Refrigerator

Abstract

Provide is a refrigerator comprising a duct which supplies cold air to a storage chamber. The refrigerator comprises: a main body having a storage chamber; an evaporator provided to generate cold air; and a duct which guides the cold air generated by the evaporator to the storage chamber and comprises a drain hole for discharging moisture from the duct, wherein the duct comprises: a first cover arranged to face the storage chamber; a second cover which is coupled to the first cover to form a flow path therein; and a guide portion which guides the moisture to the drain hole. The guide portion comprises a first guide provided on the rear surface of the first cover, and a second guide which is arranged under the first guide to be spaced apart from the first guide and is connected to the drain hole.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly to a refrigerator including a duct for supplying cold air to a storage compartment.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that maintains food freshness by including a main body having a storage compartment and a cold air supply system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment that maintains a temperature of approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius to refrigerate food, and a freezer compartment that maintains a temperature of approximately 0 to -30 degrees Celsius to freeze food.

[0003] A refrigerator includes a cooling device including an evaporator and a duct that distributes and supplies cold air generated from the cooling device to a storage room.

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator comprising an improved duct.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of discharging moisture generated inside a duct to the outside.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a guide portion that guides moisture generated at the rear of a duct front plate to a drain hole.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of minimizing the amount of moisture inside a duct.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of maintaining duct performance and improving quality.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of discharging moisture from a duct to the outside, thereby preventing moisture accumulation.

[0010] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0011] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a main body having a storage compartment, a cooler configured to generate cold air, a duct configured to guide cold air generated in the cooler to the storage compartment, the duct including a drain hole for discharging moisture inside the duct, and the duct comprises a first cover arranged to face the storage compartment, a second cover configured to be coupled with the first cover to form a flow path therein and having the drain hole, a first guide provided on the first cover to guide moisture to the drain hole, and a second guide provided on the second cover to be spaced apart from the first guide and connected to the drain hole.

[0012] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises: a main body having a storage compartment; a cooler configured to generate cold air; a duct configured to guide cold air generated in the cooler to the storage compartment, the duct including a drain hole for discharging moisture inside the duct; the duct includes a first cover configured to face the storage compartment; a second cover coupled to the first cover to form a flow path therein and to form the drain hole; a first guide provided on the first cover; and a second guide provided on the second cover to be spaced apart from the first guide and connected to the drain hole, wherein the first guide is arranged to vertically overlap at least a portion of the second guide.

[0013] As an example, a refrigerator may be provided that includes an improved duct.

[0014] For example, moisture generated inside the duct can be discharged to the outside.

[0015] For example, by including a guide part that guides moisture generated at the rear of the duct front plate to a drain hole, moisture in the duct can be discharged to the outside, thereby preventing moisture from accumulating.

[0016] For example, the amount of moisture inside the duct can be minimized, thereby maintaining duct performance and improving quality.

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment;

[0018] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment;

[0019] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a duct of a refrigerator according to one embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 3, showing the air flow in a duct according to one embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 5 A drawing showing the inside of the duct of the refrigerator shown in FIG. 3,

[0022] Figure 6 is a front view of a duct exploded according to one embodiment;

[0023] Figure 7 is a drawing showing the duct of Figure 6 disassembled and viewed from the rear.

[0024] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a guide part of a duct according to one embodiment;

[0025] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a guide portion of a duct according to one embodiment;

[0026] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the moisture movement state of a duct according to one embodiment;

[0027] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0028] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0029] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0031] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0032] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0033] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0034] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0035] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0036] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0037] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0038] The "body" may include an inner case, an outer case disposed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0039] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, a plate, a panel, or a liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the main body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0040] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0041] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0042] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an inner wall. The storage room may further include an inner wall defining a space corresponding to the storage room. The storage room may store various moisture products, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of moisture products.

[0043] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator includes two or more storage compartments, each compartment may have a different purpose and be maintained at different temperatures. To achieve this, each storage compartment may be separated from the others by a partition wall containing insulation.

[0044] The storage room may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. A refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and a freezer may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling items to freeze them or keep them frozen, and for example, a freezer may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. A variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user's option or not.

[0045] In addition to names such as "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room," a storage room may also be called by various other names such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice room." The terms "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room" used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms having corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0046] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment. The door may be configured to open and close one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be configured to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed on the front of the main body in a pivotal or sliding manner.

[0047] The "door" may be configured to seal the storage compartment when the door is closed. The door may include insulation, similar to the body, to insulate the storage compartment when the door is closed.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the back of the door and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided on the interior of these.

[0049] The door inner panel may be provided with a gasket that seals the storage compartment by contacting the front of the body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0050] In one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0051] Depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment, refrigerators can be classified into French door type, side-by-side type, bottom mounted freezer (BMF), top mounted freezer (TMF), or single-door refrigerator.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0053] A "cold air supply device" may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0054] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment by generating heat and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged.

