed by adjacent grooves decreases as the distance from the light irradiating part increases.

12. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the light diffusion part includes:a first part connected to the light irradiating part, anda second part formed by branching from the first part to both sides, wherein the plurality of grooves includes:a plurality of first grooves formed on a front surface of the first part, anda plurality of second grooves formed on a front surface of the second part, andwherein an average distance between adjacent first grooves among the plurality of first grooves is smaller than an average distance between adjacent second grooves among the plurality of second grooves.

13. The refrigerator of claim 1,wherein the panel is made of a metal material, andwherein the touch assembly further includes a second reflector disposed in front of the first reflector and configured to guide light provided from the first reflector to the touch part.

14. The refrigerator of claim 13,wherein a touch hole opened to partially expose the second reflector is formed in the touch part.

15. The refrigerator of claim 13,wherein the touch assembly further includes a supporter on which the second reflector is mounted and attached to a rear surface of the panel, andwherein the supporter includes a supporter touch part which is disposed at a position corresponding to the touch part and through which touch manipulation is performed.

16. The refrigerator of claim 13,wherein the second reflector includes:a light-receiving part configured to receive light provided from the first reflector; anda first reflector light-emitting part protruding forward from the light-receiving part, andwherein the first reflector light-emitting part is disposed inside the touch part.

17. The refrigerator of claim 16,wherein the second reflector further includes:protrusions protruding from one side of the light-receiving part and the other side of the light-receiving part, respectively, anda second reflector light emitting part protruding forward from the protrusion, andwherein the second reflector light emitting part is disposed inside the touch part.

18. The refrigerator of claim 16,wherein the touch assembly further includes a supporter on which the second reflector is mounted and attached to a rear surface of the panel, andwherein the supporter includes an opening into which the first reflector light-emitting part is inserted and exposed forward.

19. The refrigerator of claim 13,wherein the second reflector includes:a reflector touch part exposed by the touch part and configured to allow touch manipulation;a reflector recessed part disposed to surround the reflector touch part; anda reflector plate part disposed to surround the reflector recessed part.

20. The refrigerator of claim 19,wherein the reflector plate part is attached to a rear surface of the panel through an adhesive,wherein the reflector touch part includes a shielding layer formed on a rear surface thereof, andwherein the shielding layer includes a printed light-transmitting part formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the touch part.

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