Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises a cabinet having a storage chamber provided therein, and a thermoelectric cooling device arranged at the upper portion of the cabinet to cool down the storage chamber. The thermoelectric cooling device comprises: a thermoelectric element; a heat dissipation sink arranged on the thermoelectric element and having a first coupling hole; a cooling sink arranged under the thermoelectric element and having a second coupling hole formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole; and a coupling member which is coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole so as to directly couple the heat dissipation sink and the cooling sink, wherein the coupling member has a diameter less than the diameter of the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole so as to form an insulating air layer in a space between the coupling member and the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a refrigerator in which a heat sink and a cooling sink are directly connected to each other, respectively, at the upper and lower portions of a thermoelectric element.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that maintains food freshness by including a main body with a storage compartment and a cooling system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment, which is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius and used to refrigerate food, and a freezer compartment, which is maintained at approximately 0 to -30 degrees Celsius and used to freeze food. A door is provided on the front of the main body, allowing the storage compartment to be opened and closed. The door is rotatably located on the front of the main body, allowing the storage compartment to be opened and closed.

[0003] A thermoelectric cooling device that generates heat and cooling through the Peltier effect can be used as a cooling device in a refrigerator. The thermoelectric cooling device may include a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element has a heating element formed on one side and a cooling element formed on the opposite side. When current is applied to the thermoelectric element, heat generation occurs in the heating element and heat absorption occurs in the cooling element.

[0004] The thermoelectric cooling device may include a heat sink positioned above the thermoelectric element to dissipate heat generated from the heat generating portion of the thermoelectric element, thereby increasing the efficiency of cooling the storage compartment through the thermoelectric cooling device. Furthermore, the thermoelectric cooling device may include a cooling sink positioned below the thermoelectric element to remove heat from the storage compartment and transfer it to the cooling portion of the thermoelectric element.

[0005] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a refrigerator in which a heat sink and a cooling sink are directly coupled to each other, respectively, at the upper and lower portions of a thermoelectric element.

[0006] In addition, a refrigerator is provided in which a heat sink and a cooling sink are directly connected, while preventing heat generated in the heat sink from being transferred to the cooling sink.

[0007] In addition, a refrigerator is provided in which a joining member directly joining a heat sink and a cooling sink can cover an assembly tolerance between the heat sink and the cooling sink.

[0008] 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.

[0009] A refrigerator according to the invention includes a cabinet having a storage compartment therein and a thermoelectric cooling device disposed on an upper portion of the cabinet to cool the storage compartment. The thermoelectric cooling device includes a thermoelectric element, a heat sink disposed on an upper portion of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole, a cooling sink disposed on a lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole, and a coupling member coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to directly couple the heat sink and the cooling sink, wherein a diameter of the coupling member is formed smaller than a diameter of the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole, and a coupling member forming an insulating air layer in a space between the coupling member and the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole.

[0010] A refrigerator according to the invention includes a cabinet having a storage compartment therein and a thermoelectric cooling device disposed on an upper portion of the cabinet to cool the storage compartment. The thermoelectric cooling device includes a thermoelectric element, a heat sink disposed on an upper portion of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole, a cooling sink disposed on a lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole, and a coupling member coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to directly couple the heat sink and the cooling sink. The coupling member includes a bolt inserted into the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole through the first coupling hole and having a diameter smaller than the diameters of the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole, the bolt forming an air insulating layer in a space between the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole, and an insert disposed in the cooling sink so that the bolt is coupled.

[0011] A refrigerator according to the invention includes a cabinet having a storage compartment therein and a thermoelectric cooling device disposed on an upper portion of the cabinet to cool the storage compartment. The thermoelectric cooling device includes a thermoelectric element, a heat sink disposed on an upper portion of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole, a cooling sink disposed on a lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole, a coupling member coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to directly couple the heat sink and the cooling sink, and an insulating air layer formed in a space between the coupling member and the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to prevent heat generated from the thermoelectric element from moving toward the cooling sink.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator with an open door according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the upper part of a storage room viewed from below according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0016] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view along line II of Fig. 2.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a portion of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment being coupled to the upper wall of a cabinet.

[0018] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a part of the thermoelectric cooling device illustrated in Fig. 6 being combined.

[0019] Figure 8 is a drawing showing Figure 7 from a different direction.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a heat sink and a cooling sink joined by a joining member according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 9.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a heat sink and a cooling sink joined by a joining member including a spring washer and an elastic member according to one embodiment.

[0023] 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 substitutes of the embodiments.

[0024] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0028] 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).

[0029] 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.

[0030] The terms “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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0034] The “body” may include an inner case, an outer case placed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0035] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or 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 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.

