Refrigerator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having a storage space formed therein; a door for opening and closing the open front surface of the storage space; and a panel assembly which forms a portion of the door and through which a space behind the door is visible. The panel assembly comprises: a front part forming the front surface of the door and having a front vacuum insulation layer formed between a plurality of transparent front panels arranged front-to-back; a rear part disposed behind and spaced apart from the front part and forming the rear surface of the door, and having a rear vacuum insulation layer formed between a plurality of transparent rear panels disposed front-to-back; and a spacer connecting the rear surface of the front part and the front surface of the rear part, thereby forming a gas insulation layer between the front part and the rear part, wherein the spacer is disposed at a position spaced inward from the edges of the front part and the rear part toward the center of the front part.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigerator.

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperatures within an internal storage space enclosed by a door. To achieve this, refrigerators utilize the cold air generated through heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle to cool the interior of the storage space, thereby maintaining the stored food in optimal condition.

[0003] Recent refrigerators are becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the changing eating habits and the trend toward higher quality products. Refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices are being released to ensure user convenience and efficient use of internal space.

[0004] For example, refrigerators are being released with a transparent panel assembly formed on the door, allowing the storage space behind the door to be viewed even when the door is closed. In these refrigerators, an insulating layer is provided on the panel assembly to maintain its insulating properties.

[0005] However, although the heat passing through the panel assembly can be effectively blocked by the above-mentioned insulation layer, there is a problem in that the insulation performance of the door is lowered and power consumption increases due to heat being transmitted along the perimeter of the panel assembly through the spacer constituting the panel assembly.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that prevents heat loss through a door that allows internal viewing.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that improves power consumption by increasing the path through which heat moves along a panel assembly.

[0008] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator in which the placement of the heater is easy.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerator comprises: a cabinet having a storage space formed therein; a door for opening and closing an open front surface of the storage space; and a panel assembly forming a portion of the door and allowing a rear space to be seen through, wherein the panel assembly comprises: a front part forming a front surface of the door and having a front vacuum insulation layer formed between a plurality of transparent front panels arranged front and rear; a rear part arranged rearwardly and spaced apart from the front part to form a rear surface of the door and having a rear vacuum insulation layer formed between a plurality of transparent rear panels arranged front and rear; and a spacer connecting a rear surface of the front part and a front surface of the rear part to form a gas insulation layer between the front part and the rear part; wherein the spacer may be arranged at a position spaced inwardly from an edge of the front part and the rear part toward the center of the front part.

[0010] Both the end of the front part and the end of the rear part can protrude further outward than the spacer.

[0011] The end of the above rear part may protrude further outward than the end of the above front part.

[0012] The front part includes a front connecting member that connects between the front panels arranged front and rear to form the front vacuum insulation layer; the rear part includes a rear connecting member that connects between the rear panels arranged front and rear to form the rear vacuum insulation layer; and the front connecting member and the rear connecting member can be positioned further outward than the spacer.

[0013] The above front connecting member may be positioned further outward than the above rear connecting member.

[0014] The above front connecting member and rear connecting member can be formed of a frit material.

[0015] The rear of the front part and the rear of the rear part may each be provided with an exhaust hole and a hole cover that shields the exhaust hole.

[0016] The front part includes a first front panel forming the front of the door; a second front panel positioned at the rear of the first front panel; and a front connecting member connecting between the first front panel and the second front panel and forming the front vacuum insulation layer; wherein the first front panel has a transparent viewing portion and a bezel portion formed along the periphery of the viewing portion, and the connecting member can be formed along the bezel portion.

[0017] The thickness of the second front panel may be formed to be thicker than the thickness of the first front panel.

[0018] The first front panel may be formed of tempered glass, and the second front panel may be formed of low-E glass.

[0019] An end portion of the first front panel protrudes further than an end portion of the second front panel to form a step portion around the front part, and a heater for heating the first front panel can be accommodated along the step portion.

[0020] The door further includes a decorative member that forms the outer surface of the door and is in contact with the perimeter of the front part; and a heater that heats the second front panel, wherein the first front panel and the second front panel are formed to have the same size, and the decorative member may be formed with a support member that supports the rear surface of the second front panel, and a heater groove that is sunken into the support member and accommodates the heater.

[0021] The heater may be positioned corresponding to the front connecting member or further outward than the front connecting member.

[0022] The door includes a decorative member forming an outer surface of the door; a door liner coupled with the decorative member and forming a rear surface of the door; and an insulating member filled in a space formed by coupling the panel assembly, the decorative member, and the door liner, wherein the door liner may be formed with a liner opening shielded by the rear part and a gasket groove sunken in such a way that a gasket is mounted thereon.

[0023] The above rear part can be spaced apart from the gasket groove.

[0024] The end of the above rear part can be positioned between the gasket groove and the rear opening.

[0025] The rear part includes a first rear panel coupled to the spacer; a second rear panel positioned at the rear of the first rear panel and forming the rear of the door; and a rear connecting member connecting between the first rear panel and the second rear panel and forming the rear vacuum insulation layer; wherein the rear connecting member may be positioned further outward than the spacer.

[0026] The above first rear panel and the second rear panel can be formed to have the same size.

[0027] The first rear panel is formed larger than the second rear panel, and an end of the first rear panel can protrude further outward than the second rear panel.

[0028] The ends of the first rear panel and the second rear panel can each be in contact with the gasket mounting portion.

[0029] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following effects.

[0030] The present invention can reduce power consumption by forming a panel assembly including a front part having a front vacuum insulation layer formed thereon, a rear part having a rear vacuum insulation layer formed thereon, and a gas insulation layer formed therebetween, thereby blocking cold air from the space behind the door from being transmitted forward.

[0031] In addition, the front part and the rear part have the advantage of preventing heat loss by making the heat transfer path moving from the rear of the panel assembly longer by protruding further outward than the spacer, and preventing condensation on the front of the panel assembly.

[0032] In addition, the lengths of the plurality of panels constituting the front part and the rear part can be made different to make the heat transfer path longer, thereby further preventing heat loss.

[0033] In addition, due to the arrangement of the vacuum insulation layer, the path of heat moving toward the front of the front part is arranged toward the outside of the panel assembly, thereby preventing condensation from occurring on the transparent portion of the panel assembly and minimizing the possibility of condensation occurring due to the extended heat transfer path.

[0034] In addition, by lengthening the heat transfer path, the heat generation amount of the heater placed in the panel assembly can be reduced, and thus, power consumption can be expected to be reduced.

[0035] In addition, there is an advantage in that the heater is placed in a stepped portion utilizing the length difference of the panel, thereby facilitating the placement of the heater. In addition, when the panel assembly is mounted, a heater placement space is provided between the upper frame, the lower frame, the side frame, and the panel assembly, thereby enabling the stable and fixed placement of the heater without the need for a separate additional configuration.

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the door of the refrigerator.

[0038] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the door.

[0039] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the door with the panel assembly of the door separated.

[0040] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the joint structure of the front part, spacer, and rear part of the panel assembly.

[0041] Figure 6 is a fully exploded perspective view of the above panel assembly.

[0042] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the front part.

[0043] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the top of the door.

[0044] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the lower part of the door.

[0045] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of one side of the door.

[0046] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of Figure 2.

[0047] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 2.

[0048] Fig. 13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a door according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the above door.

[0050] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a door according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a door according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a door according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 18 is a drawing of other refrigerators to which embodiments of the present invention are applied.

[0054] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments that present the spirit of the present invention, and other regressive inventions or embodiments within the scope of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, modifying, or deleting other components.

