Heat insulator

Abstract

The present invention provides an insulator comprising: a first plate; a second plate; and a vacuum space part provided between the first plate and the second plate. The heat insulator comprises: a connecting member having at least one connecting region including multiple members connected to be arranged in at least two directions intersecting with each other such that the heat insulator can be connected; and a block provided on at least one side of the connecting region.

Description

Insulator

[0001] The present invention relates to an insulator.

[0002] First, there is the applicant's registered patent No. 10-0343719 (Patent Document 1). According to this patent, a vacuum adiabatic panel is manufactured, embedded in the wall of a refrigerator, and the exterior of the vacuum adiabatic panel is finished with a separate molded Styrofoam material. This method eliminates the need for foaming and improves insulation performance. However, this method has the drawback of increasing costs and complicating the manufacturing process.

[0003] As another example, there have been attempts to fabricate the entire refrigerator wall as a single vacuum insulator. For example, U.S. Patent Publication No. US2040226956A1 (Patent Document 2) discloses a method for providing vacuum insulation for a refrigerator. However, it is difficult to achieve a practical level of insulation by providing a sufficiently vacuumed refrigerator wall. Specifically, there are several problems, including the difficulty in preventing heat transfer at the contact point between the outer and inner cases, which have different temperatures, the difficulty in maintaining a stable vacuum state, and the difficulty in preventing deformation of the case due to negative vacuum pressure.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-247534 (Patent Document 3) discloses an insulation box that simplifies the bonding work and improves productivity when installing and preparing multiple vacuum insulation panels.

[0005] Patent Document 3 discloses an insulating case of a refrigerator comprising an inner case and an outer case and a plurality of vacuum insulation panels provided between them, and forming a plurality of wall sections of a refrigerator body, wherein the inner case is formed by combining a plurality of inner case partitions into which the entire inner case is divided, and at the same time, a plurality of vacuum insulation panels are formed in a shape corresponding to each inner case partition, and each of these vacuum insulation panels and each of the inner case partitions is installed.

[0006] Conventional insulators had problems with deformation due to vacuum pressure and deformation caused by internal refrigerator shelves and loads.

[0007] Conventional insulators have problems with structural strength and insulation performance at corners or where multiple insulators are connected.

[0008] [Prior Art Literature]

[0009] [Patent Document]

[0010] Registered patent 10-0343719

[0011] U.S. Patent Publication No. US20040226956A1

[0012] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-247534A

[0013]

[0014] The present invention provides a technology for an insulator.

[0015] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for improving the strength of an insulation or improving the strength at a portion where a plurality of insulations are connected.

[0016] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for improving the insulating performance of an insulator or improving the insulating performance at a portion where a plurality of insulators are connected.

[0017] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for reducing vacuum leakage of an insulator or reducing vacuum leakage at a portion where a plurality of insulators are connected.

[0018] Other tasks of the present invention can also be described in [Specific contents for carrying out the invention].

[0019] The insulator of the present invention may include a first plate; and / or a second plate. The insulator may include a vacuum space provided between the first plate and the second plate. The insulator may be provided with a connecting member. The connecting member includes a plurality of members that are connected to be arranged in at least two directions intersecting each other. The connecting member may have at least one connecting area that enables the insulator to be connected. The insulator may be provided with a block provided on at least one side of the connecting area.

[0020] The block may include a non-vacuum insulating portion connected to one side of the insulating body; and / or an insulating cover supported on the inner surface of the insulating body to shield the non-vacuum insulating portion.

[0021] The above insulators may be provided in at least two pieces arranged in a direction intersecting each other. The non-vacuum insulating portion may be arranged to insulate one side of the adjacent insulators.

[0022] The above insulators may be provided in at least two pieces arranged in a direction intersecting each other. The above insulating covers may be supported on one side of each of the adjacent insulators.

[0023] The two sides of the above insulating cover can be supported on one side of the insulating material adjacent to each other.

[0024] The above insulation may be provided with a reinforcing member. The reinforcing member may be joined to the inner surface of the first plate. The reinforcing member may have at least one side protruding and supported on one side of the insulation cover.

[0025] The above reinforcement part can be supported so as to face both sides of the insulating cover.

[0026] The above insulating cover can be formed so that at least one portion thereof is folded.

[0027] The above insulation may be provided with a reinforcing plate. The reinforcing plate may be connected to one side of the first plate. The reinforcing plate may be supported on one side of the insulating cover by being bent on at least one side.

[0028] The above reinforcement part can be formed along the edge of the above reinforcement plate.

[0029] The above-mentioned reinforcing member can support one side of a component provided on one surface of the first plate.

[0030] The above connecting member can be implemented in a form in which a plurality of members extending in three intersecting directions are connected.

[0031] The connecting member may include a first member and / or a second member. The first member may extend in a first direction. The second member may extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The second member may be coupled to the first member. The connecting member may include a third member. The third member may extend in a third direction intersecting the first direction and / or the second direction. The third member may be coupled to at least one of the first member and the second member.

[0032] At least one of the first to third members may have a portion that is bent on at least one side so as to support a part of a component provided on the first plate.

[0033] The above-mentioned insulator may be provided with a reinforcing plate. The reinforcing plate may be connected to one side of the first plate. The reinforcing plate may have a reinforcing portion that is bent on at least one side and supported on one side of the insulating cover. The reinforcing portion may overlap the portion where at least one side is bent to support a portion of the component.

[0034]

[0035] The insulator of the present invention can provide a structure that stably supports the insulator. The insulator of the present invention can provide a structure capable of connecting the insulator.

[0036] The insulation of the present invention can provide a structure capable of reinforcing strength between the first insulation and the second insulation.

[0037] The insulator of the present invention can provide a structure that improves insulation performance between the first insulator and the second insulator.

[0038]

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the insulation provided in the refrigerator of Figure 1.

