Heat insulator

Abstract

The present invention provides a heat insulator comprising: a first plate; a second plate; a vacuum space portion provided between the first plate and the second plate; and an exterior casing provided to cover one surface of the second plate, wherein the exterior casing has a portion that is at least partially bent to be connected to one side of the second plate.

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 have a problem in that the external surface becomes uneven due to the vacuum pressure applied to the vacuum space (so-called "woolly phenomenon"). This can cause deformation of the insulator, and this deformation can lead to assembly failure when each insulator is assembled together. When the above-mentioned "woolly shape" is exposed to the exterior, there is a problem in that it is not aesthetically pleasing.

[0007] When an insulator is installed near the assembly of a refrigerator, heat diffusion is not properly achieved, causing problems such as a rise in surface temperature on the side of the refrigerator and the formation of condensation. Therefore, development of a structure for an insulator capable of diffusing heat is required.

[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 insulation of the present invention provides a technology of a structure advantageous for heat diffusion generated in a machine room or the like.

[0016] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for alleviating the problem of poor assembly of an insulator caused by the problem of the surface becoming uneven due to vacuum pressure.

[0017] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for minimizing deformation due to vacuum pressure.

[0018] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for preventing external exposure of a bulge shape on the surface of an insulator.

[0019] Optionally or additionally, the present invention provides a technique for providing strength reinforcement near the edge.

[0020] The insulator of the present invention may include a first plate; and a second plate. The insulator may include a vacuum space provided between the first plate and the second plate. The insulator may include a casing (e.g., an outer casing) provided to cover one surface of the second plate. The casing may include a portion that is at least partially bent and connected to one side of the second plate.

[0021] One surface of the second plate may have a convex portion that is deformed by the vacuum pressure forming the vacuum space portion and formed to convex toward the casing. One surface or the inner surface of the casing may have a connecting portion connected to the convex portion; and / or a spaced portion spaced apart from the peripheral portion of the convex portion on one surface of the second plate. The spaced portion between one surface of the second plate and one surface of the casing may be filled with air. For example, the spaced portion between the outer surface of the second plate and the inner surface of the casing may be filled with air.

[0022] The casing may have a bend extending from at least one side to be bent.

[0023] The above-mentioned bending portion may include at least one of a first bending portion, a second bending portion, and a third bending portion. The first bending portion may be bent and extended from one side of the casing. The second bending portion may be bent and extended from the other side of the casing opposite the one side. The third bending portion may be bent and extended from the casing provided between the first bending portion and the second bending portion.

[0024] The above second bend portion may have a portion that extends longer than the above first bend portion.

[0025] The casing may have an extension portion extending parallel to the extension direction of the second plate from one side of the second plate.

[0026] A surface component may be provided on one side of the above insulation. The casing may have a portion connected to the surface component.

[0027] The casing may have at least one bend portion that extends to be bent on at least one side and is supported by the second plate member. The bend portion may be connected to the surface component.

[0028] The above casing may be formed of a material having a higher ionization tendency than the second plate.

[0029] The second plate may have a first portion formed as a surface defining the vacuum space. The second plate may have a second portion extending in a direction intersecting at least one side of the first portion. An edge between the first portion and the second portion may be formed as a curved surface having a predetermined R value.

[0030] The second part may be provided with a notch formed so that a portion thereof is cut off.

[0031] The second part may be provided with a through hole in which a joining member is installed to enable joining of adjacent panels.

[0032] The above casing may have a bending portion extending to be bent on at least one side. The bending portion may cover the joining member.

[0033] The second plate may have a folded portion. The second plate may have a notched portion. The notched portion may be provided at a corner between a folded portion provided on one side and a folded portion provided on the other side adjacent to the one side. The notched portion may be formed by cutting at least a portion.

[0034] The insulator of the present invention can provide a structure that is advantageous for heat diffusion generated in a machine room or the like.

[0035] The insulator of the present invention can alleviate the problem of poor assembly of the insulator caused by the problem of the surface becoming uneven due to vacuum pressure.