[0056] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0057] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without having to open the door.

[0058] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray configured to store water, an ice-separating device configured to separate ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket configured to store ice produced in the ice-making tray.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0060] The "control unit" may include a memory that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc. according to the program and / or data memorized in the memory.

[0061] Memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. Memory can store temporary data generated during the generation of control signals for controlling components within the refrigerator. Memory may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0062] The processor controls the overall operation of the refrigerator. The processor can control the components of the refrigerator by executing programs stored in memory. The processor may include a separate NPU that performs the operations of an artificial intelligence model. The processor may also include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. The processor may generate control signals to control the operation of the cooling system. For example, the processor may receive temperature information about the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cooling system based on the temperature information.

[0063] Additionally, the processor may process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface based on programs and / or data stored / stored in the memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor may receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor may transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface for displaying an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0064] The processor and memory may be provided as a single unit or separately. The processor may include one or more processors. For example, the processor may include a main processor and at least one subprocessor. The memory may include one or more memories.

[0065] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components within the refrigerator, and may include multiple processors and multiple memories that individually control the components within the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cooling device based on the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately include a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface based on user input.

[0066] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, via a nearby access point (AP). The AP can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator or user device can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0067] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0068] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0069] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0070] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0071] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a refrigerator (1) may include a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) formed by being divided vertically inside the main body (10), a door (30) for opening and closing the storage compartment (20), and a cold air supply device (not shown) for supplying cold air to the storage compartment (20).

[0072] The main body (10) may be configured to include an inner case (11) forming a storage room (20), an outer case (12) bonded to the outside of the inner case (11) to form an outer appearance, and an insulating material (13) foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12) to insulate the storage room (20).

[0073] The storage room (20) can be divided into multiple sections by partitions (15). Inside the storage room (20), multiple shelves (25) and storage containers (26) can be provided to store food.

[0074] The storage room (20) can be divided into a plurality of storage rooms (20) by a partition (15). The partition (15) can include a first partition (17) that is horizontally connected to the interior of the storage room (20) to divide the storage room (20) into an upper storage room (22) and a lower storage room (23, 24), and a second partition (19) that is vertically connected to the lower storage room (23, 24) to divide the lower storage room into a first storage room (23) and a second storage room (24).

[0075] The partition (15) having a T shape, which is formed by combining the first partition (17) and the second partition (19), can divide the storage room (20) into three spaces. Among the upper storage room (22) and the lower storage room (23, 24) divided by the first partition (17), the upper storage room (22) can be used as a refrigerator, and the lower storage room (23, 24) can be used as a freezer.

[0076] The lower storage compartments (23, 24) can be used entirely as a freezer, but the first storage compartment (23) can also be used as a freezer and the second storage compartment (24) can also be used as a refrigerator. The first storage compartment (23) can be used as a freezer and the second storage compartment (24) can also be used as both a freezer and a refrigerator.

[0077] This division of the storage room (20) is just one example, and each storage room (20) can be used differently from the above configuration.

[0078] The refrigerator (22) and freezer (23, 24) can be opened and closed by a door (30) that is rotatably connected to the main body (10).

[0079] The door (30) may include a pair of refrigerator doors (31) that are rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the refrigerator compartment (22), and a pair of freezer doors (33) that are rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the freezer compartment (23, 24).

[0080] A machine room (27) in which a compressor (C) for compressing refrigerant and a condenser (not shown) for condensing refrigerant are installed can be provided at the lower rear side of the main body (10).

[0081] The refrigeration supply device may include a cooling device (e.g., cooler, chiller, etc.). The cooling device may include a compressor (C) that compresses a refrigerant, a condenser that condenses the refrigerant, an expansion valve (not shown) that expands the refrigerant, and an evaporator (E) that evaporates the refrigerant. The cooling device may include a machine, a device, an electronic device, and / or a system combining these that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room (20). In the present embodiment, the cooling device is described as a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor (C), a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator that can drive a refrigeration cycle, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] The cooling device may include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool the storage compartment by generating heat and cooling through the Peltier effect. The cooling device may include a thermoelectric element, a heat sink, and wires. An evaporator (E) or thermoelectric element designed to generate cold air may be referred to as a cooler. Hereinafter, the cooler designed to generate cold air will be referred to as an evaporator (E).

[0083] An evaporator (E) configured to generate cold air may be arranged at the rear of the storage compartment (20). A duct (100) may be provided at the rear of the storage compartment (20) so that the evaporator (E) may be installed. The duct (100) may be provided to guide cold air generated by the evaporator (E) to the storage compartment (20). The duct (100) may be provided to guide cold air inside the storage compartment (20) to move toward the evaporator (E). A duct (100) may be provided at the lower rear portion of the duct so that cold air in the storage compartment (20) may be circulated toward the fluid inlet side of the evaporator (E). The duct (100) may be arranged in both the refrigerator compartment (22) and the freezer compartments (23, 24). In the present embodiment, an example in which the duct (100) is arranged in the freezer compartment (23, 24) will be described.