[0036] "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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, 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 items.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The storage room may be provided to be maintained at an appropriate temperature range depending on the intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished according to the intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and the freezer room 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 room 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 in a frozen state, and for example, a freezer room may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, at the user's option or not.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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 connected to the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0064] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0065] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0066] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator with an open door according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a view from below of the upper portion of a storage compartment according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II of FIG. 2.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, a refrigerator may include a cabinet (10), a storage compartment (20) formed by being divided vertically inside the cabinet (10), a door (30) for opening and closing the storage compartment (20), a refrigeration cycle device for supplying cold air to the storage compartment (20), and a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0068] The cabinet (10) may include an inner case (11), an outer case (12) coupled to the outer side of the inner case (11), and an insulating material (13) provided between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12). The inner case (11) may form a storage room (20). The outer case (12) may form the exterior of the cabinet (10).

[0069] The storage compartment (20) can accommodate items. The storage compartment (250) can be formed to have an open front so that items can be put in or taken out. The storage compartment (20) can be partitioned into an upper storage compartment (21) and lower storage compartments (23, 25) by a horizontal bulkhead (14). The upper storage compartment (21) can be a first storage compartment. The lower storage compartments (23, 25) can be partitioned into a second storage compartment (23) on the left and a third storage compartment (25) on the right by a vertical bulkhead (15). The first storage compartment (21) can be a refrigerator compartment, the second storage compartment (23) can be a freezer compartment, and the third storage compartment (25) can be a variable temperature compartment. The division of the storage compartment (20) as described above is merely an example, and each of the storage compartments (21, 23, 25) can be used in a configuration different from the above. For example, the entire lower storage compartment (23, 25) may be used as a freezer.

[0070] The storage compartment (20) can be opened and closed by a door (30) that is rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10). The door (30) may include a pair of doors (31, 32) that are rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10) to open and close the refrigerator compartment (21). The pair of doors (31, 32) may include a first door (31) and a second door (32) that are rotatably coupled to the left and right sides of the cabinet (10), respectively. The door (30) may include a pair of doors (33, 34) that are rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10) to open and close the lower storage compartment (3, 25). The pair of doors (33, 34) may include a third door (33) and a fourth door (34) that are rotatably coupled to the left and right sides of the cabinet (10), respectively.

[0071] Each of the doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10) by a hinge. For example, the first door (31) and the second door (32) may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10) by a hinge (40) provided on the upper portion of the cabinet (10) and a hinge (not shown) provided in the middle of the cabinet (10), respectively. The hinge (40) may include a hinge pin (not shown) that protrudes vertically to form a rotational axis of the door. The hinge (40) may be covered by a top cover (50) provided to cover the front portion of the upper surface of the cabinet (10).

[0072] A rotating bar (60) may be provided on either the first door (31) or the second door (32) to cover the gap formed between the first door (31) and the second door (32) when the first door (31) and the second door (32) are closed. The rotating bar (60) may be provided rotatably on either the first door (31) or the second door (32). The rotating bar (60) may have a rod shape that is formed long in a vertical direction. The rotating bar (60) may also be referred to as a pillar, a mullion, or the like.

[0073] A guide protrusion (61) may be provided at the top of the rotating bar (60), and a rotation guide (16) that guides the rotation of the guide protrusion (61) may be provided at the top of the cabinet (10). In detail, the rotation guide (16) may be provided at the center portion of the upper wall of the refrigerator compartment (21).

[0074] Each of the doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may include a gasket (35). The gasket (35) may be in close contact with the front of the cabinet (10) when each of the doors (31, 32, 33, 34) is closed. Each of the doors (31, 32, 33, 34) may include a ditch (36) protruding rearward. A door shelf (37) capable of storing items may be mounted on the ditch (36). A rotating bar (60) may be rotatably installed on the ditch (37).

[0075] Although the number and arrangement of storage compartments and the number and arrangement of doors have been described above, there is no limitation on the number and arrangement of storage compartments and the number and arrangement of doors of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] The refrigerator may include a thermoelectric cooling device (100) provided to cool the refrigerating compartment (21), which is the upper storage compartment among the storage compartments (20).

[0077]

[0078] *The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may be installed on the upper side of the refrigerator (21) to cool the refrigerator (21). That is, the thermoelectric cooling device (100) may be installed on the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0079] A thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a thermoelectric element (110). The thermoelectric element (110) may be a semiconductor element that converts thermal energy into electrical energy using the thermoelectric effect, and may also be referred to as a thermoelectric semiconductor element, a Peltier element, or the like.

[0080] A thermoelectric element (110) may include a heating element (111) and a cooling element (113). When current is applied to the thermoelectric element (110), a heating action may occur in the heating element (111) and a heat absorption action may occur in the cooling element (113). The thermoelectric element (110) may have a thin hexahedral shape. A heating element (111) may be provided on one surface of the thermoelectric element (110) and a cooling element (113) may be provided on the opposite surface.

[0081] The thermoelectric element (110) may be arranged so that the heating portion (111) faces above the thermoelectric element (110) and the cooling portion (113) faces below the thermoelectric element (110). That is, the heating portion (111) may face the outside of the cabinet (10) and the cooling portion (113) may face the inside of the refrigerator (21). Accordingly, air that has been warmed through heat exchange with the heating portion (111) may be discharged to the outside of the cabinet (10), and air that has been cooled through heat exchange with the cooling portion (113) may be supplied to the refrigerator (21).

