Adiabatic body

Abstract

A refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator includes a main body that forms the exterior of the refrigerator. The main body includes at least two panels configured to be vacuum adiabatic bodies. A door is rotatably installed on a surface of the main body. A hinge is installed on a third panel, which forms a third surface of the refrigerator, among the at least two panels. The hinge rotatably supports the door. The hinge includes a hinge fixing part coupled to the third panel. A hinge reinforcing plate is disposed between the hinge fixing part and the third panel. The hinge reinforcing plate can prevent a first case of the third panel from being deformed due to a load applied to the hinge fixing part.

Description

Insulator

[0001] The present invention relates to an insulator. The present invention relates to a refrigerator equipped with an insulator.

[0002] As a related prior art for solving the door sagging problem, Korean Patent No. 10-1432301 (announced on August 20, 2014; hereinafter, “patent document”) discloses a refrigerator that prevents the door from sagging by reinforcing the rigidity of the bracket. The refrigerator of the patent document includes a bracket coupled to a hinge, side reinforcing members provided at both corners of the main body and connected to the bracket, and a reinforcing part formed by bending a predetermined portion of the bottom surface of the bracket upward so as to be connected to the surface of the bracket and the bottom surface. When the bracket, side reinforcing members, and reinforcing part of the patent document are applied to a conventional foam-insulated refrigerator, they can be joined by drilling holes in the foam or the main body. However, when applied to a vacuum-insulated refrigerator, there is a concern of vacuum leakage when welding or drilling holes on the surface of the vacuum insulation material of the main body. When the first case of a vacuum insulation body made of metal material is increased beyond a certain thickness for strength reinforcement, the insulation performance is reduced due to heat transfer through the first case, so there is a problem that it is difficult to satisfy both the improvement of insulation performance and the reinforcement of strength.

[0003] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator having a structure capable of solving the above-described problems.

[0004] The first objective is to provide a refrigerator having a structure capable of reinforcing the strength of a hinge and / or preventing sagging of a door while maintaining the insulation performance of a body composed of a vacuum insulator.

[0005] The second purpose is to provide a refrigerator having a structure capable of preventing cold air leakage and / or vacuum leakage due to deformation of a first case made of metal.

[0006] The third purpose is to provide a refrigerator having a structure that can secure additional strength of the hinge.

[0007] The insulator of the present invention may be provided as at least one insulator. For example, the insulator of the present invention may provide a first wall extending in one direction; and a second wall extending in a direction different from the one direction. As another example, 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 direction different from the first insulator. The insulator may be provided in the form of a panel.

[0008] The refrigerator of the present invention may include at least one panel. A plurality of such panels may be connected by joints. The present invention may include a first panel forming a first surface (e.g., a side surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present invention may include a second panel forming a second surface (e.g., a rear surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present invention may include a third panel forming a third surface (e.g., a top surface) of the refrigerator. Optionally, the present invention may include a fourth panel forming a fourth surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the refrigerator. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may be provided in plurality. The panels may be insulators or vacuum insulators. The first panel may include one of the first panels forming one of the first surfaces of the refrigerator, and another of the first panels forming another of the second surfaces of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third, and fourth panels may provide at least a portion of a wall forming a storage compartment of the refrigerator. At least one of the first, second, third and fourth panels may provide at least a portion of a wall forming the main body of the refrigerator.

[0009] The present invention may include a body including at least one panel forming the exterior of a refrigerator and / or composed of a vacuum insulator; and a door installed to open and close an opening of the body. A hinge may be installed on a third panel forming a third surface of the refrigerator among the panels to support the door. The hinge may include a hinge joint coupled to the third panel. The hinge may include a hinge axis coupled to the door. The hinge may include a hinge connection connecting the hinge joint and the hinge axis. The hinge may include a hinge reinforcement plate disposed between the hinge joint and the third panel. The hinge reinforcement plate may be disposed on the third panel. The vacuum insulator may include a first plate facing the interior of the refrigerator; and a second plate facing the exterior of the refrigerator. The vacuum insulator may include a vacuum space formed between the first plate and the second plate. The vacuum insulator may include a support for maintaining the vacuum space. The support may include a first support plate disposed to face the first plate. The support may include a second support plate disposed to face the second plate. The support may be disposed between the first support plate and the second support plate and / or may include at least two bars for maintaining the vacuum space. The hinge reinforcement plate may be disposed between the hinge joint and the second plate. The hinge reinforcement plate may be disposed between the second plate and the second support plate. A reinforcement plate receiving portion may be formed to protrude from the second plate to accommodate the hinge reinforcement plate. A reinforcement plate connecting portion may be formed to be recessed from the second support plate to accommodate the hinge reinforcement plate. In the above hinge reinforcement plate, a bent portion may be formed to protrude toward the first plate.The hinge joint and the hinge reinforcement plate may be coupled to the third panel by a coupling member protruding from the second plate. The coupling member may be implemented as a bolt member, and / or the bolt member may be arranged to overlap or be adjacent to an imaginary line passing through the center of the bar. The hinge joint may include a first coupling hole to an L-th coupling hole, and / or the coupling member may be configured as a first bolt member to an L-th bolt member formed to be able to penetrate the first coupling hole to the L-th coupling hole, respectively. The at least two bars may include first bars to M-th bars that are sequentially spaced apart from each other in a first direction of the third panel. The at least two bars may include first bars to N-th bars that are sequentially spaced apart from each other in a second direction of the third panel.

[0010] A joining member that joins the hinge joint and the hinge reinforcement plate may be provided. The joining member may include a first bolt part, a second bolt part, and / or a third bolt part.

[0011] The above-mentioned connecting member may include a first bolt portion that overlaps or is adjacent to a first bar among at least two bars spaced apart in a first direction of the third panel and a second bar among at least two bars spaced apart in a second direction of the third panel.

[0012] The above-mentioned connecting member may include a second bolt portion disposed between a second bar and a third bar among at least two bars spaced apart in the first direction of the third panel and / or disposed overlapping or adjacent to the second bar among at least two bars spaced apart in the second direction of the third panel.

[0013] The above-mentioned connecting member may include a third bolt portion that overlaps or is adjacent to a first bar among at least two bars spaced apart in the first direction of the third panel and a fourth bar among at least two bars spaced apart in the second direction of the third panel.

[0014] The third panel may include an extension portion extending from the second plate toward the door. The extension portion may include a first extension portion extending in one direction (e.g., horizontally) from the second plate. The extension portion may include a second extension portion extending in another direction (e.g., vertically) from the first extension portion. An end portion of the hinge reinforcement plate may extend along the second plate to an end portion of the first extension portion.

[0015] The third panel may include an insulating reinforcement member extending from the first plate toward the surface of the first extension member and / or the surface of the second extension member so as to wrap around the surface of the second plate. The third panel may include a decoration that wraps around the surface of the insulating reinforcement member and / or the surface of the insulating reinforcement member.

[0016] The first plate and / or the second plate may be formed of a metal material, and / or the support may be formed of a plastic material.

[0017] The present invention provides a refrigerator comprising: a main body comprising at least one panel forming an exterior of the refrigerator and / or comprising a vacuum insulator; and a door for opening and closing an opening of the main body. A hinge may be provided on a third panel forming a third surface of the refrigerator among the panels to support the door. The hinge may include a hinge joint coupled to the third panel. The hinge may include a hinge shaft coupled to the door. The hinge may include a hinge connection connecting the hinge joint and / or the hinge shaft. The hinge joint may include a hinge joint body in which a joint hole is formed. The hinge joint may include a hinge extension extending from the hinge joint body toward an end of the third panel. The hinge joint may include a hinge extension coupled to an end of the third panel. The above hinge joint may include a bending portion formed to bend at the hinge extension portion so as to surround one end of the second panel that is joined to a portion (e.g., the rear end) of the third panel.

[0018] Optionally, a bead portion may be formed to protrude from the third panel. The bead portion may extend along the third panel. The bead portion may be provided in multiples. A no-bead portion, in which the bead portion is not formed, may be arranged between at least two adjacently arranged bead portions of the third panel. A coupling hole may be formed through the hinge joint portion and / or a coupling member may be formed to protrude from the bead portion or the no-bead portion and to penetrate the coupling hole.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.

[0020] A hinge joint may be installed on the surface of the main body. A hinge reinforcement plate may be installed on the first case of the third panel made of vacuum insulation to reinforce the strength of the hinge joint. The hinge reinforcement plate may be placed on the second plate, which is the first case of the third panel.

[0021] The hinge joint may have a reinforcing structure on its own without a hinge reinforcing plate. For example, the hinge joint may further include an extended extension. The extension may extend to an end of the third panel (e.g., a rear end or a left or right end). A portion of the extension (e.g., a rear end) may be joined to a portion of the third panel (e.g., a rear end). A bending portion formed by bending in one direction (e.g., vertically) may further be provided on a portion (e.g., an end) of the extension. The extension may be formed to be attached to a portion of the second plate of the third panel. The bending portion may be formed to be attached to a portion of the second panel or the first panel.

