Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body; a storage chamber formed inside the main body; a thermoelectric module comprising a module plate having an element mounting portion, a heat dissipation sink on a first side of the module plate, a cooling sink on a second side of the module plate, and a thermoelectric element disposed on the element mounting portion such that a first surface thereof is in contact with the heat dissipation sink and a second surface thereof is in contact with the cooling sink; and a coupling member penetrating through the module plate of the thermoelectric module so as to couple the thermoelectric module to the top surface of the main body.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator having a thermoelectric module 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 module, which generates heat and cooling through the Peltier effect of a thermoelectric element, can be used as a cooling device in a refrigerator. 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] A thermoelectric module may include a heat sink in contact with a heat generating portion, a cooling sink in contact with a heat absorbing portion, and a module plate supporting them.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure discloses a refrigerator having a thermoelectric module stably and rigidly coupled to an upper portion of a body.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure discloses a refrigerator having increased efficiency of cooling through a thermoelectric module.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure discloses a refrigerator in which assembly and separation of a thermoelectric module is easy.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] Aspects of the embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in some of the descriptions that follow, and some will be apparent from the description or may be understood by practicing the embodiments presented.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator includes a main body; a storage compartment formed inside the main body; a module plate having an element mounting portion; a heat sink on a first side of the module plate; a cooling sink on a second side of the module plate; and a thermoelectric module including a thermoelectric element arranged on the element mounting portion such that a first surface contacts the heat sink and a second surface contacts the cooling sink; and a fastening member penetrating the module plate of the thermoelectric module to couple the thermoelectric module to an upper surface of the main body.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the main body may include: an inner case; an outer case coupled to an outer side of the inner case; and a connecting frame between the inner case and the outer case.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the fastening member can be fastened to the connecting frame.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the fastening member can penetrate the trauma so as to be fastened to the connecting frame.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connecting frame may include an installation hole connecting the storage room and the exterior of the main body.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the thermoelectric module may be disposed inside the installation hole.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module plate may include a wing portion provided to be supported on the upper surface of the main body.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module plate may include a plate base configured to support the heat sink.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the wing portion may have a step with respect to the plate base, and the module plate may include a connecting portion connecting the plate base and the wing portion.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the main body includes an inner surface, an outer surface coupled to an outer side of the inner surface, and a connecting frame between the inner surface and the outer surface, wherein the connecting frame may include an intermediate support portion protruding to support an end of the plate base of the module plate.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the main body includes an inner case, an outer case coupled to an outer side of the inner case, and a connecting frame between the inner case and the outer case, wherein the connecting frame may include a sink end support portion protruding to support an end of the cooling sink.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermoelectric module may include a fastening member penetrating the heat sink, the module plate, and the cooling sink to couple the heat sink and the cooling sink to the module plate.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermoelectric module may include a sink insulation provided between the module plate and the cooling sink.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may further include a heat dissipation duct coupled to the thermoelectric module for dissipating heat to the heat sink.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat dissipation duct can be coupled to the thermoelectric module via the fastening member.

[0025] In another aspect, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator comprises: a main body; a storage chamber formed inside the main body; and a thermoelectric module including a module plate having an element mounting portion; a heat sink disposed on one side of the module plate; a cooling sink disposed on the other side of the module plate; and a thermoelectric element disposed on the element mounting portion of the module plate such that one surface contacts the heat sink and the other surface contacts the cooling sink; wherein an installation hole is formed in an upper wall of the main body, at least a portion of the thermoelectric module is disposed inside the installation hole, and the module plate of the thermoelectric module includes a wing portion provided to be supported on an upper surface of the main body.

[0026] The above module plate may include a plate base formed to support the heat sink.

[0027] The above wing portion is formed to have a step with respect to the plate base, and the module plate may include a connecting portion connecting the plate base and the wing portion.

[0028] The above thermoelectric module may include a fastening member fastened to the body through the module plate.

[0029] The main body includes an inner case; an outer case coupled to the outer side of the inner case; and a connecting frame provided between the inner case and the outer case; and the fastening member can be fastened to the connecting frame of the main body.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a thermoelectric module can be stably and firmly coupled to the upper part of the main body.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat sink and the cooling sink can be in close contact with the thermoelectric element, so that the efficiency of the cooling action through the thermoelectric element can be increased.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, assembly and disassembly of a thermoelectric module can be facilitated.