[0041] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a third plate provided on the plate of Figure 2.

[0042] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a heat transfer resistor provided on the plate of Figure 3.

[0043] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an example in which multiple insulators are connected to a connecting member.

[0044] Figure 6 is a front view of Figure 5 viewed in the -x direction.

[0045] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 6.

[0046] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 6.

[0047] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of part C of Figure 6.

[0048] Figure 10 is a side view of Figure 5 viewed in the -y direction.

[0049] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of part D of Figure 10.

[0050] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of part E of Figure 10.

[0051] Figure 13 is an enlarged view of part F of Figure 10.

[0052] Figure 14 is a plan view of Figure 5 viewed in the -z direction.

[0053] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of part G of Figure 14.

[0054] Figure 16 is an enlarged view of part H of Figure 14.

[0055] Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing a connecting member of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 18 is a front view of Figure 17 viewed in the -x direction.

[0057] Figure 19 is a side view of Figure 17 viewed in the -y direction.

[0058] Figure 20 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an insulator of the present invention.

[0059] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of the insulator of the present invention viewed from one side.

[0060] Fig. 22 is a side view showing the insulator of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in Figure 20.

[0062] From now on, [Common description] describing the parts commonly defined in all embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0063] Optionally, the insulator of the present invention may be provided as a single insulator. For example, the insulator may provide a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. Optionally, the insulator of the present invention may include a first insulator and a second insulator. The second insulator may be provided as a separate component separated from the first insulator. The second insulator may be connected to the first insulator by a connecting member. In the present invention, the connecting member may be defined as a joint. The second insulator may include a portion extending in the same direction as the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion extending in a different direction from the first insulator. The second insulator may include a portion connected to the first insulator, or may include a portion arranged to overlap the first insulator in at least one direction. The insulator may be a vacuum insulator including a vacuum space or a non-vacuum insulator not including a vacuum space. The above insulation may be a combination of the vacuum insulation and the non-vacuum insulation. The vacuum space provided in the second insulation may include a portion extending in the same direction as the vacuum space provided in the first insulation. The vacuum space provided in the second insulation may include a portion extending in a different direction from the vacuum space provided in the first insulation. The vacuum space provided in the second insulation may include a portion arranged to overlap with the vacuum space provided in the first insulation in at least one direction. The insulation may be provided in the form of a panel. In the present invention, "panel" is described below as an example, but an invention in which the "panel" is replaced with the "insulation" may also be included in the present invention. For example, in the present invention, if it is described below that at least two panels of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator, it may be understood or interpreted that at least two insulations of the main body form the exterior of the refrigerator.

[0064] Optionally, the refrigerator of the present invention may include a main body. The main body may include at least one storage compartment. The main body may include a partition wall dividing a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment. The first storage compartment joint may include a first first storage compartment joint, a second first storage compartment joint, and / or a third first storage compartment joint. The second storage compartment joint may be provided on one side of the second storage compartment. The second storage compartment joint may include a first joint, a second joint, and / or a third joint.

[0065]

[0066] The partition wall may include the vacuum insulation and / or the non-vacuum insulation. The refrigerator of the present invention may include a door. The refrigerator of the present invention may include a machine room disposed on one side of the main body. At least one of a compressor, a heat-radiating component (e.g., a condenser, a heat-radiating portion of a thermoelectric module, a heat sink for heat exchange with the heat-radiating portion of a thermoelectric module, etc.), and a cooling fan may be disposed in the machine room. The machine room may include at least one of a first cover (e.g., a side cover) forming at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., a side surface), a second cover (e.g., a back cover) forming at least a portion of a second surface (e.g., a rear surface), a third cover (e.g., an upper cover) forming at least a portion of a third surface (e.g., a top surface), a fourth cover (e.g., a bottom cover) forming at least a portion of a fourth surface (e.g., a bottom surface), and a fifth cover (e.g., a front cover) forming at least a portion of a fifth surface (e.g., a front surface). One or more of the above first, second, third, fourth, and fifth covers may be provided as a single part or in multiple parts. The machine room of the refrigerator of the present invention may include the insulator.

[0067]

[0068] The panel may include at least one of a first plate, a second plate, and a side plate. A vacuum space may be provided between the first plate and the second plate. The refrigerator of the present invention may include at least one panel. The present invention may include at least one of a first panel forming at least a portion of a first side (e.g., a side) of the refrigerator; a second panel forming at least a portion of a second side (e.g., a rear) of the refrigerator; a third panel forming at least a portion of a third side (e.g., a top) of the refrigerator; a fourth panel forming at least a portion of a fourth side (e.g., a bottom) of the refrigerator; and a fifth panel forming at least a portion of a fifth side (e.g., a front) of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides of the refrigerator may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the main body or may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the door. At least one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as a single component or may be provided in multiples. The joint may be provided to connect a corner of the refrigerator or to connect a first wall and a second wall forming a wall of the refrigerator to each other. The joint may be provided to connect the panel to another component (e.g., another panel). The joint may be provided to connect at least two of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. At least one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided in plurality, and the joint may be provided to connect the plurality of panels to each other. The joint may include a first surface, a second surface, and / or a third surface. The first surface of the joint may cover at least a portion of at least one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The second surface of the joint may cover at least a portion of at least another one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The third surface of the joint may be connected to the first surface of the joint and / or the second surface of the joint.The third side of the joint may be connected to an edge of the first side of the joint and / or an edge of the second side of the joint. The third side of the joint may be formed to be inclined to at least one of the first side of the joint and the second side of the joint. At least some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as panels having a first insulation performance per unit thickness, and at least other some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels may be provided as panels having a second insulation performance per unit thickness. The first insulation performance and the second insulation performance may be different.