[0022] Meanwhile, to increase the strength of the hinge joint, the third panel may include a bead portion formed in a bead shape. The bead portion is formed to protrude from the second plate of the third panel. At least two bead portions may be arranged spaced apart in one direction (e.g., left and right) of the third panel.

[0023] According to this configuration, the hinge reinforcement plate, the hinge joint, or the hinge reinforcement structure of the third panel can reinforce the strength of the hinge. The hinge reinforcement plate, the extension and / or bending structure of the hinge joint, or the bead structure of the third panel can maintain the insulation performance without increasing the thickness of the second plate, which is the first case of the vacuum insulation, and prevent the first case of the vacuum insulation from being deformed, thereby securing the door's opening and closing reliability.

[0024] , thereby preventing sagging of the door and improving the sealing reliability of the refrigerator. In addition, by preventing cold air leakage and / or vacuum leakage due to deformation of the first case, the performance and / or reliability of the refrigerator can be secured.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the vacuum insulation provided in the refrigerator of Figure 1.

[0027] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a third plate provided on the plate of Figure 2.

[0028] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a heat transfer resistor provided on the plate of Figure 3.

[0029] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing the refrigerator in Figure 5 viewed from various angles. For example, Figure 6a shows a three-dimensional shape of a portion of the refrigerator, Figure 6b shows the right side of the refrigerator, Figure 6c shows a plan view of the refrigerator, and Figure 6d shows the front of the refrigerator.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. 6b, showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate according to an embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a main body, as viewed from one side (e.g., the right side).

[0032] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6b, showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate according to an embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a main body, as viewed from the front.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate is coupled to a main body according to another embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0034] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration in which the hinge reinforcement plate is connected to the main body in Fig. 9, viewed from the front.

[0035] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate is coupled to a main body according to another embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0036] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate is coupled to a main body according to another embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0037] Figure 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a front view of the configuration in which the hinge reinforcement plate is connected to the main body in Figure 12.

[0038] Fig. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing a structure in which the length of a hinge joint is extended and the end of the hinge joint is bent according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 13a is a perspective view showing the hinge joint extended, and Fig. 13b is a plan view showing the hinge joint extended.

[0039] Figure 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the hinge in Figure 14 from various angles. Figure 15a is a plan view showing the hinge as viewed from above. Figure 15b is a front view showing the hinge as viewed from the front. Figure 15c is a side view showing the hinge as viewed from the side.

[0040] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI in Fig. 14, showing a bent portion bent at the rear end of the hinge joint.

[0041] Fig. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing a hinge installed on a part of a main body having a bead portion formed according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 17a is a three-dimensional diagram showing a bead portion formed on a second plate of a third panel. Fig. 17b is a plan view showing a bead portion formed on a second plate of the third panel in Fig. 17a as seen from above. Fig. 17c is a conceptual diagram showing a hinge coupled to one end (e.g., the upper end) of the main body in Fig. 17b as seen from the side. Fig. 17d is a conceptual diagram showing a hinge coupled to one end (e.g., the upper end) of the main body in Fig. 17b as seen from the front.

[0042] Figures 18a and 18b are cross-sectional views taken along line XVIIIB-XVIIIB in Figure 17b, and are conceptual diagrams showing a hinge joint joined to a surface of a third panel on which a bead portion is not formed. Figure 18c is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIIIC-XVIIIC in Figure 17b, and is conceptual diagrams showing a hinge joint joined to a surface of a third panel on which a bead portion is formed.

[0043] Fig. 19a is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIXA-XIXA in Fig. 17b, showing a front view of the third panel on which the bead portion is formed. Figs. 19b and 19c are cross-sectional views taken along line XIXB-XIXB in Fig. 17b, showing a hinge joint installed on the surface of the third panel on which the bead portion is formed.

[0044] From now on, [Common description] describing the parts commonly defined in all embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047]

[0048] 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.

[0049]

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052]

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055]

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058]

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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).

[0061]

[0062] 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.

[0063]

[0064] 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)

[0065]

[0066] 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.

[0067]

[0068] 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).

[0069] The above drawer guide may be provided with a second storage chamber drawer guide provided in the second storage chamber.

[0070]

[0071] The insulator or refrigerator of the present invention may include a shelf and / or a shelf support frame.

[0072]

[0073] [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.

[0074] From now on, based on each drawing, the [Description based on drawing] section describing the present invention will be described.

[0075] 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 may be arranged 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083]

[0084] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to the present invention.

[0085] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing the refrigerator in Figure 5 viewed from various angles. For example, Figure 6a shows a three-dimensional shape of a portion of the refrigerator, Figure 6b shows the right side of the refrigerator, Figure 6c shows a plan view of the refrigerator, and Figure 6d shows the front of the refrigerator.

[0086] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. 6b, showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate (130) according to one embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a part of a main body (100), as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0087] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6b, showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate (130) according to one embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a part of a main body (100), as viewed from the front.

[0088] A refrigerator according to the present invention includes a main body (100) and / or a door (108, 109).

[0089] The main body (100) forms the exterior of the refrigerator. The main body (100) may be composed of at least two panels (101, 102, 103, 104).

[0090] For example, the panels (101, 102, 103, 104) constituting the main body (100) include a second panel (101), a third panel (102), a first panel (103), and / or a fourth panel (104). For example, the second panel (101) forms the back of the refrigerator. The third panel (102) forms the top surface of the refrigerator. The first panel (103) forms the side surface of the refrigerator. The first panel (103) may be composed of one of the first panels (1031) and the other of the first panels (1032) that are arranged to face each other in one direction. The fourth panel (104) forms the bottom surface or lower surface of the refrigerator.

[0091] A machine room (not shown) may be installed in part of the fourth panel (104).

[0092] The vacuum insulation (131) can form a part of at least one of the second panel (101), the third panel (102), the first panel (103), the fourth panel (104), and the door (108, 109). In this embodiment, the vacuum insulation is shown applied to the second panel (101), the third panel (102), the first panel (103), and the door (108, 109).

[0093] A storage room is formed inside the main body (100). The storage room includes a first storage room (105) and / or a second storage room (106). The second storage room (106) can be maintained at a preset first temperature, for example, -20°C. However, the present invention is not limited to the preset first temperature. The first storage room (105) can be maintained at a preset second temperature, for example, +5°C. However, the present invention is not limited to the preset second temperature.

[0094] In this embodiment, the first storage chamber (105) and the second storage chamber (106) are shown arranged on one side (e.g., upper side) and the other side (e.g., lower side) of the main body (100), respectively. However, the positions of the first storage chamber (105) and the second storage chamber (106) may be reversed.

[0095] The second storage room (106) and the first storage room (105) may be partitioned by a partition wall (107). The partition wall (107) extends in one direction (e.g., horizontally) between one of the first panels (1031) and the other of the first panels (1032). The partition wall (107) may be disposed to be spaced apart from the third panel (102) and / or the fourth panel (104) and the main body (100).

[0096] The partition wall (107) may be positioned between 1 / 3 and 2 / 3 of the height (vertical distance) between the fourth panel (104) and the third panel (102) in one direction (e.g., upward) from the fourth panel (104) when the height is divided into three equal parts. In the present embodiment, the partition wall (107) is shown positioned at approximately 1 / 3 of the height in one direction (e.g., upward) from the fourth panel (104).

[0097] The door (108, 109) includes a first storage room door (108) and / or a second storage room door (109).

[0098] The first storage compartment door (108) can be movably installed on one side (e.g., upper side) of the main body (100) to open and close the first storage compartment (105). One side (e.g., left or right side) of the first storage compartment door (108) is movably connected to the main body (100) by a hinge (110). In this embodiment, the right side of the first storage compartment door (108) is shown connected to the main body (100) by a hinge (110).

[0099] However, when a plurality of main bodies are arranged adjacent to each other in one direction, a first hinge may be installed on one side (e.g., right side) of one main body (e.g., right side), and / or one side (e.g., right side) of one first storage door (e.g., right side) may be connected by the first hinge. A second hinge may be installed on the other side (e.g., left side) of the other main body (e.g., left side), and / or the other side (e.g., left side) of the first storage door (e.g., left side) may be connected by the second hinge.

[0100] The second storage compartment door (109) can be installed movably or slidably on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the main body (100) to open and close the second storage compartment (106). In this embodiment, the second storage compartment door (109) is shown as being movably installed on the main body (100).

[0101] The hinge (110) includes a first hinge (110; upper hinge) installed on the third panel (102), a second hinge (111; middle hinge) installed on the partition wall (107), and / or a third hinge (112; lower hinge) installed on a part of the fourth panel (104) (or a part of the machine room).

[0102] The first side and / or the second side of the first storage room door (108) are installed on the side of the main body (100) so as to be movable by the first hinge (110) and / or the second hinge (110).

[0103] The first side and / or the second side of the second storage room door (109) are installed on the side of the main body (100) so as to be movable by the second hinge (111) and / or the third hinge (112).

