refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator may comprise: a body: a storage compartment inside the body; a thermoelectric module (TM) configured to cool the storage compartment, the thermoelectric module comprising a thermoelectric element, which comprises a heating part (HP) and a heat absorption part (HAP), and heat dissipation sink (HDS); and a blocking part configured to block the supply of a current to the thermoelectric element on the basis of the heat dissipation sink exceeding a predetermined temperature.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The disclosure relates to a refrigerator having a thermoelectric element for cooling a storage compartment.

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that has a main body having a storage compartment and a cold air supply device that supplies cold air to the storage compartment to keep food fresh.

[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 heat generating portion formed on one side and a heat absorbing portion formed on the opposite side. When current is applied to the thermoelectric element, heat generation occurs in the heat generating portion and heat absorption occurs in the heat absorbing portion.

[0004] The thermoelectric cooling device may be equipped with a heat sink, a heat sink, a heat dissipation fan, a cooling fan, a heat dissipation duct, and a cooling duct to increase the efficiency of cooling the storage room through the thermoelectric cooling device.

[0005] One aspect of the disclosure is a refrigerator having increased cooling efficiency of a storage compartment through a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0006] One aspect of the disclosure is a refrigerator capable of preventing overheating of a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0007] One aspect of the disclosure is a refrigerator capable of preventing damage due to overheating of a thermoelectric cooling device.

[0008] In one aspect of the disclosure, a refrigerator may include: a main body; a storage compartment inside the main body; a thermoelectric module configured to cool the storage compartment, the thermoelectric module including a thermoelectric element including a heat generating portion configured to emit heat and a heat absorbing portion configured to absorb heat, and a heat sink configured to absorb heat from the heat generating portion and emit heat; and a cutoff portion positioned on the heat sink to cut off current supply to the thermoelectric element based on the heat sink exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0009] The heat sink may include a heat sink base that can be in contact with the heat generating portion and a plurality of heat sink fins that can protrude from the heat sink base to the outside of the main body, and the blocking portion may be between two of the plurality of heat sink fins.

[0010] The refrigerator may include a heat sink that absorbs heat from the storage compartment and transfers the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing portion. The heat sink may include a heat sink base that can be in contact with the heat absorbing portion and a plurality of cooling fins that can protrude from the heat sink base into the storage compartment. The refrigerator may include a fastening member that penetrates and connects the heat dissipation sink and the heat absorbing sink, and an insulating member that can be located between the plurality of heat dissipation fins and is configured to secure the fastening member.

[0011] The above blocking member may be located between the heat sink base and the insulating member and may be fixed to the thermoelectric element.

[0012] The above blocking member may include a blocking member base and a protrusion that can protrude upward from the blocking member base, and the insulating member may include a hook that can protrude downward from the insulating member base so as to be fixed to the insulating member base and the protrusion.

[0013] The predetermined temperature of the heat sink may be 150°C, and the cutoff may be configured to cut off current from being supplied to the thermoelectric element based on the temperature of the heat sink exceeding the predetermined temperature of the heat sink.

[0014] The refrigerator may further include a heat exchanger that may be positioned at the rear of the storage compartment, and the thermoelectric element may be configured to cool the air within the storage compartment while the heat exchanger cools the air within the storage compartment.

[0015] The above refrigerator may further include a temperature sensor that can be arranged on the outside of the heat dissipation fin at the outermost end of the plurality of heat dissipation fins.

[0016] The heat sink may include a heat sink base that can be in contact with the heat generating portion and a plurality of heat sink fins that can protrude from the heat sink base to the outside of the main body, and the blocking portion may be located on the outside of a heat sink fin that is arranged at the outermost side among the plurality of heat sink fins.

[0017] The refrigerator may further include at least one temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the thermoelectric module; and a processor configured to block current from being supplied to the thermoelectric element based on a temperature of the thermoelectric module detected by the at least one temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric module.

[0018] The thermoelectric module may include a heat sink configured to absorb heat from the storage chamber and transfer the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing portion, and the at least one temperature sensor may include a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink, and a second temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink, and the processor may be configured to block current from being supplied to the thermoelectric element based on a temperature of the heat sink detected by the second temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat sink.

[0019] The refrigerator may further include a user interface, and the processor may be configured to output information related to a failure of the thermoelectric element to the user interface based on whether the circuit breaker is blocking the supply of current to the thermoelectric element.

[0020] The refrigerator may further include a user interface, and the processor may be configured to output information related to whether the thermoelectric element is faulty to the user interface based on the detected temperature change of the thermoelectric module.

[0021] The thermoelectric module may include a heat sink configured to absorb heat from the storage chamber and transfer the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing portion. The at least one temperature sensor may include a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink, and a second temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink, and the processor may be configured to output information related to whether the thermoelectric element is faulty to the user interface based on the detected temperature change of the heat sink.

[0022] The refrigerator may further include a heat exchanger configured to cool air within the storage compartment, and a compressor connected to the heat exchanger, and the processor may be configured to increase the RPM of the compressor based on the cutoff portion cutting off the current supply to the thermoelectric element.

[0023] In one aspect of the disclosure, a refrigerator may include: a main body; a storage compartment inside the main body; a thermoelectric module configured to cool the storage compartment, the thermoelectric module including a thermoelectric element including a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion, a heat sink, and a heat absorbing sink; and a blocking portion. The thermoelectric module may be configured such that, based on current being supplied to the thermoelectric element, the heat absorbing portion absorbs heat from the heat absorbing sink to cool the heat absorbing sink, and heat is generated in the heat generating portion and the generated heat is transferred to the heat dissipating sink and released to the outside of the thermoelectric module by the heat dissipating sink. The above-mentioned blocking unit may be configured to block the current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on at least one of the following: the temperature of the thermoelectric module exceeds a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric module; the temperature of the heat sink exceeds a predetermined temperature of the heat sink; the temperature of the heat sink exceeds a predetermined temperature of the heat sink; the temperature of the thermoelectric element exceeds a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric element; and the temperature of the heating unit exceeds a predetermined temperature of the heating unit.

[0024] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the disclosure may include: a storage compartment; a thermoelectric element having a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion, the thermoelectric element being provided in the storage compartment to discharge air warmed by the heat generating portion to the outside of the storage compartment and to supply air cooled by the heat absorbing portion to the storage compartment; at least one temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the thermoelectric element; and a processor configured to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on a temperature detected by the at least one temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0025] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the disclosure may include: a main body; a storage compartment formed inside the main body; a heat exchanger configured to evaporate a refrigerant to generate cold air; a thermoelectric cooling device configured to cool air within the storage compartment while the heat exchanger cools the air within the storage compartment, the thermoelectric cooling device including a thermoelectric element having a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion, and a heat dissipation sink that absorbs heat from the heat generating portion and dissipates heat to the outside of the main body; and a fuse disposed in the heat dissipation sink so as to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element in response to the heat dissipation sink exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the inner and outer surfaces of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a connecting frame of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a joint structure of a thermoelectric module and an upper wall of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a heat dissipation fan and a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a heat sink of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a heat sink according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a heat dissipation duct of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a portion of a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a heat sink of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 20 is a plan view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0046] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] Fig. 22 is a plan view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0049] Fig. 24 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] Fig. 25 is a flow chart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 26 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] Fig. 27 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0053] 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.

[0054] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0055] 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.

[0056] In this disclosure, phrases such as "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" can each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. For example, a phrase such as "at least one of A, B, and C" can include any of the following: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, A and B and C.

[0057] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0064] The body may include insulation. The insulation may insulate the interior and exterior of the storage compartment so that the temperature inside the storage compartment can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment of the storage compartment. In one embodiment, the insulation may include a foam insulation, such as polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the insulation may additionally include a vacuum insulation in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation instead of the foam insulation.

[0065] A storage room can store various items such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room can be formed so that at least one side is open for taking items in and out.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0076] The 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 the storage room.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0091] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0092] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0093] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is opened. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the upper portion of a storage compartment of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from below. FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 2.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a refrigerator (1) may include a main body (100), storage chambers (11, 12, 13) formed inside the main body (100), and doors (21, 22, 23, 24) provided to open and close the storage chambers (11, 12, 13).

[0095] The main body (100) may include an inner case (170), an outer case (180) coupled to the outer side of the inner case (170), and an insulating material (190) provided between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180) (see FIG. 6). The inner case (170) may form a storage chamber (11, 12, 13), and the outer case (180) may form the outer appearance of the main body (100).

[0096] In another aspect, the main body (100) may include an upper wall (110), a lower wall (120), a left wall (130), a right wall (140), and a rear wall (150). The upper wall (110), the lower wall (120), the left wall (130), the right wall (140), and the rear wall (150) may form an upper surface, a lower surface, a left surface, a right surface, and a rear wall of the main body (100), respectively.