[0033] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0034] These and / or other aspects of this disclosure will be apparent and more readily understood from the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings listed below.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the doors of a refrigerator in an open state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a storage compartment of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I of Figure 2.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a top cover and a thermoelectric module assembly separated from the main body of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, an extension duct, and a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view illustrating a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, and a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an exploded view of a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view illustrating an exploded view of a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a module plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view illustrating a module plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an exploded view of an inner surface, an outer surface, and a connecting frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a connection frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an upper wall of a main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module are combined on the upper wall of the main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 18 is an enlarged view of the main part of Figure 17.

[0053] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module are combined on the upper wall of the main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module are combined on the upper wall of the main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0056] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0057] 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.

[0058] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0059] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0066] The "body" may include an inner case, an outer case disposed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0067] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, a plate, a panel, or a liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the main body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0068] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0069] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0070] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of items.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0081] A "cold air supply device" may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0096] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0097] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0098] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which doors of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are opened. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a storage compartment of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a top cover and a thermoelectric module assembly separated from a main body of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, an extension duct, and a thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view illustrating a heat dissipation duct cover, a heat dissipation duct body, and a thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, 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).

[0100] 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). 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). The insulating material (190) may be a urethane foam insulating material.

[0101] 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 (111), a lower surface, a left surface, a right surface, and a rear wall of the main body (100), respectively.

[0102] The upper wall (110), the lower wall (120), the left wall (130), the right wall (140), and the rear wall (150) may each be formed of an inner surface (170), an outer surface (180), and an insulating material (190). For example, the upper surface (111) of the upper wall (110) is formed by the outer surface (180), the lower surface of the upper wall (110) is formed by the inner surface (170), and an insulating material (190) may be provided on the inside of the upper wall (110).

[0103] The upper wall (110) may include an installation hole (115, FIG. 6). The storage room (11) and the exterior of the main body (100) may be connected through the installation hole (115). At least a portion of a thermoelectric module (500) to be described later may be placed inside the installation hole (115). The thermoelectric module (500) may be placed to penetrate the installation hole (115). The installation hole (115) may be formed at a position spaced apart from the center (112) in the left-right direction (X) and the front-back direction (Y) of the upper surface (111) of the main body (100). The installation hole (115) may be positioned rearward of the center (112). The installation hole (115) may be formed at a position that is offset from the center (112) in the left-right direction (X).

[0104] 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 storage compartments (11, 12, 13) into a first storage compartment (11) at the top and lower storage compartments (12, 13), and a vertical partition wall (161) that divides the lower storage compartments (12, 13) into a second storage compartment (12) and a third storage compartment (13). 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 room.

[0105] 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).

[0106] 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 a front portion of the upper surface (111) of the main body (100).

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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).

[0109] The doors (21, 22, 23, 24) may include a gasket (51). The gasket (51) may be provided on the back surface of the doors (21, 22, 23, 24). The gasket (51) may be in close contact with the front surface 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).

[0110] 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.

[0111] The refrigerator (1) may include a thermoelectric cooling device (400) arranged to cool the storage compartment (11).

[0112] 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).

[0113] A thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a thermoelectric module assembly (450). The thermoelectric module assembly (450) may include a thermoelectric module (500) and a heat dissipation duct (700). The thermoelectric module (500) and the heat dissipation duct (700) may be assembled together to form a thermoelectric module assembly (450).

[0114] The thermoelectric module assembly (450) can be coupled from top to bottom to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100). After the thermoelectric module assembly (450) is coupled from top to bottom to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100), a cooling duct (900), which will be described later, can be coupled from bottom to top to the lower surface of the upper wall (110) of the main body (100).

[0115] The thermoelectric module assembly (450) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) by at least one fastening member (S2, FIG. 6). The at least one fastening member (S2) can be a mechanical element for coupling, such as a screw, a bolt, or the like.

[0116] A thermoelectric module (500) may include a thermoelectric element (530), a heat sink, and a module plate (550). The heat sink may include a heat dissipation sink (520) and a cooling sink (570).

[0117] A 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, etc.

[0118] The thermoelectric element (530) may include 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). 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.

[0119] The thermoelectric element (530) may be provided on the upper wall (110) such that the heating portion (531) faces above the thermoelectric element (530) and the heat absorption portion (532) faces below the thermoelectric element (530). That is, the heating portion (531) faces the outside of the main body (100), and the heat absorption portion (532) may face the inside of the storage chamber (11) through the installation hole (115) of the upper wall (110). Accordingly, air that has been warmed through heat exchange with the heating portion (531) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (100), and air that has been cooled through heat exchange with the heat absorption portion (532) can be supplied to the storage chamber (11) to cool the storage chamber (11).

[0120] The heat sink (520) can contact the heat generating part (531) to absorb the heat of the heat generating part (531) and release the 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.