[0104] Unless otherwise specified in the following description, hinge (110) refers to the first hinge (110).

[0105] The hinge (110) is configured to include a hinge joint (113), a hinge connection (114), and / or a hinge axis (115).

[0106] The hinge joint (113) is coupled to the main body (100). For example, the hinge joint (113) may be formed in a rectangular plate shape. The hinge joint (113) is installed on a part (e.g., a front end) of the third panel (102). The hinge joint (113) may be coupled to a part of the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102) so as to be exposed to the outside of the main body (100). Accordingly, the hinge joint (113) exposed to the outside of the main body (100) can simplify the structure of the hinge (110), and the coupling operation of the hinge (110) and the third panel (102) is possible.

[0107] The surface of the hinge joint (113) can be connected to the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102). The surface of the hinge joint (113) can be exposed to the outside. One surface of the hinge joint (113) is arranged to be spaced apart from the first panel (1031, 1032) in one direction.

[0108] The hinge joint (113) includes joint holes (1131, 1132, 1133). The joint holes (1131, 1132, 1133) are formed to penetrate the hinge joint (113). The joint holes (1131, 1132, 1133) are configured to accommodate a joint member to be described later.

[0109] The connecting member may be formed to protrude from the first plate (116a) of the third panel (102) to be described later. The connecting member is configured to connect the hinge connecting portion (113) and the first plate (116a) of the third panel (102). The connecting holes (1131, 1132, 1133) may extend in one direction to adjust the position of the hinge (110). For example, when the hinge connecting portion (113) and the connecting member are inserted so that the connecting member penetrates the connecting holes (1131, 1132, 1133), the hinge connecting portion (113) can move in one direction.

[0110] However, the width in one direction (e.g., left-right width) of the joining holes (1131, 1132, 1133) may be formed to correspond to the diameter of the joining member, and / or, when the joining member is penetrated and joined to the hinge joint (113) through the joining holes (1131, 1132, 1133), the hinge joint (113) may be prevented from moving in one direction.

[0111] The connecting member may be composed of bolt portions (134, 135, 136). The nut may be connected to the connecting member penetrating the connecting hole (1131, 1132, 1133), thereby connecting the hinge connecting portion (113) and the third panel (102).

[0112] The coupling holes (1131, 1132, 1133) may include a first coupling hole (1131), a second coupling hole (1132), and / or a third coupling hole (1133).

[0113] The first coupling hole (1131) and the second coupling hole (1132) are spaced apart from one end (e.g., the right end) of the third panel (102) by the same distance in one direction. However, the first coupling hole (1131) and the second coupling hole (1132) are spaced apart from one end of the hinge joint (113).

[0114] The first coupling hole (1131) and the second coupling hole (1132) are arranged at different intervals in one direction from one end (e.g., the front end) of the third panel (102).

[0115] For example, the first joining hole (1131) is spaced apart from one end (e.g., the front end) of the third panel (102) by a first interval. The second joining hole (1132) is spaced apart from one end (e.g., the front end) of the third panel (102) by a second interval. Here, the first interval is smaller than the second interval.

[0116] The first coupling hole (1131) and the second coupling hole (1132) may be aligned along an imaginary extension line extending in one direction. The gap between the first coupling hole (1131) and the second coupling hole (1132) may be greater than a one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) distance between one end (e.g., front end) of the hinge joint (113) and the first coupling hole (1131) and / or a one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) distance between the other end (e.g., rear end) of the hinge joint (113) and the second coupling hole (1132).

[0117] The third coupling hole (1133) is spaced apart from the first coupling hole (1131) and the second coupling hole (1132) with respect to one end (e.g., the right end) of the third panel (102). The third coupling hole (1133) may be located further (e.g., rearward) than the first coupling hole (1131) with respect to the other end (e.g., front end) of the third panel (102) and / or may be located further (e.g., forward) than the second coupling hole (1132). However, the unidirectional (e.g., front-to-rear) separation distance between the first coupling hole (1131) and the third coupling hole (1133) may be shorter than the unidirectional (e.g., front-to-rear) separation distance between the second coupling hole (1132) and the third coupling hole (1133).

[0118] A portion of the first storage room door (108) may be positioned higher than the third panel (102).

[0119] The hinge connection part (114) is configured to connect the hinge connection part (113) and the hinge shaft (115). One end (e.g., the upper end) of the hinge shaft (115) is formed to protrude above the surface of the first storage compartment door (108). A portion of the hinge shaft (115) is positioned higher than the hinge connection part (113).

[0120] To connect the hinge joint (113) and the hinge shaft (115), the hinge joint (114) may be composed of a first hinge joint (1141), a second hinge joint (1142), and / or a third hinge joint (1143). The first hinge joint (1141) extends from a portion (e.g., a front end) of the hinge joint (113).

[0121] The length in one direction (e.g., left-right direction) of the first hinge connection part (1141) is extended longer than the width in the other direction (e.g., up-down direction) of the first hinge connection part (1141). The width in the other direction (e.g., up-down direction) of the first hinge connection part (1141) may be formed to correspond to the gap or height difference between the third panel (102) and the first storage compartment door (108). The first hinge connection part (1141) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular plate in which the horizontal length in one direction (e.g., left-right direction) is longer than the vertical length.

[0122] The second hinge connection portion (1142) extends from a portion (e.g., the upper portion) of the first hinge connection portion (1141). The second hinge connection portion (1142) may be formed in the shape of a triangular plate.

[0123] When looking at the hinge (110) from above, one side (e.g., right side) of the second hinge connection portion (1142) forms the same plane as one side (e.g., right side) of the hinge joint portion (113). The other side (e.g., left side) of the second hinge connection portion (1142) is formed to be inclined at a preset angle with respect to one side (e.g., right side) of the second hinge connection portion (1142).

[0124] The third hinge connection portion (1143) extends in one direction from a portion (e.g., a front end) of the second hinge connection portion (1142) to protrude toward the hinge axis (115). A hinge axis receiving portion (1144) is provided on a portion (e.g., a right end) of the third hinge connection portion (1143) to receive the hinge axis (115). The hinge axis receiving portion (1144) is formed to penetrate the third hinge connection portion (1143) to surround the hinge axis (115).

[0125] The hinge shaft (115) is inserted into and connected to a hinge shaft receiving portion (1144) in a part (e.g., upper right end) of the first storage room door (108).

[0126] A hinge shaft coupling portion may be installed embedded in the first storage compartment door (108). The hinge shaft coupling portion accommodates the hinge shaft (115). The hinge shaft coupling portion is coupled while surrounding the hinge shaft (115). The hinge shaft coupling portion is coupled to the first storage compartment door (108) so that the first storage compartment door (108) moves relative to the hinge shaft (115). The hinge shaft coupling portion may be implemented with a bearing or the like. However, the hinge shaft coupling portion is not limited to a bearing, and any means may be used to enable the refrigerator door (108, 109) to move relative to the hinge shaft (115).

[0127] The vacuum insulation body includes a first plate (116a, 116b), a second plate (117a, 117b), a side plate (119a, 119b), and a support (120).

[0128] The first plates (116a, 116b) are arranged toward the storage chamber, which is the internal space of the main body (100). The first plates (116a, 116b) may be referred to as an internal case. The first plates (116a, 116b) are made of a metal material to minimize heat penetration and heat leakage. The first plates (116a, 116b) may have a thin thickness, for example, a thickness of several millimeters or less.

[0129] The second plates (117a, 117b) are spaced apart from the first plates (116a, 116b) by a preset interval and / or are positioned toward the outside of the main body (100). The second plates (117a, 117b) may be referred to as the first case. The second plates (117a, 117b) are made of a metal material to minimize heat penetration and / or heat leakage. The second plates (117a, 117b) may have a thin thickness, for example, a thickness of several millimeters or less.

[0130] The first plate (116a, 116b) and the second plate (117a, 117b) may have different thicknesses. The thickness of the first plate (116a, 116b) may be formed thinner than the thickness of the second plate (117a, 117b).

[0131] In order to minimize heat transfer due to temperature difference between the internal and external space of the storage room, a vacuum space (123) is formed between the first plate (116a, 116b) and the second plate (117a, 117b).

[0132] The side plates (119a, 119b) extend from the first plate (116a, 116b) or the second plate (117a, 117b) to form one side (e.g., a side surface) of the vacuum space (123) and connect the first plate (116a, 116b) and the second plate (117a, 117b). In the present embodiment, the side plates (119a, 119b) are shown as extending from the first plate (116a, 116b).

[0133] The side plate (119a, 119b) may include a first curved portion (1191), a second curved portion (1192) and / or a straight portion (1193).

[0134] The first curved portion (1191) is formed to have a preset curvature and is bent 90 degrees from one end of the first plate (116a, 116b) toward the second plate (117a, 117b). The first curved portion (1191) is formed in an arc shape and / or is connected to the first plate (116a, 116b).