[0097] Each of the upper wall (110), the lower wall (120), the left wall (130), the right wall (140), and the rear wall (150) may be formed of an inner surface (170), an outer surface (180), and an insulating material (190). For example, the upper surface of the upper wall (110) may be formed by the outer surface (180), the lower surface of the upper wall (110) may be formed by the inner surface (170), and an insulating material (190) may be provided on the inside of the upper wall (110).

[0098] The storage compartments (11, 12, 13) can accommodate items. The storage compartments (11, 12, 13) can be formed to have an open front side so that items can be put in or taken out. The main body (100) can include a horizontal partition wall (160) that divides the first storage compartment (11) from the second storage compartment (12) and the third storage compartment (13), and a vertical partition wall (161) that divides the second storage compartment (12) from the third storage compartment (13). The first storage compartment (11) can be provided at the upper part of the main body (100), and the second storage compartment (12) and the third storage compartment (13) can be provided at the lower part of the main body (100). The first storage compartment (11) can be a refrigerator compartment, the second storage compartment (12) can be a freezer compartment, and the third storage compartment (13) can be a variable temperature compartment.

[0099] Doors (21, 22, 23, 24) can open and close storage rooms (11, 12, 13). The first door (21) and the second door (22) can open and close the first storage room (11), the third door (23) can open and close the second storage room (12), and the fourth door (24) can open and close the third storage room (13). The doors (21, 22, 23, 24) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (100).

[0100] The doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (100) by hinges. For example, the first door (21) and the second door (22) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (100) by a hinge (31) provided on the upper portion of the main body (100) and a hinge provided in the middle of the main body (100), respectively. The hinge (31) may include a hinge pin that protrudes vertically to form a rotational axis of the door. The hinge (31) may be covered by a top cover (300) provided to cover the upper front portion of the main body (100).

[0101] A rotating bar (40) may be provided on either the first door (21) or the second door (22) to cover the gap formed between the first door (21) and the second door (22) when the first door (21) and the second door (22) are closed. The rotating bar (40) may be provided rotatably on either the first door (21) or the second door (22). The rotating bar (40) may have a rod shape that is formed long in a vertical direction. The rotating bar (40) may also be referred to as a pillar, a mullion, or the like.

[0102] A guide protrusion (46) may be provided at the top of the rotating bar (40), and a rotation guide (119) that guides the rotation of the guide protrusion (46) may be provided at the top of the main body (100).

[0103] The doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may include a gasket (51). The gasket (51) may be pressed against the front of the body (100) when the doors (21, 22, 23, 24) are closed. The doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may include a ditch (52) that protrudes rearward. A door shelf (53) capable of storing items may be mounted on the ditch (52). A rotating bar (40) may be rotatably installed on the ditch (52).

[0104] 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.

[0105] The refrigerator (1) may include a thermoelectric cooling device (400) arranged to cool the storage compartment (11).

[0106] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may be provided on the upper side of the storage room (11) to cool the storage room (11). That is, the thermoelectric cooling device may be provided on the upper wall (110) of the main body (100).

[0107] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a thermoelectric element (530). The thermoelectric element (530) 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.

[0108] The thermoelectric element (530) includes a heat generating portion (531) and a heat absorbing portion (532). When current is applied to the thermoelectric element (530), a heat generating action may occur in the heat generating portion (531) and a heat absorbing action may occur in the heat absorbing portion (532). For example, the thermoelectric element (530) may have a thin hexahedral shape. The heat generating portion (531) may be provided on one surface of the thermoelectric element (530), and the heat absorbing portion (532) may be provided on the opposite surface.

[0109] The heat generating part (531) may face the outside of the main body (100) and the heat absorbing part (532) may face the inside of the storage chamber (11). For example, the thermoelectric element (530) may be provided on the upper wall (110) such that the heat generating part (531) faces above the thermoelectric element (530) and the heat absorbing part (532) faces below the thermoelectric element (530). Accordingly, air that has been warmed through heat exchange with the heat generating part (531) may be discharged to the outside of the main body (100), and air that has been cooled through heat exchange with the heat absorbing part (532) may be supplied to the storage chamber (11).

[0110] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat sink (520) that contacts the heat generating unit (531) so that heat exchange between the heat generating unit (531) and the air outside the main body (100) is efficiently performed.

[0111] A heat sink (520) may be located outside the main body (100). The heat sink (520) may contact the heat generating portion (531) to absorb heat from the heat generating portion (531) and release heat to the outside of the main body (100). The heat sink (520) may also be referred to as a hot sink, a heat dissipation heat sink, a hot heat sink, etc.

[0112] The heat sink (520) may be formed of a metal material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat sink (520) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0113] The heat sink (520) may include a heat sink base (521) that contacts the heat generating portion (531) and a plurality of heat sink fins (525) that protrude from the heat sink base (521) to expand the heat transfer area. The plurality of heat sink fins (525) may protrude upward from the heat sink base (521).

[0114] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat sink (570) that contacts the heat absorbing portion (532) so that heat exchange between the heat absorbing portion (532) and the air inside the storage chamber (11) is efficiently performed.

[0115] A heat sink (570) may be located inside the storage compartment (11). The heat sink (570) may cool the storage compartment (11) by taking away heat from the storage compartment (11) and transferring it to the heat absorbing unit (532). The heat sink (570) 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.

[0116] The heat sink (570) may be formed of a metal material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat sink (570) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0117] The heat sink (570) may include a heat sink base (571) that contacts the heat absorbing portion (532) and a plurality of cooling fins (575) that protrude from the heat sink base (571) to expand the heat transfer area. The plurality of cooling fins (575) may protrude downward from the heat sink base (571). The heat sink base (571) and the plurality of cooling fins (575) may be formed integrally.

[0118] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat dissipation fan (600) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the heat dissipation sink (520) and the air outside the main body (100).

[0119] A heat dissipation fan (600) can move and / or blow air toward a heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation fan (600) can be configured to be positioned horizontally with respect to the heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation fan (600) can be positioned on the outside of the body (100). The heat dissipation fan (600) can be positioned on the upper side of the upper wall (110).

[0120] For example, the heat dissipation fan (600) 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 (610) of the heat dissipation fan (600) may be arranged perpendicular to the upper surface of the upper wall (110).

[0121] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a heat dissipation duct (700) configured to guide air flowing by a heat dissipation fan (600). The heat dissipation duct (700) may guide air from outside the main body (100) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), and may discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) back to the outside of the main body (100).

[0122] The heat dissipation duct (700) can draw in air from the external space on the upper side of the main body (100). The heat dissipation duct (700) can discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the external space on the upper side of the main body (100). The heat dissipation fan (600) can be located inside the heat dissipation duct (700). The heat dissipation sink (520) can be located inside the heat dissipation duct (700). The heat dissipation duct (700) can be provided on the upper surface of the upper wall (110).

[0123] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include an outside air intake port (751) that draws air outside the main body (100) into the inside of the heat dissipation duct (700), and an outside air exhaust port (782) that discharges air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100) (see FIGS. 13 to 15).

[0124] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling fan (800) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the heat sink (570) and the air inside the storage chamber (11).

[0125] A cooling fan (800) may move and / or blow air toward a heat sink (570). The cooling fan (800) may be configured to be positioned horizontally with respect to the heat sink (570). The cooling fan (800) may be provided inside the storage compartment (11). The cooling fan (800) may be provided on the lower side of the upper wall (110).

[0126] For example, the cooling fan (800) may be a centrifugal fan that sucks in air in an axial direction and discharges it in radial directions. The rotation axis (810) of the cooling fan (800) may be arranged perpendicular to the bottom surface of the upper wall (110).

[0127] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling duct (900) configured to guide air flowing by a cooling fan (800). The cooling duct (700) may guide air inside the storage chamber (11) to exchange heat with the heat sink (570), and may discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (570) back into the storage chamber (11).

[0128] A cooling fan (800) may be located inside a cooling duct (900). A heat sink (570) may be located inside a cooling duct (900). The cooling duct (800) may be provided on the lower surface of the upper wall (110).

[0129] The cooling duct (900) may include an intake port (991) for drawing air inside the storage room (11) into the interior of the cooling duct (900), and an exhaust port (992) for discharging air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (570) into the interior of the storage room (11).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 4, a refrigerator (1) may include a refrigeration cycle device to cool a storage compartment through a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle device may include a compressor (2), a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator (3). The evaporator (3) may be provided on the rear side of the storage compartment (12, 13).