[0121] The heat sink (520) may be formed of a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the heat sink (520) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0122] A heat sink (520) may include a heat sink base (521) that contacts a heat generating portion (531) and a plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) that protrude from the heat sink base (521) to expand a heat transfer area. The heat sink base (521) is arranged horizontally, and the plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) may protrude upward from the heat sink base (521). The heat sink base (521) and the plurality of heat dissipation fins (525) may be formed integrally.

[0123] The cooling sink (570) can cool the storage room (11) by taking away heat from the storage room (11) and transferring it to the heat absorbing part (532). The cooling 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.

[0124] The cooling sink (570) may be formed of a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the cooling sink (570) may be formed of aluminum or copper.

[0125] The cooling sink (570) may include a cooling sink base (571) that contacts the heat absorbing portion (532) and a plurality of cooling fins (575) that protrude from the cooling sink base (571) to expand the heat transfer area. The cooling sink base (571) is arranged horizontally, and the plurality of cooling fins (525) may protrude downward from the cooling sink base (571). The cooling sink base (571) and the plurality of cooling fins (575) may be formed integrally.

[0126] The module plate (550) can support a heat sink (520) and a cooling sink (570). The heat sink (520) can be placed on one side of the module plate (550) and the cooling sink (570) can be placed on the other side of the module plate (570). That is, the heat sink (520) can be placed on the upper side of the module plate (550) and the cooling sink (570) can be placed on the lower side of the module plate (550).

[0127] The thermoelectric module (500) 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). The heat dissipation fan (600) may be arranged to blow air toward the heat dissipation sink (520). The heat dissipation fan (600) may be arranged to be positioned horizontally with respect to the heat dissipation sink (520).

[0128] 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 vertically. The heat dissipation fan (600) may be installed in a fan case (650). The fan case (650) and the module plate (550) may be formed integrally. However, unlike the present embodiment, the fan case (650) and the module plate (550) may be formed separately.

[0129] The heat dissipation duct (700) can guide air outside the main body (100) to exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (520), and guide air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to be discharged back to the outside of the main body (100).

[0130] A heat dissipation duct (700) may be coupled to the upper side of a thermoelectric module (500). A duct coupling portion (722) may be provided on the heat dissipation duct body (720), and a module coupling portion (651) may be provided on the thermoelectric module (500). The duct coupling portion (722) and the module coupling portion (651) may be coupled in a hook or fitting manner. In FIGS. 7 and 8, the module coupling portion (651) is illustrated as being provided on the fan case (650), but the module coupling portion (651) may also be provided on the module plate (550).

[0131] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include a heat dissipation duct body (720), a heat dissipation duct cover (710), and an extension duct (740).

[0132] A heat dissipation duct cover (710) may be coupled to the upper portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720) so as to cover the upper portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720). 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.

[0133] 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). The extension duct (740) may be formed separately from the heat dissipation duct body (720). However, alternatively, the extension duct (740) may be formed integrally with the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0134] The extension duct (740) can be placed under the top cover (300) and can be coupled to the lower part of the top cover (300). For this purpose, the extension duct (740) can be provided with an extension duct coupling portion (745) coupled to the top cover (300).

[0135] A heat dissipation duct body (720) may be provided on the upper side of the thermoelectric module (500) to cover the heat dissipation fan (600) and the heat dissipation sink (520). An outside air intake port (751) is formed on the upper surface of the front portion of the heat dissipation duct body (720), and the outside air intake port (751) may be covered by a top cover (300) to be described later.

[0136] The heat dissipation duct (700) may include outside air outlets (782, 794) that discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100). The outside air outlets (782, 794) may include a first outside air outlet (782) that discharges warm air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to the outside of the main body (100), and a second outside air outlet (794) that discharges the warm air toward the rotating bar (40).

[0137] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a first external air discharge port (782). The first external air discharge port (782) may include a connection port (784) provided to guide air inside the heat dissipation duct (700) to the inside of the top cover (300), and an external discharge port (783) provided to be separated from the connection port (784) to discharge air in the heat dissipation duct (700) to the outside of the top cover (300).

[0138] High-temperature air guided into the interior of the top cover (300) through the connection port (784) can heat the upper surface (111) of the main body (100) while passing through the interior of the top cover (300). Therefore, condensation can be prevented from occurring on the upper front surface of the main body (100).

[0139] A grill may be formed in the external exhaust port (783) to prevent foreign substances from entering the interior of the heat dissipation duct (700) through the external exhaust port (783).

[0140] The extension duct (740) may include a second external air outlet (794). High temperature air discharged toward the rotary bar (40) through the second external air outlet (794) may heat the rotary bar (40). Accordingly, condensation may be prevented from occurring on the rotary bar (40).