[0084] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a duct of a refrigerator according to one embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 3, which is a drawing showing air flow in a duct according to one embodiment.

[0085] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, a duct (100) may be provided to guide cold air from an evaporator (E) located at the rear of the freezer (23, 24) to the freezer (23, 24). The duct (100) may be provided so that the cold air is evenly distributed throughout the freezer (23, 24).

[0086] The duct (100) may include a first cover (110) and a second cover (120) that is coupled to the rear of the first cover (110) and forms a flow path (400) inside together with the first cover (110). The duct (100) may include a fan assembly (130) that allows air to circulate.

[0087] The first cover (110) may be positioned facing the storage compartment (20). The first cover (110) may be positioned facing the freezer compartment (23, 24). The second cover (120) may be provided at the rear of the first cover (110).

[0088] The first cover (110) may be provided to form at least a portion of the storage compartment (20). The first cover (110) may include a plate-shaped first cover plate (111) and a first cover frame (112) provided on the edge of the first cover plate (111). The first cover frame (112) may be formed to protrude toward the rear of the first cover plate (111).

[0089] The first cover (110) may include a plurality of cold air discharge portions (142) so that cold air can be distributed into the freezer (23, 24). The cold air discharge portions (142) may be formed on the front surface of the first cover (110). The cold air discharge portions (142) may be respectively positioned on the upper, middle, and lower surfaces of the first cover (110). The cold air discharge portions (142) may include a cold air discharge slit (142a) in the form of a slit formed by cutting a portion of the first cover (110). The cold air discharge portions (142) may include a cold air discharge nozzle (142b) in the form of a nozzle protruding from the front surface of the first cover (110).

[0090] The number and shape of the cold air discharge units (142) can be varied. Cold air can be distributed and discharged to the upper, middle, and lower parts of the freezer (23, 24) through the cold air discharge units (142) formed on the first cover (110). Cold air can be distributed and discharged evenly throughout the freezer (23, 24) through the cold air discharge units (142) formed on the first cover (110).

[0091] A first cover frame (112) of the first cover (110) may be provided with a coupling protrusion (115) that protrudes rearward for coupling with the second cover (120). A plurality of coupling protrusions (115) may be provided on the first cover frame (112). The plurality of coupling protrusions (115) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of coupling protrusions (115) may be arranged to correspond to the coupling grooves (125) of the second cover (120) described below.

[0092] The second cover (120) may be arranged to be coupled with the first cover (110) at the rear of the first cover (110). The second cover (120) may be coupled with the first cover (110) to form a flow path (400) therein.

[0093] The second cover (120) may include a plate-shaped second cover plate (121) and a second cover frame (122) provided on the edge of the second cover plate (121). The second cover frame (122) may be formed to protrude forward of the second cover plate (121). The second cover frame (122) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the first cover frame (112) of the first cover (110). The second cover frame (122) may be provided with a coupling groove (125) formed for coupling with the first cover (110). A plurality of coupling grooves (125) may be arranged spaced apart from each other. The coupling grooves (125) may be provided at a position corresponding to the coupling protrusion (115). A plurality of coupling grooves (125) may be provided to be detachably coupled to the coupling projections (115) of the first cover (110).

[0094] The first cover (110) and the second cover (120) can be combined to form a passage (400) therein. The second cover (120) can be provided with a cold air inlet (123) so that cold air can be introduced into the passage (400). The second cover plate (121) of the second cover (120) can be provided with a cold air inlet (123) so that cold air can be introduced into the passage (400). The cold air inlet (123) can be located at the upper portion of the second cover plate (121). The cold air inlet (123) can be formed so that cold air can be introduced into the passage (400) from an evaporator (E) arranged at the rear of the second cover (120).

[0095] The cold air inlet (123) of the second cover (120) may be formed at a position corresponding to the fan assembly (130) provided inside the duct (100). Cold air generated in the evaporator (E) by the fan assembly (130) inside the duct (100) may be introduced into the flow path (400) inside the duct (100) through the cold air inlet (123).

[0096] The fan assembly (130) may be installed on the first cover (110) and provided inside the duct (100). The fan assembly (130) is composed of a centrifugal fan that draws in air in the axial direction and discharges it in the radial direction. A description of the fan assembly (130) will be provided later.

[0097] By means of the fan assembly (130) provided inside the duct (100), cold air can be introduced into the duct (100) from the evaporator (E) through the cold air inlet (123) of the second cover (120) and discharged to the cold air discharge portion (142) of the first cover (110) through the conduit (400).