[0055] In addition, the following embodiments illustrate a refrigerator in which the refrigerating chamber is located above the freezer chamber for convenience of explanation and understanding, but the present invention is not limited thereto. It should be noted in advance that the present invention is applicable to all types of refrigerators equipped with a door including a panel assembly. Furthermore, it should be noted in advance that the present invention is applicable not only to refrigerators but also to other electronic products including a door including a panel assembly.

[0056] Additionally, components included in multiple embodiments of the present invention may be indicated using the same drawing reference numerals to avoid duplication of description when they are identical. Furthermore, components of different embodiments may be combined or substituted with each other.

[0057] Before explaining, let's define the direction. In the embodiment of the present invention, the direction in which the front of the door as shown in FIG. 1 faces is defined as forward, the direction toward the cabinet based on the front of the door is defined as rear, the direction toward the floor surface on which the refrigerator is installed is defined as downward, and the direction away from the floor surface is defined as upward.

[0058] In addition, the direction toward the center of the panel assembly can be defined as the inside, and the direction away from the center of the panel assembly can be defined as the outside. In addition, when discussing an undefined direction, the direction can be redefined and explained based on each drawing.

[0059] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] As illustrated, a refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet (10) in which a storage space is formed and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space. For example, the storage space may be partitioned vertically, with a refrigerator compartment (11) provided at the top and a freezer compartment (12) provided at the bottom.

[0061] The above refrigerator compartment (11) is configured as a single space and can be opened and closed by a pair of refrigerator compartment doors (21). The above freezer compartment (12) can be provided at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment (11). In addition, the freezer compartment (12) can be divided into left and right sides to form independent storage spaces, and can be controlled at different temperatures. In addition, the freezer compartment (12) can be opened and closed by a pair of freezer compartment (12) doors (20). Meanwhile, the refrigerator compartment (11) can be referred to as an upper storage space, and the freezer compartment (12) can be referred to as a lower storage space.

[0062] The above door (20) may include a refrigerator door (21) for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment (11), and a freezer door (22) for opening and closing the freezer compartment (12). The refrigerator door (21) and the freezer door (22) may be provided in pairs on each of the left and right sides. The refrigerator door (21) may be referred to as an upper door, and the freezer door (22) may be referred to as a lower door.

[0063] In addition, a hinge (13) may be connected to the top and bottom of the door (20). The door (20) is provided with a hinge (13) at the top and bottom, and may be rotatably connected to the cabinet (10). Some of the doors among all doors (20) may be connected by the hinge (13) and rotated, and other doors may be configured to slide in and out.

[0064] In addition, at least one of the doors (20) may be configured as a double door structure consisting of a main door (30) and a sub door (40). For example, the refrigerator door (21) may be configured as a double door structure.

[0065] The main door (30) is pivotally connected to the cabinet (10) by a hinge (13). The main door (30) can open and close the refrigerator compartment (11) by rotation. A storage space with an open front can be formed in the main door (30), and can be opened and closed by the sub-door (40). The sub-door (40) can be rotatably mounted to the main door (30).

[0066] The above sub-door (40) may include a panel assembly (50). The panel assembly (50) may be configured to allow the space behind the sub-door (40) to be seen through. The panel assembly (50) is composed of a plurality of transparent panels, and allows the space behind the sub-door (40) to be seen through when the sub-door (40) is closed.

[0067] The panel assembly (50) may form the front of the door (20). In addition, the panel assembly (50) has an opaque bezel (511b) formed at the edge and a transparent portion (511a) formed at the center, so that the space behind the sub-door (40) may be viewed through the transparent portion (511a). The space viewed through the panel assembly (50) may be a storage space formed in the main door (30) or a storage space formed in the cabinet (10).

[0068] Meanwhile, the double door structure as described above can be applied to the refrigerator door (21) among the refrigerator door (21) and the freezer door (22). In addition, both of the refrigerator doors (21) may be configured as double door structures. In addition, the panel assembly (50) can be provided on the refrigerator doors (21) on both sides or on one of the refrigerator doors (21) on both sides. In addition, the panel assembly (50) can be applied not only to the double door but also to the refrigerator door (20) of the single structure.

[0069] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the door of the refrigerator.

[0070] The above door (20) may include the main door (30) and the sub-door (40). In addition, an opening (310) may be formed in the main door (30). The opening (310) may penetrate the main door (30) in the front-back direction and may be connected to the refrigerator compartment (11). Therefore, even when the main door (30) is closed, the refrigerator compartment (11) may be accessed through the opening (310). In addition, a door storage member (311) may be provided on the inside of the opening (310).

[0071] The above main door (30) forms the opening (310), and may include a door frame (31) forming the front and periphery of the main door (30), a main door liner (33) at the rear of the door frame (31), and a door cap (32) forming the upper and lower surfaces of the main door (30). In addition, the interior of the main door (30) may be filled with an insulating material (300).

[0072] The above sub-door (40) can be connected to the main door (30) by a hinge (14). In addition, the sub-door (40) can shield the main door (30) from the front by rotation. The sub-door (40) can open and close the opening (310).

[0073] The above panel assembly (50) may be provided on at least one of the doors (20). Hereinafter, a sub-door (40) equipped with the panel assembly (50) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Since the panel assembly (50) can be applied to door shapes other than the sub-door (40), the sub-door (40) may be referred to as a door (20).

[0074] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the door. Figure 4 is an exploded view of the door with the panel assembly separated.

[0075] As illustrated, the door (20) may include a panel assembly (50) and a door liner (41). The panel assembly (50) may form the entire front surface of the door (20). In addition, the panel assembly (50) may shield a liner opening (411) formed in the door liner (41), thereby forming a portion of the rear surface of the door (20).

[0076] For example, the panel assembly (50) may include a front part (51) forming the front, a rear part (53) forming the rear, and a spacer (52) connecting the front part (51) and the rear part (53).

[0077] The above door liner (41) forms the rear surface of the door (20), and a liner opening (411) may be formed in the center. In addition, a gasket mounting portion (412) may be formed recessed along the perimeter of the liner opening (411), and a gasket (47) may be mounted on the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0078] In addition, a light mounting portion (412) may be formed on the door liner (41), and a lighting device (45) may be mounted on the light mounting portion (412). The light mounting portion (412) may be formed on the upper end of the liner opening (411) and may protrude rearward. The lighting device (45) may irradiate light downward from the light mounting portion (412), and may illuminate the rear space of the panel assembly (50) so that the rear space of the panel assembly (50) may be visible from the outside.

[0079] That is, when the lighting device (45) is turned on (ON), the rear space becomes bright and can be seen through the transparent portion (511a) of the panel assembly (50). In addition, when the lighting device (45) is turned off (OFF), the rear space becomes invisible, and the transparent portion (511a) can be seen as an opaque black color like the bezel (511b).

[0080] The lighting device (45) may include a light emitting member (452), a light case (451), and a light cover (453). The light emitting member (452) may include a substrate on which a plurality of LEDs are mounted. The light case (451) may be mounted on the door liner (41) to form a space for accommodating the light emitting member (452). In addition, the light case (451) may be arranged to be in contact with the rear surface of the panel assembly (50). In addition, the light cover (453) shields the light case (451) and the lighting opening (212), and allows light irradiated from the light emitting member (452) to be transmitted.

[0081] The lighting device (45) may be provided on both sides of the liner opening (411) rather than on the top of the liner opening (411). In addition, the lighting device (45) may be provided on one side of the storage space of the cabinet (10) rather than on the door (20).