[0141] However, the heat dissipation duct (700) does not have to include both the first outdoor air discharge port (782) and the second outdoor air discharge port (794), and depending on the embodiment, the second outdoor air discharge port (794) may be omitted.

[0142] Additionally, the first external air discharge port (782) of the heat dissipation duct (700) does not have to include both a connection port (784) and an external discharge port (783), and depending on the embodiment, the connection port (784) may be omitted.

[0143] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a fan accommodation space (762) that accommodates a heat dissipation fan (600). The fan accommodation space (762) may be formed on the bottom surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720). The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a fan inlet (761) through which air is introduced into the fan accommodation space (762).

[0144] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a sink accommodation space (771) formed on the downstream side of the fan accommodation space (762) to accommodate a heat dissipation sink (520).

[0145] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include an intake space (752) formed on an upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to guide air sucked in through an outside air intake port (751) to a fan receiving space (762). The upper side of the intake space (752) may be formed to be open, and the open upper side of the intake space (752) may be covered by a heat dissipation duct cover (710). The intake space (752) may be formed on an upstream side of the fan receiving space (762). The intake space (752) may be connected to the fan receiving space (762) through a fan inlet port (761).

[0146] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a first exhaust space (781) formed on an upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to guide air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to a first outside air exhaust port (782). 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 a downstream side of the sink receiving space (771).

[0147] The heat dissipation duct body (720) may include a second exhaust space (791) formed on the upper surface of the heat dissipation duct body (720) to guide air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (520) to a second outside air outlet (794). 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).

[0148] The extension duct (740) may include an extension exhaust space (746) connected to a second exhaust space (791) of the heat dissipation duct body (720). Air in the second exhaust space (791) may be guided to a second outside air outlet (794) through the extension exhaust space (746).

[0149] The refrigerator (1) may include a top cover (300) coupled to a front portion of the upper surface (111) of the main body (100) to cover a plurality of hinges (31). After the thermoelectric module assembly (450) is coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100), the top cover (300) may be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100). When the top cover (300) is coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100), the top cover (300) may press downward a front end of the thermoelectric module assembly (450). Therefore, the thermoelectric module assembly (450) may be more stably coupled to the upper wall (110). The top cover (300) may be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) via at least one fastening member (S3).

[0150] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a dust filter (390) designed to filter foreign substances from air flowing into the outside air intake (751). The dust filter (390) may be slidably mounted on the top cover (300) in the front-back direction.

[0151] The top cover (300) may include a suction grill portion (350) formed on the upper surface (310) of the top cover. The suction grill portion (350) may be located above the dust filter (390). The suction grill portion (350) may primarily block foreign substances from being sucked into the interior of the heat dissipation duct (700) before the dust filter (390). The suction grill portion (350) may protect the dust filter (390) by preventing external force from being applied to the dust filter (390).

[0152] The top cover (300) may include forward protrusions (313) protruding forward from both ends of the top cover (300) to cover a plurality of hinges (31). A top cover outlet (340) through which air inside the top cover (300) is discharged to the outside of the top cover (300) may be formed in the forward protrusions (313).

[0153] Air from the heat dissipation duct (700) can be introduced into the interior of the top cover (300) through the connection port (784). The air introduced into the interior of the top cover (300) can heat the upper surface (111) of the main body (100) and be discharged to the exterior of the top cover (300) through the top cover outlet (340).

[0154] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling fan (800) that circulates air to ensure efficient heat exchange between the cooling sink (570) and the air inside the storage chamber (11).

[0155] A cooling fan (800) may be provided to blow air toward a cooling sink (570). The cooling fan (800) may be positioned horizontally with respect to the cooling 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).

[0156] 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).

[0157] The thermoelectric cooling device (400) may include a cooling duct (900) provided to guide air flowing by a cooling fan (800). The cooling duct (900) may guide air inside the storage room (11) to exchange heat with the cooling sink (570), and guide air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (570) to be discharged back into the storage room (11).

[0158] A cooling fan (800) may be positioned inside a cooling duct (900). A cooling sink (570) may be positioned inside the cooling duct (900) by penetrating the upper portion of the cooling duct (900). The cooling duct (900) may be coupled to the lower surface of the upper wall (110).

[0159] 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 cooling sink (570) into the interior of the storage room (11).

[0160] 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 (not shown), an expansion device (not shown), and an evaporator (3). The evaporator (3) may be provided at the rear of the storage compartment (12, 13).

[0161] 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 at the rear side of the second storage compartment (12) and the third storage compartment (13). The second evaporator duct (70) may be provided at the rear side of the first storage compartment (11).

[0162] 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 (not shown) formed on the front. 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) may be provided with a damper (61) that controls 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).