[0069] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a duct. The duct may include a first duct, a second duct, and / or a third duct. The first duct may supply cold air to the first storage compartment or the second storage compartment. The second duct may accommodate an evaporator. The third duct may be connected to the first duct and the second duct in communication with each other. The third duct may include a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, a fourth surface, and / or a fifth surface. The first surface of the third duct may surround the first surface of the joint. The second surface of the third duct may surround the second surface of the joint. The third surface of the third duct may surround the third surface of the joint. The third duct may include a fourth surface. The fourth surface of the third duct may extend from the first surface of the third duct or may be arranged to face the second storage compartment. The fifth side of the third duct may extend from the second side of the third duct or may be arranged to face the evaporator.

[0070]

[0071] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a block. The block may include a portion extending in the same direction as one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The block may include a portion extending in a different direction from one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth panels. The block may include a first side (e.g., a left side), a second side (e.g., a right side), a third side (e.g., a rear side), a fourth side (e.g., a lower side), a fifth side (e.g., a top side), and a sixth side (e.g., a front side). Some of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides of the refrigerator may be provided in the form of panels, and other parts of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides of the refrigerator may be provided in the form of blocks. The block may be provided as the non-vacuum insulator. For example, the block may be a block cover and / or a PU foam filled inside the block cover. The above block may include at least one of a first block portion (e.g., a side block portion), a second block portion (e.g., a rear block portion or a front block portion), and a third block portion (e.g., a bottom block portion or a top block portion). The first, second, and third block portions may each be provided in multiples. At least two of the first, second, and third block portions may be connected to provide the joint. The third block portion may form one side of the first storage room and / or one side of the machine room. The third block portion may be provided as a partition wall, or may form one side of the first storage room.

[0072] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include an insulating reinforcement member. The insulating reinforcement member may include a portion connected to one side of the block, or a portion formed to protrude from the block.

[0073]

[0074] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a hinge. The hinge may be positioned on one side of the insulator. The hinge may be positioned on the body and / or door of the refrigerator.

[0075] The hinge may include at least one of a hinge fixing portion, a hinge shaft, and a hinge connecting portion that protrudes and extends from the hinge fixing portion, which is a portion that the hinge is connected to at least one of the insulator, the main body of the refrigerator, and the door of the refrigerator. The hinge may include at least one of a first hinge (e.g., an upper hinge) arranged on one side of a wall forming the first storage compartment, a second hinge (e.g., a middle hinge) arranged on the partition wall, and a third hinge (e.g., a lower hinge) of the wall forming the second storage compartment. The insulator or the refrigerator of the present invention may include at least one of a hinge reinforcing frame that reinforces the strength of the hinge; a cover to which the hinge is coupled; and a hinge reinforcing plate that is arranged or received so as to be connected to the panel. The hinge reinforcing frame may include at least one of a first, a second, a third, and a fourth frame portion. At least two of the first, second, third, and fourth frame portions may extend in different directions.

[0076]

[0077] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a support frame. The support frame may support one side of the panel. The support frame may include a connecting portion. The block may be supported by the support frame in the machine room. The support frame may include a first support frame and / or a second support frame.

[0078] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include an inner cover. The inner cover may be placed between the cover of the machine room and the hinge reinforcement frame (e.g., the first frame portion).

[0079]

[0080] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a decoration. The decoration may be placed on the surface of the insulator. The decoration may be placed on the surface of the body and / or door of the refrigerator. For example, the decoration may be placed on the outer surface of the insulator or the outer surface of the refrigerator.

[0081]

[0082] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a hot line. The hot line may be positioned on the surface of the insulator. The decoration may be positioned on the surface of the body and / or door of the refrigerator. The hot line may be positioned between the decoration and the surface of the insulator. The hot line may be positioned between the decoration and the surface of the refrigerator and / or between the decoration and the surface of the door. (034)

[0083]

[0084] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a casing. The casing may be an outer casing or an inner casing. The outer casing may be connected to the second plate. The outer casing may be provided to cover at least a portion of the second plate. The outer casing may be provided in contact with the second plate or spaced apart from the second plate by a predetermined distance. The inner casing may be connected to the twelfth plate. The inner casing may be provided to cover at least a portion of the first plate. The inner casing may be provided in contact with the first plate or spaced apart from the first plate by a predetermined distance.

[0085]

[0086] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a drawer and / or a drawer guide. The drawer guide may include a first storage chamber drawer guide provided in a first storage chamber. The first storage chamber drawer guide may include at least one of a first plate (e.g., a side plate), a second plate (e.g., a bottom plate), a third plate (e.g., a top plate), and a fourth plate (e.g., a middle plate).

[0087] The above drawer guide may be provided with a second storage chamber drawer guide provided in the second storage chamber.

[0088]

[0089] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a shelf and / or a shelf support frame.

[0090]