[0131] The refrigerator (1) may include evaporator ducts (60, 70) that guide cold air generated in the evaporator (3). The first evaporator duct (60) may be provided on the rear side of the second storage compartment (12) and the third storage compartment (13). The second evaporator duct (70) may be provided on the rear side of the first storage compartment (11).

[0132] The cold air generated in the evaporator (3) can be sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) by the evaporator fan (80). The cold air sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) can be discharged to the second storage chamber (12) or the third storage chamber (13) through a cold air discharge port formed at the front portion of the first evaporator duct (60). In addition, the cold air sucked into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) can be guided to the internal passage (78) of the second evaporator duct (70). The first evaporator duct (60) can be provided with a damper (61) configured to control the supply of the cold air inside the first evaporator duct (60) to the second evaporator duct (70). A connecting duct (90) may be provided between the first evaporator duct (60) and the second evaporator duct (70) to connect the first evaporator duct (60) and the second evaporator duct (70).

[0133] Cold air introduced into the internal passage (78) of the second evaporator duct (70) can be supplied to the first storage chamber (11) through the cold air discharge port (72) formed in the front part of the second evaporator duct (70).

[0134] However, unlike the above embodiment, the cold air generated in the evaporator (3) may be supplied directly to the second evaporator duct (70) without passing through the first evaporator duct (60). In addition, a separate evaporator (3) may be provided on the rear side of the first storage chamber (11) and configured to supply cold air to the second evaporator duct (70).

[0135] In this way, since the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a thermoelectric cooling device and a refrigeration cycle device for cooling the storage compartment (11), a method of supplying cold air to the storage compartment (11) may include a first method of supplying only cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device (400), 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.

[0136] The refrigerator (1) can supply cold air to the storage compartment (11) in an appropriate manner depending on external and internal conditions. For example, the refrigerator (1) can cool the storage compartment (11) in one of the manners depending on the temperature of the room in which the refrigerator (1) is installed. For example, 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 (400), the storage compartment (11) can be cooled only by the cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle device. Conversely, when the room temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature and cooling by a thermoelectric cooling device (400) is more efficient than cooling by a refrigeration cycle device, the storage compartment (11) can be cooled only by the cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device (400). The refrigerator (1) can operate only the thermoelectric cooling device (400) when noise reduction is required. When it is necessary to rapidly cool the storage room (11), the refrigerator (1) can simultaneously supply cold air generated through the thermoelectric cooling device (400) and cold air generated through the refrigeration cycle device to the storage room (11).

[0137] In this way, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may include a thermoelectric cooling device (400) and a refrigeration cycle device, but is not limited thereto, and the refrigerator may include only a thermoelectric cooling device (400).

[0138] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an inner casing, an outer casing, and a connecting frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a connecting frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a coupling structure of a thermoelectric module and an upper wall of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is an exploded view illustrating a heat dissipation fan and a thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a heat dissipation sink according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a heat absorption sink according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, the configuration of a thermoelectric module of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and the installation structure of the thermoelectric module are described.

[0140] The main body (100) of the refrigerator (1) may include an inner case (170) forming a storage compartment (11) and an outer case (180) coupled to the outside of the inner case (170). An insulating material (190) for insulating the storage compartment (11) may be provided between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180). The inner case (170) may include an inner opening (171). The outer case (180) may include an outer opening (181).

[0141] The inner opening (171) may be formed larger than the outer opening (181). However, unlike the present embodiment, the inner opening (171) and the outer opening (181) may be formed to have the same size. In this case, the connecting frame (200) described later may be composed of only the connecting frame body (270) without the connecting frame base (210).

[0142] The main body (100) may include a connecting frame (200) provided between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180) to form a through hole (115) penetrating the upper wall (110) by connecting the inner case opening (171) and the outer case opening (181).

[0143] One side of the connecting frame (200) may be supported on the inner surface (the surface facing the insulation material) of the inner case (170), and the other side of the connecting frame (200) may be supported on the inner surface (the surface facing the insulation material) of the outer case (180).

[0144] When the connecting frame (200) is placed between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180), an insulating space can be formed by the inner case (170), the outer case (180), and the connecting frame (200). For example, the inner case (170), the outer case (180), and the connecting frame (200) can be connected to each other by filling and foaming a foam insulation material in the insulating space. The connecting frame (200) can be formed of a material with low thermal conductivity. The connecting frame (200) can be formed of a resin material.

[0145] The connecting frame (200) may include a frame base (210) connected to the inner opening (171) and a frame body (270) protruding from the upper surface of the frame base (210) and connected to the outer opening (181).

[0146] The frame base (210) may have a size corresponding to the size of the inner opening (171). The frame base (210) may include a frame base opening (211). The frame base opening (211) may have a size corresponding to the outer opening (181).

[0147] For example, the frame body (270) may have a rectangular frame shape with a predetermined thickness. The frame body (270) may include a frame body opening (271). The frame body opening (271) may have a size corresponding to the external opening (181). The frame base opening (211) and the frame body opening (271) may form a through hole (115) of the upper wall (110).

[0148] The frame base (210) and the frame body (270) may be provided separately and coupled to each other. The frame base (210) and the frame body (270) may be coupled through a frame coupling member (201). To this end, a coupling hole (240) may be formed in the frame base (210) and a coupling hole (280) may be formed in the frame body (270). For example, the frame coupling member (201) may be a coupling mechanical element such as a screw, a pin, a bolt, a rivet, etc. However, the frame base (210) and the frame body (270) may also be formed integrally.

[0149] The frame base (210) may include an upwardly protruding base projection (230). A receiving space may be formed in a recessed manner on the lower surface of the base projection (230) to receive a portion of the cooling duct (900).

[0150] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a thermoelectric module (500).

[0151] A thermoelectric element (530), a heat dissipation sink (520), and a heat absorption sink (570) can be assembled integrally to form a thermoelectric module (500). For example, the thermoelectric module (500) can include a thermoelectric element (530), a heat dissipation sink (520), a heat absorption sink (570), and a module plate (550).

[0152] As illustrated in Fig. 8, the thermoelectric module (500) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) via a separate coupling member (S). The thermoelectric module (500) can be provided to penetrate the through hole (115) of the upper wall (110) such that the heat dissipation sink (520) is positioned outside the main body (100) and the heat absorption sink (570) is positioned inside the storage chamber (11). A sealing member (560) for sealing can be provided between the module plate (550) of the thermoelectric module (500) and the upper surface of the upper wall (110).

[0153] The module plate (550) can serve as a frame for the thermoelectric module. The module plate (550) can be formed of a resin material having low thermal conductivity. The module plate (550) can maintain a gap between the heat dissipation sink (520) and the heat absorption sink (570) and support the heat dissipation sink (520) and the heat absorption sink (570). For example, the module plate (550) can be formed integrally with a fan case (650) to be described later. However, the module plate (550) can also be provided separately from the fan case (650).

[0154] The module plate (550) may include a heat sink support (552) that supports a heat sink (520).

[0155] The module plate (550) may include a module plate opening (551). The thermoelectric element (530) may be disposed inside the module plate opening (551). The vertical length of the module plate opening (551) may be greater than the vertical length of the thermoelectric element (530), and the thermoelectric element (530) may be disposed on the upper side of the module plate opening (551). The reason why the thermoelectric element (530) is disposed on the upper side inside the module plate opening (551) is because the heat generation amount of the thermoelectric element (530) is typically higher than the heat absorption amount, and the positioning of the thermoelectric element (530) on the upper side of the module plate opening (551) is advantageous for heat dissipation of the heat generating part (531).

[0156] Accordingly, since the thermoelectric element (530) is placed on the upper side of the module plate opening (551), the heat sink (570) may include a cooling conductive portion (574) protruding from the heat sink base (571) for contact with the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530).

[0157] The thermoelectric module (500) may include a module plate (550) and an element insulation material (540) that insulates the thermoelectric element (530). The element insulation material (540) may be placed in the module plate opening (551) to prevent the side surfaces of the thermoelectric element (530) from contacting the module plate (550). The element insulation material (540) may surround the thermoelectric element (530). The element insulation material (540) includes an element insulation opening (541), and the thermoelectric element (530) may be accommodated in the element insulation opening (541).

[0158] The thermoelectric module (500) may include a sink insulation (580) disposed between the module plate (550) and the heat sink (570). The sink insulation (580) may prevent heat from being transferred between the heat dissipation sink (520) and the heat absorption sink (570) through the module plate (550). The sink insulation (580) may include a sink insulation opening (581). However, the sink insulation (580) may be omitted, in which case the heat dissipation sink (520) may be supported on the upper surface of the module plate (550), and the heat absorption sink (570) may be supported on the lower surface of the module plate (550).