[0082] In addition, the door (20) may include an upper frame (42) forming an upper surface, a lower frame (43) forming a lower surface, and a side frame (44) forming left and right sides. The upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44) may form a perimeter of the door (20) when combined. In addition, the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44) may support the perimeter of the panel assembly (50).

[0083] The upper frame (42), lower frame (43), and side frame (44) can connect the panel assembly (50) and the door liner (41) to form a space in which an insulating material (48) can be filled in the interior space of the door (20).

[0084] The above insulation (48) can be formed by injecting a foaming liquid and can fill the space between the panel assembly (50) and the outer surface of the door (20). In addition, the insulation (48) can be arranged to surround the panel assembly (50).

[0085] Meanwhile, a heater (46) may be provided along the perimeter of the panel assembly (50). The heater (46) may heat the panel assembly (50) to prevent condensation on the front surface of the panel assembly (50). The heater (46) may be arranged along the rear perimeter of the front part (51) and may be arranged along the area of ​​the bezel (511b).

[0086] The heater (46) may include a lower part (461), a side part (462), and an upper part (463). The lower part (461) may be arranged along the lower frame (43). In addition, a side part (462) may extend upward at both ends of the lower part (461), and the side part (462) may extend along the side frame (44). In addition, an upper part (463) may be formed at an upper end of the side part (462), and the upper part (463) may extend along the upper frame (42).

[0087] In addition, the upper part (463) may be provided with a heater connector (464) connected to a wire (465) that supplies power to the heater (46). The heater connector (464) may be exposed to the outside by passing through a frame recessed portion (420) sunken into the upper surface of the upper frame (42). Therefore, the heater connector (464) and the wire (465) may be connected to the outside of the door (20), i.e., through the upper frame (42).

[0088] When the panel assembly (50) is mounted with the heater (46) mounted on the upper frame (42), lower frame (43), and side frame (44), the heater (46) can come into contact with the back surface of the front part (51) of the panel assembly (50). Therefore, when the heater (46) is driven, the peripheral area of ​​the transparent portion (511a) can be heated, and condensation can be prevented from occurring on the front surface of the panel assembly (50).

[0089] Below, the panel assembly (50) will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0090] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the joint structure of the front part of the panel assembly, the spacer, and the rear part. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the entire panel assembly. Fig. 7 is an exploded view of the front part.

[0091] As illustrated, the panel assembly (50) may include a front part (51) at the front, a rear part (53) at the rear, and a spacer (52) connecting the front part (51) and the rear part (53).

[0092] The front part (51) may be formed in a rectangular plate shape and may form the front surface of the door (20) and the front surface of the panel assembly (50). For example, the front part (51) may form the entire front surface of the door (20). In addition, the front part (51) may form a front vacuum insulation layer (510) therein. Therefore, the front part (51) may also be referred to as a front vacuum panel.

[0093] In detail, the front part (51) includes a first front panel (511) at the front and a second front panel (512) at the rear, and a front vacuum insulation layer (510) can be formed between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512).

[0094] For example, the first front panel (511) may be formed of a tempered glass material. The first front panel (511) may form the entire front surface of the door (20).

[0095] The transparent portion (511a) may be formed in the center of the first front panel (511), and a bezel (511b) may be formed around the transparent portion (511a). For example, the bezel (511b) may be formed by printing on the back surface of the first front panel (511). In addition, the bezel (511b) may be formed by super-printing with a ceramic material so that it can be easily attached to the first front panel (511) made of a glass material.

[0096] The size of the above-mentioned transparent portion (511a) may be formed smaller than the sizes of the spacer (52) and the rear part (53). In addition, the size of the above-mentioned transparent portion (511a) may be formed smaller than the liner opening (411). Accordingly, exposure of the rear part (53), the spacer (52), and the liner opening (411) through the above-mentioned transparent portion (511a) can be prevented.

[0097] The second front panel (512) may be provided at the rear of the first front panel (511). The second front panel (512) may be formed of a different type of glass material from the first front panel (511). For example, the second front panel (512) may be formed of low-e glass. Of course, the second front panel (512) may also be formed of clear glass.

[0098] In addition, the second front panel (512) may be formed to have a size somewhat smaller than that of the first front panel (511). The second front panel (512) may be formed to be smaller than that of the first front panel (511) and larger than that of the transparent portion (511a). That is, the outer end of the second front panel (512) may be positioned outside of the transparent portion (511a). In addition, the second front panel (512) may be formed to have a size larger than that of the spacer (52) and the rear part (53).

[0099] In a state where the second front panel (512) is bonded to the first front panel (511), a step portion (515) may be formed around the periphery of the second front panel (512). In addition, the heater (46) may be arranged along the step portion (515). Accordingly, the heater (46) may be accommodated within the step space formed by the second front panel (512) and the first front panel (511). The heater (46) is mounted on the outer end of the second front panel (512) and may come into contact with the rear surface of the first front panel (511) to heat the rear surface of the first front panel (511).

[0100] A front connecting member (514) may be provided between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512). The front of the front connecting member (514) may be in contact with the back surface of the front panel (31), and the rear surface of the front connecting member (514) may be in contact with the front surface of the second front panel (512). In addition, the front connecting member (514) may be arranged along the bezel (511b).

[0101] The thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511) and the thickness (t2) of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be the same. By making the thickness (t2) of the second front panel (512) the same as the thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511), no difference in thermal deformation occurs when the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) are joined by plastic processing, thereby facilitating attachment of the front connecting member (514) and ensuring that the front vacuum insulation layer (510) is kept airtight. For example, the thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511) may be formed to be 4 mm, the thickness (t3) of the bezel (511b) may be formed to be 0.3 mm, and the thickness (t2) of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be 4 mm. Accordingly, the overall thickness of the front part (51) can be formed to be 8.3 mm. Of course, the overall thickness of the front part (51) may vary depending on the thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511). In addition, the rear part (53) can be formed to have the same thickness as the front part (51).

[0102] A bezel (511b) is formed on the rear surface of the first front panel (511), and when the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) are plastically processed to be joined together, warping of the first front panel (511) may occur due to a difference in thickness caused by the bezel (511b). That is, the thicknesses are different between the portion where the bezel (511b) is formed and the portion where the bezel (511b) is not formed, and when the first front panel (511) is plastically processed, warping may occur due to a difference in the amount of thermal deformation between portions having different thicknesses.

[0103] If the degree of warpage of the first front panel (511) becomes large, attachment of the front connecting member (514) becomes difficult, and thus forming of the front vacuum insulation layer (510) between the second front panel (512) becomes difficult. To solve this problem, the thickness (t2) of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be thicker than the thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511).

[0104] For example, the thickness (t2) of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be the same as the thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511) plus the thickness (t3) of the bezel (511b). When the thickness (t2) of the second front panel (512) is formed thicker than the thickness (t1) of the first front panel (511), thermal deformation of the first front panel (511) can be prevented, and the front vacuum insulation layer (510) can be formed in a sealed state.

[0105] The front connecting member (514) may be arranged between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512). The front connecting member (514) may be formed along the bezel (511b) and may connect the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512).

[0106] The front connecting member (514) may be formed of an adhesive material and may seal the space between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512). Therefore, the front connecting member (514) may also be referred to as a sealing member. In addition, the front connecting member (514) may also be referred to as a vacuum spacer.

[0107] For example, the front connecting member (514) may be formed of a frit material. In addition, the front connecting member (514) may also be composed of frit glass or glass sealant. When the front connecting member (514) is formed of a frit material, it can be bonded between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) through plastic processing, thereby sealing the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512).