[0098] The duct (100) causes moisture to be generated around the duct (100) due to the temperature difference between the evaporator (E) and the refrigerator (1) storage compartment (20). Moisture may be generated inside and outside the duct (100) due to the temperature difference between the evaporator (E) and the freezer compartment (23, 24).

[0099] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the inside of a duct of a refrigerator illustrated in FIG. 3, FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the duct from the front in an exploded manner according to one embodiment, FIG. 7 is a drawing showing the duct of FIG. 6 in an exploded manner from the rear, FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a guide part of a duct according to one embodiment, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a guide part of a duct according to one embodiment, and FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a moisture movement state of a duct according to one embodiment. Hereinafter, descriptions of parts overlapping with the above descriptions will be omitted.

[0100] As illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 10, a duct (100) may be provided to guide cold air generated in an evaporator (E) to a storage compartment (20). The duct (100) may be provided so that cold air passing through the evaporator (E) can be uniformly distributed to the freezing compartment (23, 24) of the refrigerator (1). The duct (100) may include a drain hole (300) for discharging moisture generated inside the duct. The drain hole (300) may be formed in at least a portion of the duct (100). The duct (100) may include a guide portion (200) for guiding moisture to the drain hole (300) for discharging moisture generated inside the duct (100).

[0101] The duct (100) may include a first cover (110) and a second cover (120) coupled to the first cover (110). The first cover (110) of the duct (100) may be a front cover positioned so as to face the storage compartment (20). The second cover (120) of the duct (100) may be a rear cover coupled to the rear of the first cover (110). A drain hole (300) may be formed in the second cover (120). The drain hole (300) may be located at the bottom of the second cover (120).

[0102] The first cover (110) of the duct (100) can be placed on the side of the freezer (23, 24). The front of the first cover (110) can form at least a part of the freezer (23, 24).

[0103] The first cover (110) may include a first cover plate (111) in a plate shape and a first cover frame (112) forming a border of the first cover plate (111). A fan receiving portion (113) in which a fan assembly (130) is received and a fan fixing portion (113a) formed in the fan receiving portion (113) may be provided on one upper side of the first cover plate (111). The fan assembly (130) may include a blower fan (131) that rotates to suck in and discharge air, and a driving motor (132) that generates rotational force to rotate the blower fan (131).

[0104] A cold air discharge unit (142) may be provided on the first cover plate (111) so that cold air is distributed and supplied to the freezer (23, 24). A flow path forming unit (410) may be provided on the first cover plate (111) to guide cold air. The flow path forming unit (410) may include a pair of first flow path forming ribs (431) that are formed spaced apart from each other on the left and right sides of the rear surface of the first cover plate (111).

[0105] A first flow path forming part (410) may be provided on the first cover plate (111) to guide cold air. The first flow path forming ribs (431) may be formed in the vertical direction on the left and right sides of the first cover plate (111). A first flow path forming part (411) formed in an approximately inverted V shape to divide the flow path (400) into two may be provided at the center of the first flow path forming rib (431). The first flow path forming part (411) may be arranged at the lower center of the first cover plate (111). One side of the first flow path forming part (411) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first flow path forming rib (431) formed on one side of the first cover plate (111) by a certain distance. The other side of the first flow forming part (411) can be arranged at a certain distance from the first flow forming rib (431) formed on the other side of the first cover plate (111).

[0106] The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) is designed to allow cold air to move from the upper side to the lower side, and can be branched into two at the lower side. The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) can be evenly distributed and discharged from the cold air discharge portion (142) formed in the first cover (110). The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) can be branched into a first flow path (400a) formed between the first flow path forming rib (431) and the first flow path forming portion (411) arranged on one side of the first cover (110), and a second flow path (400b) formed between the first flow path forming rib (431) and the first flow path forming portion (411) arranged on the other side of the first cover (110).

[0107] The first cover (110) may include a cold air discharge unit (142) provided to form a first flow path (400a). The first cover (110) may include a cold air discharge unit (142) provided to form a second flow path (400b). The cold air discharge unit (142) may include a cold air discharge nozzle (142b) provided to form the first flow path (400a) and the second flow path (400b).

[0108] The first cover (110) may include a first cold air discharge nozzle (142ba) provided to form a first flow path (400a). The first cover (110) may include a second cold air discharge nozzle (142bb) provided to form a second flow path (400b).

[0109] The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) discharges cold air through the cold air discharge slit (142a) and the air discharge part (142) at the upper and central sides, and discharges cold air to the lower left and right sides through the first cold air discharge nozzle (142ba) provided to form the first flow path (400a) at the lower side, and the second cold air discharge nozzle (142bb) provided to form the second flow path (400b).

[0110] A first guide (210) may be provided on the first cover plate (111) to guide moisture generated on the rear side of the first cover (110). The first guide (210) may be provided within the first flow path (400a).