[0036] The insulator of the present invention can minimize deformation due to vacuum pressure.

[0037] The insulator of the present invention can prevent external exposure of a shape of a bulge on the surface of the insulator.

[0038] The insulation of the present invention can have its strength reinforced near the edge.

[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] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of an example of a body formed by a plurality of insulators.

[0044] Figure 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part A of Figure 5.

[0045] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a refrigerator having a body formed by an insulator according to the present invention.

[0046] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram looking into the interior of Figure 7.

[0047] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 8.

[0048] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of part C of Figure 9.

[0049] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing another part of an example of a body formed by a plurality of insulators.

[0050] Fig. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of one side of Fig. 11.

[0051] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing an example of a portion of the second plate.

[0052] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing another example of a portion of the second plate.

[0053] Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the door removed and the casing disassembled.

[0054] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the assembled casing in Figure 15.

[0055] Figure 17 is an enlarged perspective view of part D (one side in the +y direction) of Figure 16.

[0056] Figure 18 is an enlarged perspective view of part E of Figure 16 (one side in the -y direction).

[0057] From now on, [Common description] describing the parts commonly defined in all embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060]

[0061] 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.

[0062]

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065]

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068]

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071]

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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).

[0074]

[0075] 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.

[0076]

[0077] 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)

[0078]

[0079] 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.

[0080]

[0081] 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).

[0082] The above drawer guide may be provided with a second storage chamber drawer guide provided in the second storage chamber.

[0083]

[0084] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a shelf and / or a shelf support frame.

[0085]

[0086] [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.

[0087] From now on, based on each drawing, the [Description based on drawing] section describing the present invention will be described.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] In the present invention, the casing (112-1, 312-1) is provided to cover one side or the outer surface of the second plate (112, 312). The casing (112-1, 312-1) may include a portion that is at least partially bent and connected to one side of the second plate. For example, the casing (112-1, 312-1) may include a portion that is at least partially bent and connected to the edge of the second plate (112, 312).

[0097] In the present invention, since the second plate (112, 312) and the casing (112-1, 312-1) form an external space, the second plate (112, 312) and the casing (112-1, 312-1) may be referred to together as an outer casing.

[0098] By covering one side or the outer surface of the second plate (112, 312) with the casing (112-1, 312-1), the function as a heat diffusion plate is performed.

[0099] The casing (112-1, 312-1) may be made of a material having a higher ionization tendency than the material of the first and / or second plates (111, 311) (112, 312) to prevent corrosion. For example, the casing (112-1, 312-1) may be a galvanized steel plate.

[0100] The aesthetic appeal can be improved by preventing the uneven surface that may be formed on one side or the outer surface of the second plate (112, 312) by vacuum pressure in the vacuum space (115, 315) from being exposed to the outside.

[0101] Preferably, the insulator (110, 310) on which the casing (112-1, 312-1) of the present invention is installed may be a portion forming at least one surface of the refrigerator body. For example, the insulator (110, 310) on which the casing (112-1, 312-1) is installed may be two surfaces arranged parallel to each other. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0102] Optionally, the present invention may be provided with at least two insulators (110, 310) arranged in a direction intersecting each other, but connected so that a portion of one side overlaps each other. Two adjacent insulators (110, 310) may be provided so that their respective vacuum spaces (115, 315) overlap or do not overlap each other in at least one of the thickness direction and the length direction of the vacuum space (115, 315).

[0103] Optionally, the casing (112-1, 312-1) may cover the joint portion where one side of the insulators (110, 210) overlaps with another. The casing (112-1, 312-1) may protect the joint portion. The casing (112-1, 312-1) may prevent the joint portion from being exposed to the outside.

[0104] Two adjacent insulators (110, 210) can be arranged so that parts of the curved extensions (111c, 211c) face each other.

[0105]

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, two adjacent insulators (110, 210) are arranged on one side and the other side intersecting the first side, respectively. An additional insulator (118) is arranged on one side or the inner side of the first plate (111, 211).