[0082] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a heat sink (120) that contacts the heat generating unit (111) so that heat exchange between the heat generating unit (111) and the air outside the cabinet (10) is efficiently performed. The heat sink (120) may be placed on top of the thermoelectric element (110).

[0083] A heat sink (120) may be located outside the cabinet (10). The heat sink (120) may contact the heat generating portion (111) to absorb heat from the heat generating portion (111) and release heat to the outside of the cabinet (10). That is, the heat sink (120) may discharge air warmed by the heat generating portion (111) to the outside of the cabinet (10). The heat sink (120) may also be referred to as a hot sink, a heat dissipation heat sink, a hot heat sink, etc.

[0084] The heat sink (120) may be formed of a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the heat sink (120) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0085] A heat sink (120) may include a heat sink base (121) that contacts a heat generating portion (111) and a plurality of heat dissipation fins (123) that protrude from the heat sink base (121) to expand a heat transfer area. The plurality of heat dissipation fins (123) may protrude upward from the heat sink base (121). The heat sink base (121) and the plurality of heat dissipation fins (123) may be formed integrally.

[0086] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a cooling sink (130) that contacts the cooling unit (113) so that heat exchange between the cooling unit (113) and the air inside the refrigerator (21) is efficiently performed. The cooling sink (130) may be placed below the thermoelectric element (110).

[0087] The cooling sink (130) may be located inside the refrigerator compartment (21). The cooling sink (130) may cool the refrigerator compartment (21) by taking away heat from the refrigerator compartment (21) and transferring it to the cooling unit (113). That is, the cooling sink (130) may supply air cooled by the cooling unit (113) to the refrigerator compartment (21). The cooling sink (130) may also be referred to as a cold sink, a cooling sink, a cooling heat sink, a cold heat sink, a cooling heat sink, etc.

[0088] The cooling sink (130) may be formed of a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the cooling sink (130) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0089] The cooling sink (130) may include a cooling sink base (131) that contacts the cooling unit (113) and a plurality of cooling fins (133) that protrude from the cooling sink base (131) to expand the heat transfer area. The plurality of cooling fins (133) may protrude downward from the cooling sink base (131). The cooling sink base (131) and the plurality of cooling fins (133) may be formed integrally.

[0090] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a heat dissipation fan (101) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the heat sink (120) and the air outside the cabinet (10).

[0091] A heat dissipation fan (101) may be provided to blow air toward a heat dissipation sink (120). The heat dissipation fan (101) may be provided to be positioned in a horizontal direction of the heat dissipation sink (120). The heat dissipation fan (101) may be provided on the outside of the cabinet (10). The heat dissipation fan (101) may be provided on the upper side of the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0092] The heat dissipation fan (101) may be a centrifugal fan that draws in air in an axial direction and discharges it in radial directions. The centrifugal fan may include a blower fan. The rotation axis (103) of the heat dissipation fan (101) may be arranged vertically on the upper surface of the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0093] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a heat dissipation duct (140) provided to guide air flowing by a heat dissipation fan (101). The heat dissipation duct (140) may guide air from outside the cabinet (10) to exchange heat with a heat dissipation sink (120), and may discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (120) back to the outside of the cabinet (10).

[0094] The heat dissipation duct (140) can draw in air from the external space on the upper side of the cabinet (10). The heat dissipation duct (140) can discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (120) to the external space on the upper side of the cabinet (10). The heat dissipation fan (101) can be located inside the heat dissipation duct (140). The heat dissipation sink (120) can be located inside the heat dissipation duct (140). The heat dissipation duct (140) can be provided on the upper surface of the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0095] The heat dissipation duct (140) may include an outside air intake port (141) that draws air outside the cabinet (10) into the inside of the heat dissipation duct (140), and an outside air exhaust port (143) that discharges air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (120) to the outside of the cabinet (10).

[0096] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a cooling fan (105) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the cooling sink (130) and the air inside the refrigerator (21).

[0097] A cooling fan (105) may be provided to blow air toward a cooling sink (130). The cooling fan (105) may be positioned in a horizontal direction of the cooling sink (130). The cooling fan (105) may be provided inside the refrigerator (21). The cooling fan (105) may be provided on the lower side of the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0098] The cooling fan (105) may be a centrifugal fan that sucks in air in an axial direction and discharges it in radial directions. The rotation axis (107) of the cooling fan (105) may be arranged vertically on the bottom surface of the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0099] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a cooling duct (150) provided to guide air flowing by a cooling fan (105). The cooling duct (150) may guide air inside the refrigerator (21) to exchange heat with the cooling sink (130), and may discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (130) back into the refrigerator (21).

[0100] A cooling fan (105) may be located inside a cooling duct (150). A cooling sink (130) may be located inside a cooling duct (150). The cooling duct (150) may be provided on the lower surface of the upper wall of the cabinet (10).