[0091] [Specific details for carrying out the invention] are divided into the aforementioned [common description] and the [description based on drawings] described below. In the [Specific details for carrying out the invention], each of the specific details described for carrying out the invention can be understood as an embodiment of the present invention. In the [Specific details for carrying out the invention], a content that combines at least two or more of the specific details described for carrying out the invention can also be understood as an embodiment of the present invention. For example, each paragraph and each combination of paragraphs in the [Common description] section or the section described based on the drawings in the [Specific details for carrying out the invention] can be understood as an embodiment of the present invention. As another example, each sentence and each combination of sentences in the [Common description] section or the section described based on the drawings in the [Specific details for carrying out the invention] can be understood as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] From now on, based on each drawing, the [Description based on drawing] section describing the present invention will be described.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the insulator (10) of the present invention may include plates (11, 12, 14). In the present invention, the term “plate” may mean at least one of the first and second plates (11, 12) and the side plate (14). Optionally, the insulator of the present invention may include a vacuum space (15). The vacuum space (15) may be formed by a wall provided by the plates (11, 12, 14). The vacuum space (15) may have a thickness in a first direction. The plates (11, 12, 14) may include a first plate (11); and a second plate (12). The first plate (11) may include a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The second plate (12) may include a portion extending in a first direction different from the first direction. Optionally, the plate may include a side plate (14) including a portion extending in the first direction. For example, the insulator (10) of the present invention may be provided such that the first and second plates (11, 12) and the side plate (14) are each provided as separate parts, and the separated parts are connected to each other. As another example, the insulator (10) of the present invention may be provided such that at least two parts among the first and second plates (11, 12) and the side plate (14) are provided as an integral part, and the separated parts are connected to each other. As yet another example, the insulator (10) of the present invention may be provided such that the portions connecting the first and second plates (11, 12) and the side plate (14) to each other are each provided as an integral part. In this case, the first plate (11) may be provided as a separate part, and the separated parts may be provided as a connected part. Alternatively, the second plate (12) may be provided as separate parts, and the separated parts may be provided to be connected to each other.Alternatively, the side plates (14) may be provided as separate parts, and the separated parts may be provided to be connected to each other. Optionally, the insulator (10) of the present invention may include a third plate that is arranged on at least a portion of the insulator (10) or connected to at least a portion of the plates (11, 12, 14). The third plate may include a portion that is thinner or has the same thickness as the plates (11, 12, 14). The third plate may include a portion that is thicker than the plates (11, 12, 14). The third plate may be arranged in the vacuum space (15) or outside the vacuum space (15). Examples of the third plate may include a heat transfer resistor (23, 26a, 26b, 34), a deformation resistor (13), etc., described in the present invention.

[0094] Optionally, the insulator (10) of the present invention may include a thermal insulator (23, 26a, 26b, 34) for reducing the amount of heat transfer between a first space provided near the first plate (11) and a second space provided near the second plate (12), or for reducing the amount of heat transfer between the first plate (11) and the second plate (12). A thermal insulator that reduces the amount of heat transfer by conduction may be defined as a conduction resistance sheet (26a, 26b), and a thermal insulator that reduces the amount of heat transfer by radiation may be defined as a radiation resistance sheet (23). The thermal insulator (23, 26a, 26b, 34) may be provided as a porous material (34) or as a filler (34). The filler whose interior is filled with a porous material can be defined as a porous material (34). The heat transfer resistor (23, 26a, 26b, 34) may include at least one of the radiation resistance sheet (23), the porous material (34), the filler (34), and the conduction resistance sheet (26a, 26b), or a mixture of at least two of them. The heat transfer resistor (23, 26a, 26b, 34) may be connected to at least a portion of the plate (11, 12, 14) or may be provided so as not to come into contact with the plate (11, 12, 14). A shield (24) may be provided on the outside of the heat transfer resistor (23, 26a, 26b, 34) to provide insulation. A connecting frame (17) may be provided on the outside of the heat transfer resistor (23, 26a, 26b, 34). The insulator (10) may include a conduit penetrating the vacuum space (15). The conduit may be formed by providing a pipe wall (32) as a separate component, or may be provided in a form in which the pipe wall (32) is deleted and only a through hole is formed in the plate. The side plate (14) may be provided near the conduit, or the heat transfer resistor (23, 26a, 26b, 34) may be provided.

[0095] Optionally, the insulator (10) of the present invention may include a deformation resistance body (13) connected to at least a portion of the plates (11, 12, 14) to increase the internal deformation of the plates (11, 12, 14). When the deformation resistance body is provided in the form of a plate, the deformation resistance body may be referred to as a deformation resistance plate.

[0096] Optionally, the insulator (10) of the present invention may include a support (19) connected to at least a portion of the plates (11, 12, 13) and maintaining the vacuum space (15). The support (19) may include a bar (20) having a portion extending in a first direction, which is a thickness direction of the vacuum space (15). The support (19) may include a support plate (22) having a portion extending in a direction different from the first direction. The support (19) may include a plurality of bars (20) and a connecting plate (21) connecting the plurality of bars (20). The support (19) may include at least one of the bars (20), the connecting plate (21), and the supporting plate (22), or a mixture of at least two of them.

[0097] Optionally, the insulator (10) of the present invention may include a component joint that provides a portion where components (24, 28, 32) are placed or supported. For example, when the component joint is provided in the form of a plate, the component joint may be referred to as a component joint plate. The component connected to the component joint may include a penetrating component that is arranged to penetrate at least a portion of the insulator (10) or at least a portion of the plate (11, 12, 14). The component connected to the component joint may include a surface component that is arranged to be connected to the surface of the insulator (10) or to be connected to the surface of the plate (11, 12, 14). The penetrating component may be a component that forms a path through which a fluid (electricity, refrigerant, water, air, etc.) passes. The penetrating component may be provided in the form of a tube. The tube may include a straight tube and / or a curved tube. The tube may be provided in multiples or may extend in one direction. The above-mentioned penetrating member may include at least one of the pipe, the first withdrawal portion, and the second withdrawal portion. In the present invention, a fluid is defined as all types of flowing objects. Fluids include moving solids, liquids, gases, and electricity. The above-mentioned penetrating member may be a member that forms a path through which a refrigerant for heat exchange passes, such as a SLHX (Suction Line Heat Exchanger) or a refrigerant pipe. The SLHX may be understood as a suction line heat exchanger that causes heat exchange between the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator and the refrigerant before being introduced into the evaporator. The above-mentioned penetrating member may be a wire that supplies electricity to the apparatus. The above-mentioned penetrating member may be a member that forms a path through which air can pass, such as a duct or port through which a fluid flows along its surface. The port may include an exhaust port that provides a path through which air is exhausted from a space formed between the first plate (11) and the second plate (12) to form the vacuum space (15).The above-mentioned penetrating parts may be paths through which fluids such as coolant, hot water, ice, and defrost water may pass. Examples of the above-mentioned surface parts may include perimeter insulation, side panels, injected foam, pre-prepared resin, hinges, latches, baskets, drawers, shelves, lights, sensors, evaporators (7), front decorations, and hot lines, heaters, exterior covers, and interior covers.