[0107] Support brackets (118a, 118b) are installed to support additional insulation (118). One side of the additional insulation (118) and / or the other side intersecting the one side are connected to the first plate (111) of the first insulation (110) and / or the first plate (211) of the second insulation (210). On another side of the additional insulation (118), a first support bracket (118a, 118b) at least a portion of which is provided to be inclined and / or a second support bracket (118a, 118b) that is formed to protrude from and / or be bent from the first support bracket (118a, 118b) may be provided.

[0108] On one side of two adjacent insulators (110, 210), there is a portion where the first and second plates (111, 211) (112, 212) are joined to each other, and a portion where the two insulators (110, 210) face each other, which is vulnerable to insulation. As an additional insulator (118) is arranged, the insulation performance can be improved on one side or the inner side of the two adjacent insulators (110, 210).

[0109] The casing (112-1, 312-1) may have a bending portion (112-1c) that is bent on one side of the insulator (110, 210).

[0110]

[0111] Fig. 6 illustrates an example in which a bending portion (112-1c) covers one side of an insulator (110, 210). An example in which the first and second insulators (110, 210) are joined to each other is illustrated.

[0112] With respect to the bending portion (112-1c), referring to FIG. 6, a bending step portion (112-1c1) and / or an end portion (112-1c2) may be provided. The bending step portion (112-1c1) may have a higher step than the surrounding area in the bending portion (112-1c) of the casing (112-1, 312-1). As a result, the bending step portion (112-1c1) can be accommodated with minimal interference with one side of the second plate (212) or the inside. The end portion (112-1c2) may be formed to be folded, thereby reinforcing strength.

[0113] The bend portion (112-1c) can extend more than 50 mm in FIG. 6. This facilitates heat diffusion through the bend portion (112-1c). Air inflow and outflow can be blocked. This improves the surface temperature of the insulators (110, 210). At least two insulators (110, 210) can be sufficiently shielded from external exposure at the joint.

[0114] The casing (112-1, 312-1) may have an extension portion (312-1e) extending parallel to the extension direction of the second plate (112, 312) from one side of the second plate (112, 312).

[0115] FIGS. 7 to 10 illustrate examples in which a casing (112-1, 312-1) has an extension portion (312-1e) on one side. The extension portion (312-1e) may be formed to extend further than one side of the second plate (112, 312). The extension portion (312-1e) may not have a portion that overlaps the second plate (312).

[0116] The casing (112-1, 312-1) can shield other components arranged on one side of the insulator (110, 310) by the extension (312-1e) and other components arranged further on one side or inside of these components.

[0117] Optionally, a machine room (109) may be provided on one side of the insulator (110, 310). For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a machine room (109) may be provided on the lower side of one side of the insulator (110, 310).

[0118] The extension (312-1e) may have a portion connected to a machine room cover (109a) that defines a space within the machine room (109).

[0119] Heat generated in the machine room (109) can be transferred to the extension (312-1e) of the casing (112-1, 312-1) and released. As a result, the surface temperature of the insulator (110, 310) can be improved, thereby preventing dew formation.

[0120] A part may be provided on one side of the insulator (110, 310), and the casing (112-1, 312-1) may have a portion connected to the part. The part connected to the casing (112-1, 312-1) may be, for example, a surface part.

[0121] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the casing (112-1, 312-1) has at least one bent portion (112-1b) that extends to be bent on at least one side and is supported on a second plate (112, 312) member, and / or the bent portion (112-1b) can be connected to the component.

[0122] The component includes a hotline (150) and / or a bracket (151a, 151b, 151c) for receiving the hotline (150) to connect the hotline (150) to the insulator (110, 310). The bracket (151a, 151b, 151c) may also be referred to as a receiving bracket for receiving the component.