[0111] The first guide (210) may be provided between the first flow path forming rib (431) and the first flow path forming part (411) arranged on one side of the first cover (110). The first guide (210) may be provided between the first flow path forming rib (431) and the first flow path forming part (411) arranged on the other side of the first cover (110). The first guide (210) may be provided within the second flow path (400b). The first guide (210) provided within the first flow path (400a) and the first guide (210) provided within the second flow path (400b) may be formed in the same shape.

[0112] The first guide (210) may include a plurality of guide surfaces (211, 212, 213) that are arranged to be inclined downward. The first guide (210) may be arranged above a drain hole (300) formed in the duct (100). The plurality of guide surfaces (211, 212, 213) forming the first guide (210) may include a first guide surface (211), a second guide surface (212), and a connecting guide surface (213) that connects the first guide surface (211) and the second guide surface (212) that are arranged to be inclined downward in the left and right directions toward the center.

[0113] The first guide surface (211) and the second guide surface (212) of the first guide (210) may be arranged symmetrically to each other. The first guide surface (211) and the second guide surface (212) may be arranged to be inclined toward the center. The connecting guide surface (213) connecting the first guide surface (211) and the second guide surface (212) may be arranged to be inclined downward toward the rear.

[0114] The first guide (210) may be formed by being connected from the rear surface of the first cover (110). The first guide (210) may be formed integrally from the rear surface of the first cover (110). The first guide surface (211), the second guide surface (212), and the connection guide surface (213) of the first guide (210) may be connected to the rear surface of the first cover (110). The connection guide surface (213) may include a first portion (P1) that is provided to be connected to the rear surface of the first cover (110), and a second portion (P2) that extends from the first portion (P1) and is positioned lower than the first portion (P1). The first portion (P1) of the connection guide surface (213) may be formed with a first length (L1), and the second portion (P2) may be formed with a second length (L2). The first length (L1) may be formed to be longer than the second length (L2). The first length (L1) may be formed to be equal to or shorter than the second length (L2).

[0115] The moisture collected by the first guide surface (211) and the second guide surface (212) of the first guide (210) through the second part (P2) of the connection guide surface (213) located at a lower position and shorter than the first length (L1) of the first part (P1) can be guided toward the drain hole (300) located at the lower side of the duct (100).

[0116] The second cover (120) may include a plate-shaped second cover plate (121) and a second cover frame (122) forming a border of the second cover plate (121). A cold air inlet (123) may be formed on one upper side of the second cover plate (121) to correspond to a fan assembly (130) so that cold air from the evaporator (E) can be sucked into the duct (100). The cold air inlet (123) may be formed at a position corresponding to the fan receiving portion (113) of the first cover (110).

[0117] A flow path forming portion (410) may be provided on the second cover plate (121) to guide cold air. The flow path forming portion (410) may include a pair of second flow path forming ribs (432) that are formed to protrude and are spaced apart from each other on the left and right sides of the front surface of the second cover plate (121).

[0118] The second flow path forming rib (432) of the second cover plate (121) may be provided to correspond to the first flow path forming rib (431) of the first cover plate (111). The second cover plate (121) may be provided with a plurality of fixing grooves (126) for coupling with the first cover plate (111). The second flow path forming rib (432) of the second cover plate (121) may be provided with fixing grooves (126) formed at a predetermined interval. The first cover plate (111) may be provided with fixing protrusions (116) corresponding to the fixing grooves (126) of the second cover plate (121). The fixing protrusions (116) may be provided on the outer side of the first flow path forming rib (431) of the first cover plate (111).

[0119] A second flow path forming part (412) may be provided on the second cover plate (121) to guide cold air. The second flow path forming ribs (432) may be formed in the vertical direction on the left and right sides of the second cover plate (121). A second flow path forming part (412) formed in an approximately inverted V shape to divide the flow path (400) into two may be provided at the center of the second flow path forming rib (432). The second flow path forming part (412) may be arranged at the lower center of the second cover plate (121). The second flow path forming part (412) may be provided to correspond to the first flow path forming part (411).

[0120] One side of the second flow path forming portion (412) may be arranged at a predetermined distance from the second flow path forming rib (432) formed on one side of the second cover plate (121). The other side of the second flow path forming portion (412) may be arranged at a predetermined distance from the second flow path forming rib (432) formed on the other side of the second cover plate (121).

[0121] The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) is designed to allow cold air to move from the upper side to the lower side, and can be branched into two at the lower side. The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) can be evenly distributed and discharged from the cold air discharge portion (142) formed in the second cover (120). The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) can be branched into a second flow path (400b) formed between a second flow path forming rib (432) arranged on one side of the second cover (120) and a second flow path forming portion (412), and a second flow path (400b) formed between a second flow path forming rib (432) arranged on the other side of the second cover (120) and a second flow path forming portion (412).

[0122] The first euro (400a) and the second euro (400b) of the second cover (120) can be connected to the first euro (400a) and the second euro (400b) of the first cover (110).