[0098] Through FIGS. 1 to 4, terms such as plate, first plate, second plate, side plate, third plate, vacuum space, heat transfer resistor, conduction resistance sheet, radiation resistance sheet, porous material, filler, component joint, joint, support, bar, support plate, connecting plate, deformation resistor, deformation resistance plate, component joint, component joint plate, penetration component, surface component, duct, port, etc. are defined. In the present invention, when the above terms are used in parts other than the parts described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 4, the terms used should be interpreted as defined in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0099] In the present invention, the connection of object A to object B can be defined as that at least a portion of object A and at least a portion of object B are directly connected, or that at least a portion of object A and at least a portion of object B are connected via an intermediary between objects A and B. In a variation, the connection of object A to object B can include that objects A and object B are prepared as a single body in a shape in which they are connected in the above-described manner. In the present invention, examples of connection can be support, combine, and seal, which will be described later. In the present invention, the support of object A by object B can be defined as that object A is restricted from moving in one or more of the +X, -X, +Y, -Y, +Z, and -Z axis directions by object B. In the present invention, examples of support can be combination and seal, which will be described later. In the present invention, it can be defined that object A is combined with object B, meaning that object A is restricted from moving in one or more of the X, Y, and Z-axis directions by object B. In the present invention, an embodiment of the combination can be a sealing, which will be described later. In the present invention, it can be defined that object A is sealed with object B, meaning that movement of fluid is not permitted at a portion where object A and object B are connected. In the present invention, at least one object, that is, at least a part of object A and object B, can be defined as including a part of object A, the entirety of object A, a part of object B, the entirety of object B, a part of object A and a part of object B, a part of object A and the entirety of object B, the entirety of object A and a part of object B, and the entirety of object A and the entirety of object B. In the present invention, it can be defined that plate A can be a wall defining space A, meaning that at least a part of plate A can be a wall forming at least a part of space A.That is, at least a part of plate A may be a wall forming space A, or plate A may be a wall forming at least a part of space A. In the present invention, the central part of an object may be defined as a part located in the center of the third part when the object is divided into three parts based on the longitudinal direction of the object. The periphery of an object may be defined as a part located on one or the other side of the central part of the third part. The periphery of an object may include a surface in contact with the central part and a surface opposite thereto. The opposite surface may be defined as the border or edge of the object. In the present invention, the degree to deformation resistance indicates the degree to which an object resists deformation, and may be defined as a value determined by the shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, and the processing method of the object. In the present invention, the degree of heat transfer resistance indicates the degree to which an object resists heat transfer, and may be defined as a value determined by the shape including the thickness of the object, the material of the object, and the processing method of the object. In the present invention, the heat transfer resistance can be defined as the sum of at least one or at least two of the degree of conduction resistance, the degree of radiation resistance, and the degree of convection resistance. The terms “upper side,” “lower side,” “right side,” “left side,” “front side,” and “rear side” used in the following description will be understood through the coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5. An example of “+Z” means “upper side,” an example of “-Z” means “lower side,” an example of “+Y” means “right side,” an example of “-Y” means “left side,” an example of “+X” means “front side,” and an example of “-X” means “rear side.”The forward and backward direction used in this specification may be an example of the X-axis direction, the left and right direction may be an example of the Y-axis direction, and the up and down direction may be an example of the Z-axis direction.

[0100] The insulator (10) of the present invention can be applied to a refrigerator (1). The refrigerator (1) may include a main body (2) provided with a cavity (9) capable of storing stored items, and a door (3) provided to open and close the main body (2). A cold source for supplying cold air (Cold) to the cavity (9) may be provided. For example, the cold source may be an evaporator (7) that evaporates a refrigerant to remove heat. The refrigerator may include a compressor (4) that compresses the refrigerant. The refrigerator may include a condenser (5) that condenses the compressed refrigerant. The condenser (5) may be connected to an expander (6) that expands the condensed refrigerant.

[0101] The insulator (110, 210, 310, 410) of the present invention is provided with a connecting member (140) and a block (150).

[0102] The connecting member (140) includes a plurality of members that are connected so as to be arranged in at least two directions intersecting each other. The connecting member (140) has at least one connecting area (141).

[0103] The connection area (141) may be understood as an area where the insulation (110) described later is arranged. For example, the connection area (141) may be provided on each surface of the connection member (140). The connection area (141) may be understood as an area where the insulation (110) described later is coupled or joined. In this case, the connection area (141) may be a coupling or joining area. The connection member (140) may be understood as a coupling member.

[0104] The member forming the connecting member (140) may be, for example, a frame. That is, the connecting member (140) may be a structure connected by a plurality of frames. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0105] The insulator (110) includes a first plate (111), a second plate (112), and a vacuum space (115) provided between the first plate (111) and the second plate (112). The insulator (110) is installed in the connection area (141).

[0106] The insulation (110) may be defined as being supported, coupled or joined to the connection area (141).

[0107] At least two insulators (110) may optionally be arranged in an intersecting direction, and a connecting member (140) and a block (150) may be provided on one side thereof.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 5, 6, and 10, an example is shown in which a first insulation body (110) is installed in the +y direction, a second insulation body (210) is installed in the +z direction, a third insulation body (310) is installed in the -y direction, and a fourth insulation body (410) is installed in the -x direction, on a connecting member (140). The connecting member (140) may have connecting areas (141) in the +y direction, the +z direction, the -y direction, and the -x direction, respectively.

[0109] The present invention secures rigidity by connecting at least one insulator (110) to a connecting member (140) forming a basic skeleton. By having a structure in which the insulator (110) is installed in the connecting area (141) of the connecting member (140), deformation such as warping or sagging of the insulator (110) can be minimized.