[0135] The second curved portion (1192) is formed to have a predetermined curvature and is bent 90 degrees toward the first plate (116a, 116b) from one end of the second plate (117a, 117b). The second curved portion (1192) is formed in an arc shape and / or is connected to the second plate (117a, 117b).

[0136] The length of the first plate (116a, 116b) is shorter than the length of the second plate (117a, 117b). As a result, the first curved portion (1191) and the second curved portion (1192) can be formed to be bent in opposite directions.

[0137] The straight portion (1193) can extend in one direction (e.g., vertically) with respect to the first plate (116a, 116b) and the second plate (117a, 117b). It is positioned between the first plate (116a, 116b) and the second plate (117a, 117b) and can be connected to the first curved portion (1191) and the second curved portion (1192).

[0138] For example, on one side (e.g., inside the right end) of the third panel (102) where the hinge (110) is installed, a straight portion (1193) extends in one direction (e.g., vertically) between one end (e.g., right end) of the first plate (116a, 116b) and one end (e.g., right end) of the second plate (117a, 117b), and is connected to the first curved portion (1191) and the second curved portion (1192) (see FIG. 8).

[0139] The first curved portion (1191) is bent counterclockwise from the first plate (116a, 116b) toward the second plate (117a, 117b) and / or is connected to one side of the straight portion (1193) and the first plate (116a, 116b). The second curved portion (1192) is bent clockwise from the first plate (116a, 116b) toward the second plate (117a, 117b) and / or is connected to the other side of the straight portion (1193) and the second plate (117a, 117b).

[0140] A sealing portion may be formed between the second curved portion (1192) and the second plate (117a, 117b). The sealing portion is formed by spot welding or the like, and may seal the vacuum space portion (123).

[0141] An extension portion (118a, 118b) may be further provided on one end of the second plate (117a, 117b) to the outside of the sealing portion. The extension portion (118a, 118b) may be formed to be bent. The bent extension portions (118a, 118b) are arranged to overlap each other so as to connect different panels, for example, the third panel (102) and another one of the first panels (1032).

[0142] An extension (118a) extending from the third panel (102) is bent into the interior of an extension (118b) extending from another (1032) of the first panel, and / or conversely, an extension (118b) extending from another (1032) of the first panel is bent to cover an extension (118a) extending from the third panel (102). The two overlapping extensions (118a, 118b) can be joined to each other by a plurality of rivets or the like.

[0143] The support (120) includes a first support plate (121), a bar (124), and / or a second support plate (122). The first support plate (121) is arranged to be connected to one side of the first plate (116a, 116b) and is configured to support the first plate (116a, 116b). Here, one side of the first plate (116a, 116b) refers to a side facing the vacuum space (123) among both sides of the first plate (116a, 116b). The first support plate (121) extends in the extension direction of the vacuum space (123).

[0144] The second support plate (122) is arranged to be connected to one side of the second plate (117a, 117b) and is configured to support the second plate (117a, 117b). Here, one side of the second plate (117a, 117b) refers to the side facing the vacuum space (123) among the two sides of the second plate (117a, 117b). The second support plate (122) extends in the extension direction of the vacuum space (123).

[0145] The first support plate (121) and the second support plate (122) are arranged facing each other and / or spaced apart from each other at a preset interval.

[0146] The bar (124) extends in one direction (e.g., vertically) with respect to the first support plate (121) and the second support plate (122). At least two bars (124) are each connected to the first support plate (121) and the second support plate (122). One end of the bar (124) is connected to the first support plate (121) and / or the other end of the bar (124) is connected to the second support plate (122). The support (120) may be made of a plastic material.

[0147] Through this, the support (120) can maintain the shape and vacuum of the vacuum space (123).

[0148] The first plate (116a, 116b) and / or the second plate (117a, 117b) of the vacuum insulator are made of a metal material, so that heat transfer easily occurs due to the temperature difference between the inside and the outside of the storage room. In order to minimize the heat transfer, a joint or an insulation block may be provided on the first plate (116a, 116b). Here, the surface of the first plate (116a, 116b) means the side facing the storage room among the two sides of the first plate (116a, 116b).

[0149] The joint is placed at a corner where at least two panels among the second panel (101), the third panel (102), the first panel (103), and the fourth panel (104) constituting the main body (100) are connected. The joint may be formed by foaming by injecting polyurethane foam into the interior of the joint cover to provide insulation.

[0150] The first storage joint (125) may include a first joint (125), a second joint, and / or a third joint depending on the installation location. The first storage joint (125) may include a first joint (1251) positioned at an edge where the third panel (102) and the second panel (101) are connected, a second joint (1252) positioned at an edge where the second panel (101) and the first panel (103) are connected, and / or a third joint (1253) positioned at an edge where the third panel (102) and the first panel (103) are connected.

[0151] For example, since the heat transfer amount is greatest at the corner where the first plate (116a) of the third panel (102) and the first plates (116a, 116b) of the second panel (101) are connected, it is necessary to increase the thickness of the insulation material to minimize the heat transfer at the corner.

[0152] To this end, the first joint (1251) can be formed to have the thickest thickness at 45 degrees, which is half of the 90 degrees angle formed by the first plate (116a) of the third panel (102) and the first plates (116a, 116b) of the second panel (101).

[0153] Joints can be formed by a combination of triangles, squares, or polygons.

[0154] The insulating block is placed on the surface of one of the second panel (101), the third panel (102), the first panel (103) and the fourth panel (104), i.e., the first plate (116a, 116b). The insulating block may also be formed on the door (108, 109).

[0155] The insulating block can be constructed by injecting polyurethane foam into the interior of the block cover to provide insulation and foam-molding it.

[0156] An insulating reinforcement member (1254) may be further provided on the surface of the main body (100). The insulating reinforcement member (1254) is configured to minimize heat transfer between the door (108, 109) and the surface of the main body (100). The insulating reinforcement member (1254) may extend to wrap around the surface of the main body (100) at a joint or an insulating block.

[0157] For example, the insulation reinforcement (1254) may extend from the third joint (1253) to wrap around the surface of the third panel (102).

[0158] A front decoration (126) may be further provided on the surface of the main body (100). The decoration (126) is configured to surround a portion of the joint or the insulation reinforcement portion (1254). The decoration (126) may be manufactured using a plastic material. The decoration (126) may also include a hotline receiving portion (1261).

[0159] The hot line receiving portion (1261) is placed between the deco (126) and the insulation reinforcement portion (1254). The insulation reinforcement portion (1254) surrounds the hot line to block heat exchange between the cold air and the hot line. The insulation reinforcement portion (1254) can reinforce the insulation function of the vacuum insulation body by covering the surface of the third panel (102).

[0160] The hotline is surrounded by a deco (126) and / or an insulating reinforcement (1254) and / or is placed on the surface of the third panel (102) to dissipate heat and thereby minimize condensation caused by the temperature difference between the outside air and the cold air.

[0161] A gasket (127) may be installed on the surface of the first storage compartment door (108). The gasket (127) is made of an elastic material such as rubber. The gasket (127) is configured to prevent cold air from leaking between the refrigerator door (108, 109) and the main body (100) when the first storage compartment door (108) is closed.

[0162] In order to reinforce the strength of the hinge (110) while maintaining the insulating performance of the vacuum insulator, a hinge reinforcing plate (130) is provided between the hinge joint (113) and the main body (100). The hinge reinforcing plate (130) may be formed of a metal material.

[0163] The hinge reinforcing plate (130) is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The size of the hinge reinforcing plate (130) may be the same as or slightly larger than the hinge joint (113). For example, a portion (e.g., a rear end) of the hinge reinforcing plate (130) may extend slightly longer than a portion (e.g., a rear end) of the hinge joint (113).

[0164] The hinge reinforcement plate (130) can be placed on the third panel (102). The hinge reinforcement plate (130) is placed between the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102) and the hinge joint (113). One side and the other side of the second plate (117a, 117b) each form a flat surface.

[0165] The surface of the hinge reinforcement plate (130) is closely bonded to the surface of the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102). The surface of the hinge reinforcement plate (130) is closely bonded to the surface of the hinge joint (113).

[0166] The hinge reinforcing plate (130) may be provided with coupling holes (131, 132, 133). The coupling holes (131, 132, 133) may be formed to correspond to the coupling holes (1131, 1132, 1133) of the hinge joint (113). Alternatively, the coupling holes (131, 132, 133) are formed to penetrate the hinge reinforcing plate (130) so that a coupling member may penetrate therethrough. The size of the coupling holes (131, 132, 133) may be formed to correspond to the diameter of the coupling member.

[0167] The coupling holes (131, 132, 133) include a first coupling hole (131), a second coupling hole (1132), and / or a third coupling hole (133). The first coupling hole (131) corresponds to and / or overlaps with the first coupling hole (1131). The second coupling hole (132) corresponds to and / or overlaps with the second coupling hole (1132). The third coupling hole (133) corresponds to and / or overlaps with the third coupling hole (1133).