[0123] A first cold air discharge nozzle coupling part (147a) may be provided at the lower part of the second cover (120) and coupled to a first cold air discharge nozzle (142ba) provided at the first cover (110) and forming a first flow path (400a). A first cold air discharge nozzle coupling part (147b) may be provided at the lower part of the second cover (120) and coupled to a second cold air discharge nozzle (142bb) provided at the first cover (110) and forming a second flow path (400b).

[0124] The first cold air discharge nozzle coupling portion (147a) and the second cold air discharge nozzle coupling portion (147b) of the second cover (120) are provided so that they can be coupled with the first cold air discharge nozzle (142ba) and the second cold air discharge nozzle (142bb) of the first cover (110) to form the first flow path (400a) and the second flow path (400b).

[0125] The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) can discharge cold air through a cold air discharge slit (142a) and an air discharge portion (142) at the upper and central sides. At the lower side of the flow path (400), cold air can be discharged downward through a first cold air discharge nozzle (142b) provided to form a first flow path (400a) and a second cold air discharge nozzle (142b) provided to form a second flow path (400b).

[0126] The drain hole (300) of the duct (100) may be provided in the second cover (120). The drain hole (300) may be formed in each of the first channel (400a) and the second channel (400b) of the second cover (120). The drain hole (300) may include a first drain hole (300a) arranged in the first channel (400a) and a second drain hole (300b) arranged in the second channel (400b).

[0127] The guide portion (200) provided to guide moisture to the drain hole (300) may include a second guide (220) formed on the second cover (120). The second guide (220) may be provided to be connected to the drain hole (300). The second guide (220) may be positioned below the first guide (210). The second guide (220) may be positioned to vertically overlap at least a portion of the first guide (210). The first guide (210) may be positioned to vertically overlap at least a portion of the second guide (220). The second guide (220) may be provided to guide moisture guided from the first guide (210).

[0128] A second guide (220) may be provided on the second cover plate (121) to guide moisture generated on the front surface of the second cover (120). The second guide (220) may be provided within the first flow path (400a).

[0129] The second guide (220) may be provided between the second flow path forming rib (432) and the second flow path forming part (412) arranged on one side of the second cover (120). The second guide (220) may be provided between the second flow path forming rib (432) and the second flow path forming part (412) arranged on the other side of the second cover (120). The second guide (220) may be provided within the second flow path (400b). The second guide (220) provided within the second flow path (400b) and the second guide (220) provided within the second flow path (400b) may be formed in the same shape.

[0130] The second guide (220) may include a plurality of inclined surfaces (221, 222, 223) that are arranged to be inclined downward. The second guide (220) may include a plurality of inclined surfaces (221, 222, 223) that are arranged to be inclined downward toward the drain hole (300). The second guide (220) may be arranged above the drain hole (300) formed in the duct (100).

[0131] The plurality of inclined surfaces (221, 222, 223) forming the second guide (220) may include a first inclined surface (221), a second inclined surface (222) that are arranged to slope downward in the left and right directions toward the center, and a connecting inclined surface (223) that connects the first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222).

[0132] The first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222) of the second guide (220) may be arranged symmetrically to each other. The first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222) may be arranged to be inclined toward the center. The connecting inclined surface (223) connecting the first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222) may be arranged to be inclined downward toward the rear. The connecting inclined surface (223) may be formed to extend downwardly from the first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222) along the perimeter of the drain hole (300).

[0133] Moisture guided along the first slope (221) and the second slope (222) can be discharged to the drain hole (300) through the connecting slope (223).

[0134] The first guide (210) of the first cover (110) is positioned above the second guide (220) of the second cover (120). The first guide (210) guides moisture generated at the rear of the first cover (110) and moves it to the second guide (220), and moisture generated at the front of the second cover (120) moves to the second guide (220), so that moisture at the rear of the first cover (110) and moisture at the front of the second cover (120) can be gathered at the second guide (220) and discharged through the drain hole (300).

[0135] The flow path (400) inside the duct (100) may include a first region (A1) through which moisture moves along the rear surface of the first cover (110), and a second region (A2) through which moisture moves along the front surface of the second cover (120). The flow path (400) inside the duct may include a third region (A3) of a second guide (220) overlapping the first guide (210) so that moisture moving along the rear surface of the first cover (110) can be transferred to the second guide (220) through the first guide (210). Moisture collected from the rear surface of the first cover (110) to the first guide (210) by the third region (A3) inside the duct (100) can be transferred to the second guide (220) and discharged through the drain hole (300) of the second cover (120). Moisture generated at the rear side of the first cover (110) and the front side of the second cover (120) inside the duct (100) can be discharged to the outside of the duct (100) by the overlapping third area (A3) of the first guide (210) and the second guide (220). By minimizing the amount of moisture inside the duct (100) through the first guide (210) and the second guide (220) having the overlapping third area (A3), performance can be maintained and quality can be improved.