[0108] In a state where the front connecting member (514) is plastically processed between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512), a front vacuum insulation layer (510) can be formed between the first front panel (511), the second front panel (512) and the front connecting member (514). The front vacuum insulation layer (510) can block cold air from the rear of the front part (51) from passing through the front vacuum insulation layer (510) and being transmitted to the front.

[0109] Meanwhile, a plurality of supporting members (513) may be provided within the front vacuum insulation layer (510). The front of the supporting members (513) may be in contact with the first front panel (511) and the rear of the supporting members (513) may be in contact with the second front panel (512). In addition, the supporting members (513) may be formed to have a height corresponding to the thickness of the front vacuum insulation layer (510). The supporting members (513) may be formed of a transparent material. In addition, a plurality of the supporting members (513) may be arranged at regular intervals throughout the entire area of ​​the front vacuum insulation layer (510).

[0110] The front vacuum insulation layer (510) may be formed to a minimum thickness that can effectively block the transmission of cold air from the storage space. For example, the thickness of the front vacuum insulation layer (510) may be formed to be approximately 0.1 mm to 1 mm, thereby minimizing the overall thickness of the panel assembly (50) while ensuring insulation performance and formability. The thickness of the front vacuum insulation layer (510) may be the same as the thickness of the front connecting member (514) and the supporting member (513). The thickness of the front vacuum insulation layer (510) may be formed to be thinner than the thickness of the gas insulation layer (520).

[0111] An exhaust hole (512a) may be formed in the second front panel (512). The exhaust hole (512a) may be in communication with the front vacuum insulation layer (510) to exhaust air from the front vacuum insulation layer (510), thereby allowing the front vacuum insulation layer (510) to be in a vacuum state. The exhaust hole (512a) may be located in an area inside the front connecting member (514).

[0112] At this time, the exhaust hole (512a) may be located outside the spacer (52). That is, the exhaust hole (512a) is provided on one side of the second front panel (512) exposed to the rear of the panel assembly, and may be covered by the front bezel (511b).

[0113] The exhaust hole (512a) may be provided with a hole cover (512b). The hole cover (512b) may be formed of a material that shields the exhaust hole (512a) after exhaust of the front vacuum insulation layer (510). For example, the hole cover (512b) may be formed of a frit material. In addition, the hole cover (512b) may also be covered by the bezel (511b) when mounted.

[0114] Meanwhile, the rear part (53) may be formed in a rectangular plate shape and may form the rear of the door (20) and the rear of the panel assembly (50). For example, the rear part (53) may be exposed to the outside through the liner opening (411) and may form a portion of the rear of the door (20). In addition, the rear part (53) may form a rear vacuum insulation layer (530) therein. Therefore, the rear part (53) may also be referred to as a rear vacuum panel. The rear part (53) may be configured identically or similarly to the front part (51).

[0115] In detail, the rear part (53) may include a first rear panel (531) forming the front and a second rear panel (532) forming the rear. The first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) may be formed of insulating glass. In addition, the first rear panel (531) may be formed of insulating glass, and the second rear panel (532) may be formed of general glass.

[0116] The first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) may be formed in a rectangular plate shape and may be formed to have the same size. The first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) may be formed to be larger than the size of the transparent portion (511a) and the spacer (52). In addition, the first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) may be formed to be positioned inward from the gasket mounting portion (412) to avoid interference with the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0117] In addition, the rear connecting member (534) is provided between the first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) to connect the first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532). The rear connecting member (534) may be formed of the same material as the front connecting member (514).

[0118] In addition, a supporting member (533) may be provided between the second rear panel (532) and the second rear panel (532). The supporting member (533) may be the same as the supporting member (513) of the front part (51). Therefore, a rear vacuum insulation layer (530) may be formed between the first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) by the rear connecting member (534) and the supporting member (533).

[0119] The second rear panel (532) is provided with an exhaust hole (532a) and a hole cover (532b) to exhaust the air inside the rear vacuum insulation layer (530) and create a vacuum state. The exhaust hole (532a) and the hole cover (532b) may be formed in the first rear panel (531) as needed. The exhaust hole (532a) and the hole cover (532b) may be formed on the outside of the spacer (52) and are positioned at the rear of the bezel (511b) so as not to be exposed to the outside.

[0120] The spacer (52) is formed in a rectangular frame shape and may be formed to have a smaller size than the front part (51) and the rear part (53). In addition, the spacer (52) may connect the rear surface of the front part (51) and the front surface of the rear part (53) in a sealed state so that the panel assembly (50) is configured as a single body.

[0121] In detail, the spacer (52) can be formed of various materials and can be bonded between the second front panel (512) and the first rear panel (531). In addition, it can be formed to be larger than the size of the transparent portion (511a) and smaller than the size of the rear part (53).

[0122] The spacer (52) may be formed of aluminum, TPS (Thermo plastic spacer), or rubber, and may be formed of a material having insulating properties. In addition, a sealant (521) may be applied around the spacer (52) to improve the adhesive strength between the spacer (52) and the front part (51) and the rear part (53), and to make it more airtight.

[0123] An airtight gas insulating layer (520) may be formed between the front part (51) and the rear part (53) by the spacer (52). Furthermore, the gas insulating layer (520) may be filled with an insulating gas. For example, the insulating gas may be any one of air, argon, and krypton. The gas insulating layer (520) may be referred to as an insulating layer.

[0124] For example, the width of the spacer (52), that is, the thickness of the gas insulation layer (520), may be formed to be approximately 12 mm to 14 mm. Since the insulating gas injected into the gas insulation layer (520) can be stabilized in the range of approximately 12 mm to 14 mm to ensure the insulating performance, the spacer (52) may be formed so that the width in the front-back direction of the gas insulation layer (520) is 12 mm to 14 mm. In addition, when the width of the spacer (52) is formed to be approximately 1.3 to 2.4 times the thickness of the front part (51) and the rear part (53), the insulating performance of the gas insulation layer (520) can be satisfied.

[0125] Meanwhile, the spacer (52) is positioned further inward than the front part (51) and the rear part (53). That is, the ends of the front part (51) and the rear part (53) may protrude further outward than the outer surface of the spacer (52). With this structure, the path of heat moving along the panel assembly (50) can be lengthened. In addition, the point where condensation may occur on the front surface of the panel assembly (50) can be moved to the outer side farther away from the transparent portion (511a).

[0126] Below, the arrangement structure of the above panel assembly (50) is described with reference to the drawings.

[0127] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the door. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the lower portion of the door. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of one end of the door.

[0128] As illustrated, the upper end of the first front panel (511) may be mounted on the upper frame (42). In detail, the upper end of the first front panel (511) may be extended to contact an upper support end (422) extending forward from the upper end of the upper frame (42). In addition, the lower end of the first front panel (511) may be extended to contact a lower support end (432) extending forward from the lower end of the lower frame (43). In addition, the left and right ends of the first front panel (511) may be extended to contact a side support end (442) extending forward from a side end of the side frame (44).

[0129] Accordingly, the first front panel (511) can form the entire front surface of the door (20), and can be formed so that the peripheral surface is supported by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44). In addition, the peripheral surface of the first front panel (511) can be formed with a round portion (511c) having a predetermined curvature. Accordingly, even if an impact is applied to the outer end of the door (20) that is in contact with the round portion (511c), the first front panel (511) can be prevented from being damaged.

[0130] And, the upper rear surface of the second front panel (512) can be mounted on an upper mounting portion (421) extending downward from the upper frame (42). And, the lower rear surface of the second front panel (512) can be mounted on a lower mounting portion (431) extending upward from the lower frame (43). And, the left and right rear surfaces of the second front panel (512) can be mounted on side mounting portions (441) extending inward from the side frame (44).