[0110] At least one side of the connection area (141) is provided with a block (150). The block (150) may be placed on one side of the insulator (110). For example, the block (150) may be placed on an inner edge of the insulator (110). As a result, one side of the insulator (110), for example, the inner edge, enables insulation.

[0111] A block (150) is placed at the inner edge of the insulator (110), so that heat bridge at the inner edge of the insulator (110) is reduced, thereby improving insulation performance.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, blocks (150) are installed at one side and the other side corner of the insulator (110) in the +z direction.

[0113] The block (150) may include a non-vacuum insulation portion (151) and / or an insulation cover (143a-1).

[0114] The non-vacuum insulation (151) can be connected to the inner edge of the insulation (110). The non-vacuum insulation (151) reduces heat bridges at the inner edge of the insulation (110), thereby improving insulation performance.

[0115] The insulating cover (143a-1) can shield the non-vacuum insulating portion (151). The insulating cover (143a-1) can be supported on one side of the insulating body (110).

[0116] Optionally, the insulating covers (143a-1) may be supported on one side of the insulating members (110) adjacent to each other. For example, the insulating covers (143a-1) may be supported on one side of the insulating members (110) with both sides adjacent to each other. The insulating covers (143a-1) may be placed on one side of the non-vacuum insulating member (151). For example, the insulating covers (143a-1) may be placed inside the non-vacuum insulating member (151).

[0117] The non-vacuum insulation part (151) is shielded by an insulation cover (143a-1) so that it can be protected from impact or moisture, etc.

[0118] The insulating cover (143a-1) may be formed so that at least one portion thereof is bent. This allows the insulating cover (143a-1) to more stably support one side of the insulating body (110) and / or the non-vacuum insulating portion (151).

[0119] As illustrated in Fig. 7, an example of an insulating cover (143a-1) is illustrated in which both sides are supported on the inner surface of the first insulating body (110) and the inner surface of the second insulating body (210), respectively. An example of an insulating cover (143a-1) is illustrated in which it is formed in a two-folded shape.

[0120] Optionally, the insulation (110) of the present invention may be provided with a reinforcing member (161).

[0121] The reinforcing member (161) may be coupled to one surface of the insulator (110). For example, the reinforcing member (161) may be coupled to the inner surface of the first plate (111). At least one side of the reinforcing member (161) may be bent and supported on one side of the insulating cover (143a-1). For example, the reinforcing member (161) may be able to face one side of the insulating cover (143a-1).

[0122] The reinforcing member (161) may be supported so as to face both sides of the insulating cover (143a-1). For example, at least two reinforcing members (161) may be provided. The two reinforcing members (161) may be supported so as to face both sides of the insulating cover (143a-1), respectively.

[0123] The reinforcing member (161) may be placed on one side of the non-vacuum insulation member (151). The reinforcing member (161) may have a portion extending away from the non-vacuum insulation member (151), thereby minimizing leakage of cold air.

[0124] By means of a structure in which the reinforcing member (161) is bonded to one side of the insulator (110) and supports one side of the insulating cover (143a-1), the strength can be reinforced between the insulator (110) and the insulating cover (143a-1). Since the reinforcing member (161) secures a sufficient distance to be in contact with the insulator (110), the stress can be distributed between the reinforcing member (161) and the insulator (110). Since the reinforcing member (161) secures a sufficient distance to be in direct contact with the insulating cover (143a-1), the stress can be distributed between the reinforcing member (161) and the insulating cover (143a-1).

[0125] The reinforcing member (161) extends a predetermined distance from one side of the insulator (110) to sufficiently block leakage of cold air.

[0126] FIG. 7 illustrates an example in which a first reinforcing member (161) is coupled to the inner surface of a first insulating body (110) and supports one side of an insulating cover (143a-1) so as to face it. An example in which a second reinforcing member (161) is coupled to the inner surface of a second insulating body (210) and supports the other side of an insulating cover (143a-1) so as to face it is illustrated.

[0127] The portion where the reinforcing member (161) is connected to the inner surface of the insulator (110) may be a reinforcing joint portion (161a). The portion where the reinforcing member (161) is supported so as to be facing one side or the other side of the insulating cover (143a-1) may be a reinforcing support portion (161b).

[0128] The reinforcing support member may have a portion supported between the non-vacuum insulation member (151) and the insulation cover (143a-1).

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, another example of a block (150) is illustrated. The block (150) in FIG. 11 differs from the block (150) in FIG. 7 in the cross-sectional shapes of the non-vacuum insulation portion (151) and the insulation cover (143a-1). In FIG. 11, the non-vacuum insulation portion (151) may have a rectangular cross-section. An example of the insulation cover (143a-1) being bent once and having an L-shape is illustrated.

[0130] Optionally, the present invention may be provided with at least two insulators (110, 210) arranged in a direction intersecting each other. The insulators (110, 210) may be connected so that parts of the side ends overlap each other.

[0131] Two adjacent insulators (110, 210) may be provided so that each vacuum space portion (115, 215) overlaps or does not overlap in at least one of the thickness direction and the length direction of the vacuum space portion (115, 215).

[0132] The non-vacuum insulation (151) may be arranged to insulate the inner edges of adjacent insulation bodies (110). The inner edges of adjacent insulation bodies (110) may refer to the sides of the insulation bodies (110) arranged in a direction intersecting each other.

[0133] Optionally, the body of the refrigerator may be formed by including a portion having at least two insulators (110). Near the corners where the insulators (110) are adjacent to each other, a plurality of plates are concentrated, such as the first plate (111) of the insulator (110), the plates at the side ends of the insulator (110), and the joint portion where two insulators (110) are joined to each other. The heat transfer path formed along these plurality of plates is also concentrated near the corners. Therefore, the insulation performance may be weak near the corners where the insulators (110) are adjacent to each other.