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a fan case (650) that guides air blown by a heat dissipation fan (600). The heat dissipation fan (600) may be installed in the fan case (650). The fan case (650) may be formed integrally with the module plate (550) described above, or may be provided separately.

[0160] The fan case (650) may include a case bottom (660) on which a heat dissipation fan (600) is rotatably installed, and a case scroll portion (670) extending upward from the edge of the case bottom (660) to guide air blown from the heat dissipation fan (600) toward a heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation fan (600) is a centrifugal fan, and may be installed on the case bottom (660) so that the rotation axis (610) is perpendicular to the case bottom (660). In addition, the heat dissipation sink (520) may be positioned in one radial direction of the heat dissipation fan (600). With this structure, the overall vertical length of the thermoelectric cooling device (400) can be shortened, and the thermoelectric cooling device (400) can be made compact.

[0161] The case scroll portion (670) may be formed to surround the heat dissipation fan (600). The case scroll portion (670) may have a scroll portion opening (673) open toward the heat dissipation sink (520). The case scroll portion (670) may include a downstream end (671) along the rotational direction (R) of the heat dissipation fan (600) and an upstream end (672) along the rotational direction (R).

[0162] The downstream end (671) and the upstream end (672) are spaced apart from each other, and a scroll opening (673) can be formed between the downstream end (671) and the upstream end (672).

[0163] The air blown from the heat dissipation fan (600) can be discharged in the radial directions of the heat dissipation fan (600) and move along the inner surface of the case scroll part (670) toward the heat dissipation sink (520). Therefore, the air blown from the heat dissipation fan (600) can flow more around the downstream end (671) of the case scroll part (670) than around the upstream end (672) of the case scroll part (670).

[0164] The fan case (650) may include a case guide (680) provided to guide air flowing from the heat dissipation fan (600) to the area around the downstream end (671) of the case scroll section (670).

[0165] The case guide (680) may protrude upward from the case bottom (660). The case guide (680) may be spaced apart from the case scroll unit (670). The case guide (680) may guide air flowing around the downstream end (671) of the case scroll unit (670) toward the upstream end (672) of the case scroll unit (670). Therefore, the air blown from the heat dissipation fan (600) may be evenly distributed to the heat dissipation channels (528) of the heat dissipation sink (520) by the case guide (680), and the heat exchange efficiency of the heat dissipation sink (520) may be increased.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 10, a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) may protrude from the upper surface (522) of the heat dissipation sink base (521). The plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) may protrude in a first direction (526) perpendicular to the upper surface (522) of the heat dissipation sink base (521).

[0167] A plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) may be formed to extend in a second direction (527) parallel to the upper surface (522) of the heat dissipation sink base (521). The second direction (527) may be perpendicular to the first direction (526). Heat dissipation channels (528) may be formed between adjacent plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). The heat dissipation channels (528) may extend in the second direction (527) like the plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). Some of the heat dissipation channels (529) among the heat dissipation channels (528) may have a larger width than other heat dissipation channels.

[0168] Air flowing by the heat dissipation fan (600) can pass through the heat dissipation channels (528) and exchange heat with a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). The airflow (A) flowing by the heat dissipation fan (600) can pass through the heat dissipation channels (528) in a direction parallel to the second direction (527).

[0169] Referring to FIG. 11, a plurality of cooling fins (575) may protrude from the lower surface (572) of the heat sink base (571). The plurality of cooling fins (575) may protrude in a first direction (576) perpendicular to the lower surface (572) of the heat sink base (571).

[0170] A plurality of cooling fins (575) may be formed to extend in a second direction (577) parallel to the lower surface (572) of the heat sink base (571). The second direction (577) may be perpendicular to the first direction (576). Cooling channels (578) may be formed between adjacent cooling fins (575). Some cooling channels (579) among the cooling channels (578) may have a larger width than other cooling channels (578).

[0171] Air flowing by the cooling fan (800) can pass through the cooling channels (578) and exchange heat with a plurality of cooling fins (575). The airflow (B) flowing by the cooling fan (800) can pass through the cooling channels (578) in a direction parallel to the second direction (577).

[0172] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may further include a fastening member (596). The fastening member (596) may penetrate the heat sink (520) and the heat absorption sink (570) to couple, fasten, and / or secure the heat sink (520) and the heat absorption sink (570). For example, the fastening member (596) may penetrate the heat sink base (521) and the heat absorption sink base (571) to couple the heat sink base (521) and the heat absorption sink base (571). The fastening member (596) may include a plurality of fastening members (596).

[0173] The fastening member (596) may extend in one direction. For example, the fastening member (596) may extend in a vertical direction. For example, the head (596a) of the fastening member (596) may be positioned on the side of the heat sink (520), and the extension (596b) may penetrate the heat sink (520) and the heat absorption sink (570) (see FIG. 17).

[0174] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may further include an insulating member (593, 594). The insulating member (593, 594) may reduce heat transfer between the heat sink (520) and the heat sink (570) via the fastening member (596). The insulating member (593, 594) may include a material having a low heat transfer coefficient. For example, the insulating member (593, 594) may include plastic.

[0175] Insulating members (593, 594) may be positioned between a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) and / or a plurality of cooling fins (575). The insulating members (593, 594) may be configured to surround the fastening member (596). The insulating members (593, 594) may extend along the extension direction of the fins. The insulating members (593, 594) may be referred to as insulating washers.

[0176] The insulating member (593, 594) may include a plurality of insulating members (593, 594). The plurality of insulating members (593, 594) may include a first insulating member (593) and a second insulating member (594).

[0177] A first insulating member (593) may be inserted and / or seated in a heat sink base (521). The first insulating member (593) may be disposed between a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). The first insulating member (593) may be disposed on the heat sink base (521). For example, the first insulating member (593) may surround a fastening member (596) on the upper portion of the heat sink base (521). The first insulating member (593) may include a plurality of first insulating members (593). For example, the number of first insulating members (593) may correspond to the number of fastening members (596). The first insulating member (593) may be referred to as a heat dissipation insulating member.

[0178] A second insulating member (594) may be inserted and / or seated in the heat sink base (571). The second insulating member (594) may be disposed between a plurality of cooling fins (575). The second insulating member (594) may be disposed below the heat sink base (571). For example, the second insulating member (594) may surround the fastening member (596) at the bottom of the heat sink base (571). The second insulating member (594) may include a plurality of second insulating members (594). For example, the number of second insulating members (594) may correspond to the number of fastening members (596). The second insulating member (594) may be referred to as a cooling insulating member.

[0179] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may further include a cutoff (590). The cutoff (590) may be configured to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the thermoelectric element (530) being overheated and / or based on exceeding a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric element (530). For example, the cutoff (590) may be configured to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the heating element (531) being overheated and / or based on exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heating element (531). (For example, the thermoelectric element (530) may be turned off.) For example, the cutoff (590) may be configured to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the temperature of the heat sink (520) being overheated and / or based on exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat sink (520). The blocking unit (590) can be electrically connected to the thermoelectric element (530). In addition, the blocking unit (590) can be connected to the control unit (1000) via a cable (595).

[0180] The blocking member (590) may be adjacent to the heat generating member (531). The blocking member (590) may be arranged and / or positioned on the heat sink (520). For example, the blocking member (590) may be arranged between a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) on the heat sink base (521). The blocking member (590) may be secured by a first insulating member (593). The blocking member (590) may include a fuse, a switch (590), and / or a sensor (590).

[0181] For example, the fuse (590) may be thermally short-circuited based on the thermoelectric element (530) overheating. Since the fuse (590) is electrically connected to the thermoelectric element (530), the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) may be cut off based on the fuse (590) being short-circuited.

[0182] The fuse (590) may be in contact with the heat sink (520). When the temperature of the heating element (531) of the thermoelectric element (530) rises, heat may be transferred from the heating element (531) to the heat sink (520). As the temperature of the heating element (531) rises, the temperature of the heat sink (520) may rise.

[0183] For example, the switch (590) and / or the sensor (590) can sense the temperature of the air adjacent to the heating element (531) and / or the heat sink (520) and, if the temperature of the air exceeds a predetermined temperature, cut off the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) and / or turn off the thermoelectric element (530).

[0184] In one embodiment of the refrigerator, at least one of the motors driving the heat dissipation fan (600) and the cooling fan (800) may fail. In this case, the fans (600, 800) cannot lower the temperature of the thermoelectric element (530), so the thermoelectric cooling device (400) may overheat. If the thermoelectric cooling device (400) overheats, the module plate (500), the fan case (650), the connecting frame (200), the heat dissipation duct (700), the cooling duct (900), and / or the temperature sensors (591, 592) constituting the thermoelectric cooling device (400) may be damaged.