[0168] The connecting member may be configured to include bolt portions (134, 135, 136) and / or nuts. The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) may be formed to protrude from the first plate (116a) of the third panel (102). A portion of the bolt portions (134, 135, 136) may be connected to the first plate (116a, 116b) by welding or adhesive, etc.

[0169] The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) may be composed of a first bolt portion (134), a second bolt portion (135), and / or a third bolt portion (136). The first bolt portion (134) is configured to pass through the first coupling hole (131) and the first coupling hole (1131). The second bolt portion (135) is configured to pass through the second coupling hole (132) and the second coupling hole (1132). The third bolt portion (136) is configured to pass through the third coupling hole (133) and the third coupling hole (1133).

[0170] The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) can be extended. The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) can have a cross-section of a closed curve (e.g., a circle). The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) can be arranged to coincide with or be adjacent to an imaginary line passing through the center of the bar (124) of the support (120). The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) can be arranged to overlap the bar (124) of the support (120). Through this, the bolt portions (134, 135, 136) and the bar (124) of the support (120) are arranged to overlap or be adjacent to each other on the same line, thereby not only better withstanding and supporting the load applied to the hinge joint (113), but also improving the durability of the hinge joint (113).

[0171] Referring to Fig. 7, at least two bars (124) constituting the support (120) of the third panel (102) are arranged in one direction at a preset interval. The at least two bars (124) may include the first bar (1241a) to the Nth bar, which are arranged sequentially from one side (e.g., the front end) to the other side (e.g., the rear end) of the third panel (102). Here, N is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.

[0172] For example, the first bolt portion (134) may be aligned with an imaginary first line passing through the center of the first bar (1241a). The second bolt portion (135) may be positioned between an imaginary second line and a third line passing through the centers of the second bar (1242a) and the third bar (1243a), respectively. The third bolt portion (136) may be positioned between an imaginary first line and a second line passing through the centers of the first bar (1241a) and the second bar (1242a), respectively.

[0173] Referring to Fig. 8, at least two bars (124) constituting the support (120) of the third panel (102) are arranged in one direction at a preset interval. The at least two bars (124) may include first bars (1241b) to M bars arranged from one side (e.g., the right end) of the third panel (102) toward the other side (e.g., the left end). Here, M is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.

[0174] For example, the first bolt portion (134) and the second bolt portion (135) may be arranged on the same line in one direction, and / or the first and second bolt portions (134, 135) may be aligned with an imaginary first line passing through the center of the second bar (1242b). The third bolt portion (136) may be arranged adjacent to an imaginary second line passing through the center of the fourth bar (1244b).

[0175] The nut can be connected to the bolt portion (134, 135, 136). When the bolt portion (134, 135, 136) and the nut are connected, the connection between the hinge connection portion (113) and the third panel (102) is completed.

[0176] Therefore, according to the present invention, the panel forming the main body (100) of the refrigerator is composed of a vacuum insulator. Since the door (108, 109) is coupled to a part of the main body (100), the load may be concentrated on the hinge joint (113). A hinge reinforcement plate (130) is coupled between the hinge joint (113) and the third panel (102), thereby reinforcing the strength of the hinge (110). The hinge reinforcement plate (130) prevents the second plate (117a) of the vacuum insulator from being deformed while maintaining the insulation performance without increasing the thickness of the second plate (117a) of the vacuum insulator, thereby ensuring the reliability of opening and closing the door (108, 109).

[0177] By preventing sagging of the door (108, 109), the sealing reliability of the refrigerator can be improved. In addition, by preventing cold air leakage and vacuum leakage due to deformation of the first case, the performance and reliability of the refrigerator can be secured.

[0178] Since other configurations are the same or similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11 described above, duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0179] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate (230) is coupled to a main body (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0180] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration in which the hinge reinforcing plate (230) is connected to the main body (100) in Fig. 9, viewed from the front.

[0181] This embodiment is different from the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 8 described above in that the hinge reinforcing plate (230) is accommodated in the second plate (217a), which is the first case of the vacuum insulator.

[0182] A portion of the second plate (217a) protrudes to accommodate the hinge reinforcing plate (230). A reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) is formed to protrude from the second plate (217a). The protruding height of the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) is formed to correspond to the thickness of the hinge reinforcing plate (230). The reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) is formed to correspond to the shape of the hinge reinforcing plate (230).

[0183] The reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) is formed to surround at least one side of the hinge reinforcing plate (230).

[0184] The surface of the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) is connected to the surface of the hinge joint portion (113). The surface of the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) is arranged to be connected to the surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (230). The surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) is arranged to be connected to the surface of the second support plate (122) of the support (120).

[0185] A joining groove (231, 232, 233) may be formed in the hinge reinforcing plate (230). The joining groove (231, 232, 233) may define a point at which the bolt portion (134, 135, 136) begins to protrude from the hinge reinforcing plate (230). The joining groove (231, 232, 233) may be formed concavely in the hinge reinforcing plate (230) to correspond to the joining hole (1131, 1132, 1133) of the hinge joint portion (113). The joining groove (231, 232, 233) may be formed to correspond to the diameter of the bolt portion (134, 135, 136).

[0186] The coupling grooves (231, 232, 233) may include a first coupling groove (231), a second coupling groove (232), and / or a third coupling groove (233). The first coupling groove (231) is arranged to correspond to the first coupling hole (1131). The second coupling groove (232) is arranged to correspond to the second coupling hole (1132). The third coupling groove (233) is arranged to correspond to the third coupling hole (1133).

[0187] A plurality of through holes are formed in the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218). The through holes are arranged to correspond to the joining grooves (231, 232, 233) of the hinge reinforcing plate (230). The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) may protrude from the joining grooves (231, 232, 233) of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) and / or may pass through the through holes of the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) and the joining holes (1131, 1132, 1133) of the hinge joint portion (113).

[0188] The bolt section (134, 135, 136) may be configured to include a first bolt section (134), a second bolt section (135), and / or a third bolt section (136).

[0189] The first bolt part (134) is inserted and connected into the first coupling groove (231). The second bolt part (135) is inserted and connected into the second coupling groove (232). The third bolt part (136) is inserted and connected into the third coupling groove (233).

[0190] The first bolt portion (134) passes through the first coupling hole (1131) and is coupled to the first nut. The second bolt portion (135) passes through the second coupling hole (1132) and is coupled to the second nut. The third bolt portion (136) passes through the third coupling hole (1133) and is coupled to the third nut.

[0191] Through this, the bolt portion (134, 135, 136) and the nut can connect the hinge joint portion (113) and / or the hinge reinforcement plate (230) to a part of the third panel (102).

[0192] The hinge reinforcing plate (230) can reinforce the strength against the load applied to the hinge joint (113), thereby preventing deformation of the second plate (217a) and sagging of the door (108, 109).

[0193] The second plate (217a) includes a first extension portion (2191) and / or a second extension portion (2192). The first extension portion (2191) extends in one direction (e.g., horizontally) from the second plate (217a). The second extension portion (2192) extends in the other direction (e.g., vertically) from a portion (e.g., a front end) of the first extension portion (2191). The second extension portion (2192) is disposed on a portion (e.g., a front end) of the second plate (217a).

[0194] The hinge connection (114) and the second extension (2192) of the second plate (217a) can be arranged to overlap each other.

[0195] The hinge reinforcing plate (230) is placed at a predetermined interval from one end (e.g., the front end) of the second plate (217a) of the third panel (102).

[0196] The distance between one end (e.g., front end) of the second plate (217a) and one end (e.g., front end) of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) is smaller than the distance between one end (e.g., front end) of the second plate (217a) and the first bar (1241a).

[0197] The distance between one end (e.g., front end) of the second plate (217a) and one end (e.g., front end) of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) is smaller than the distance between one end (e.g., front end) of the second plate (217a) and the side plates (119a, 119b).

[0198] The hinge reinforcing plate (230) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the vacuum space (123) of the third panel (102). Alternatively, the hinge reinforcing plate (230) may extend in one direction of the third panel (102). A portion of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) extends along the second support plate (122) and / or is arranged to overlap with the second support plate (122). Another portion of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) is arranged to overlap with a portion of the insulation reinforcing portion (1254).

[0199] A space (220) may be formed on the surface of the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218) that surrounds the surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (230). The space (220) may be formed between one end of the surface of the hinge joint portion (113) (e.g., a front end), one end of the surface of the second plate (217a) (e.g., a front end), and the surface of the reinforcing plate receiving portion (218).

[0200] The length of another part of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) overlapping the non-vacuum insulation reinforcing member (1254) is shorter than the length of a part of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) overlapping the second support plate (122) which is a vacuum insulation body. Through this, the hinge reinforcing plate (230) made of a metal material can minimize the deterioration of the insulation performance due to the increase in the length of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) by shortening the length of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) overlapping the non-vacuum insulation body while relatively lengthening the length of the hinge reinforcing plate (230) overlapping the vacuum insulation body, thereby increasing the strength of the hinge joint (113) coupled to the vacuum insulation body.