[0134] By placing the non-vacuum insulation portion (151) at the inner edge of the adjacent insulation body (110), the insulation performance can be improved.

[0135] To be more specific, in the process of the cold air inside the furnace being lost through the first plate (111), the side plate, and the joint portion where the two insulators (110) are joined to each other, the non-vacuum insulation part (151) can block the loss of the cold air.

[0136] Optionally, an insulating cover (143a-1) may be provided on one side of the connecting member (140). The insulating cover (143a-1) may be formed integrally with the connecting member (140) or may be implemented in a form combined as a separate member. For example, the insulating cover (143a-1) may be provided on at least one of the first to third members (143a, 143b, 143c, 144a, 144b, 144c, 145) of the connecting member (140).

[0137] Optionally, the insulation (110) of the present invention may further be provided with a reinforcing plate (160).

[0138] The reinforcing plate (160) may be connected to one side of the first plate (111). Optionally, the aforementioned reinforcing member (161) may be provided on the reinforcing plate (160).

[0139] The reinforcing portion (161) can be formed along the edge of the reinforcing plate (160).

[0140] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 8, an example in which a component (170) is supported by a component support member (143b) is described.

[0141] The reinforcing member (161) can support a component (170) provided on one surface of the first plate (111). The component (170) can be provided to be supported by, for example, at least two insulators (110).

[0142] The connecting member (140) may be provided with a component support member (143b). The component support member (143b) may support the component (170) on one side of the component (170).

[0143] As illustrated in Fig. 8, the component support member (143b) may be supported by the first insulator (110) by having a portion that is arranged parallel to the first plate (111) of the first insulator (110). The component support member (143b) may have a portion that extends in a direction intersecting the first plate (111) of the first insulator (110) and / or a portion that supports the component (170). In Fig. 8, an example in which the component support member (143b) supports the component (170) in the +z direction is illustrated.

[0144] Optionally, the insulator (110) of the present invention may be provided with a reinforcing member (161). The reinforcing member (161) may be positioned between the component support member (143b) and the component (170) to enhance strength. The reinforcing member (161) may be formed in a shape in which one side is bent.

[0145] For example, the reinforcing member (161) may include a reinforcing joint member (161a) and a reinforcing support member (161b).

[0146] The reinforcing joint (161a) can be coupled to the first plate (111). The reinforcing joint (161a) can be positioned between the first plate (111) and the component support (143b). The reinforcing support (161b) is positioned on one side of the component (170) to reinforce strength. The reinforcing support (161b) can support the component (170) in the +z direction. The reinforcing support (161b) can be positioned between the component support (143b) and the component (170).

[0147] Referring to Fig. 12, a component support member (143b) supporting a component (170) viewed from another direction is illustrated. The embodiment of Fig. 12 is not different from the embodiment of Fig. 8 in terms of configuration except that the fourth insulator (410) is provided with a component support member (143b) and a reinforcing member (161), and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0148] FIG. 9 shows another example in which a component (180) is supported by a component support member (143b).

[0149] As shown in Fig. 9, the component support member (143c) supports the component (180) in the -z direction, and is different from the component support member (143b) of Fig. 8 in the direction in which it supports the component (170).

[0150] The component support member (143c) can be connected to one side of the component (180). The component support member (143b) can be placed between the component (180) and the reinforcing member (161).

[0151] The component support part (143c) of Fig. 9 is arranged on one side of the component (180) and can support the component (170). Since it has the same shape as the example described in Fig. 8, a description thereof will be omitted.

[0152] Fig. 13 differs from Fig. 9 in that two component supports (144c-1, 144c-3) support the component (180) in the -z direction and the +z direction, respectively.

[0153] The component support member (144c-1) may be formed in a shape in which at least one side is bent.

[0154] For example, the component support member (144c-1) may have one side bent. A structure in which one side of the component support member (144c-1) is bent can form a structure that is easy to place between the insulator (110) and the component (180).

[0155] As another example, the component support member (144c-3) may be folded on both sides. The structure of the component support member (144c-3) having folded sides can distribute and transmit stress transmitted from the component (180) in both directions. This allows the component (180) to be supported with a more stable structure.

[0156] The connecting member (140) may be implemented in a form in which a plurality of members extending in three intersecting directions are connected. At least one insulator (110) may be connected to the connecting member (140). The connecting member (140) is preferably formed of a material having sufficient rigidity to withstand the weight of the insulator (110). The connecting member (140) enables the strength of the insulator (110) to be maintained. The connecting member (140) enables the components (170, 180) to be supported or joined.

[0157] Hereinafter, the structure of the connecting member (140) will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19.

[0158] The connecting member (140) may include a first member (143a, 143b, 143c), a second member (144a, 144b, 144c) and / or a third member (145).

[0159] A connection area (141) can be formed by at least two connections of the first member (143a, 143b, 143c), the second member (144a, 144b, 144c) and the third member (145).

[0160] The first members (143a, 143b, 143c) may extend in the first direction. For example, the first members (143a, 143b, 143c) may be provided in multiple numbers. The first members (143a, 143b, 143c) may be a set of members arranged in the +x direction in FIG. 17. The first members (143a, 143b, 143c) may support at least a portion of the insulator (110) and the component (170).

[0161] The first member (143a, 143b, 143c) may be provided with an insulating cover (143a-1). In FIGS. 17 and 18, an example is shown in which an insulating cover (143a-1) is provided on the first member (143a, 143b, 143c) disposed on one side in the +z direction. The insulating cover (143a-1) may be formed such that a cross-section of a partially folded shape extends in the +x direction. An example is shown in which two insulating covers (143a-1) provided on the first member (143a, 143b, 143c) are provided and spaced apart in the +y direction.