[0101] The cooling duct (150) may include an intake port (151) for drawing air inside the refrigerator (21) into the interior of the cooling duct (150), and an exhaust port (153) for discharging air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (130) into the interior of the refrigerator (21).

[0102] The refrigerator may include a refrigeration cycle device to cool the storage compartment through a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle device may include a compressor (71), a condenser (not shown), an expansion device (not shown), and an evaporator (72). The evaporator (72) may be provided at the rear of the storage compartment (23, 25).

[0103] The refrigerator may include an evaporator duct (73) that guides cold air generated in the evaporator (72). The evaporator duct (73) may include a first evaporator duct (74) provided at the rear side of the second storage compartment (23) and the third storage compartment (25). The evaporator duct (73) may include a second evaporator duct (75) provided at the rear side of the refrigerating compartment (21), which is the first storage compartment.

[0104] The cold air generated in the evaporator (72) can be sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (74) by the evaporator fan (78). The cold air sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (74) can be discharged to the second storage chamber (23) or the third storage chamber (25) through a cold air discharge port (not shown) formed on the front. In addition, the cold air sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (74) can be guided to the internal passage (76) of the second evaporator duct (75). The first evaporator duct (74) may be provided with a damper (79) that controls the supply of the cold air inside the first evaporator duct (74) to the second evaporator duct (75). A connecting duct (80) may be provided between the first evaporator duct (74) and the second evaporator duct (75) to connect the first evaporator duct (74) and the second evaporator duct (75).

[0105] Cold air introduced into the internal passage (76) of the second evaporator duct (75) can be supplied to the refrigerator compartment (21) through the cold air discharge port (77) formed on the front of the second evaporator duct (75).

[0106] However, unlike the above embodiment, the cold air generated in the evaporator (72) may be supplied directly to the second evaporator duct (75) without passing through the first evaporator duct (74). In addition, a separate evaporator may be provided at the rear of the refrigerator compartment (21) and configured to supply cold air to the second evaporator duct (75).

[0107] In this way, since the refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a thermoelectric cooling device and a refrigeration cycle device for cooling the refrigerating chamber (21), a method for supplying cold air to the refrigerating chamber (21) may include a first method of supplying only cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device (100), a second method of supplying only cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle device, and a third method of supplying both cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device and cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle device.

[0108] The refrigerator can supply cold air to the refrigerating chamber (21) in an appropriate manner depending on external and internal conditions. For example, the refrigerator can cool the refrigerating chamber (21) in one of the ways depending on the room temperature in which the refrigerator is installed. That is, when the room temperature is higher than a predetermined temperature and cooling by a refrigeration cycle is more efficient than cooling by a thermoelectric cooling device, the refrigerating chamber (21) can be cooled only by the cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle. Conversely, when the room temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature and cooling by a thermoelectric cooling device is more efficient than cooling by a refrigeration cycle, the refrigerating chamber (21) can be cooled only by the cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device. The refrigerator can operate only the thermoelectric cooling device when noise reduction is required. When rapid cooling of the refrigerating chamber (21) is required, the refrigerator can simultaneously supply cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device and cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle to the refrigerating chamber (21).

[0109] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may include a thermoelectric cooling device and a refrigeration cycle device, but is not limited thereto, and the refrigerator may include only a thermoelectric cooling device (100).

[0110] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a portion of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment being attached to the upper wall of a cabinet. FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a portion of the thermoelectric cooling device illustrated in FIG. 6 being attached. FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating FIG. 7 from a different direction.

[0111] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8, a portion of the thermoelectric cooling device (100) may be coupled to the upper wall of the cabinet (10). The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may be coupled to a thermoelectric cooling device coupling hole (17) formed in the upper wall of the cabinet (10) such that the heat sink (120) is positioned outside the cabinet (10) and the cooling sink (130) is positioned inside the refrigerator compartment (21).

[0112] A heat sink (120) may be placed on top of a thermoelectric element (110). The heat sink (120) may include a first coupling hole (125) coupled to a cooling sink (130) by a coupling member (200).

[0113] A cooling sink (130) may be placed below the thermoelectric element (110). The cooling sink (130) may include a second coupling hole (137) coupled to a heat sink (120) by a coupling member (200).

[0114] The heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) can be directly connected by a connecting member (200). The detailed structure of the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) connected by the connecting member (200) will be described below.

[0115] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a module plate (160). The module plate (160) may be placed between a heat sink (120) and a cooling sink (130). The module plate (160) may allow a gap between the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) to be maintained. The module plate (160) may be formed of a resin material having low thermal conductivity. The module plate (160) may be formed integrally with a fan case (180) to be described below. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the module plate (160) may be provided separately from the fan case (180) and then coupled to the fan case (180).

[0116] The module plate (160) may include a heat sink support (161) that supports a heat sink (120).