[0201] Since other configurations are the same or similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 8 described above, duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0202] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate (330) is coupled to a main body (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0203] This embodiment is different from the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 10 described above in that the hinge reinforcing plate (330) is accommodated in the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102), but is provided to be sunken into a portion of the support (120).

[0204] The second plate (117a) has a flat surface with no protrusions to accommodate the hinge reinforcing plate (330).

[0205] The first part of the second plate (117a) can overlap with the hinge reinforcing plate (330). The second part of the second plate (117a) does not overlap with the hinge reinforcing plate (330). The first and second parts of the second plate (117a) form the same plane.

[0206] However, a part of the support (120) is formed to be sunken in order to accommodate the hinge reinforcement plate (330).

[0207] The support (120) includes a reinforcing plate joint (323) formed to be sunken into one side of the second support plate (322).

[0208] The reinforcing plate joint (323) of the support (120) surrounds and / or is connected to at least one surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (330). The second plate (117a) surrounds and / or is connected to the surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (330).

[0209] The first part of the second support plate (322), the reinforcing plate joint (323), can be arranged to overlap with the hinge reinforcing plate (330). The second part of the second support plate (322) is arranged to not overlap with the hinge reinforcing plate (330).

[0210] The reinforcing plate joint (323) is positioned lower than the second portion of the second support plate (322) with respect to the first plate (116a). The gap (e.g., height) between the reinforcing plate joint (323) and the first plate (116a) is smaller than the gap (e.g., height) between the second portion of the second support plate (322) and the first plate (116a).

[0211] The length of the bar arranged between the reinforcing plate joint (323) and the first plate (116a) is shorter than the length of the bar arranged between the second part of the second support plate (322) and the first plate (116a).

[0212] The hinge reinforcing plate (330) may extend toward the surface of the insulation reinforcing member (1254). The hinge reinforcing plate (330) may extend to the surface of the insulation reinforcing member (1254) that surrounds the surface of the third panel (102). The surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (330) may be connected to the surface of the insulation reinforcing member (1254). The surface of the hinge reinforcing plate (330) and the surface of the insulation reinforcing member (1254) may form the same plane.

[0213] Through this, the load applied to the hinge joint (113) is simultaneously transmitted to the hinge reinforcement plate (330) and the insulation reinforcement plate (1254), so that the load is distributed to the hinge reinforcement plate (330) and the insulation reinforcement plate (1254), thereby efficiently reinforcing the strength of the hinge (110).

[0214] Since other configurations are the same or similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 10 described above, redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0215] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration in which a hinge reinforcing plate (430) is coupled to a main body (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from one side (e.g., right side).

[0216] Fig. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration in which the hinge reinforcing plate (430) is connected to the main body (100) as seen from the front in Fig. 12.

[0217] This embodiment differs from the embodiment of Fig. 11 described above in that the hinge reinforcing plate (430) is provided with a bending portion (431, 432).

[0218] The hinge reinforcing plate (430) can be placed between the reinforcing plate joint (423) of the second plate (117a) and the second support plate (422).

[0219] A bent portion (431, 432) is formed at one end of the hinge reinforcing plate (430). The bent portion (431, 432) may extend along one end of the hinge reinforcing plate (430). The width of the bent portion (431, 432) in one direction (e.g., up and down) is smaller than the length of the bent portion (431, 432) in the other direction (e.g., left and right). The protruding length of the bent portion (431, 432) protruding from one end of the hinge reinforcing plate (430) is longer than the thickness of the reinforcing plate connecting portion (423) and / or shorter than the length of a bar arranged between the reinforcing plate connecting portion (423) and the first support plate (121).

[0220] The bend portion (431, 432) may include a first bend portion (431) and / or a second bend portion (432). The first bend portion (431) is formed to be bent in one direction on one side (e.g., the front end) of the hinge reinforcing plate (430). The second bend portion (432) is formed to be bent in one direction on the other side (e.g., the rear end) of the hinge reinforcing plate (430). The first bend portion (431) and the second bend portion (432) may be formed to face each other in one direction.

[0221] According to this configuration, the bending portion (431, 432) can further improve the strength of the hinge reinforcing plate (430).

[0222] Since other configurations are the same or similar to the embodiment of Fig. 11 described above, redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0223] Fig. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing a structure in which the length of the hinge joint (513) is extended and / or the end of the hinge joint (513) is bent according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 13a is a perspective view showing the hinge joint (513) extended, and Fig. 13b is a plan view showing the hinge joint (513) extended.

[0224] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the hinge (510) of Fig. 14 from various angles. Fig. 15a is a plan view showing the hinge (510) as seen from above. Fig. 15b is a front view showing the hinge (510) as seen from the front. Fig. 15c is a side view showing the hinge (510) as seen from the side.

[0225] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI in Fig. 14, showing a bent portion (516) bent at a portion (e.g., rear end) of a hinge joint (513).

[0226] This embodiment differs from the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 13 in that it has a structure capable of reinforcing the strength of the hinge joint (513) itself without adding a hinge reinforcing plate (130, 230, 330, 430).

[0227] The length in one direction (e.g., front-to-rear direction) of the hinge joint (513) according to the present embodiment is extended much longer than the length of the hinge joint (513) according to the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 13.

[0228] For example, the length in one direction (e.g., front-to-rear direction) of the hinge joint (513) according to the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 13 may be three to five times the distance between two bars arranged adjacently in one direction.

[0229] The length in one direction (e.g., front-to-rear direction) of the hinge joint (513) according to the present embodiment may be at least 20 times the distance between two bars arranged adjacently in one direction.

[0230] The hinge joint (513) may be formed to be longer than or equal to the one-way (e.g., front-rear) length of the third panel (102).

[0231] The hinge joint (513) includes a hinge joint body (514), a hinge extension (515) and / or a bending portion (516).

[0232] The hinge-joint body (514) is formed in a plate shape. Joint holes (1131, 1132, 1133) are formed to penetrate the hinge-joint body (514). The joint holes (1131, 1132, 1133) include a first joint hole (1131), a second joint hole (1132), and / or a third joint hole (1133).

[0233] The first bolt portion (134) protruding from the second plate (117a) passes through the first coupling hole (1131), and / or the second bolt portion (135) protruding from the second plate (117a) passes through the second coupling hole (1132), and / or the third bolt portion (136) protruding from the second plate (117a) passes through the third coupling hole (1133).

[0234] The first coupling hole (1131) is arranged to overlap the first bar (1241a) among the bars (124) that are spaced apart in one direction. The second coupling hole (1132) is arranged between the second bar (1242a) and the third bar (1243a) among the bars that are spaced apart in one direction.

[0235] The hinge extension (515) extends from a part (e.g., rear end) of the hinge-joining body (514), for example, to one end (e.g., upper end) of the second panel (101) of the second joining hole (1132). The length of the hinge extension (515) in one direction (e.g., front-to-rear direction) is longer than the length of the hinge-joining body (514) in one direction (e.g., front-to-rear direction).

[0236] A first joining hole (5151) is formed in a part (e.g., the rear end) of the hinge extension (515).

[0237] An extension portion (118b) may extend from a portion of the second plate (117b), which is the first case of the second panel (101). The extension portion (118b) of the second panel (101) may be composed of a first extension portion (1181) and / or a second extension portion (1182). The first extension portion (1181) extends along one side (e.g., upward) of the second plate (117b). The second extension portion (1182) extends from one end (e.g., upper end) of the first extension portion (1181). A second coupling hole (5152) is formed to penetrate the second extension portion (1182). The first coupling hole (5151) and the second coupling hole (5152) are arranged to overlap each other.

[0238] A connecting member (517) such as a screw can be connected to one end (e.g., the top) of the hinge extension (515) and the second panel (101) by penetrating the first connecting hole (5151) and / or the second connecting hole (5152).

[0239] Through this, one side (e.g., front end) and / or the other side (e.g., rear end) of the hinge joint (513) can be firmly and stably connected to a part of the surface (e.g., front end) of the third panel (102) and / or a part of the second panel (101). A hinge joint body (514), which is one side (e.g., front end) of the hinge joint portion (513), may be joined to a part (e.g., front end) of a surface of a third panel (102) by the first bolt portion (134), the second bolt portion (135), and / or the third bolt portion (136), and / or a part (e.g., rear end) of a hinge extension portion (515), which is the other side (e.g., rear end) of the hinge joint portion (513), may be joined to a second plate (117b) of a second panel (101) by a joining member (517).

[0240] The bending portion (516) is formed to bend at a portion (e.g., the rear end) of the hinge extension portion (515). The bending portion (516) extends in one direction (e.g., vertically) with respect to the hinge extension portion (515).

[0241] Through this, the hinge extension portion (515) and / or the bending portion (516) is coupled to at least one of the third panel (102) and the second panel (101) to increase the coupling area, thereby reinforcing the strength of the hinge (510) even without the hinge reinforcing plate (130, 230, 330, 430). The hinge extension portion (515) and / or the bending portion (516) can maintain the insulation performance without increasing the thickness of the second plate (117a), which is the first case of the vacuum insulation, and prevent the first case of the vacuum insulation from being deformed, thereby securing the opening and closing reliability of the door (108, 109).