[0162] The first member (143a, 143b, 143c) may have at least one component support portion (143b). In FIGS. 17 and 18, an example is shown in which the component support portion (143b) is provided on the first member (143a, 143b, 143c) so as to be arranged on one side in the -z direction. The component support portion (143b) may be formed such that a cross-section bent in the shape of the letter L extends in the +x direction. The component support portions (143b) may be arranged so as to be spaced apart in the +y direction. The component support portions (143b) may be arranged so as to be spaced apart in the +z direction.

[0163] The second members (144a, 144b, 144c) may extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. In FIG. 17, the second members (144a, 144b, 144c) may be a set of members extending in the +y direction. The second members (144a, 144b, 144c) may be coupled to the first members (143a, 143b, 143c). The second members (144a, 144b, 144c) may be provided in multiple numbers. The second members (144a, 144b, 144c) may support at least a portion of the insulator (110) and the component (170). The second member (144a, 144b, 144c) can be connected to the third member (145) to form a connection area (141).

[0164] Optionally, referring to FIGS. 17 and 19, an example is shown in which an insulating cover (143a-1) is provided on a second member (144a, 144b, 144c) disposed on one side in the +z direction. The insulating cover (143a-1) may be formed such that a cross-section of a shape that has been folded once extends in the +y direction. The insulating cover (143a-1) may have an L-shaped cross-section. The insulating covers (143a-1) provided on the second members (144a, 144b, 144c) may be provided in two pieces spaced apart from each other in the +x direction.

[0165] The second member (144a, 144b, 144c) may have at least one component support member (143b). In FIGS. 17 and 18, an example is shown in which the component support member (143b) is provided (on the first member (143a, 143b, 143c)) so as to be arranged on one side in the -z direction. The component support member (143b) may be formed such that a cross-section bent in the shape of the letter L extends in the +x direction. The component support members (143b) may be arranged so as to be spaced apart in the +y direction. The component support members (143b) may be arranged so as to be spaced apart in the +z direction.

[0166] The third member (145) may extend in a third direction intersecting the first direction and / or the second direction. In FIGS. 17 to 19, the third member (145) may be a set of members extending in the +z direction. The third member (145) may be coupled to at least one of the first members (143a, 143b, 143c) and the second members (144a, 144b, 144c). The third member (145) may include at least one of an insulating cover (143a-1) and a component support member (143b).

[0167] At least one of the first to third members (143a, 143b, 143c, 144a, 144b, 144c, 145) may have a portion that is bent on at least one side so as to support a part of a component (170) provided on the first plate (111). Optionally, at least one of the first to third members (143a, 143b, 143c, 144a, 144b, 144c, 145) may be bent on one side or on both sides.

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 23, the configuration of the reinforcing plate (160) provided in the insulator (110) of the present invention will be described.

[0169] A reinforcing plate (160) may be provided on the insulator (110). For example, the reinforcing plate (160) may be provided on the inner surface of the first plate (111).

[0170] The reinforcing plate (160) may be provided with a reinforcing portion (161). Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the reinforcing portion (161) may be provided on at least a portion of the edge of the reinforcing plate (160).

[0171] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 23, the reinforcing members (161) can be arranged parallel to each other on the reinforcing plate (160). The detailed configuration of the reinforcing members (161) will be replaced with the previous description.

[0172] The insulator (110) described above is not limited to the configuration and method of the embodiments described above, and the embodiments may be configured by selectively combining all or part of each embodiment so that various modifications can be made.

[0173] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit and essential characteristics thereof. Therefore, the above detailed description should not be construed in any way as limiting but rather as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the scope of equivalents of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An insulator including a first plate, a second plate, and a vacuum space provided between the first plate and the second plate, An insulator comprising a connecting member having at least one connecting area that enables connection of the above insulator.

2. In paragraph 15, The above block is, A non-vacuum insulating portion in contact with one side of the above insulating body; and An insulator comprising an insulating cover supported on the inner surface of the insulator to shield the non-vacuum insulating portion.

3. In paragraph 2, The above insulation is provided in at least two pieces arranged in a direction intersecting each other, The above non-vacuum insulation part is an insulation material arranged to insulate one side of adjacent insulation materials.

4. In paragraph 2, The above insulation is provided in at least two pieces arranged in a direction intersecting each other, The above insulating covers are insulating materials each supported on one side of an adjacent insulating material.

5. In paragraph 4, An insulation body in which both sides of the above insulation cover are supported on one side of the insulation body adjacent to each other.

6. In paragraph 2, An insulating body having a reinforcing member that is joined to the inner surface of the first plate and has at least one side protruding and supported on one side of the insulating cover.

7. In paragraph 6, The above reinforcing member is an insulating material that is supported so as to face both sides of the insulating cover.

8. In paragraph 2, The above insulating cover is an insulating body formed so that at least one part thereof is bent.

9. In paragraph 2, An insulator having a reinforcing plate connected to one side of the first plate and having a reinforcing portion that is bent at least on one side and supported on one side of the insulating cover.

10. In paragraph 9, The above reinforcing member is an insulator provided on at least a portion of the edge of the reinforcing plate.

11. In paragraph 9, The above reinforcing member is an insulator that supports one side of a component provided on one surface of the first plate.

12. In paragraph 1, The above connecting member is, An insulator implemented in the form of multiple members connected and extending in three intersecting directions.

13. In paragraph 15, The above connecting member is, A first member extending in the first direction; A second member extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and coupled to the first member; and An insulator including a third member extending in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction and coupled to at least one of the first member and the second member.

14. In paragraph 13, At least one of the first to third members, An insulator having a portion that is bent on at least one side so as to support a portion of a component provided on a first plate.

15. In paragraph 1, A block is further provided on at least one side of the above connection area, The above connecting member is an insulator including a plurality of members that are connected so as to be arranged in at least two directions intersecting each other.

Images