[0117] The module plate (160) may include a module plate opening (163) formed to have a square shape in the central portion of the module plate (160). The thermoelectric element (110) may be arranged inside the module plate opening (163). The vertical length of the module plate opening (163) may be longer than the vertical length of the thermoelectric element (110), and the thermoelectric element (110) may be arranged on the upper side of the module plate opening (163). The reason why the thermoelectric element (110) is arranged on the upper side inside the module plate opening (163) may be because the heat generation amount of the thermoelectric element (110) is typically higher than the heat absorption amount, and the positioning of the thermoelectric element (110) on the upper side of the module plate opening (163) is advantageous for heat dissipation of the heating unit (111).

[0118] In this way, since the thermoelectric element (110) is placed on the upper side of the module plate opening (163), the cooling sink (130) may include a cooling conductive portion (135) protruding upward from the cooling sink base (131) for contact with the cooling portion (113) of the thermoelectric element (110).

[0119] The module plate (160) may include a first through hole (165) through which a joining member (200) is passed, which is joined to a first joining hole (125) formed in a heat sink (120) and a second joining hole (137) formed in a cooling sink (130).

[0120] The thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a sink insulation (170) provided between the module plate (160) and the cooling sink (130). The sink insulation (170) may prevent heat from being transferred between the heat dissipation sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) through the module plate (160). The sink insulation (170) may include a sink insulation opening (171). The sink insulation opening (171) may be formed at a position corresponding to the module plate opening (163) of the module plate (160). However, the sink insulation (170) may be omitted, in which case the heat dissipation sink (120) may be supported on the upper surface of the module plate (160) and the cooling sink (130) may be supported on the lower surface of the module plate (160).

[0121] The sink insulation (170) may include a second through hole (173) formed at a position corresponding to the first through hole (165) of the module plate (160). The joining member (200) joined to the first joining hole (125) formed in the heat dissipation sink (120) and the second joining hole (137) formed in the cooling sink (130) may pass through the second through hole (173) after passing through the first through hole (165).

[0122] A thermoelectric cooling device (100) may include a fan case (180) in which a heat dissipation fan (101) is installed and which guides air blown by the heat dissipation fan (101). The fan case (180) may be formed integrally with the module plate (160) described above or may be provided separately.

[0123] The fan case (180) may include a case bottom (181) on which a heat dissipation fan (101) is rotatably installed, and a case scroll part (182) extending upward from the edge of the case bottom (181) to guide air blown from the heat dissipation fan (101) toward a heat dissipation sink (120). The heat dissipation fan (101) is a centrifugal fan, and may be installed on the case bottom (181) so that the rotation axis (103) is perpendicular to the case bottom (181). In addition, the heat dissipation sink (120) may be positioned in one radial direction of the heat dissipation fan (101). With this structure, the thermoelectric cooling device (100) can be compact in overall vertical length.

[0124] The case scroll portion (182) may be formed to surround the heat dissipation fan (101). The case scroll portion (182) may have a scroll portion opening (183) open toward the heat dissipation sink (120). The case scroll portion (182) may include a downstream end (184) along the rotational direction (R) of the heat dissipation fan (101) and an upstream end (185) along the rotational direction (R).

[0125] The downstream end (184) and the upstream end (185) are spaced apart from each other, and a scroll opening (183) can be formed between the downstream end (184) and the upstream end (185).

[0126] The air blown from the heat dissipation fan (101) can be discharged in the radial directions of the heat dissipation fan (101) and move along the inner surface of the case scroll part (182) toward the heat dissipation sink (120). Therefore, the air blown from the heat dissipation fan (101) can flow more around the downstream end (184) of the case scroll part (182) than around the upstream end (185) of the case scroll part (182).

[0127] The fan case (180) may include a case guide (186) provided to guide air flowing from the heat dissipation fan (101) to the area around the downstream end (184) of the case scroll section (182).

[0128] The case guide (186) may protrude upward from the case bottom (181). The case guide (186) may be spaced apart from the case scroll portion (182). The case guide (186) may guide air flowing around the downstream end (184) of the case scroll portion (182) toward the upstream end (185) of the case scroll portion (182). Therefore, the air blown from the heat dissipation fan (101) may be evenly distributed to the heat dissipation sink (120) by the case guide (186), and the heat exchange efficiency of the heat dissipation sink (120) may be increased.

[0129] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a heat sink and a cooling sink coupled by a coupling member according to one embodiment. Fig. 10 is an enlarged view of portion A of Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a heat sink and a cooling sink coupled by a coupling member including a spring washer and an elastic member according to one embodiment.

[0130] As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) can be directly coupled by the coupling member (200). When the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) are directly coupled by the coupling member (200), no gap occurs between the thermoelectric element (110) and the heat sink (120) and between the thermoelectric element (110) and the cooling sink (130), so that the performance of the thermoelectric cooling device (100) can be maintained constant. That is, when no gap occurs between the thermoelectric element (110) and the heat sink (120) and between the thermoelectric element (110) and the cooling sink (130), the efficiency of heat transfer from the thermoelectric element (110) to the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) can be improved.