[0242] By preventing sagging of the door (108, 109), the sealing reliability of the refrigerator can be improved. In addition, by preventing cold air leakage and vacuum leakage due to deformation of the first case, the performance and reliability of the refrigerator can be secured.

[0243] Since other configurations are the same or similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 13 described above, duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0244] FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing a hinge (610) installed on a part of a main body (100) on which a bead portion (6171) is formed according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17a is a three-dimensional diagram showing a bead portion (6171) formed on a second plate (617a) of a third panel (602). FIG. 17b is a plan view showing a bead portion (6171) formed on a second plate (617a) of a third panel (602) in FIG. 17a as seen from above. FIG. 17c is a conceptual diagram showing a hinge (510) coupled to one end (e.g., the upper end) of the main body (100) in FIG. 17b as seen from the side. FIG. 17d is a conceptual diagram showing a hinge (510) coupled to one end (e.g., the upper end) of the main body (100) in FIG. 17b as seen from the front.

[0245] FIGS. 18a and 18b are cross-sectional views taken along line XVIIIB-XVIIIB in FIG. 17b, and are conceptual views showing a hinge joint (113) coupled to a surface of a third panel (602) on which a bead portion (6171) is not formed. FIG. 18c is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIIIC-XVIIIC in FIG. 17b, and is conceptual views showing a hinge joint (113) coupled to a surface of a third panel (602) on which a bead portion (6171) is formed.

[0246] Fig. 19a is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIXA-XIXA in Fig. 17b, showing a front view of the third panel (602) on which the bead portion (6171) is formed. Figs. 19b and 19c are cross-sectional views taken along line XIXB-XIXB in Fig. 17b, showing a hinge joint (113) installed on the surface of the third panel (602) on which the bead portion (6171) is formed.

[0247] This embodiment is different from the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 16 described above in that a bead portion (6171) is formed on the surface of the main body (100) on which the hinge (510) is installed.

[0248] A bead is an elongated, convex mark formed at the weld site during welding. The bead portion (6171) is named for its bead-like shape.

[0249] A plurality of bead portions (6171) are formed on the surface of the third panel (602). In this embodiment, the bead portions (6171) are shown extending in one direction.

[0250] The bead portion (6171) is formed to protrude from the second plate (617a) of the third panel (602). At least two bead portions (6171) are spaced apart from each other in one direction at a constant interval. The bead portion (6171) can be formed by pressing the second plate (617a) of the third panel (602).

[0251] The bead portion (6171) can be formed by plastic deformation locally into a bead shape without changing the thickness of the second plate (617a).

[0252] A no bead portion (6172) is formed between two adjacent bead portions (6171) in one direction. The no bead portion (6172) is named to mean a portion where the bead portion (6171) is not formed. The bead portion (6171) is positioned higher than the no bead portion (6172).

[0253] A connecting portion (6173a, 6173b) is formed on one side (e.g., left side) and / or the other side (e.g., right side) of the bead portion (6171). The connecting portion (6173a, 6173b) extends in one direction of the third panel (602) to connect the bead portion (6171) and the no-bead portion (6172). One side of the connecting portion (6173a, 6173b) is connected to the bead portion (6171), and / or the other side of the connecting portion (6173a, 6173b) is connected to the no-bead portion (6172).

[0254] The plurality of above-mentioned no-bead portions (6172) can form the same first plane. The bead portions (6171) can form a second plane that is higher than the same first plane.

[0255] The one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the bead portion (6171) is formed to be smaller than the one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the second plate (617a) of the third panel (602). The one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the bead portion (6171) may be formed to be smaller than the one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the no-bead portion (6172).

[0256] The one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the bead portion (6171) may be extended longer than the one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the support (120). The one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the bead portion (6171) may be formed longer than the separation distance between the first bar (1241a) and the Nth bar. The one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the bead portion (6171) may be extended longer than the one-way (e.g., front-to-rear) length of the first support plate (121) or the second support plate (322). A part (e.g., front end) of the bead portion (6171) may be arranged to overlap with the insulation reinforcement portion (1254) that surrounds the surface of the vacuum space portion (123) of the third panel (602).

[0257] Through this, the bead portion (6171) made of a metal material can minimize the deterioration of insulation performance due to the increase in the length of the bead portion (6171) that overlaps with the non-vacuum insulation body by shortening the length of the bead portion (6171) that overlaps with the vacuum insulation body, while relatively lengthening the length of the bead portion (6171) that overlaps with the vacuum insulation body, thereby increasing the strength of the hinge joint portion (113) that is coupled to the vacuum insulation body.

[0258] The width in one direction (e.g., left-right direction) of the bead portion (6171) may be formed to be smaller than or equal to the distance between two adjacent bars. If the width in one direction (e.g., left-right direction) of the bead portion (6171) is larger than the distance between two adjacent bars, the bead portion (6171) may be distorted. If the width in the left-right direction of the bead portion (6171) is excessively smaller than the distance between two adjacent bars, the width in the left-right direction of the no-bead portion (6172) may become longer, which may reduce the strength of the third panel (602).

[0259] Preferably, the bead portion (6171) can be placed between at least two bars (124) that are adjacent in one direction. It is preferable that the bead portion (6171) is placed so as not to overlap with at least two bars (124) that are spaced apart in one direction.

[0260] The connecting portions (6173a, 6173b) may be positioned adjacent to a vertical line passing through the center of the bar (124).

[0261] The distance between two adjacent bars (124) in one direction (e.g. left and right) of the nobid portion (6172) can be formed to be longer than or equal to the distance between them.

[0262] The bolt portions (134, 135, 136) may be formed to protrude from the bead portion (6171) or the no-bead portion (6172). The first bolt portion (134) and / or the second bolt portion (135) may be formed in the no-bead portion (6172). The third bolt portion (136) may be formed in the bead portion (6171), protrude from the second support plate (322), and / or may be formed to penetrate the bead portion (6171).

[0263] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 18c, the third bolt portion (136) is shown as protruding from the second support plate (322) and / or as being formed by penetrating the bead portion (6171). In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 19, the third bolt portion (136) is shown as protruding from the bead portion (6171).

[0264] The first bolt portion (134) can be coupled with the first nut by passing through the first coupling hole (1131) of the hinge joint portion (113). The second bolt portion (135) can be coupled with the second nut by passing through the second coupling hole (1132) of the hinge joint portion (113). The third bolt portion (136) can be coupled with the third nut by passing through the third coupling hole (1133) of the hinge joint portion (113).

[0265] Since other configurations are the same or similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 16 described above, redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0266] However, the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19 described above may be combined in a cross-sectional manner as long as two or more embodiments do not conflict with each other.

[0267] For example, the bead structure for reinforcing the hinge (610) of the third panel (602) according to the present embodiment can be applied to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 16 described above.

[0268] Accordingly, according to the present invention, a hinge joint (113) may be installed on the surface of the main body (100). A hinge reinforcement plate (130, 230, 330, 430) may be installed on the first case of the third panel (602) made of a vacuum insulator to reinforce the strength of the hinge joint (113). The hinge reinforcement plate (430) may be placed on the second plate (117a, 217a), which is the first case of the third panel (602).

[0269] For example, a hinge reinforcement plate (130) may be placed between the hinge joint (113) and the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102, 602).

[0270] As another example, the hinge reinforcement plate (230, 330, 430) may be accommodated in the second plate (117a, 217a) of the third panel (102). The hinge reinforcement plate (430) is disposed between the second plate (117a, 217a) and the second support plate (122) of the support (120). As another example, the hinge reinforcement plate (230) may be installed to be accommodated in the reinforcement plate receiving portion (218) protruding from a portion of the second plate (217a). As another example, the second plate (117a) may be formed in a flat plate shape. The hinge reinforcement plate (330) may be installed to be accommodated in the reinforcement plate connecting portion (323) recessed in the second support plate (322) of the support (120). As another example, the hinge reinforcing plate (430) can be accommodated in a reinforcing plate joint (423) formed by recessing into the second support plate (422) of the support (120). A bent portion (431, 432) can be formed at one end and / or the other end of the hinge reinforcing plate (430).

[0271] The hinge joint (513) may have a reinforcing structure on its own without the hinge reinforcing plate (130, 230, 330, 430). For example, the hinge joint (513) may further have an extending hinge extension (515). The hinge extension (515) may extend to an end (e.g., a rear end or a left-right end) of the third panel (602). A portion (e.g., a rear end) of the hinge extension (515) may be coupled to a portion (e.g., a rear end) of the third panel (602). A bending portion (516) formed by bending in one direction (e.g., vertically) may further be provided on a portion (e.g., an end) of the hinge extension (515). The hinge extension portion (515) may be formed to be attached to a portion of the second plate (117a) of the third panel (102). The bending portion (516) may be formed to be attached to a portion of the second panel (101) or the first panel (103).