[0163] 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 on the front of the second evaporator duct (70).

[0164] Thus, 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).

[0165] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is an exploded bottom perspective view of a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a module plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of a module plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13, the thermoelectric module (500) will be described in more detail.

[0167] A thermoelectric module (500) may include a thermoelectric element (530) having a heat generating portion (531) and a heat absorbing portion (532), a heat dissipation sink (520) in contact with the heat generating portion (531) of the thermoelectric element (530), a cooling sink (570) in contact with the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530), and a module plate (550) on which the thermoelectric element (530), the heat dissipation sink (520), and the cooling sink (570) are installed.

[0168] The module plate (550) can serve as a skeleton of the thermoelectric module (500). The module plate (550) can be formed of a resin material with low thermal conductivity. The module plate (550) can support a heat sink (520) and a cooling sink (570). The module plate (550) can maintain a gap between the heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570).

[0169] The module plate (550) may include a plate base (552). The plate base (552) may be provided horizontally. The plate base (552) may support a heat sink (520). The plate base (552) may contact a bottom surface of the heat sink base (521) to support the heat sink (520). The plate base (552) may have a size and shape corresponding to the heat sink (520). The plate base (552) may have a rectangular shape.

[0170] The module plate (550) may include a wing portion (557) that is designed to be supported on the upper surface of the main body (100). Specifically, the wing portion (557) may be supported on the upper surface of the main body upper wall (110) around the installation hole (115).

[0171] The wing portion (557) can be formed horizontally. The wing portion (557) can be formed on the edge of the plate base (552). The wing portion (557) can be formed to have a step with respect to the plate base (552). That is, the wing portion (557) can be provided at a higher position than the plate base (552). Accordingly, when the wing portion (557) is supported on the upper surface of the main body around the installation hole (115), the plate base (552) can be placed inside the installation hole (115).

[0172] The module plate (550) may include a connecting portion (556) connecting the plate base (552) and the wing portion (557). The connecting portion (556) may be formed vertically. A heat sink (520) may be placed in the space formed by the plate base (552) and the connecting portion (556). The plate base (552), the wing portion (557), and the connecting portion (556) may be formed integrally.

[0173] The module plate (550) may include a module plate opening (551). The module plate (550) may include a component mounting portion (555) forming the module plate opening (551). The component mounting portion (555) may protrude from the lower surface of the plate base (552).

[0174] The thermoelectric element (530) may be placed inside the module plate opening (551). The vertical length of the module plate opening (551) (i.e., the vertical length of the element mounting portion (555)) may be greater than the vertical length of the thermoelectric element (530), and the thermoelectric element (530) may be placed closer to the upper end of the module plate opening (551).

[0175] The reason why the thermoelectric element (530) is positioned at the upper part inside the module plate opening (551) is that the heat generation amount of the thermoelectric element (530) is usually higher than the heat absorption amount, and the positioning of the thermoelectric element (530) at the upper part of the module plate opening (551) is advantageous for heat dissipation of the heat generating part (531), and the overall operating efficiency of the thermoelectric element (530) can be increased.

[0176] Since the thermoelectric element (530) is positioned at the upper end of the module plate opening (551), the cooling sink (570) may include a cooling conductive portion (574) protruding from the cooling sink base (571) for contact with the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530). The cooling conductive portion (574) may be formed integrally with the cooling sink base (571). The cooling conductive portion (574) may be inserted from below into the module plate opening (551) so as to contact the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530).

[0177] 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 thermoelectric element (530) from contacting the module plate (550). The element insulation material (540) may be provided to surround a side of the thermoelectric element (530). The element insulation material (540) may include an element insulation material body (543) and an element insulation material cover (542) coupled to an upper side of the element insulation material body (543). The element insulation material (540) may be formed of a resin material having low thermal conductivity. For example, the element insulation material (540) may be formed of a silicone material.

[0178] The module plate (550) may include an insulation fixing protrusion (555a) formed on the element mounting portion (555) to fix the element insulation (540). The insulation fixing protrusion (555a) may protrude from the inner surface of the element mounting portion (555) toward the module plate opening (551). The insulation fixing protrusion (555a) may be inserted into the side of the element insulation body (543) to fix the element insulation body (543).

[0179] The thermoelectric module (500) may include a sink insulation (580) provided between the module plate (550) and the cooling sink (570). The sink insulation (580) may prevent heat from being transferred between the heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570) through the module plate (550). The sink insulation (580) may include a sink insulation opening (581).