[0185] Additionally, if the temperature sensor (591, 592) fails, the thermoelectric element (530) and the thermoelectric cooling device (400) may overheat, and the elements of the thermoelectric cooling device (400) may be damaged.

[0186] In a refrigerator according to one embodiment, the cutoff unit (590) may cut off the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the thermoelectric element (530) exceeding a predetermined temperature. For example, based on the heat sink (520) heated by the heat generating unit (531) exceeding a predetermined temperature, the temperature of the fuse (590) may also rise, and the fuse (590) may be short-circuited due to the rise in the temperature of the fuse (590). For example, the predetermined temperature may be 150 degrees Celsius.

[0187] Accordingly, the blocking unit (590) can prevent the thermoelectric element (530) from overheating, thereby preventing damage to the thermoelectric cooling device (400) including the temperature sensors (591, 592), etc., and thus improving the safety of use. In addition, since damage to the components of the thermoelectric cooling device (400) is prevented, the need to replace the temperature sensors (591, 592), etc. is reduced, thereby reducing the user's usage costs.

[0188] The case where the temperature of the thermoelectric cooling device (400) including the thermoelectric element (530) is overheated is not limited to the above-described example.

[0189] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may further include a temperature sensor (591, 592). The temperature sensor (591, 592) may detect the temperature of a component of the thermoelectric cooling device (400). For example, the temperature sensor (591, 592) may detect the temperature of the heat sink (520) and / or the heat sink (570). Additionally, for example, the temperature sensor (591, 592) may sense the temperature of the thermoelectric element (530).

[0190] The temperature sensor (591, 592) can detect the temperature of the thermoelectric element (530) and transmit information about the temperature to the control unit (1000). The control unit (1000) can control the thermoelectric element (530), the compressor (2), and / or the user interface (1300) based on the temperature value detected by the temperature sensor (591, 592) (see FIGS. 24 to 26).

[0191] The temperature sensor (591, 592) may include a plurality of temperature sensors (591, 592). The plurality of temperature sensors (591, 592) may include a first temperature sensor (591) and a second temperature sensor (592).

[0192] The first temperature sensor (591) may be coupled and / or mounted on the heat sink base (521). The first temperature sensor (591) may be disposed on the side of the heat sink fin (525a) that is disposed at the outermost end among the plurality of heat sink fins (525). The first temperature sensor (591) may be disposed on the heat sink base (521). For example, the first temperature sensor (591) may be coupled to the heat sink (520) by a coupling member on the upper portion of the heat sink base (521). The first temperature sensor (591) may be referred to as a heat sink temperature sensor.

[0193] The second temperature sensor (592) may be coupled and / or mounted on the heat sink base (571). The second temperature sensor (592) may be disposed on the side of the cooling fin (575a) that is disposed at the outermost end among the plurality of cooling fins (575). The second temperature sensor (592) may be disposed below the heat sink base (571). For example, the second temperature sensor (592) may be coupled to the heat sink (570) by a coupling member at the bottom of the heat sink base (571). The second temperature sensor (592) may be referred to as a cooling temperature sensor.

[0194] FIG. 12 is a drawing of a top cover separated from a main body of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a drawing of a top cover and a heat dissipation duct cover separated from a main body of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a drawing of a top cover, a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, and an extension duct separated from a main body of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a drawing of an exploded view of a heat dissipation duct according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a drawing of a bottom surface of a heat dissipation duct according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a part of a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0195] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 17, the structure of a heat dissipation duct (700) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0196] The refrigerator (1) may include a heat dissipation duct (700) provided on the upper wall (110) to suck in air from outside the main body (100), exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), and discharge the air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) back to the outside of the main body (100).

[0197] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a heat dissipation duct body (720), a heat dissipation duct cover (710), and an extension duct (740).

[0198] A heat dissipation duct body (720) can be coupled to the upper surface of the main body (100). The heat dissipation duct body (720) can cover a heat dissipation fan (600) and a heat dissipation sink (520). An outside air intake (751) is formed on the upper surface of the front portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720), and the outside air intake (751) can be covered by a top cover (300).

[0199] A heat dissipation duct cover (710) may be coupled to the upper portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to cover the upper portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720). To this end, a duct cover coupling portion (711) may be provided on the heat dissipation duct cover (710), and a duct body coupling portion (721) coupled to the duct cover coupling portion (711) may be provided on the heat dissipation duct body (720). The duct cover coupling portion (711) and the duct body coupling portion (721) may be coupled in a hook or fitting manner.

[0200] An extension duct (740) may be provided in front of the heat dissipation duct body (720) so as to be connected to the heat dissipation duct body (720). As illustrated in FIG. 15, the extension duct (740) may be provided separately from the heat dissipation duct body (720). However, alternatively, the extension duct (740) may be provided integrally with the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0201] The extension duct (740) may be positioned below the top cover (300), and the upper side of the extension duct (740) may be covered by the top cover (300). The extension duct (740) may be coupled to the lower part of the top cover (300). To this end, the extension duct (740) may be provided with an extension duct coupling portion (745), and the top cover (300) may be provided with a top cover coupling portion (380) coupled to the extension duct coupling portion (745). The extension duct coupling portion (745) and the top cover coupling portion (380) may be coupled in a hook or fitting manner.

[0202] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include an outside air intake port (751) designed to intake air from outside the main body. For example, the heat dissipation duct body (720) may include an outside air intake port (751).

[0203] The outside air intake (751) may be formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The outside air intake (751) may be positioned closer to the front of the main body (100) than to the rear of the main body (100). In this way, the reason why the outside air intake (751) is positioned closer to the front of the main body (100) than to the rear of the main body (100) is to suppress heat generated in the compressor (2) and condenser, etc., located at the rear of the main body (100) from being sucked in through the outside air intake (751).

[0204] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include external air exhaust ports (782, 794) that discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100).

[0205] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a first external air discharge port (782) that discharges air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100). The first external air discharge port (782) may discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) toward the external space on the upper side of the main body (100).

[0206] The extension duct (740) may include a second outside air outlet (794) that discharges air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (520) toward the rotating bar (40). By discharging the air that has exchanged heat with the heat sink (520) toward the rotating bar (40), condensation on the rotating bar (40) can be prevented.

[0207] However, the heat dissipation duct (700) does not necessarily have to include the first outside air discharge port (782) and the second outside air discharge port (794), and the second outside air discharge port (794) may be omitted.

[0208] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a fan receiving portion (760) forming a fan receiving space (762) for receiving a heat dissipation fan (600). For example, the heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a fan receiving portion (760) forming a fan receiving space (762) for receiving a heat dissipation fan (600).

[0209] A fan receiving space (762) may be formed on the bottom surface of the fan receiving portion (760). The lower side of the fan receiving space (762) may be open, and the open lower side of the fan receiving space (762) may be covered by a fan case (650). The fan receiving portion (760) may include a fan inlet (761) through which air is introduced into the fan receiving space (762). The fan inlet (761) may be formed on the upper side of the fan receiving space (762).

[0210] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a sink receiving portion (770) that forms a sink receiving space (771) that receives a heat dissipation sink (520). The sink receiving space (771) may be formed on a bottom surface of the sink receiving portion (770). The lower side of the sink receiving space (771) may be open. The open lower side of the sink receiving space (771) may be covered by a module plate (550). The sink receiving space (771) may be formed on a downstream side of the fan receiving space (762).

[0211] As illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, the sink receiving portion (770) may include a channel blocking protrusion (772) protruding from the bottom surface of the sink receiving portion (770). The channel blocking protrusion (772) may be positioned in a heat dissipation channel (529) that is wider than other heat dissipation channels among the heat dissipation channels (528) formed between the plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). The channel blocking protrusion (772) may prevent air from flowing into the wide heat dissipation channel (529) and guide air to flow into other heat dissipation channels (528).

[0212] The reason why a channel blocking protrusion (772) is provided in a wide heat dissipation channel (529) like this is because the wide heat dissipation channel (529) has a wide gap between adjacent pairs of heat dissipation fins (525), so the flow rate or heat exchange efficiency of air flowing through the wide heat dissipation channel (529) may be reduced.

[0213] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the sink receiving portion (770) may include a duct guide (773) protruding from the bottom surface of the sink receiving portion (770). The duct guide (773) may have a shape corresponding to the case guide (680) protruding above the fan case (650) and may be provided at a position corresponding to the case guide (680). That is, the lower surface of the duct guide (773) may be provided in contact with or adjacent to the upper surface of the case guide (680). The duct guide (773) may guide air blown from the heat dissipation fan (600). The duct guide (773) may enable the air blown from the heat dissipation fan (600) to be evenly distributed to the heat dissipation channels (528) of the heat dissipation sink (520), thereby increasing the heat exchange efficiency of the heat dissipation sink (520).