[0123] For example, the hot line (150) may be formed in a circular tube shape so that refrigerant flows inside. The hot line (150) is connected to the condenser, and can receive heat generated from the condenser and dissipate heat. The hot line (150) transfers heat to the connecting surface of the first storage compartment door and / or the second storage compartment door, thereby preventing condensation from occurring due to a temperature difference between the outside and inside of the refrigerator.

[0124] As shown in Fig. 12, a hot line (150) may be provided on one side of the insulator (110, 310).

[0125] The brackets (151a, 151b, 151c) may include a first member (151a) that supports connection to a hotline (150) and / or a second member (151b) that is connected to and hooked to a second plate (112, 312). The brackets (151a, 151b, 151c) may be connected to and supported by an insulating material disposed on one side or the inner side of the first plate (111, 211) of the insulator (110, 310), and / or may include a third member (151c) that is connected to the first member (151a) and the second member (151b).

[0126] The first member (151a) may have a portion formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the insulator (110, 310) and a portion formed parallel to the thickness direction of the insulator (110, 310).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12, an example is shown in which a surface component includes a hot line (150) and a bracket (151a, 151b, 151c) that accommodates the hot line to connect the hot line (150) to an insulator (110, 310). A bent portion (112-1b) of a casing (112-1, 312-1) is connected along one surface of the bracket (151a, 151b, 151c).

[0128] As shown in Fig. 12, an example is shown in which the bent portion (112-1b) is connected to the second member (151b) of the bracket (151a, 151b, 151c) at the end and / or is connected to the first member (151a) at the bent portion.

[0129] In this way, the casing (112-1, 312-1) can function as a heat diffusion plate that diffuses heat generated or transmitted from the surface component as the bending portion (112-1b) is connected to the surface component.

[0130] Optionally, the bend (112-1b) may be placed near the insulating structure. For example, the bend (112-1b) may be bent so that one side faces the -x direction.

[0131] The bending portion (112-1b) can be connected to the insulating structure or spaced apart from it by a predetermined distance.

[0132] It is preferable that the bending portion (112-1b) be positioned so as not to interfere with the insulating structure.

[0133] This reduces condensation in the vicinity of the insulation structure and allows heat to be diffused through the insulation structure.

[0134] As illustrated in Fig. 12, the insulating structure can be exemplified by a gasket (119), which, as described above, can be understood as a separate member placed on the outside of the heat transfer resistor.

[0135] In the present invention, the second plate (112, 312) may have a first portion (112a, 312a) formed as a surface defining a vacuum space (115, 315) and / or a second portion (112b, 312b) bent at one end of the first portion. The second portion (112b, 312b) may be formed through a bending process. The second portion (112b, 312b) may also be referred to as a bent portion or a bent section.

[0136] As shown in Fig. 14, in the second plate (112), the corner between the second part (112b) and the first part (112a) may be a curved surface having a predetermined R value.

[0137] Due to this, the second plate (112, 312) does not tear during molding.

[0138] Optionally, the second portion (112b) may be provided with a through hole (112e) into which a component is installed to enable joining of adjacent panels (e.g., insulators). As a result, at least two insulators (110, 210) in an intersecting direction can be joined to each other by the second plate.

[0139] Optionally, as shown in Fig. 14, the second portion (112b) provided at the corner of the second plate (112) may be provided with a notch (112d) formed so that a portion thereof is cut off.

[0140] The notch (112d) may be formed by cutting across the folded portion (112b, second portion) provided on two surfaces. The folded portions of the two surfaces may meet to form a corner. The corner of the folded portion may include a curved portion. Optionally, the notch (112d) may be formed at the corner of the folded portion.

[0141] The second plate (112, 312) may be provided with a notched portion (112d) at the corner between a bend portion (112b, second part) provided on one side and a bend portion provided on the other side adjacent to the one side.

[0142] The end of the second part of the second plate (112, 312) may additionally include a bent part. The bent end may include a part connected to the second part.