[0131] For example, the rear perimeter of the second front panel (512) can be fixed by adhesive bonding to the upper mounting portion (421), the lower mounting portion (431), and the side mounting portion (441). In addition, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, the front part (51) can be fixed from the rear by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44).

[0132] Meanwhile, the outer end of the second front panel (512) may be positioned further inward than the outer end of the first front panel (511). In addition, the ends of the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) may have a stepped structure, and a stepped portion (515) may be formed on the rear periphery of the front part (51).

[0133] In detail, the height difference (H1) between the upper portion of the first front panel (511) and the upper portion of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be larger than the diameter of the heater (46). In addition, the heater (46) is disposed inside the step portion (515) formed by the upper portions of the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512), and the heater may be in contact with the rear surface of the first front panel (511). In addition, the step portion (515) may be defined as a space between the perimeter of the front part (51) and the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44). Therefore, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, a space in which the heater (46) is accommodated may be provided by the step portion (515). And, the upper end of the second front panel (512) can extend to the inside of the area of ​​the bezel (511b).

[0134] The height difference (H2) between the lower portion of the first front panel (511) and the lower portion of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be greater than the diameter of the heater (46). In addition, the height difference (H2) between the lower portion of the first front panel (511) and the lower portion of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be greater than the height difference (H1) between the upper portion of the first front panel (511) and the upper portion of the second front panel (512).

[0135] For example, the second front panel (512) may extend downward to a position corresponding to the upper end of the lower mounting portion (431). A heater mounting portion (434) having a single-tooth structure may be further formed on the upper end of the lower mounting portion (431). The heater (46) may be disposed on the heater mounting portion (434). Accordingly, the heater (46) may be positioned in the space between the heater mounting portion (434) and the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512). At this time, the lower end of the second front panel (512) may be positioned within the area of ​​the bezel (511b).

[0136] The difference in distance between the outer end of the first front panel (511) and the outer end of the second front panel (512) may be formed to be greater than the diameter of the heater (46). The heater (46) may be positioned within a space formed by the stepped portions of the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) and the side mounting portion (441). In addition, the upper end of the outer end of the second front panel (512) may be positioned within the area of ​​the bezel (511b).

[0137] Accordingly, the bezel (511b) on the rear side of the first front panel (511) can shield the upper mounting portion (421), the lower mounting portion (431), and the side mounting portion (441) located at the rear, as well as the heater (46) and the end of the second front panel (512), thereby preventing exposure.

[0138] A side support member (442) for supporting the outer end of the second front panel (512) may be formed on the side frame (444). The side support member (442) may protrude forward from the side mounting member (441). In addition, a side receiving member (443) for receiving the heater (46) may be formed recessed between the side mounting member (441) and the side supporting member (442).

[0139] Meanwhile, the rear part (53) may be formed to be larger than the size of the front part (51) and smaller than the size of the spacer (52). In addition, the first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) may be formed to be the same size and may be joined to each other so that the outer surfaces are formed on the same extension line.

[0140] In detail, based on the distance (D1) from the outer end of the door (20) to the inner end of the bezel (511b), i.e., the transparent portion (511a), the spacer (52) may be positioned further outside the inner end of the bezel (511b) or the transparent portion (511a). In addition, the spacer (52) may be positioned further inside than the front part (51) and the rear part (53). That is, the distance (D2) from the outer end of the door (20) to the spacer (52) may be formed longer than the distance (D3) from the outer end of the door (20) to the outer end of the rear part (53).

[0141] And, the rear part (53) can be spaced apart from the gasket mounting portion (412). The outer end of the rear part (53) can be positioned further inward than the gasket mounting portion (412). That is, the distance (D3) from the outer end of the door (20) to the outer end of the rear part (53) can be formed to be longer than the distance (D4) from the outer end of the door (20) to the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0142] Accordingly, the rear part (53) and the gasket mounting portion (412) do not interfere with each other, and the flow of the foaming liquid injected into the inside of the door (20) is facilitated, and underfilling of the foaming liquid is prevented, so that the insulating material (48) can be evenly arranged inside the door (20).

[0143] Meanwhile, the outer end of the front part (51) extends to the outer end of the door (20) and can form the exterior of the entire front of the door (20).

[0144] The arrangement structure of the rear part (53) as described above can be applied equally to the upper and lower parts and left and right sides of the door (20).

[0145] Below, the heat transfer state in the door (20) of a refrigerator having the above structure will be examined in detail with reference to the drawing.

[0146] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of Figure 2. And, Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 2.

[0147] As illustrated, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, the front part (51) can form the entire front surface of the door (20). In addition, the front part (51) can be supported by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44). In addition, the rear part (53) is supported by the door liner (41) and shields the liner opening (411).

[0148] In addition, a gas insulation layer (520) may be formed between the front part (51) and the rear part (53) by the spacer (52). Accordingly, the panel assembly (50) may have a triple insulation structure by the front vacuum insulation layer (510), the gas insulation layer (520), and the rear vacuum insulation layer (530).

[0149] The front vacuum insulation layer (510) and the rear vacuum insulation layer (530) are thin but have excellent insulation performance, so that the panel assembly (50) and the door (20) can be configured slimly while providing sufficient insulation performance.

[0150] In this state, the inner space of the door (20) formed by the combination of the panel assembly (50), the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), the side frame (44), and the door liner (41) can be filled with the insulating material (48).

[0151] Meanwhile, the space behind the door (20) can be selectively visualized through the viewing portion (511a) of the panel assembly (50) depending on whether the lighting device (45) is turned on or off.

[0152] The refrigerator (1) above can supply cold air to the storage space by the operation of the refrigeration cycle to cool and maintain the storage space at a set temperature. In addition, when the door (20) is closed, cold air inside the storage space comes into contact with the rear surface of the second rear panel (532). In addition, the cold air is prevented from being transferred forward by the rear vacuum insulation layer (530) and moves outward along the second rear panel (532). In addition, the cold air that has moved to the outer end of the second rear panel (532) can be transferred forward along the rear connecting member (534) to the first rear panel (531).

[0153] The cold air transferred to the first rear panel (531) moves along the first rear panel (531). Then, the cold air transferred to the first rear panel (531) moves from the outer end of the first rear panel (531) toward the center of the first rear panel (531).

[0154] At this time, a gas insulation layer (520) is formed between the first rear panel (531) and the second front panel (512), so that cold air moving along the first rear panel (531) is prevented from moving forward in the area where the gas insulation layer (520) is formed.

[0155] The cold air moving along the first rear panel (531) moves forward through the spacer (52) and can be transferred to the second front panel (512). In addition, the cold air transferred to the second front panel (512) is prevented from being transferred forward by the front vacuum insulation layer (510) and moves outward along the second front panel (512). In addition, the cold air moved to the outer end of the second front panel (512) can be transferred forward along the front connecting member (514) and transferred to the first front panel (511).

[0156] In this way, the heat caused by the cold air moving along the panel assembly (50) cannot move forward in the shortest distance, but increases in its path as it moves in the up-and-down direction. In addition, the heat movement path starting from the rear of the rear part (53) exposed through the liner opening (411) is formed to the front outer end of the front part (51), thereby inducing a point where condensation due to the cold air can occur to the front outer side of the panel assembly (50). In addition, the cold air transmitted in the process of moving along the elongated heat movement path becomes weaker, and thus the possibility of condensation occurring on the front of the panel assembly (50) can be minimized.