[0214] The fan receiving space (762) and the sink receiving space (771) may be positioned on a horizontal line. The fan receiving space (762) and the sink receiving space (771) may be positioned in the left and right directions based on the main body (100). The fan receiving space (762) and the sink receiving space (771) may be positioned closer to the rear of the main body (100) than the front of the main body (100).

[0215] In another aspect, the heat dissipation fan (600) accommodated in the fan accommodation space (762) and the sink (520) accommodated in the sink accommodation space (771) may be positioned on a horizontal line with respect to each other. The heat dissipation fan (600) and the heat dissipation sink (520) may be positioned in the left and right directions based on the main body (100). The heat dissipation fan (600) and the heat dissipation sink (520) may be positioned closer to the rear of the main body (100) than to the front of the main body (100).

[0216] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include an intake duct portion (750) that guides air sucked in through an outside air intake port (751) to a fan receiving space (762). For example, the heat dissipation duct body (720) may include an intake duct portion (750). The intake duct portion (750) may extend forward from the fan receiving portion (760). The outside air intake port (751) may be formed on an upper surface of the intake duct portion (750).

[0217] A suction space (752) may be formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The upper side of the suction space (752) may be formed to be open, and the open upper side of the suction space (752) may be covered by a heat dissipation duct cover (710). The suction space (752) may be formed on the upstream side of the fan accommodation space (762). The suction space (752) may be connected to the fan accommodation space (762) through a fan inlet (761).

[0218] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a first exhaust duct portion (780) that guides air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to a first outside air outlet (782). For example, the heat dissipation duct body (720) may include the first exhaust duct portion (780). The first exhaust duct portion (780) may extend from the sink receiving portion (770). For example, the first exhaust duct portion (780) may be formed to extend diagonally from the sink receiving portion (770) toward a front corner of the main body (100) by a certain length and then extend forward.

[0219] A first exhaust space (781) may be formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The upper side of the first exhaust space (781) may be open, and the open upper side of the first exhaust space may be covered by a heat dissipation duct cover (710). The first exhaust space (781) may be formed on the downstream side of the sink receiving space (771).

[0220] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a second exhaust duct section (790) that guides air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to a second outdoor air outlet (794). For example, the heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a second exhaust duct section (790). The second exhaust duct section (790) may branch from the first exhaust duct section (780) and extend forward.

[0221] A second exhaust space (791) may be formed on the upper surface of the second exhaust duct section (790). The upper side of the second exhaust space (791) may be open, and the open upper side of the second exhaust space (791) may be covered by a heat dissipation duct cover (710). The second exhaust space (791) may be formed on the downstream side of the sink receiving space (771).

[0222] In this way, the second exhaust duct section (790) can be formed by branching off from the first exhaust duct section (780). However, in contrast, the first exhaust duct section (780) and the second exhaust duct section (790) can be formed independently.

[0223] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a heat sink of a thermoelectric cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 19 is an enlarged view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 19 is an enlarged view of area C shown in Fig. 18. Fig. 20 is a plan view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0224] Referring to FIGS. 18 to 21, the blocking unit (590) can block the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the overheating of the thermoelectric element (530). For example, the blocking unit (590) can turn off the thermoelectric element (530) based on the overheating of the heating unit (531). For example, the blocking unit (590) can block the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the overheating of the temperature of the heat sink (520).

[0225] The blocking member (590) may be adjacent to the thermoelectric element (530). For example, the blocking member (590) may be adjacent to the heat generating member (531). For example, the blocking member (590) may be disposed between a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). The first insulating member (593) may be formed of an elastic material, and the blocking member (590) may be fixed by the first insulating member (593). The first insulating member (593) may press the blocking member (590) from above the blocking member (590). The blocking member (590) may be disposed between the first insulating member (593) and the heat dissipation sink base (521). The blocking member (590) may be fixed by the first insulating member (593) and may not rotate. In addition, the blocking member (590) may be prevented from being separated in the direction in which the cable (595) is connected.

[0226] However, the position of the blocking portion (590) is not limited to the above-described example. The blocking portion (590) may be positioned at various positions along the Z direction of the heat dissipation fin (525). For example, the blocking portion (590) may be positioned at the upper portion of the heat dissipation fin (525) or at a position between the upper portion of the heat dissipation fin (525) and the heat dissipation sink base (521). For example, the blocking portion (590) may be positioned at a middle position of the heat dissipation fin (525).

[0227] The blocking unit (590) may include a blocking unit base (590a). The blocking unit base (590a) may be in contact with a heat sink (520). For example, the blocking unit base (590a) may be in contact with a heat sink base (521) to receive heat from the heat sink (520). Accordingly, heat is transferred from the heat sink base (521) to the blocking unit (590), and the blocking unit (590) may block current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the temperature of the heat sink (520).

[0228] The blocking member (590) may further include a protrusion (590b). The protrusion (590b) may protrude from the blocking member base (590a). For example, the protrusion (590b) may protrude upward from the blocking member base (590a). The protrusion (590b) may be coupled to the first insulating member (593). For example, the protrusion (590b) may be hook-coupled to the hook (593b) of the first insulating member (593). The protrusion (590b) may be in contact with the insulating members (593, 594).

[0229] The blocking member (590) is placed between the first insulating member (593) and the heat sink (520), and since the protrusion (590b) is caught by the hook (593b), the blocking member (590) can be fixed. For example, the blocking member (590) can be prevented from being detached in the direction in which the cable (595) is connected.

[0230] The first insulating member (593) may include an insulating member body (593a) and a hook (593b). The insulating member body (593a) may surround the fastening member (596). The insulating member body (593a) may be in contact with the blocking member (590). The hook (593b) may be provided at one end of the insulating member body (593a). The hook (593b) may protrude downward. The hook (593b) may be caught on the protrusion (590b) of the blocking member (590). The hook (593b) may prevent the blocking member from being detached. By combining the hook (593b) with the protrusion (590b), the first insulating member (593) and the blocking member (590) may be combined.

[0231] Fig. 22 is a plan view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0232] Referring to FIG. 22, the blocking member (590) may be adjacent to the thermoelectric element (530). For example, the blocking member (590) may be positioned on one side of the thermoelectric element (530) and / or the element insulation (540). For example, the blocking member (590) may be secured to the module plate (550) via an adhesive member.

[0233] Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 23, the blocking portion (590) may be adjacent to the thermoelectric element (530). For example, the blocking portion (590) may be adjacent to the heat generating portion (531). For example, the blocking portion (590) may be disposed on the side of the heat dissipation fin (525a) that is disposed at the outermost side among the plurality of heat dissipation fins (525). The blocking portion (590) may be disposed between the heat dissipation sink base (521) and the outermost heat dissipation fin (525a). The blocking portion (590) may be disposed at one end of the heat dissipation sink (520) along the X direction. For example, the blocking portion (590) may be disposed on the same side as the first temperature sensor (591), so that the blocking portion (590) and the first temperature sensor (591) may face each other. Alternatively, the blocking portion (590) may be disposed on the opposite side from the first temperature sensor (591).

[0235] Fig. 24 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0236] Referring to FIG. 24, the refrigerator (1) may include a user interface (1300) and a control unit (1000).

[0237] The user interface (1300) can provide a user interface for interaction between a user and a refrigerator (1).

[0238] The user interface (1300) may include at least one input interface (1310) and at least one output interface (1320).

[0239] At least one input interface (1310) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0240] At least one input interface (1310) may include a power button, an action button, and a course selection dial (or course selection button). The at least one input interface (1310) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0241] At least one output interface (1320) can transmit various data related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0242] For example, at least one output interface (1320) can transmit information related to the operating time of the refrigerator, whether the thermoelectric element (530) is operating, and the settings of the thermoelectric element (530) to the user. Information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (1320) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0243] The control unit (1000) can control various components of the refrigerator (1) (e.g., thermoelectric element (530), temperature sensors (591, 592), and / or user interface (1300)). The control unit (1000) can control various components of the refrigerator (1) to supply current to the thermoelectric element (530) in order to drive the thermoelectric element (530) according to user input.

[0244] For example, the control unit (1000) may receive information about the temperature of the thermoelectric element (530) from the temperature sensor (591, 592) and control the amount of current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530). In addition, for example, the control unit (1000) may display information about the current being cut off to the thermoelectric element (530) on the output interface (1320).