[0143] In this way, in the present invention, the second plate (112, 312) can form a double-folded structure, so that strength reinforcement can be achieved at the edge portion of the second plate (112, 312), i.e., the assembly portion of the insulating body that intersects each other.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 16, one side or outer surface of the second plate (112, 312) may be provided with a convex portion (312p) that is formed to be convex toward the casing (112-1, 312-1) by being deformed by vacuum pressure forming a vacuum space portion (115, 315).

[0145] One side or outer surface of the second plate (112, 312) may also be provided with a concave portion (312q) near the convex portion (312p). One side or inner surface of the casing (112-1, 312-1) may be provided with a connecting portion (312-1p) and / or a separating portion (312-1q). The connecting portion (312-1p) may be connected to the convex portion (312p). The separating portion (312-1q) may be separated from the peripheral portion of the convex portion (312p) on one side or outer surface of the second plate (112, 312).

[0146] In the present invention, during the process of forming a vacuum space (115, 315) between the first plate (111, 211) and the second plate (112, 312), a so-called "woolly" shape is formed on one side or the outer surface of the second plate (112, 312) due to the vacuum pressure. The "woolly" shape refers to a shape in which a concave portion (312q) and a convex portion (312p) are formed, or have different heights.

[0147] Among these, the connecting portion (312-1p) may be a portion that is connected to the convex portion (312p), which is a relatively convex portion of the second plate (112, 312), on one surface or the inner surface of the casing (112-1, 312-1). The spacing portion (312-1q) may be a portion that is spaced apart from the peripheral portion of the convex portion (312p) of the second plate (112, 312) on one surface or the inner surface of the casing (112-1, 312-1).

[0148] Optionally, air may be accommodated between the gap (312-1q) of the second plate (112, 312) and one surface of the casing (112-1, 312-1). For example, air may be accommodated between the gap (312-1q) of the second plate (112, 312) and the inner surface of the casing (112-1, 312-1). This enables the formation of an air insulation material between the second plate (112, 312) and the casing (112-1, 312-1), and may improve the insulation performance of the insulation (110, 310).

[0149] Optionally, the casing (112-1, 312-1) may have at least one bending portion (312-1a, 312-1b, 312-1c). The bending portion (312-1a, 312-1b, 312-1c) may extend to be bent on at least one side of the casing (112-1, 312-1). The bending portion (312-1a, 312-1b, 312-1c) may be supported on the second plate (112, 312) member.

[0150] The bending portion (312-1a, 312-1b, 312-1c) may be joined in a form that includes, for example, a portion that is fitted into, hooked onto, or pressurizes the second plate (112, 312).

[0151] Optionally, the bending portions (312-1a, 312-1b, 312-1c) may be bonded or joined to the second plate (112, 312) by a hot melt method or by applying a metal adhesive.

[0152] The bending portion may include at least one of a first bending portion (312-1a), a second bending portion (312-1b), and a third bending portion (312-1c).

[0153] The first bend (312-1a) can be bent and extended from one side of the casing (112-1, 312-1).

[0154] The second bend (312-1b) can be bent and extended from the other side opposite to one side of the casing (112-1, 312-1).

[0155] The first bend portion (312-1a) and the second bend portion (312-1b) can be formed in a direction parallel to each other.

[0156] The third bend (312-1c) can be bent and extended from another side of the casing (112-1, 312-1) provided between the first bend (312-1a) and the second bend (312-1b).

[0157] The third bend (312-1c) may be formed in a direction intersecting with the first bend (312-1a). The third bend (312-1c) may be formed in a direction intersecting with the second bend (312-1b).

[0158] A first bend (312-1a) may be provided at the first end of the casing (112-1, 312-1), and a third bend (312-1c) may be provided at the third end. For example, FIG. 17 illustrates an example in which a first bend (312-1a) is provided at one side or front end of the casing (112-1, 312-1), and a third bend (312-1c) is provided at the upper end. A second bend (312-1b) may be provided at the second end of the casing (112-1, 312-1), and a third bend (312-1c) may be provided at the third end. For example, FIG. 18 illustrates an example in which a second bend (312-1b) is provided on the other side or rear end of the casing (112-1, 312-1) and a third bend (312-1c) is provided on the upper end.