[0136] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment comprises: a main body (10) having a storage compartment (20); a cooler (E) configured to generate cold air; a duct (100) configured to guide cold air generated in the cooler to the storage compartment, the duct (100) including a drain hole (300) for discharging moisture inside the duct (100); wherein the duct (100) comprises: a first cover (110) arranged to face the storage compartment; a second cover (120) arranged to be coupled with the first cover to form a flow path (400) therein and having the drain hole; a first guide (210) provided in the first cover (110) to guide moisture to the drain hole; and a second guide (220) provided in the second cover to be arranged below the first guide and spaced apart from the first guide and connected to the drain hole. According to the present disclosure, the amount of moisture inside a duct can be minimized. By minimizing the amount of moisture inside a duct, performance can be maintained and quality can be improved.

[0137] The first guide is arranged to overlap at least a portion of the second guide in a vertical direction. The first guide includes a plurality of guide surfaces (211, 212, 213) that are arranged to be inclined downward toward the second guide. The plurality of guide surfaces include a first guide surface (211) and a second guide surface (212) that are arranged to be inclined downward in the left and right directions toward the center, and a connection guide surface (213) that connects the first guide surface and the second guide surface and is arranged to be inclined downward toward the rear. The connection guide surface (213) includes a first part (P1) that is arranged to be connected to the rear surface of the first cover, and a second part (P2) that extends from the first part and is arranged at a lower position than the first part. The above first part is provided with a first length (L1), and the above second part is provided with a second length (L2). With this structure, moisture generated at the rear of the front plate of the duct can be guided to the drain hole, thereby minimizing the amount of moisture inside the duct.

[0138] The second guide includes a plurality of inclined surfaces (221, 222, 223) that are arranged to slope downward toward the drain hole. The plurality of inclined surfaces include a first inclined surface (221) and a second inclined surface (222) that are arranged to slope downward in the left-right direction toward the drain hole, and a connecting inclined surface (223) that connects the first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222) and extends downward along the perimeter of the drain hole. The flow path includes a first region (A1) through which the moisture moves along the rear surface of the first cover, a second region (A2) through which the moisture moves along the front surface of the second cover, and a third region (A3) through which the moisture in the first region moves to the second region by the second guide that vertically overlaps at least a portion of the first guide. The plurality of guide surfaces are arranged to vertically overlap at least a portion of the plurality of inclined surfaces. It includes a flow path forming part (410) that protrudes from one of the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover toward the other. It includes a flow path forming rib (430) that protrudes from one of the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover toward the other. The flow path forming part and the flow path forming rib are provided to be connected to the first guide and the second guide. The flow path forming part and the flow path forming rib provided on the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover are arranged to correspond to each other. With this structure, moisture in the duct can be discharged to the outside, thereby preventing moisture from accumulating.

[0139] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) comprises: a main body having a storage compartment; a cooler configured to generate cold air; a duct configured to guide cold air generated in the cooler to the storage compartment, the duct including a drain hole for discharging moisture inside the duct; the duct includes a first cover configured to face the storage compartment; a second cover coupled to the first cover to form a flow path therein and to form the drain hole; a first guide provided on the first cover; and a second guide provided on the second cover to be spaced apart from the first guide and connected to the drain hole, wherein the first guide is arranged to vertically overlap at least a portion of the second guide. According to the present disclosure, the amount of moisture inside the duct can be minimized. In addition, by minimizing the amount of moisture inside the duct, performance maintenance and quality can be improved.

[0140] The above-mentioned path includes a first region (A1) through which the moisture moves along the rear surface of the first cover, a second region (A2) through which the moisture moves along the front surface of the second cover, and a third region (A3) through which the moisture in the first region moves to the second region by the second guide that vertically overlaps at least a portion of the first guide. The first guide includes a plurality of guide surfaces (211, 212, 213) that are arranged to be inclined downward toward the second guide. The plurality of guide surfaces include a first guide surface (211) and a second guide surface (212) that are arranged to be inclined downward in the left and right directions toward the center, and a connecting guide surface (213) that connects the first guide surface and the second guide surface and is arranged to be inclined downward toward the rear. The above-mentioned connecting guide surface (213) includes a first part (P1) that is provided to be connected to the rear surface of the first cover, and a second part (P2) that extends from the first part and is provided at a lower position than the first part. The second guide includes a plurality of inclined surfaces (221, 222, 223) that are provided to be inclined downward toward the drain hole, and the plurality of inclined surfaces include a first inclined surface (221) and a second inclined surface (222) that are provided to be inclined downward in the left and right directions toward the drain hole, and a connecting inclined surface (223) that connects the first inclined surface (221) and the second inclined surface (222) and extends downward along the perimeter of the drain hole.

[0141] By this structure, the amount of moisture inside the duct can be minimized, thereby maintaining performance and improving quality.