[0131] The heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) may each include a first coupling hole (125) and a second coupling hole (137) so that they can be directly coupled by a coupling member (200). The coupling member (200) may be inserted through the first coupling hole (125) of the heat sink (120). The coupling member (200) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) may sequentially pass through the first through-hole (165) of the module plate (160) and the second through-hole (173) of the sink insulation (170), and then be inserted into the second coupling hole (137) of the cooling sink (130). The coupling member (200) inserted into the second coupling hole (137) may be coupled to the cooling sink (130) so that the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) may be directly coupled.

[0132] The coupling member (200) may include a bolt (210) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) of the heat sink (120) and the second coupling hole (137). The bolt (210) may be inserted into the first coupling hole (125) and sequentially pass through the first through hole (165) of the module plate (160) and the second through hole (173) of the sink insulation (170), and then inserted into the second coupling hole (137) of the cooling sink (130) to be coupled to the cooling sink (130). The heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) may be directly coupled by the bolt (210) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) of the heat sink (120) and coupled to the cooling sink (130).

[0133] The joining member (200) may include an insert (220) to which a bolt (210) is joined. The insert (220) may be placed in the cooling sink (130). The insert (220) may be formed of metal. The bolt (210) inserted into the first joining hole (125) and sequentially passes through the first through-hole (165) of the module plate (160) and the second through-hole (173) of the sink insulation (170), and then is inserted into the second joining hole (137) of the cooling sink (130), and may be joined to the insert (220) placed in the cooling sink (130). By having a bolt (210) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) of the heat sink (120) be coupled to an insert (220) placed in the cooling sink (130), the heat sink (120) can be directly coupled to the cooling sink (130).

[0134] The insert (220) can be coupled to the cooling sink (130) while preventing the bolt (210) from contacting the cooling sink (130). By coupling the bolt (210) to the insert (220) placed in the cooling sink (130), contact between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130) can be prevented. By preventing contact between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130), heat transferred from the heat sink (120) to the bolt (210) can be prevented from being transferred to the cooling sink (130).

[0135] The connecting member (200) may include an insulating cover (230) that is provided to surround the outer surface of the insert (220). The insulating cover (230) may prevent heat transferred from the bolt (210) from being transferred to the cooling sink (130) through the insert (220). The insulating cover (230) may be manufactured to have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The insulating cover (230) may be formed of plastic to prevent heat transfer.

[0136] The connecting member (200) may include an insulating member (240) that prevents the bolt (210) and the insert (220) from directly contacting the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130), respectively. The insulating member (240) prevents the bolt (210) and the insert (220) from directly contacting the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130), respectively, thereby preventing heat generated in the heat sink (120) from being transferred to the cooling sink (130). The insulating member (240) may be formed of plastic or fiberglass, or the like.

[0137] The insulating member (240) may include a first insulating member (241) that prevents the bolt (210) from making direct contact with the heat sink (120). The insulating member (240) may include a second insulating member (243) that prevents the insert (220) from making direct contact with the cooling sink (130).

[0138] The diameter (D1) of the coupling member (200) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137) may be formed smaller than the diameter (D2) of the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137). The diameter (D1) of the coupling member (200) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137) may be the diameter (D1) of the bolt (210). The diameters (D2) of the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137) may be the same. Since the diameter (D1) of the coupling member (200) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137) is formed smaller than the diameter (D2) of the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137), an insulating air layer (250) can be formed in the space between the coupling member (200) and the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137). That is, since the diameter (D1) of the bolt (210) inserted into the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137) is formed smaller than the diameter (D2) of the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137), an insulating air layer (250) can be formed in the space between the bolt (210) and the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137). The insulating air layer (250) can prevent heat generated in the heat sink (120) from being transferred to the cooling sink (130) through the bolt (210). The insulating air layer (250) can also be formed in the space between the bolt (210) and the first through hole (165) and the second through hole (173).

[0139] The thickness (T) of the insulating air layer (250) formed in the space between the bolt (210) and the first coupling hole (125) and the second coupling hole (137) may be approximately 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0140] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the joining member (200) may include a spring washer (260) provided between the bolt (210) and the first insulating member (241) and between the insert (220) and the second insulating member (243). The spring washer (260) may be formed in a ring shape. The spring washer (260) may be formed of metal or coated metal. A portion of the vibration transmitted through the bolt (210) and the insert (220) may be attenuated by the spring washer (260). In addition, the spring washer (260) may prevent the bolt (210) and the insert (220) from being loosened due to the vibration transmitted through the bolt (210) and the insert (220).

[0141] Although the drawing shows that the spring washer (260) is provided between the bolt (210) and the first insulating member (241) and between the insert (220) and the second insulating member (243), it is not limited thereto. That is, the spring washer (260) may be provided between the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120) without the first insulating member (241), and the spring washer (260) may be provided between the insert (220) and the cooling sink (130) without the second insulating member (243). In this case, the spring washer (260) may prevent the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120) from making direct contact, and may prevent the insert (220) and the cooling sink (130) from making direct contact.