[0180] The sink insulation (580) can support the upper surface of the cooling sink (570). However, depending on the embodiment, the sink insulation (580) may be omitted, in which case the cooling sink (570) may be supported by contacting the lower surface of the module plate (550). Alternatively, the sink insulation (580) may be provided between the heat dissipation sink (520) and the module plate (550).

[0181] The heat sink (520) may include a heat sink base (521) and a plurality of heat sink fins (525) protruding from the heat sink base (521). The bottom surface of the heat sink base (521) may be supported on a module plate (550).

[0182] The heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570) can be coupled to the module plate (550) via a fastening member (S1). The fastening member (S1) can be a mechanical element for coupling, such as a screw or bolt.

[0183] A heat sink through hole (523) may be formed in the heat sink (520) so that a fastening member (S1) may pass through it. A plate through hole (553) may be formed in the module plate (550) so that a fastening member (S1) may pass through it. The plate through hole (553) may be formed adjacent to the element mounting portion (555). The plate through hole (553) may be formed in the plate base (552).

[0184] A cooling sink penetration hole (573) may be formed in the cooling sink (570) so that the fastening member (S1) may pass through it.

[0185] The thermoelectric module (500) may include a washer member (510) supported between the head portion of the fastening member (S1) and the heat sink (520). The washer member (510) is provided between the head portion of the fastening member (S1) and the heat sink (520) to prevent the fastening member (S1) and the heat sink (520) from contacting each other and to reduce heat of the heat sink (520) from being transferred through the fastening member (S1). A loosening prevention member (502) may be provided between the head portion of the fastening member (S1) and the washer member (510) to prevent loosening of the fastening member (S1).

[0186] The thermoelectric module (500) may include a nut member (590) to which an end opposite the head of the fastening member (S1) is fastened. The nut member (590) may be supported on a cooling sink (570). The nut member (590) may be provided between the end opposite the head of the fastening member (S1) and the cooling sink (570) to prevent the fastening member (S1) and the cooling sink (570) from contacting each other and reduce the transfer of cold air from the cooling sink (570) through the fastening member (S1).

[0187] When the heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570) are coupled to the module plate (550) via the fastening member (S1), the heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570) can be coupled to the module plate (550) via the fastening member (S1) while the element insulation (540) and the thermoelectric element (530) are placed in the opening (551) of the module plate (550). Accordingly, the heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570) can be fixed to the module plate (550) while the thermoelectric element (530) is also fixed at the same time.

[0188] The heat generating part (531) of the thermoelectric element (530) is supported and fixed by a heat sink (520), the heat absorbing part (532) of the thermoelectric element (530) is supported and fixed by a cooling sink (570), and the side connecting the heat generating part (531) and the heat absorbing part (532) of the thermoelectric element (530) can be supported and fixed by the inner surface of the element insulation material (540).

[0189] In this way, the heat sink (520) and the cooling sink (570) can be easily assembled to the module plate (550) by the fastening member (S1). In addition, the heat sink (520) and the heat generating portion (531) of the thermoelectric element (530) can be in close contact, and the cooling sink (570) and the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530) can be in close contact, so that heat exchange between the heat sink (520) and the heat dissipating portion (531) of the thermoelectric element (530) and heat exchange between the cooling sink (570) and the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530) can be efficiently performed, thereby increasing the efficiency of the thermoelectric module (500).

[0190]

[0191] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the inner casing, the outer casing, and the connecting frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a connecting frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the upper wall of the main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module are coupled to the upper wall of the main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 18 is an enlarged view illustrating a main portion of FIG. 17.

[0192] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 18, the inner case (170) forming the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) may include an inner case opening (171). The outer case (180) forming the upper wall (100) of the main body (100) may include an outer case opening (181). The inner case opening (171) may be formed larger than the outer case opening (181). However, unlike the present embodiment, the inner case opening (171) and the outer case 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).

[0193] The main body (100) may include a connecting frame (200) provided between the inner case (170) and the outer case (180) to connect the inner opening (171) and the outer opening (181). The connecting frame (200) may include the installation hole (115) described above. That is, the installation hole (115) of the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) may be formed by the connecting frame (200).

[0194] One side of the connecting frame (200) may be supported on the inner side (side facing the insulation material) of the inner case (170), and the other side of the connecting frame (200) may be supported on the inner side (side facing the insulation material) of the outer case (180).

[0195] 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). By filling and foaming the insulating space with foam insulation, the inner case (170), the outer case (180), and the connecting frame (200) can be joined to each other. 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.

[0196] 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).

[0197] 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).

[0198] The frame base (210) may include a sink end support (220) formed around the frame base opening (211). The sink end support (220) may protrude inwardly toward the frame base opening (211) to support the end (571a) of the cooling sink (570).

[0199] 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 an installation opening (115).