[0245] The control unit (1000) may include hardware such as a CPU, a Micom, or a memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (1000) may include at least one memory (1200) that stores data in the form of a program and an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the refrigerator (1), and at least one processor (1100) that performs the operations described above and the operations to be described below using the data stored in the at least one memory (1200). The memory (1200) and the processor (1100) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (1100) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (1200) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (1200) and the processor (1100) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0246] For example, the processor (1100) can control the thermoelectric element (530), the temperature sensors (591, 592), and / or the user interface (1300). The processor (1100) can supply current to the thermoelectric element (530) to drive the thermoelectric element (530) according to a user input. For example, the processor (1100) can receive information about the temperature of the thermoelectric element (530) from the temperature sensors (591, 592) and control the amount of current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530). In addition, for example, the processor (1100) can display information about the current being cut off to the thermoelectric element (530) on the output interface (1320). For example, the processor (1100) may output whether the thermoelectric element (530) is faulty to the output interface (1320) based on the absence of temperature change in the temperature sensor (591, 592).

[0247] For example, the memory may store an algorithm that causes the processor (1100) to display relevant information on the output interface (1320) based on the current being cut off to the thermoelectric element (530).

[0248] Fig. 25 is a flow chart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0249] Referring to FIG. 25, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the thermoelectric element (530) may exceed a predetermined temperature. For example, if the motor driving the fan (600, 800) breaks down, the fan (600, 800) cannot lower the temperature of the thermoelectric element (530), so the heat sink (520) in contact with the heat generating portion (531) of the thermoelectric element (530) receives heat from the heat generating portion (531), and the temperature of the heat sink (520) may exceed a predetermined temperature (2510). For example, the predetermined temperature may be 150 degrees Celsius.

[0250] Based on the temperature of the heat sink (520) exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat sink (520), the cutoff (590) can cut off the current flowing to the thermoelectric element (530) (2520). For example, in response to the temperature of the heat sink (520) receiving heat from the thermoelectric element (530) exceeding a predetermined temperature, the temperature of the fuse (590) may rise and the fuse (590) may be short-circuited. Since the fuse (590) is electrically connected to the thermoelectric element (530), the thermoelectric element (530) may be turned off in response to the fuse (590) being short-circuited.

[0251] Fig. 26 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 26, a method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may include supplying current to a thermoelectric element (530) (2610). The refrigerator (1) may supply current to the thermoelectric element (530) to release heat within a storage compartment (11, 12, 13). A heat absorption sink (570) of the thermoelectric element (530) may face the inside of the storage compartment (11, 12, 13) and thus may absorb heat from the storage compartment (11, 12, 13), and a heat dissipation sink (520) may release heat to the outside of the storage compartment (11, 12, 13) and the outside of the main body (100).

[0253] A method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may further include a temperature sensor (591, 592) detecting (2620) the temperature of a thermoelectric element (530). For example, a second temperature sensor (592) disposed on the side of a heat sink (570) may detect the temperature of the heat sink (570) and / or the heat absorbing unit (532). The second temperature sensor (592) may transmit information about the temperature of the heat sink (570) to the control unit (1000).

[0254] A method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may further include determining (2630) whether a temperature detected by a temperature sensor (591, 592) exceeds a preset temperature. For example, the control unit (1000) may receive information about the temperature of a heat sink (570) from a second temperature sensor (592), and the processor (1100) may determine, based on whether the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor (592) exceeds a preset temperature, whether to cut off the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530) before the cutoff unit (590) operates.

[0255] A method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may further include (2640) cutting off current to a thermoelectric element (530) based on the temperature detected by a second temperature sensor (592) exceeding a preset temperature. For example, if the cutting unit (590) is a fuse, the processor (1100) may prevent the fuse (590) from short-circuiting by preemptively cutting off the current supplied to the thermoelectric element (530).

[0256] Additionally, the processor (1100) of the refrigerator can continuously supply current to the thermoelectric element (530) based on the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor (592) not exceeding a preset temperature.

[0257] Fig. 27 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0258] Referring to FIG. 27, a method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may include supplying current to a thermoelectric element (530) (2710). The refrigerator may supply current to the thermoelectric element (530) to release heat within a storage compartment (11, 12, 13). A heat absorption sink (570) of the thermoelectric element (530) may face the inside of the storage compartment (11, 12, 13) and thus may absorb heat from the storage compartment, and a heat dissipation sink (520) may release heat to the outside of the storage compartment (11, 12, 13) and the outside of the main body (100).

[0259] A method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may further include a temperature sensor (591, 592) detecting (2720) the temperature of a thermoelectric element (530). For example, a second temperature sensor (592) disposed on the side of a heat sink (570) may detect the temperature of the heat sink (570) and / or the heat absorbing unit (532). The second temperature sensor (592) may transmit information about the temperature of the heat sink (570) to the control unit (1000).

[0260] A method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the disclosure may further include determining (2730) whether the temperature detected by a temperature sensor (591, 592) is changing. For example, the control unit (1000) may receive information about the temperature of the heat sink (570) from the second temperature sensor (592), and the processor (1100) may determine whether the temperature of the heat sink (570) detected by the second temperature sensor (592) is changing.

[0261] A method for controlling a refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include displaying (2740) whether a thermoelectric element (530) is abnormal on a user interface (1300) based on the fact that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor (592) does not change. For example, a user may check whether a thermoelectric element (530) is abnormal through the output interface (1320) and contact a service center to repair a refrigerator (1) having a thermoelectric element (530). For example, since the thermoelectric element (530) does not operate when the cutoff unit (590) cuts off the current supply to the thermoelectric element (530), the absence of a temperature change on the second temperature sensor (592) may correspond to the fact that the thermoelectric element (530) and the heat absorbing unit (532) do not operate.

[0262] In addition, a control method of a refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include increasing the operating rate of the compressor (2) (2750) based on the fact that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor (592) does not change. In a refrigerator according to an embodiment, a refrigeration cycle device including a compressor (2) and a thermoelectric cooling device (400) including a thermoelectric element (530) can both operate to cool the storage compartments (11, 12, 13), and the processor (1100) may determine that the thermoelectric element (530) is not operating, thereby increasing the operating rate of the compressor (2). Increasing the operating rate of the compressor (2) may include increasing the rotational rpm of the compressor (2). Based on the increasing operating rate of the compressor (2), the refrigeration cycle device can generate greater cooling power, and the evaporator (3) can produce more cold air.

[0263] Additionally, the refrigerator's processor (1100) can continuously supply current to the thermoelectric element (530) based on a change in the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor (592).

[0264] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a thermoelectric cooling device including a temperature sensor or the like can be prevented from being damaged by preventing a thermoelectric element from overheating.

[0265] The effects of one aspect of the disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0266] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the disclosure may include a main body (100); a storage compartment (11, 12, 13) formed inside the main body; a thermoelectric module (500) including a thermoelectric element (530) having a heat generating portion (531) configured to emit heat and a heat absorbing portion (532) configured to absorb heat, and a heat sink (520) configured to absorb heat from the heat generating portion and emit heat; and a cutoff portion (590) positioned at the heat sink to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on the heat sink (520) exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0267] The heat sink includes a heat sink base (521) that comes into contact with the heat generating part; and a plurality of heat sink fins (525) that protrude from the heat sink base to the outside of the main body; and the blocking member can be placed between the plurality of heat sink fins.

[0268] The refrigerator may include a heat sink (570) that receives heat from the storage compartment and transfers the heat to the heat absorbing unit, the heat sink (570) including a heat absorbing sink base (571) that contacts the heat absorbing unit and a plurality of cooling fins (575) that protrude from the heat absorbing sink base into the storage compartment; a fastening member (596) that penetrates the heat dissipation sink base and the heat absorbing sink base to couple the heat dissipation sink and the heat absorbing sink; and an insulating member (593) that is arranged between the plurality of heat dissipation fins and is configured to fix the fastening member.

[0269] The above-mentioned blocking member may be placed between the heat sink base and the insulating member to be fixed to the thermoelectric element.

[0270] The above blocking part may further include a blocking part base (590a); and a protrusion (590b) protruding upward from the blocking part base; and the insulating member may include an insulating member base (593a); and a hook (593b) protruding downward from the insulating member base to be fixed to the protrusion.

[0271] The above-mentioned blocking member may be configured to block current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on the heat sink exceeding 150°C.

[0272] The refrigerator further includes a heat exchanger (3) disposed at the rear of the storage compartment, and the thermoelectric element may be configured to cool the air within the storage compartment while the heat exchanger cools the air within the storage compartment.

[0273] The above refrigerator may further include a temperature sensor (591) disposed on the outer side of a heat dissipation fin (525a) disposed at the outermost side among the plurality of heat dissipation fins.

[0274] The above heat sink includes a heat sink base (521) that comes into contact with the heat generating part; and a plurality of heat sink fins (525) that protrude from the heat sink base to the outside of the main body; and the blocking part can be arranged on the outside of a heat sink fin (525a) that is arranged at the outermost side among the plurality of heat sink fins.