[0142] The connecting member (200) may include an elastic member (270) to cover the assembly tolerance between the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120) and between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130). The elastic member (270) may include a first elastic member (271) provided between the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120). The elastic member (270) may include a second elastic member (273) provided between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130). Since the assembly tolerance between the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120) and the assembly tolerance between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130) are covered by the elastic member (270), the efficiency of heat transfer from the thermoelectric element (110) to the heat sink (120) and the cooling sink (130) may be improved. In addition, it is possible to prevent the portion where the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120) are combined and the portion where the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130) are combined from being damaged by vibration.

[0143] Although the drawing shows that the elastic member (270) and the insulating member (240) are provided separately, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, only the elastic member (270) is provided without the insulating member (240), so that the first elastic member (271) can cover the assembly tolerance between the bolt (210) and the heat sink (120) while preventing the bolt (210) from making direct contact with the heat sink (120). In addition, the second elastic member (273) can be provided between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130) while covering the assembly tolerance between the bolt (210) and the cooling sink (130) while preventing the insert (220) from making direct contact with the cooling sink (130).

[0144] According to one embodiment of the disclosed invention, a refrigerator includes a cabinet (10) having a storage compartment (20) therein and a thermoelectric cooling device (100) disposed on an upper portion of the cabinet to cool the storage compartment. The thermoelectric cooling device includes a thermoelectric element (110), a heat dissipation sink (120) disposed on an upper portion of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole (125), a cooling sink (130) disposed on a lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole (137) formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole, and a coupling member (200) coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to directly couple the heat dissipation sink and the cooling sink, wherein a diameter (D1) of the coupling member is formed smaller than a diameter (D2) of the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole, and the coupling member forms an insulating air layer (250) in a space between the coupling member and the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole.

[0145] The above-mentioned joining member may include a bolt (210) inserted into the first joining hole and the second joining hole through the first joining hole, and an insulating cover (230) provided to block heat emitted from the bolt.

[0146] The above-mentioned joining member is disposed in the cooling sink and further includes an insert (220) to which the bolt inserted into the first joining hole and the second joining hole is joined, and the insulating cover may be provided to surround the outer circumference of the insert.

[0147] The above insert may be coupled to the cooling sink while preventing the bolt from contacting the cooling sink.

[0148] The above-mentioned joining member may further include a first insulating member (241) that prevents the bolt from directly contacting the heat sink and a second insulating member (243) that prevents the insert from directly contacting the cooling sink.

[0149] A spring washer (260) may be provided between the bolt and the first insulating member and between the insert and the second insulating member.

[0150] In order to cover the assembly tolerance between the bolt and the heat sink, a first elastic member (271) is provided between the bolt and the heat sink, and the first elastic member can prevent the bolt from directly contacting the heat sink.

[0151] In order to cover the assembly tolerance between the bolt and the cooling sink, a second elastic member (273) is provided between the bolt and the cooling sink, and the second elastic member can prevent the insert from directly contacting the cooling sink.

[0152] The thickness (T) of the above insulating air layer can be 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0153] The above thermoelectric element may include a heating part (111) in contact with the heat sink and a cooling part (113) in contact with the cooling sink.

[0154] The above heat sink can discharge air warmed by the heating element to the outside of the cabinet.

[0155] The above cooling sink can supply air cooled by the cooling unit to the storage room.

[0156] The thermoelectric cooling device may include a module plate (160) disposed between the heat sink and the cooling sink to maintain a gap between the heat sink and the cooling sink, and a sink insulation (170) provided between the module plate and the cooling sink.

[0157] The above module plate may include a module plate opening (163) in which the thermoelectric element is placed and a first through hole (165) through which the coupling member coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole passes.

[0158] The above sink insulation may include a sink insulation opening (171) formed at a position corresponding to the module plate opening and a second through hole (173) formed at a position corresponding to the first through hole and through which the joining member joined to the first and second joining holes passes.

[0159] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosed invention includes a cabinet (10) having a storage compartment (20) therein and a thermoelectric cooling device (100) disposed on an upper portion of the cabinet to cool the storage compartment. The thermoelectric cooling device includes a thermoelectric element (110), a heat dissipation sink (120) disposed on an upper portion of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole (125), a cooling sink (130) disposed on a lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole (137) formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole, and a coupling member (200) coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to directly couple the heat dissipation sink and the cooling sink. The above-mentioned joining member includes a bolt (210) that is inserted into the first joining hole and the second joining hole through the first joining hole and has a diameter (D1) smaller than the diameter (D2) of the first joining hole and the second joining hole to form an air insulation layer (250) in the space between the first joining hole and the second joining hole, and an insert (220) that is arranged in the cooling sink so that the bolt is joined.

[0160] The above-mentioned joining member may further include an insulating cover (230) that is arranged to surround the outer surface of the insert and prevent heat transferred from the bolt from being transferred to the cooling sink through the insert.