[0200] The frame body (270) may include a protruding intermediate support (275) to support an end of the plate base (552) of the module plate (550). The intermediate support (275) may protrude from the inner surface of the frame body (270) toward the frame body opening (271).

[0201] 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 corresponding coupling hole (280) may be formed in the frame body (270). The frame coupling member (201) may be a coupling mechanical element such as a screw, pin, bolt, or rivet.

[0202] However, according to one embodiment, the frame base (210) and the frame body (270) may be formed integrally.

[0203] The thermoelectric module (500) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) via at least one fastening member (S2, FIG. 6, FIG. 18). That is, at least one fastening member (S2) can be coupled to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) by penetrating the module plate (550) of the thermoelectric module (500) so as to couple the thermoelectric module (500) to the upper surface of the main body (100).

[0204] Specifically, at least one fastening member (S2) can be fastened to the thermoelectric module (500) and the connecting frame (200) by penetrating the outer case (180). However, according to an embodiment, the connecting frame (200) can be provided to be exposed to the outside of the outer case (180), and in this case, the fastening member (S2) can be fastened to the connecting frame (200) without penetrating the outer case (180).

[0205] Although four fastening members (S2) are illustrated in the drawing, there is no limitation on the number of fastening members (S2). The fastening member (S2, FIGS. 6 and 18) that connects the thermoelectric module (500) to the main body (100) can be distinguished from the fastening member (S1, FIGS. 9, 10, 13 and 17) for assembling the thermoelectric module (500) itself described above.

[0206] A plate penetration hole (554) through which a fastening member (S2) passes may be formed in the module plate (550). The plate penetration hole (554) may be formed in a wing portion (557) of the module plate (550). The plate penetration hole (554) through which the fastening member (S2) passes may be distinct from the aforementioned plate penetration hole (553) through which the fastening member (S1) passes, and may be spaced apart from each other.

[0207] A trauma penetration hole (182) through which a fastening member (S2) passes may be formed in the trauma (180). A fastening hole (290) through which a fastening member (S2) is fastened may be formed in the frame body (270) of the connecting frame (200). Screw threads may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the fastening hole (290) so that the fastening member (S2) may be fastened with a screw.

[0208] The fastening member (S2) can be fastened to the fastening hole (290) of the connecting frame (200) by passing through the plate through hole (554) of the module plate (550) and the outer through hole (182) of the outer body (180).

[0209] As described above, the thermoelectric module (500) can be firmly and stably fixed to the upper wall (110) by the fastening member (S2). In addition, the thermoelectric module (500) can be easily installed by fastening the fastening member (S2) while the wing part (557) of the thermoelectric module (500) is placed on the upper surface of the main body around the installation hole (115), and the thermoelectric module (500) can be easily separated by releasing the fastening member (S2).

[0210] When the thermoelectric module (500) is mounted on the upper wall (110) of the main body (100), the end (571a) of the cooling sink base (571) can be supported by the sink end support (220) of the connecting frame (200). That is, the cooling sink (570) located at the bottom of the thermoelectric module (500) can be supported by the connecting frame (200).

[0211] The heat sink (520), the thermoelectric element (530), and the cooling sink (570) are stacked vertically, and while a downward force is applied to the heat sink (520), the thermoelectric element (530), and the cooling sink (570) by gravity, the cooling sink (571) located at the bottom is supported by the connecting frame (200), so that as a result, the heat sink (520), the thermoelectric element (530), and the cooling sink (570) can be in close contact with each other.

[0212] That is, the heat sink (520) and the heat generating portion (531) of the thermoelectric element (530) can be in close contact with each other, and the cooling sink (570) and the heat absorbing portion (532) of the thermoelectric element (530) can be in close contact with each other. Accordingly, heat exchange between the heat sink (520) and the heat generating portion (531) can be efficiently performed, and heat exchange between the cooling sink (570) and the heat absorbing portion (532) can be efficiently performed, so that cooling of the storage room (11) through the thermoelectric module (500) can be efficiently performed.

[0213] A sealing member (not shown) may be provided between the module plate (550) and the outer body (180).

[0214] In addition, the heat dissipation duct (700) can also be connected to the main body (100) via the fastening member (S2). That is, the fastening member (S2) can be connected to the connecting frame (200) of the main body (100) by passing through the heat dissipation duct (700) and the module plate (550) in sequence. In other words, the fastening member (S2) can be connected to the main body (100) by passing through the thermoelectric module assembly (450).

[0215] A duct cover penetration hole (719, Fig. 8) may be formed in the heat dissipation duct cover (710), and a duct body penetration hole (729, Fig. 8) may be formed in the heat dissipation duct body (720). The fastening member (S2) may be fastened to the connecting frame (200) by penetrating the duct cover penetration hole (719), the duct body penetration hole (729), and the plate penetration hole (554).