[0142] As an example, a refrigerator may be provided that includes an improved duct.

[0143] For example, moisture generated inside the duct can be discharged to the outside.

[0144] For example, by including a guide part that guides moisture generated at the rear of the duct front plate to a drain hole, moisture in the duct can be discharged to the outside, thereby preventing moisture from accumulating.

[0145] For example, the amount of moisture inside the duct can be minimized, thereby maintaining duct performance and improving quality.

[0146] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first guide may be arranged to overlap at least a portion of the second guide in a vertical direction.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the first guide may include a plurality of guide surfaces that are arranged to be inclined downward toward the second guide.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the plurality of guide surfaces may include a first guide surface and a second guide surface that are arranged to be inclined downward in the left and right directions toward the center, and a connecting guide surface that connects the first guide surface and the second guide surface and is arranged to be inclined downward toward the rear.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the connecting guide surface may include a first portion that is provided to be connected to the rear surface of the first cover, and a second portion that extends from the first portion and is provided at a lower position than the first portion.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the first part may be provided with a first length, and the second part may be provided with a second length.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the second guide may include a plurality of inclined surfaces that are arranged to slope downward toward the drain hole.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the plurality of inclined surfaces may include a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface that are arranged to slope downward in the left and right directions toward the drain hole, and a connecting inclined surface that connects the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface and extends downward along the perimeter of the drain hole.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the flow path may include a first region where the moisture moves along the rear surface of the first cover, a second region where the moisture moves along the front surface of the second cover, and a third region where the moisture in the first region moves to the second region by the second guide that vertically overlaps at least a portion of the first guide.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the plurality of guide surfaces may be arranged to overlap in a vertical direction at least a portion of the plurality of inclined surfaces.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the present invention may include a flow path forming portion that protrudes from one of the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover toward the other.

[0157] According to one embodiment, a euro-forming rib may be included that protrudes from one of the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover toward the other.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the euro forming portion and the euro forming rib may be arranged to be connected to the first guide and the second guide.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the euro forming portion disposed on the rear side of the first cover and the euro forming rib disposed on the front side of the second cover may be disposed to correspond to each other.

[0160] In describing the refrigerator with reference to the attached drawings above, specific shapes and directions have been mainly described, but it should be understood that various modifications and changes can be made by a person skilled in the art, and such modifications and changes should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the disclosed invention.

Claims

1. A body having a storage room; A cooler provided to generate cold air; A duct provided to guide cold air generated in the cooler to the storage room, the duct including a drain hole for discharging moisture inside the duct; The above duct, A first cover positioned so as to face the storage room, A second cover which is combined with the first cover to form a flow path inside and has the drain hole provided therein, A first guide provided in the first cover to guide moisture to the drain hole, A refrigerator including a second guide provided on the second cover so as to be spaced apart from the first guide and connected to the drain hole, below the first guide.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the first guide is arranged to overlap at least a portion of the second guide in a vertical direction.

3. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the first guide includes a plurality of guide surfaces that are inclined downward toward the second guide.

4. In paragraph 3, The above multiple guide surfaces are, The first and second guide surfaces are arranged to slope downward in the left and right directions toward the center, A refrigerator including a connecting guide surface that connects the first guide surface and the second guide surface and is inclined downwardly toward the rear.

5. In paragraph 4, The above connecting guide surface is, A first part provided to be connected to the rear surface of the first cover, A refrigerator comprising a second part extending from the first part and provided at a lower position than the first part.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator wherein the first part is provided with a first length, and the second part is provided with a second length.

7. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator wherein the second guide includes a plurality of inclined surfaces that are inclined downward toward the drain hole.

8. In paragraph 7, The above multiple slopes are, The first and second inclined surfaces are provided so as to slope downward in the left and right directions toward the above drain hole, A refrigerator comprising a connecting slope connecting the first slope and the second slope and extending downward along the perimeter of the drain hole.

9. In paragraph 2, The above euro is, A first region through which the moisture moves along the rear surface of the first cover; A second area in which the moisture moves along the front surface of the second cover, A refrigerator including a third region in which moisture in the first region is moved to the second region by the second guide which vertically overlaps at least a portion of the first guide.

10. In paragraph 7, A refrigerator wherein the plurality of guide surfaces are arranged to overlap at least a portion of the plurality of inclined surfaces in a vertical direction.

11. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator including a flow path forming portion that protrudes from one of the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover toward the other.

12. In paragraph 11, A refrigerator including a guiding rib formed by protruding from one of the rear surface of the first cover and the front surface of the second cover toward the other.

13. In paragraph 12, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned euro forming portion and the above-mentioned euro forming rib are provided to be connected to the first guide and the second guide.

14. In paragraph 13, A refrigerator in which the euro forming portion arranged on the rear side of the first cover and the euro forming rib arranged on the front side of the second cover are arranged to correspond to each other.

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