[0161] The above-described joining member may further include an insulating member (240) that prevents the bolt and insert from directly contacting the heat sink and cooling sink, respectively.

[0162] The above-mentioned joining member may further include an elastic member (270) provided between the joining member and the heat sink and cooling sink to cover an assembly tolerance between the joining member and the heat sink and cooling sink.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the disclosed invention, a refrigerator includes a cabinet (10) having a storage compartment (20) therein and a thermoelectric cooling device (100) disposed on an upper portion of the cabinet to cool the storage compartment. The thermoelectric cooling device includes a thermoelectric element (110), a heat dissipation sink (120) disposed on an upper portion of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole (125), a cooling sink (130) disposed on a lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole (137) formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole, a coupling member (200) coupled to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to directly couple the heat dissipation sink and the cooling sink, and an insulating air layer (250) formed in a space between the coupling member and the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole to prevent heat generated from the thermoelectric element from moving toward the cooling sink.

[0164] According to the present disclosure, a heat sink and a cooling sink, which are respectively disposed on the upper and lower portions of a thermoelectric element, are directly coupled so that no gap occurs between the thermoelectric element and the heat sink and between the thermoelectric element and the cooling sink, so that the performance of the thermoelectric cooling device can be maintained at a constant level.

[0165] Additionally, the efficiency of heat transfer from the thermoelectric element to the heat sink and cooling sink can be improved.

[0166] Additionally, it can prevent heat transferred from the heat sink to the bolt from being transferred to the cooling sink.

[0167] Additionally, some of the vibration transmitted through the bolts and inserts can be damped.

[0168] Additionally, it is possible to prevent the bolt and insert from loosening due to vibration transmitted through the bolt and insert.

[0169] Additionally, it can cover the assembly tolerances between the heat sink and cooling sink and the joining member.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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 those 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 cabinet having a storage room inside; and A thermoelectric cooling device is disposed on the upper part of the cabinet and cools the storage room; The above thermoelectric cooling device, thermoelectric device; A heat sink disposed on top of the thermoelectric element and including a first coupling hole; A cooling sink disposed at the lower portion of the thermoelectric element and including a second coupling hole formed at a position corresponding to the first coupling hole; and A joining member that is joined to the first joining hole and the second joining hole to directly join the heat sink and the cooling sink, wherein the diameter of the joining member is formed smaller than the diameter of the first joining hole and the second joining hole, and a joining member that forms an insulating air layer in the space between the joining member and the first joining hole and the second joining hole; A refrigerator containing:

2. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned connecting member is, A bolt inserted into the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole through the first coupling hole; and A refrigerator comprising an insulating cover provided to block heat emitted from the above bolt.

3. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned joining member is disposed in the cooling sink and further includes an insert to which the bolt inserted into the first joining hole and the second joining hole is joined, A refrigerator in which the above insulation cover is provided to surround the outer surface of the insert.

4. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator wherein said insert is coupled to said cooling sink while said bolt is prevented from contacting said cooling sink.

5. In paragraph 3, The above-mentioned connecting member is, A first insulating member preventing the bolt from directly contacting the heat sink; and A refrigerator further comprising a second insulating member preventing the insert from directly contacting the cooling sink.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which a spring washer is provided between the bolt and the first insulating member and between the insert and the second insulating member.

7. In paragraph 3, In order to cover the assembly tolerance between the bolt and the heat sink, a first elastic member is provided between the bolt and the heat sink. A refrigerator wherein the first elastic member prevents the bolt from making direct contact with the heat sink.

8. In paragraph 7, In order to cover the assembly tolerance between the bolt and the cooling sink, a second elastic member is provided between the bolt and the cooling sink. A refrigerator wherein the second elastic member prevents the insert from making direct contact with the cooling sink.

9. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator having an insulating air layer thickness of 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm.

10. In paragraph 1, The above thermoelectric element, A heating element in contact with the above heat sink; and A refrigerator comprising a cooling unit in contact with the cooling sink.

11. In Article 10, A refrigerator in which the above heat sink discharges air warmed by the above heating element to the outside of the cabinet.

12. In paragraph 10, The above cooling sink is a refrigerator that supplies air cooled by the cooling unit to the storage room.

13. In paragraph 1, The above thermoelectric cooling device, A module plate disposed between the heat sink and the cooling sink so as to maintain a gap between the heat sink and the cooling sink; and A refrigerator comprising a sink insulation material provided between the module plate and the cooling sink.

14. In paragraph 13, The above module plate, a module plate opening in which the thermoelectric element is arranged; and A refrigerator including a first through hole through which the joining member coupled to the first joining hole and the second joining hole passes.

15. In paragraph 14, The above sink insulation is, A sink insulation opening formed at a position corresponding to the above module plate opening; and A refrigerator including a second through hole formed at a position corresponding to the first through hole and through which the joining member joined to the first coupling hole and the second coupling hole passes.

Images