[0272] As another example, in order to increase the strength of the hinge joint (613), the third panel (602) may include a bead portion (6171) formed in a bead shape. The bead portion (6171) is formed to protrude from the second plate (617a) of the third panel (602). At least two bead portions (6171) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in one direction of the third panel (602). A no-bead portion (6172) in which no bead portion (6171) is formed may be provided between at least two adjacent bead portions (6171) in the spaced direction. The bead portions (6171) and the no-bead portions (6172) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in one direction of the third panel (602) or alternately.

[0273] According to this configuration, the reinforcing structure of the hinge reinforcing plate (130, 230, 330, 430), the hinge joint (513) or the hinge (610) of the third panel (602) can reinforce the strength of the hinge (510). The extension and bending structure of the hinge reinforcing plate (130, 230, 330, 430), the hinge joint (513) or the bead structure of the third panel (602) can maintain the insulation performance without increasing the thickness of the second plate (117a, 217a, 617a), which is the first case of the vacuum insulation body, and prevent the first case of the vacuum insulation body from being deformed, thereby securing the opening and closing reliability of the door (108, 109).

[0274] By preventing sagging of the door (108, 109), the sealing reliability of the refrigerator can be improved. In addition, by preventing cold air leakage and vacuum leakage due to deformation of the first case, the performance and reliability of the refrigerator can be secured.

[0275] [Explanation of symbols]

[0276] 1: Refrigerator 2: Body

[0277] 3: Door 4: Compressor

[0278] 5: Condenser 6: Expander

[0279] 7: Evaporator 8: Machine room

[0280] 9: Cavity 10: Vacuum insulator

[0281] 10a: First vacuum insulator 10b: Second vacuum insulator

[0282] 11: First plate 11a: First part

[0283] 11b: Part 2 11c: Extended Part

[0284] 11d: Branch 12: Second plate

[0285] 12a: Part 1 12b: Part 2

[0286] 12c: Third part 12d: Extended part

[0287] 12e: Branch 13: Third plate

[0288] 14: Side plate 14a: Part 1

[0289] 14b: Second part 14c: Extended part

[0290] 14d: Branch 15: Vacuum space

[0291] 16: Vacuum space expansion part 16a: X-direction extension part

[0292] 16b: Y-direction extension 17: Connection frame

[0293] 18: Seal 19: Support

[0294] 20: Bar 21: Connecting plate

[0295] 22: Support plate 23: Radiation resistance sheet

[0296] 24: Shielding 26: Conductive resistance sheet

[0297] 28: Additional insulation 29a: Central insulation

[0298] 29b: Peripheral insulation 30: Joint

[0299] 31: Port 32: Pipeline

[0300] 33: Film 34: Porous material

[0301] 100: Body 101: Second panel

[0302] 102: Panel 3 103: Panel 1

[0303] 1031: One of the first panels 1032: Another one of the first panels

[0304] 104: Panel 4 105: Storage Room 1

[0305] 106: Second storage room 107: Partition wall

[0306] 108: First storage room door 109: Second storage room door

[0307] 110: First hinge 111: Second hinge

[0308] 112: Third hinge 113: Hinge joint

[0309] 1131: First coupling hole 1132: Second coupling hole

[0310] 1133: Third connecting hole 114: Hinge connection

[0311] 1141: First hinge connection 1142: Second hinge connection

[0312] 1143: Third hinge connection 1144: Hinge shaft receiving portion

[0313] 115: Hinge axis 116a, 116b, 116c: First plate

[0314] 117a, 117b, 117c: Second plate

[0315] 118a, 118b: Extension 1181: First Extension

[0316] 1182: Second extension 119a, 119b: Side plate

[0317] 1191: First curve section 1192: Second curve section

[0318] 1193: Straight section 120: Support

[0319] 121: First support plate 122: Second support plate

[0320] 123: Vacuum space 124: Bar

[0321] 1241a, 1241b: 1st bar 1242a, 1242b: 2nd bar

[0322] 1243a, 1243b: Third Bar 1244a, 1244b: Fourth Bar

[0323] 125: 1st storage joint 1251: 1st joint

[0324] 1252: 2nd joint 1253: 3rd joint

[0325] 1254: Insulation reinforcement 126: Deco

[0326] 1261: Hotline reception area 127: Gasket

[0327] 130: Hinge reinforcement plate 131: First joining hole

[0328] 132: Second coupling hole 133: Third coupling hole

[0329] 134: First bolt section 135: Second bolt section

[0330] 136: Third bolt section 217a, 217b, 217c: Second plate

[0331] 218: Reinforcement plate receiving section 2191: First extension section

[0332] 2192: Second Extension Section 220: Space Section

[0333] 230: Hinge reinforcement plate 231: First joining groove

[0334] 232: Second connecting groove 233: Third connecting groove

[0335] 330: Hinge reinforcement plate 322: Second support plate

[0336] 323: Reinforcement plate joint 422: Second support plate

[0337] 423: Reinforcement plate joint 430: Hinge reinforcement plate

[0338] 431: First bend 432: Second bend

[0339] 510: Hinge 513: Hinge joint

[0340] 514: Hinge joint body 515: Hinge extension

[0341] 5151: First coupling hole 5152: Second coupling hole

[0342] 516: Bending part 517: Joining member

[0343] 602: Third panel 610: Hinge

[0344] 617a: Second plate 6171: Bead section

[0345] 6172: Nobid part 6173a, 6173b: Connection part

Claims

1. A body including a panel made of vacuum insulation; A door movably installed on the surface of the above body; and A refrigerator comprising a hinge that movably supports the door.

2. In paragraph 15, A refrigerator in which the above hinge reinforcement plate is placed on the third panel.

3. In paragraph 15, The above vacuum insulator, A first plate facing the interior of the refrigerator; A second plate facing the outside of the refrigerator; A support is disposed between the first plate and the second plate, and includes a support that maintains a vacuum space formed between the first plate and the second plate. The above support is, A first support plate arranged to face the first plate; A second support plate arranged to face the second plate; and A refrigerator comprising at least two bars connected to the first support plate and the second support plate and maintaining the vacuum space.

4. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator wherein the above hinge reinforcement plate is placed between the above hinge fixing part and the above second plate.

5. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator in which the above hinge reinforcement plate is placed between the second plate and the second support plate.

6. In paragraph 3 or paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which a reinforcing plate receiving portion is formed to protrude from the second plate to receive the hinge reinforcing plate.

7. In paragraph 3 or paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which a reinforcing plate mounting portion is formed to be sunken in the second support plate to accommodate the hinge reinforcing plate.

8. In paragraph 3 or paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which a bent portion of the above hinge reinforcement plate is formed to protrude toward the first plate.

9. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator in which the above hinge fixing member and the above hinge reinforcing plate are connected to the third panel by a connecting member protruding from the second plate.

10. In paragraph 9, A refrigerator in which the above fastening member is implemented as a bolt portion, and the bolt portion is positioned to overlap or be adjacent to an imaginary line passing through the center of the bar.

11. In paragraph 9, The above hinge fixing part includes a first fastening hole or an L-fastening hole, A refrigerator in which the above fastening member is composed of a first bolt portion to an L bolt portion formed to be able to penetrate the first fastening hole to the L fastening hole, respectively.

12. In paragraph 3, At least two of the above bars, It includes the first to M bars that are sequentially spaced apart from the front end to the rear end of the third panel, Including the first to Nth bars arranged in sequence from the right end to the left end of the third panel, The fastening member that fastens the above hinge fixing part and the above hinge reinforcement plate is, A first bolt portion arranged to overlap or be adjacent to a first bar among at least two bars spaced apart in one direction of the third panel and a second bar among at least two bars spaced apart in one direction of the third panel; A second bolt portion arranged between the second bar and the third bar among at least two bars spaced apart in one direction of the third panel, and overlapping or adjacent to the second bar among at least two bars spaced apart in one direction of the third panel; and A refrigerator comprising a third bolt portion that overlaps or is adjacent to a first bar among at least two bars spaced apart in one direction of the third panel and a fourth bar among at least two bars spaced apart in one direction of the third panel.

13. In paragraph 3, The third panel above is, Including an extension extending from the second plate toward the door, The above extension part, A first extension extending horizontally from the second plate; and Including a second extension portion extending vertically from the front end of the first extension portion, A refrigerator in which the front end of the above hinge reinforcement plate extends along the second plate to the front end of the first extension.

14. In paragraph 13, The third panel above is, An insulating reinforcement extending from the first plate toward the surfaces of the first extension and the second extension to wrap around the surface of the second plate; and A refrigerator including a surface of the above insulation reinforcement and a decoration covering the surface.

15. In paragraph 1, The above panel includes a third panel forming a third side of the refrigerator, The above hinge is installed on the third panel, The above hinge, A hinge fixed part coupled to the third panel; A hinge axis coupled to the above door; A hinge connection connecting the above hinge fixing part and the hinge axis; and A refrigerator including a hinge reinforcement plate disposed between the hinge fixing member and the third panel.

Images