[0157] And, the perimeter of the first front panel (511) may be in contact with the heater (46). Therefore, the edge of the first front panel (511) may be heated by the operation of the heater (46), and the heat caused by the cold air transferred to the first front panel (511) may be dissipated by the heating by the heater (46). That is, the operation of the heater (46) prevents the cold air from being transferred to the front of the front part (51), thereby preventing condensation on the front of the panel assembly (50).

[0158] Meanwhile, the present invention may have various other embodiments in addition to the aforementioned embodiments. Below, other embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Other embodiments of the present invention may be identical to the aforementioned embodiments except for some components. Therefore, components identical to the aforementioned embodiments will be described using the same drawing reference numerals, with detailed descriptions and illustrations omitted. In addition, the following description will focus on components that differ from the aforementioned embodiments.

[0159] Fig. 13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a door according to a second embodiment of the present invention. And, Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the door.

[0160] A door (20) of a refrigerator (1) according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a panel assembly (50) that allows the rear space of the door (20) to be viewed, a door liner (41), an upper frame (42), a lower frame (43), and a side frame (44). In addition, the interior of the door (20) may be filled with an insulating material (48), and a gasket (47) may be mounted on a gasket mounting portion (412) of the door liner (41). In addition, a lighting device (45) may be provided on the door liner (41) to selectively illuminate the space at the rear of the door (20) so that the transparent portion (511a) may be selectively visible.

[0161] Meanwhile, the panel assembly (50) may be configured by combining a front part (51) having a front vacuum insulation layer (510) formed thereon, a rear part (53) having a rear vacuum insulation layer (530) formed thereon, and a spacer (52). The spacer (52) may connect the rear surface of the front part (51) and the front surface of the rear part (53) to form a gas insulation layer (520). In addition, the outer ends of the front part (51) and the rear part (53) may extend further outward than the spacer (52).

[0162] The front part (51) may include a first front panel (511) and a second front panel (512). The first front panel (511) may form the entire front surface of the door (20). In addition, the second front panel (512) may be formed to have the same size as the first front panel (511).

[0163] However, the outer end of the first front panel (511) may include a round portion (511c) that is in contact with the upper support portion (422), the lower support portion (432), and the side support portion (422). The outer end of the second front panel (512) may be formed to correspond to the portion of the first front panel (511) where the round portion (511c) begins.

[0164] And, if the round portion (511c) is not formed, the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) can be formed to have completely the same size. The outer end of the first front panel (511) and the outer end of the second front panel (512) can be positioned on the same extension line.

[0165] The first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) can be connected to each other around the front by a front connecting member (514), and the front vacuum insulation layer (510) can be formed between the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512).

[0166] The rear perimeter of the second front panel (512) can be fixed by adhesive bonding to the upper mounting portion (421), the lower mounting portion (431), and the side mounting portion (441). In addition, a sunken heater receiving groove (424, 434, 444) can be formed in the upper mounting portion (421), the lower mounting portion (431), and the side mounting portion (441). In addition, the heater (46) can be received in the heater receiving groove (424, 434, 444).

[0167] With the panel assembly (50) mounted, the heater (46) can be in contact with the rear periphery of the front part (51). In addition, the heater (46) can be formed at a position corresponding to the area of ​​the front connecting member (514) or on the outside of the front connecting member (514).

[0168] The structure of the spacer (52) and the rear part (53) may be the same as in the above-described embodiment. The spacer (52) connects the second front panel (512) and the first rear panel (531) and may be sealed by a sealant (521). In addition, an insulating gas may be injected into the gas insulating layer (520) formed by the spacer (52).

[0169] The rear part (53) above is formed by a front and a rear by a first rear panel (531) and a second rear panel (532), and can be connected to each other by a rear connecting member (534) to form a rear vacuum insulation layer (530). In addition, the first rear panel (531) and the second rear panel (532) can be formed to have the same size. At this time, the outer end of the rear part (53) can be positioned between the liner opening (411) and the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0170] Due to the structure of the panel assembly (50) as described above, cold air at the rear of the door (20) cannot move forward in the shortest distance while moving along the panel assembly (50), but moves along the increased heat transfer path of the panel assembly (50) and is guided to the outer end of the panel assembly (50), thereby preventing condensation.

[0171] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a door according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] As illustrated, the door (20) of the refrigerator (1) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include a panel assembly (50) that allows the rear space of the door (20) to be viewed, a door liner (41), an upper frame (42), a lower frame (43), and a side frame (44). In addition, the interior of the door (20) may be filled with an insulating material (48), and a gasket (47) may be mounted on a gasket mounting portion (412) of the door liner (41). In addition, a lighting device (45) may be provided on the door liner (41) to selectively illuminate the space at the rear of the door (20) so that the transparent portion (511a) may be selectively visible.

[0173] Meanwhile, the panel assembly (50) may be configured by combining a front part (51) having a front vacuum insulation layer (510) formed thereon, a rear part (53) having a rear vacuum insulation layer (530) formed thereon, and a spacer (52). The spacer (52) may connect the rear surface of the front part (51) and the front surface of the rear part (53) to form a gas insulation layer (520). In addition, the outer ends of the front part (51) and the rear part (53) may extend further outward than the spacer (52).

[0174] The structure of the front part (51) and spacer (52) can be configured as in any of the embodiments described above.

[0175] The front part (51) may include a first front panel (511) forming the front and a second front panel (512) forming the rear. In addition, the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) may be connected by a front connecting member (514) to form a front vacuum insulation layer (510).

[0176] The front part (51) can be supported and fixed around the periphery by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44). In addition, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, the heater (46) can be in contact with the rear periphery of the front part (51). In addition, the heater (46) can be formed at a position corresponding to the area of ​​the front connecting member (514) or outside the front connecting member (514).

[0177] The above spacer (52) connects between the second front panel (512) and the first rear panel (535) and can be sealed by a sealant (521). In addition, an insulating gas can be injected into the gas insulating layer (520) formed by the spacer (52).

[0178] The above rear part (53) is formed with a front and a rear by a first rear panel (535) and a second rear panel (532), and can be connected to each other by a rear connecting member (534) to form a rear vacuum insulation layer (530).

[0179] The outer end of the rear part (53) may be positioned between the liner opening (411) and the gasket mounting portion (412). In addition, the first rear panel (535) may be formed larger than the second rear panel (532), and the outer end of the first rear panel (535) may protrude further outward than the outer end of the second rear panel (532).

[0180] In detail, the distance (D4) from the outer end of the door (20) to the gasket mounting portion (412) may be formed smaller than the distance (D5) from the outer end of the door (20) to the first rear panel (535) and the distance (D6) from the outer end of the door (20) to the second rear panel (532).

[0181] In addition, the distance (D5) from the outer end of the door (20) to the first rear panel (535) may be formed shorter than the distance (D6) from the outer end of the door (20) to the second rear panel (532). That is, the outer end of the rear part (53) may be formed with a step equal to the height difference (H3) between the outer end of the first rear panel (535) and the outer end of the second rear panel (532).

[0182] The first rear panel (535) may be spaced apart from the gasket mounting portion (412), but may extend to a position close to the gasket mounting portion (412), and the second rear panel (532) may be relatively further away from the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0183] Accordingly, the heat transfer path moving along the rear part (53) can be increased by extending the first rear panel (535). In addition, by securing a distance between the second rear panel (532) and the gasket mounting portion (412), the flow of the foaming liquid between the rear part (53) and the gasket mounting portion (412) can be facilitated.

[0184] By the structure of the rear part (53) as described above, the rear part (53) can be extended outward to lengthen the heat transfer path, while also facilitating the flow of the foam liquid for forming the insulation material (48) inside the door (20).