[0275] The refrigerator may further include at least one temperature sensor (591, 592) configured to detect the temperature of the thermoelectric module (500); and a processor (1000) configured to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on whether the thermoelectric module (500) is overheated and / or the temperature of the thermoelectric module (500) detected by the at least one temperature sensor exceeds a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric module (500).

[0276] The thermoelectric module includes a heat sink (570) that receives heat from the storage room and transfers heat to the heat absorbing unit; and the at least one temperature sensor includes a first temperature sensor (591) configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink; and a second temperature sensor (592) configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink; and the processor may be configured to cut off a current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on the temperature of the heat sink (570) detected by the second temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat sink (570).

[0277] The refrigerator further includes a user interface (1300); and the processor may be configured to output to the user interface whether the thermoelectric element is faulty based on whether the blocking unit blocks the current supplied to the thermoelectric element.

[0278] The processor may be configured to output to the user interface whether the thermoelectric element is faulty based on the absence of a change in temperature detected by the at least one temperature sensor.

[0279] The thermoelectric module includes a heat sink (570) that receives heat from the storage room and transfers heat to the heat absorbing portion; and the at least one temperature sensor includes a first temperature sensor (591) configured to detect the temperature of the heat sink; and a second temperature sensor (592) configured to detect the temperature of the heat sink; and the processor may be configured to output to the user interface whether the thermoelectric element is faulty based on the fact that the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor has not changed.

[0280] The refrigerator further includes a heat exchanger (3) configured to cool air within the storage compartment; and a compressor (2) connected to the heat exchanger; and the processor may be configured to increase the RPM of the compressor based on the fact that the blocking unit blocks the current supplied to the thermoelectric element.

[0281] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the disclosure may include: a storage compartment (11, 12, 13); a thermoelectric element (530) having a heating element (531) and a heat absorbing element (532), the thermoelectric element (530) provided in the storage compartment to discharge air warmed by the heating element to the outside of the storage compartment and supply air cooled by the heat absorbing element to the storage compartment; at least one temperature sensor (591, 592) configured to detect a temperature of the thermoelectric element; and a processor (1100) configured to cut off a current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on a temperature detected by the at least one temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0282] The refrigerator comprises a heat sink (520) that absorbs heat from the heat generating unit and releases the heat to the outside of the main body; and a heat sink (570) that receives heat from the storage chamber and transfers the heat to the heat absorbing unit; and the at least one temperature sensor comprises a first temperature sensor (591) configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink; and a second temperature sensor (592) configured to detect a temperature of the heat sink; and the processor may be configured to cut off a current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on a temperature detected by the second temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0283] The refrigerator further includes a user interface (1300); and the processor may be configured to output to the user interface whether the thermoelectric element is faulty based on whether the blocking unit blocks the current supplied to the thermoelectric element.

[0284] The refrigerator further includes a heat exchanger (3) configured to cool air within the storage compartment; and a compressor (2) connected to the heat exchanger; and the processor may be configured to increase the RPM of the compressor based on the fact that the blocking unit blocks the current supplied to the thermoelectric element.

[0285] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the disclosure may include: a main body (100); a storage compartment (11, 12, 13) formed inside the main body; a heat exchanger (3) configured to evaporate a refrigerant to generate cold air; a thermoelectric cooling device (400) configured to cool air in the storage compartment while the heat exchanger cools the air in the storage compartment, the thermoelectric cooling device (400) including a thermoelectric element (530) having a heat generating portion (531) and a heat absorbing portion (532), and a heat dissipation sink (520) that absorbs heat from the heat generating portion and dissipates heat to the outside of the main body; and a fuse (590) disposed in the heat dissipation sink (520) to cut off current supplied to the thermoelectric element in response to the heat dissipation sink exceeding a predetermined temperature.

[0286] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator may include: a main body; a storage compartment within the main body; a thermoelectric module configured to cool the storage compartment, the thermoelectric module including a thermoelectric element including a heat generating portion and a heat absorbing portion, a heat sink, and a heat absorbing sink; and a blocking portion. The thermoelectric module may be configured such that, based on current being supplied to the thermoelectric element, the heat absorbing portion absorbs heat from the heat absorbing sink to cool the heat absorbing sink, heat is generated in the heat generating portion, the generated heat is transferred to the heat dissipating sink, and the generated heat is released to the outside of the thermoelectric module by the heat dissipating sink. The blocking portion may be configured to block current supplied to the thermoelectric element based on at least one of: a temperature of the thermoelectric module exceeding a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric module; a temperature of the heat dissipating sink exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat dissipating sink; a temperature of the heat absorbing sink exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat absorbing sink; a temperature of the thermoelectric element exceeding a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric element; and a temperature of the heating portion exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heating portion.

[0287] The above has illustrated and described specific embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical ideas of the present invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Main body; A storage room inside the above main body; A thermoelectric module configured to cool the storage room, comprising a thermoelectric element including a heat generating unit configured to emit heat and a heat absorbing unit configured to absorb heat, and a heat sink configured to absorb heat from the heat generating unit and emit heat; and A refrigerator comprising: a cutoff member positioned on the heat sink to cut off current from being supplied to the thermoelectric element based on the heat sink exceeding a predetermined temperature.

2. In paragraph 1, The above heat sink, A heat sink base in contact with the above heat generating part; and A plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding from the heat dissipation sink base to the outside of the main body; A refrigerator wherein the above-mentioned blocking member is located between two of the plurality of heat dissipation fins.

3. In paragraph 2, An absorption sink that absorbs heat from the storage chamber and transfers the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing portion, the absorption sink including a heat absorbing sink base in contact with the heat absorbing portion and a plurality of cooling fins protruding from the heat absorbing sink base to the storage chamber; A fastening member that penetrates and connects the heat sink and the heat absorption sink; and A refrigerator comprising: an insulating member located between the plurality of heat dissipation fins and configured to secure the fastening member; 4. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned blocking member is located between the heat sink base and the insulating member and is fixed to the thermoelectric element.

5. In paragraph 4, The above blocking part is, Blocking base; and Further comprising a protrusion protruding upward from the above blocking member base; The above insulating material is, Insulating base; and A refrigerator comprising a hook protruding downward from the insulating member base so as to be fixed to the protrusion.

6. In paragraph 1, The specified temperature of the above heat sink is 150℃, A refrigerator wherein the above-mentioned blocking member is configured to block the supply of current to the thermoelectric element based on the temperature of the heat sink exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat sink.

7. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a heat exchanger arranged at the rear of the storage room; A refrigerator wherein the thermoelectric element is configured to cool the air within the storage compartment while the heat exchanger cools the air within the storage compartment.

8. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator further comprising a temperature sensor disposed on the outside of a heat dissipation fin at the outermost end of the plurality of heat dissipation fins.

9. In paragraph 1, The above heat sink, A heat sink base in contact with the above heat generating part; and A plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding from the heat dissipation sink base to the outside of the main body; The above-mentioned blocking member is a refrigerator located on the outside of the heat dissipation fin which is arranged at the outermost side among the plurality of heat dissipation fins.

10. In paragraph 1, At least one temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the thermoelectric module; and A refrigerator further comprising a processor configured to block current from being supplied to the thermoelectric element based on a temperature of the thermoelectric module detected by at least one temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature of the thermoelectric module.

11. In paragraph 10, The thermoelectric module includes an absorption sink that absorbs heat from the storage chamber and transfers the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing portion; At least one temperature sensor, a first temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the heat sink; and A second temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the heat sink; A refrigerator wherein the processor is configured to block current from being supplied to the thermoelectric element based on the temperature of the heat sink detected by the second temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined temperature of the heat sink.

12. In paragraph 10, The above refrigerator further comprises a user interface; A refrigerator wherein the processor is configured to output information related to whether the thermoelectric element is faulty to the user interface based on whether the circuit breaker is blocking the current supply to the thermoelectric element.

13. In paragraph 10, The above refrigerator further comprises a user interface; A refrigerator wherein the processor is configured to output information related to whether the thermoelectric element is faulty to the user interface based on the detected temperature change of the thermoelectric module.

14. In paragraph 13, The thermoelectric module includes an absorption sink that absorbs heat from the storage chamber and transfers the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing portion; At least one temperature sensor, a first temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the heat sink; and A second temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the heat sink; A refrigerator wherein the processor is configured to output information related to whether the thermoelectric element is faulty to the user interface based on the detected temperature change of the heat sink.

15. In paragraph 10, The above refrigerator, A heat exchanger configured to cool the air within the storage room; and further comprising a compressor connected to the above heat exchanger; A refrigerator wherein the processor is configured to increase the RPM of the compressor based on the fact that the circuit breaker has cut off the current supply to the thermoelectric element.

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