[0159] However, it is not necessarily limited to this structure, and other examples may be possible if a bending portion is provided on at least one side of the casing (112-1, 312-1). That is, an example may be possible in which the casing (112-1, 312-1) is provided with one or two of the first to third bending portions (312-1a, 312-1b, 312-1c) and supported on the second plate (112, 312).

[0160] Referring to FIG. 17, in the present invention, the first bent portion (312-1a) may be bent in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the casing (112-1, 312-1) extends, on one side of the casing (112-1, 312-1). The first bent portion (312-1a) is formed to extend in the thickness direction of the insulator (110, 310). As described above, the first bent portion (312-1a) may be placed near the insulating structure.

[0161] Referring to Fig. 18, in the present invention, the second bend portion (312-1b) is bent on the other side of the casing (112-1, 312-1). The second bend portion (312-1b) is formed to extend in the thickness direction of the insulator (110, 310). The second bend portion (312-1b) can be bent in a direction parallel to the first bend portion (312-1a).

[0162] The second bending portion (312-1b) can be positioned to cover the component, thereby preventing external exposure of the component. The component may be, for example, a joining member that enables the panel to be joined to the second plate (112, 312).

[0163] The panel coupled to the second plate (112, 312) may be the second plate (112, 312) of the second insulation body (110, 310).

[0164] The second bend (312-1b) may be extended longer than the first bend (312-1a). Therefore, heat diffusion may be more advantageous on the other side where the second bend (312-1b) is provided than on the one side where the first bend (312-1a) is provided.

[0165] The insulator 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.

[0166] 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. First plate; Second plate; A vacuum space provided between the first plate and the second plate; and An insulator including a casing provided to cover one side of the second plate 2. In paragraph 1, One side of the second plate has a convex portion that is deformed by the vacuum pressure forming the vacuum space portion and is formed to be convex toward the casing, One side of the above casing is, a contact portion that comes into contact with the convex portion; and An insulator having a spacer portion spaced apart from the peripheral portion of the convex portion on one surface of the second plate.

3. In paragraph 2, An insulation material filled with air in the gap between one side of the second plate and one side of the casing.

4. In paragraph 1, The above casing is an insulator having a bending portion extending to be bent on at least one side.

5. In paragraph 4, The above bending part is, A first bent portion extending and bent from one side of the above casing; A second bent portion extending from the opposite side of the one side of the casing; and An insulator including at least one third bend portion that is bent and extends from the casing provided between the first bend portion and the second bend portion.

6. In paragraph 5, An insulator in which the second bend portion has a portion that extends longer than the first bend portion.

7. In paragraph 1, The above casing is an insulator having an extension portion extending parallel to the extension direction of the second plate from one side of the second plate.

8. In paragraph 1, An insulator having a surface part on one side of the insulator, and the casing having a portion that comes into contact with the surface part.

9. In paragraph 8, The casing has at least one bending portion that extends to be bent on at least one side and is supported by the second plate member, and the bending portion is an insulator that comes into contact with the surface component.

10. In paragraph 1, The above casing is an insulator formed of a material having a higher ionization tendency than the second plate.

11. In paragraph 1, The above second plate, It comprises a first part formed by a surface defining the above vacuum space, and a second part extending in a direction intersecting at least one side of the first part, An insulator in which the edge between the first and second parts is formed as a curved surface having a predetermined R value.

12. In paragraph 11, An insulator having a notched portion formed so that a portion thereof is cut in the second part.

13. In paragraph 11, An insulation body having a through hole in the second part above, into which a fixing member is installed to enable fixing of an adjacent panel.

14. In paragraph 13, The above casing has a bending portion extending to be bent on at least one side, and the bending portion is an insulating material covering the fixing member.

15. In paragraph 1, The above casing is an insulator including a portion that is at least partially bent and connected to one side of the second plate.

Images