[0185] And, due to the structure of the panel assembly (50) as described above, the cold air at the rear of the door (20) cannot move forward in the shortest distance while moving along the panel assembly (50), but moves along the increased heat transfer path of the panel assembly (50) and is guided to the outer end of the panel assembly (50), thereby preventing condensation.

[0186] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a door according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] As illustrated, the door (20) of the refrigerator (1) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a panel assembly (50) that allows the rear space of the door (20) to be viewed, a door liner (41), an upper frame (42), a lower frame (43), and a side frame (44). In addition, the interior of the door (20) may be filled with an insulating material (48), and a gasket (47) may be mounted on a gasket mounting portion (412) of the door liner (41). In addition, a lighting device (45) may be provided on the door liner (41) to selectively illuminate the space at the rear of the door (20) so that the transparent portion (511a) may be selectively visible.

[0188] Meanwhile, the panel assembly (50) may be configured by combining a front part (51) having a front vacuum insulation layer (510) formed thereon, a rear part (53) having a rear vacuum insulation layer (530) formed thereon, and a spacer (52). The spacer (52) may connect the rear surface of the front part (51) and the front surface of the rear part (53) to form a gas insulation layer (520). In addition, the outer ends of the front part (51) and the rear part (53) may extend further outward than the spacer (52).

[0189] The structure of the front part (51) and spacer (52) can be configured as in any of the embodiments described above.

[0190] The above front part (51) may include a first front panel (511) forming the front and a second front panel (512) forming the rear. In addition, the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) may be connected by a front connecting member (514) to form a front vacuum insulation layer (510).

[0191] The front part (51) can be supported and fixed around the periphery by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44). In addition, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, the heater (46) can be in contact with the rear periphery of the front part (51). In addition, the heater (46) can be formed at a position corresponding to the area of ​​the front connecting member (514) or outside the front connecting member (514).

[0192] The above spacer (52) connects between the second front panel (512) and the first rear panel (536) and can be sealed by a sealant (521). In addition, an insulating gas can be injected into the gas insulating layer (520) formed by the spacer (52).

[0193] The above rear part (53) is formed with a front and a rear by a first rear panel (536) and a second rear panel (537), and can be connected to each other by a rear connecting member (534) to form a rear vacuum insulation layer (530).

[0194] The outer end of the rear part (53) may extend further outward than the liner opening (411) and may extend to a position where it comes into contact with the gasket mounting portion (412). In detail, the first rear panel (536) may be formed to be larger than the second rear panel (537), and the outer end of the first rear panel (536) may protrude further outward than the outer end of the second rear panel (537).

[0195] That is, the outer end of the rear part (53) may be formed with a height difference (H4) between the outer end of the first rear panel (536) and the outer end of the second rear panel (537). At this time, the height difference (H4) between the outer end of the first rear panel (536) and the outer end of the second rear panel (537) may correspond to the protruding width of the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0196] The stepped outer end of the rear part (53) can be in contact with the outer end of the gasket mounting portion (412). In addition, the rear surface of the first rear panel (536) can be in contact with the protruding end of the gasket mounting portion (412), and the outer end of the second rear panel (537) can be in contact with the periphery of the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0197] Accordingly, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, the front part (51) is supported by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44), and the rear part (53) is secured to the gasket mounting portion (412) to maintain a firm mounting state.

[0198] And, due to the structure of the panel assembly (50) as described above, the cold air at the rear of the door (20) cannot move forward in the shortest distance while moving along the panel assembly (50), but moves along the increased heat transfer path of the panel assembly (50) and is guided to the outer end of the panel assembly (50), thereby preventing condensation.

[0199] In particular, heat moving along the rear part (53) due to contact between the rear part (53) and the gasket mounting portion (412) can be diverted toward the door liner (41) through the gasket mounting portion (412). Accordingly, the amount of heat moving to the front of the panel assembly (50) can be further reduced, thereby further preventing condensation on the front of the panel assembly (50).

[0200] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a door according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] As illustrated, the door (20) of the refrigerator (1) according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may include a panel assembly (50) that allows the rear space of the door (20) to be viewed, a door liner (41), an upper frame (42), a lower frame (43), and a side frame (44). In addition, the interior of the door (20) may be filled with an insulating material (48), and a gasket (47) may be mounted on a gasket mounting portion (412) of the door liner (41). In addition, a lighting device (45) may be provided on the door liner (41) to selectively illuminate the space at the rear of the door (20) so that the transparent portion (511a) may be selectively visible.

[0202] Meanwhile, the panel assembly (50) may be configured by combining a front part (51) having a front vacuum insulation layer (510) formed thereon, a rear part (53) having a rear vacuum insulation layer (530) formed thereon, and a spacer (52). The spacer (52) may connect the rear surface of the front part (51) and the front surface of the rear part (53) to form a gas insulation layer (520). In addition, the outer ends of the front part (51) and the rear part (53) may extend further outward than the spacer (52).

[0203] The structure of the front part (51) and spacer (52) can be configured as in any of the embodiments described above.

[0204] The front part (51) may include a first front panel (511) forming the front and a second front panel (512) forming the rear. In addition, the first front panel (511) and the second front panel (512) may be connected by a front connecting member (514) to form a front vacuum insulation layer (510).

[0205] The front part (51) can be supported and fixed around the periphery by the upper frame (42), the lower frame (43), and the side frame (44). In addition, when the panel assembly (50) is mounted, the heater (46) can be in contact with the rear periphery of the front part (51). In addition, the heater (46) can be formed at a position corresponding to the area of ​​the front connecting member (514) or outside the front connecting member (514).

[0206] The above spacer (52) connects between the second front panel (512) and the first rear panel (531) and can be sealed by a sealant (521). In addition, an insulating gas can be injected into the gas insulating layer (520) formed by the spacer (52).

[0207] The above rear part (53) is formed with a front and a rear by a first rear panel (531) and a second rear panel (538), and can be connected to each other by a rear connecting member (534) to form a rear vacuum insulation layer (530).

[0208] The outer end of the rear part (53) may be positioned between the liner opening (411) and the gasket mounting portion (412). In addition, the first rear panel (531) may be formed smaller than the second rear panel (538), and the outer end of the second rear panel (538) may protrude further outward than the outer end of the first rear panel (531).

[0209] In detail, the distance (D4) from the outer end of the door (20) to the gasket mounting portion (412) may be formed smaller than the distance (D7) from the outer end of the door (20) to the second rear panel (538) and the distance (D8) from the outer end of the door (20) to the first rear panel (531).

[0210] In addition, the distance (D8) from the outer end of the door (20) to the first rear panel (531) may be formed longer than the distance (D7) from the outer end of the door (20) to the second rear panel (538). That is, the outer end of the rear part (53) may be formed with a step equal to the height difference (H5) between the outer end of the first rear panel (531) and the outer end of the second rear panel (538).

[0211] The second rear panel (538) is spaced apart from the gasket mounting portion (412), but extends to a position close to the gasket mounting portion (412), and the first rear panel (531) can be relatively further away from the gasket mounting portion (412).

[0212] Accordingly, the heat transfer path moving along the rear part (53) can be increased by extending the second rear panel (538). In addition, the rear part (53) and the gasket mounting portion (412) can be spaced apart to facilitate the flow of the foaming liquid.

[0213] And, due to the structure of the panel assembly (50) as described above, the cold air at the rear of the door (20) cannot move forward in the shortest distance while moving along the panel assembly (50), but moves along the increased heat transfer path of the panel assembly (50) and is guided to the outer end of the panel assembly (50), thereby preventing condensation.