[0216] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module are coupled to an upper wall of a main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a heat dissipation duct and a thermoelectric module are coupled to an upper wall of a main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0217] As illustrated in FIG. 19, according to one embodiment, the fastening member (S2) may be configured to penetrate the heat sink (520) of the thermoelectric module (500) instead of penetrating the module plate (550) of the thermoelectric module (500) to couple the thermoelectric module (500) to the body (100).

[0218] The heat sink (520) includes a heat sink extension (524) extending horizontally from the heat sink base (521), and an extension through-hole (524a) through which a fastening member (S2) passes may be formed in the heat sink extension (524). The wing portion of the module plate (550) may be omitted, and the heat sink extension (524) may be supported on the upper surface of the main body (100) around the installation hole (115) instead of the wing portion.

[0219] The thermoelectric module (500) can be coupled to the main body (100) by the fastening member (S2) penetrating the heat sink (520) of the thermoelectric module (500) and fastening it to the connecting frame (200) of the main body (100).

[0220] As illustrated in FIG. 20, according to one embodiment, the thermoelectric module (500) may not be directly coupled to the main body (100). Instead, the thermoelectric module (500) may be indirectly coupled to the main body (100) in such a manner that the heat dissipation duct (700) is coupled to the main body (100) while the thermoelectric module (500) is coupled to the heat dissipation duct (700). That is, the thermoelectric module (500) may be coupled to the main body (100) in such a manner that it hangs from the heat dissipation duct (700).

[0221] The thermoelectric module (500) can be coupled to the heat dissipation duct (700) via a fastening member (S4). For example, the fastening member (S4) can be coupled to the module plate (550) of the thermoelectric module (500) by penetrating the heat dissipation duct cover (710) and the heat dissipation duct body (720).

[0222] The heat dissipation duct (700) can be connected to the main body (100) via a separate fastening member (S5). For example, the fastening member (S5) can be connected to the connecting frame (200) of the main body (100) by penetrating the heat dissipation dirt body (720).

[0223]

[0224] While the technical concept of the present invention has been described above through specific examples, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these examples. Various embodiments that can be modified or altered by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention as defined in the claims are also within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Main body; A storage room formed inside the above main body; A thermoelectric module comprising a module plate having an element mounting portion, a heat sink on a first side of the module plate, a cooling sink on a second side of the module plate, and a thermoelectric element arranged on the element mounting portion such that a first side contacts the heat sink and a second side contacts the cooling sink; and A refrigerator comprising a fastening member penetrating the module plate of the thermoelectric module to fasten the thermoelectric module to the upper surface of the main body.

2. In paragraph 1, The above body, Injury; trauma associated with the outer side of the above-mentioned inner surface; and A refrigerator comprising a connecting frame between the inner surface and the outer surface.

3. In paragraph 2, The above fastening member is a refrigerator fastened to the above connecting frame.

4. In paragraph 3, A refrigerator in which the above fastening member penetrates the above outer wall so as to be fastened to the above connecting frame.

5. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator wherein the above connecting frame includes an installation hole connecting the storage room and the exterior of the main body.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the thermoelectric module is disposed inside the installation cavity.

7. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the above module plate includes a wing portion provided to be supported on the upper surface of the main body.

8. In paragraph 7, A refrigerator wherein the above module plate includes a plate base provided to support the above heat sink.

9. In paragraph 8, The above wing portion has a step with respect to the plate base, A refrigerator wherein the above module plate includes a connecting portion connecting the plate base and the wing portion.

10. In paragraph 8, The above body includes an inner casing, an outer casing connected to the outer side of the inner casing, and a connecting frame between the inner casing and the outer casing. A refrigerator wherein the above connecting frame includes a protruding intermediate support portion to support an end of the plate base of the above module plate.

11. In paragraph 1, The above body includes an inner casing, an outer casing connected to the outer side of the inner casing, and a connecting frame between the inner casing and the outer casing. A refrigerator wherein the above connecting frame includes a sink end support portion protruding to support an end of the cooling sink.

12. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the thermoelectric module comprises a fastening member penetrating the heat sink, the module plate and the cooling sink to couple the heat sink and the cooling sink to the module plate.

13. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the thermoelectric module includes a sink insulation provided between the module plate and the cooling sink.

14. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator further comprising a heat dissipation duct coupled to the thermoelectric module for dissipating heat from the heat sink.

15. In paragraph 14, A refrigerator wherein the above heat dissipation duct is connected to the thermoelectric module through the above fastening member.

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