[0214] Meanwhile, the panel assembly and doors including the panel assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention may be applied to refrigerators having various structures.

[0215] Figure 18 is a drawing of other refrigerators to which embodiments of the present invention are applied.

[0216] As illustrated in (a) of FIG. 18, a refrigerator (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (10) forming a storage space and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

[0217] The above storage space may include a refrigerator (11) and a freezer (12) formed on both left and right sides. In addition, the door (20) may include a refrigerator door (20a) for opening and closing the refrigerator (11) and a freezer door (20b) for opening and closing the freezer (12). In addition, the refrigerator door (20a) and the freezer door (20b) may be arranged side by side on both left and right sides.

[0218] In addition, the panel assembly (50) as in the above-described embodiment may be arranged on the refrigerator door (20a) to allow the storage space to be viewed. The refrigerator door (20a) may also have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door as in the above-described embodiment.

[0219] Additionally, the panel assembly (50) may be provided on the freezer door (20b).

[0220] As illustrated in Fig. 18(b), a refrigerator (3) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (10) forming a storage space and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

[0221] The above storage space may be partitioned vertically to form an upper storage space (11a) and a lower storage space (12a). For example, the upper storage space (11a) may be a refrigerator, and the lower storage space (12a) may be a freezer.

[0222] In addition, the door (20) may be provided with an upper door (20c) that opens and closes the upper storage space (11a) by rotation, and a lower door (20d, 20e) that opens and closes the lower storage space (12a) by pulling it out.

[0223] In addition, the panel assembly (50) as in the above-described embodiment may be arranged on the upper door (20c) to allow the storage space to be viewed. The upper door (20c) may also have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door as in the above-described embodiment.

[0224] As illustrated in (c) of FIG. 18, a refrigerator (4) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (10) forming a storage space and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

[0225] The above storage space may be partitioned vertically to form an upper storage space (11b) and a lower storage space (12b). For example, the upper storage space (11b) may be a freezer, and the lower storage space (12b) may be a refrigerator.

[0226] In addition, the door (20) may be provided with an upper door (20f) that opens and closes the upper storage space (11b) by rotation, and a lower door (20g) that opens and closes the lower storage space (12b) by rotation.

[0227] In addition, the panel assembly (50) as in the above-described embodiment may be arranged on the lower door (20g) to allow the storage space to be viewed. The lower door (20g) may also have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door as in the above-described embodiment.

[0228] As illustrated in Fig. 18(d), a refrigerator (5) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (10) in which a storage space is formed, and a door (20h) for opening and closing the storage space (11c).

[0229] The above storage space (11c) can be configured as a single space, and the above storage space (11c) can be opened and closed by a rotating door (20h).

[0230] In addition, the door (20g) may be configured to have a panel assembly (50) as in the above-described embodiment arranged to allow the storage space to be viewed. The door (20g) may also have a double door structure of a main door and a sub-door as in the above-described embodiment.

[0231] Meanwhile, the panel assembly and doors including the panel assembly according to embodiments of the present invention may be applicable to home appliances having various structures in addition to refrigerators. For example, the panel assembly and doors including the panel assembly according to embodiments of the present invention may be applicable to home appliances equipped with doors that open and close the cabinet space, such as washing machines, dryers, plant cultivation devices, air conditioners, stylers (clothing managers), and cooking appliances.

[0232] The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention has high industrial applicability because it has the effect of preventing heat loss and reducing power consumption.

Claims

1. Cabinet with storage space; A door that opens and closes the open front of the above storage space; and forming a part of the above door and including a panel assembly that allows a space at the rear to be seen through; The above panel assembly, A front part forming the front of the above door, wherein a front vacuum insulation layer is formed between a plurality of transparent front panels arranged front and rear; A rear part arranged at the rear side spaced apart from the front part to form the rear side of the door, and having a rear vacuum insulation layer formed between a plurality of transparent rear panels arranged front and rear; and A spacer connecting the rear of the front part and the front of the rear part to form a gas insulation layer between the front part and the rear part; A refrigerator in which the spacer is positioned inwardly from the edges of the front part and the rear part toward the center of the front part.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which both the ends of the front part and the rear part protrude further outward than the spacer.

3. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator in which the end of the rear part protrudes further outward than the end of the front part.

4. In paragraph 1, The front part includes a front connecting member that connects the front panels arranged front to front to form the front vacuum insulation layer; The above rear part includes a rear connecting member that connects the rear panels arranged front and rear to form the rear vacuum insulation layer. A refrigerator wherein the front connecting member and the rear connecting member are positioned further outward than the spacer.

5. In paragraph 4, A refrigerator wherein the front connecting member is positioned further outward than the rear connecting member.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which the above front connecting member and rear connecting member are formed of a frit material.

7. In paragraph 4, A refrigerator having an exhaust hole and a hole cover for shielding the exhaust hole on the rear of the front part and the rear of the rear part, respectively.

8. In paragraph 1, The above front part, A first front panel forming the front of the door; a second front panel positioned at the rear of the first front panel; and A front connecting member connecting between the first front panel and the second front panel and forming the front vacuum insulation layer; The first front panel is formed with a transparent viewing portion and a bezel portion formed along the perimeter of the viewing portion. A refrigerator in which the above connecting member is formed along the bezel portion.

9. In paragraph 8, A refrigerator in which the thickness of the second front panel is formed thicker than the thickness of the first front panel.

10. In paragraph 8, A refrigerator wherein the first front panel is formed of tempered glass and the second front panel is formed of low-ε glass.

11. In paragraph 8, The end of the first front panel protrudes further than the end of the second front panel, thereby forming a step portion around the front part. A refrigerator in which a heater for heating the first front panel is accommodated along the above-mentioned step.

12. In paragraph 8, The above door, A decorative member forming the outer surface of the door and in contact with the perimeter of the front part; and Further comprising a heater for heating the second front panel, The first front panel and the second front panel are formed to have the same size, A refrigerator in which the above decorative member has a support member that supports the rear side of the second front panel, and a heater groove that is sunken into the support member and accommodates the heater.

13. In paragraph 12, A refrigerator wherein the heater is positioned corresponding to the front connecting member or further outside the front connecting member.

14. In paragraph 1, The above door, A decorative member forming the outer surface of the door; A door liner that is combined with the above decorative material and forms the rear of the door; and Including an insulating material filled in the space formed by combining the above panel assembly, the decorative member, and the door liner, In the above door liner, A liner opening shielded by the above rear part, A refrigerator in which a recessed gasket groove is formed to accommodate a gasket.

15. In paragraph 14, A refrigerator in which the above rear part is spaced apart from the above gasket groove.

16. In paragraph 14, A refrigerator wherein the end of the above rear part is located between the gasket groove and the rear opening.

17. In paragraph 14, The above rear part, A first rear panel coupled with the above spacer; a second rear panel positioned at the rear of the first rear panel and forming the rear of the door; and A rear connecting member connecting between the first rear panel and the second rear panel and forming the rear vacuum insulation layer; A refrigerator wherein the rear connecting member is positioned further outward than the spacer.

18. In paragraph 17, A refrigerator in which the first rear panel and the second rear panel are formed to have the same size.

19. In paragraph 17, The above first rear panel is formed larger than the second rear panel, A refrigerator in which the end of the first rear panel protrudes further outward than the second rear panel.

20. In paragraph 19, A refrigerator in which the ends of the first rear panel and the second rear panel are in contact with the gasket mounting portion, respectively.

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