Refrigerator having stopper block, and built-in refrigerator system employing same

Abstract

This disclosed refrigerator may comprise a body, a door and at least one stopper block. At least one storage chamber can be provided in the body. The door is connected to the body by a hinge so as to open and close the storage chamber. The stopper block can have a mounting surface and a guide surface. The mounting surface is a surface that can be coupled to a side surface in the width direction of the body. The guide surface is a surface opposite to the mounting surface. The stopper block protrudes from the side surface when coupled to the side surface of the body.

Description

Refrigerator with stopper block and built-in refrigerator system employing same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator having a stopper block and a built-in refrigerator system employing the same.

[0002] In modern home interior design, the space for installing a refrigerator is defined by cabinets and other means, and the refrigerator is installed inside the cabinet. To ensure a smooth fit and proper placement within the cabinet, a gap is typically maintained between the refrigerator and the cabinet. Over time, refrigerators can wobble when opening and closing their doors. This wobble can cause them to shift out of place. When the refrigerator's offset reaches a certain level, it can dislodge from the cabinet, potentially colliding with the door when opening or closing. This collision can damage the door structure and shorten the lifespan of the refrigerator or cabinet. Furthermore, the refrigerator's offset can negatively impact the overall aesthetics and stability of the interior design, including the cabinet and refrigerator.

[0003] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a main body, a door, and at least one stopper block. At least one storage compartment may be provided in the main body. The door is connected to the main body by a hinge to open and close the storage compartment. The stopper block may have a mounting surface and a guide surface. The mounting surface is a surface that can be attached to a side surface of the main body in the width direction. The guide surface is a surface opposite to the mounting surface. When the stopper block is connected to the side surface of the main body, it protrudes from the side surface.

[0004] A built-in refrigerator system according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a cabinet defining an installation space and the aforementioned refrigerator installed in the installation space. A stopper block maintains a gap between a side of the refrigerator and a side wall of the cabinet.

[0005] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0007] FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of a refrigerator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 3.

[0009] Figures 5 and 6 are plan views showing examples of changes in the position of a refrigerator in a conventional built-in refrigerator system.

[0010] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator showing an example of the placement position of the stopper block.

[0011] Figure 8 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator showing an example of the placement position of the stopper block.

[0012] Figure 9 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator showing an example of the placement position of the stopper block.

[0013] Figures 10 and 11 are partial perspective views showing embodiments of position indicators.

[0014] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stopper block according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 13 shows an example of the positional relationship between the stopper block and the side wall of the cabinet.

[0016] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block.

[0017] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block.

[0018] Fig. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block.

[0019] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a detachment prevention unit.

[0020] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a detachment prevention unit.

[0021] Figure 19 shows an example of a combination of two stopper pads and one stopper spacer.

[0022] Figure 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block.

[0023] Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block.

[0024] Figure 22 is a schematic partial perspective view of one embodiment of a refrigerator.

[0025] Figure 23 is a schematic partial perspective view of one embodiment of a refrigerator.

[0026] 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.

[0027] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0031] 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).

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] The present disclosure provides a built-in refrigerator and a built-in refrigerator system that overcomes the problems of the refrigerator casing being difficult to position during use and being easily damaged due to collision with the cabinet. However, the technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of built-in refrigerators and built-in refrigerator systems according to the present disclosure are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts unrelated to the description are omitted for clarity of description of the present invention, and similar reference numerals are assigned to similar parts throughout the specification.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 1. The refrigerator (1) according to the present embodiment is a so-called built-in refrigerator installed inside a cabinet (FIG. 3: 3) defining an installation space. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a main body (10) including at least one storage compartment (11), a door (20) connected to the main body (10) by a hinge (21) to open and close the storage compartment (11), and at least one stopper block (200) connectable to a side surface (10S) of the main body (10).

[0039] The main body (10) may include an inner case, an outer case arranged on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner cases and the outer cases. The inner case may include at least one of a case, a plate, a panel, or a liner forming a storage compartment (11). 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 exterior of the main body (10), and may be joined to the outside of the inner case so that an insulating material is placed between the inner cases and the outer case.

[0040] The insulation can insulate the inside and outside of the storage room (11) so that the temperature inside the storage room (11) can be maintained at a set appropriate temperature without being affected by the external environment of the storage room (11). In one embodiment, the insulation can include a foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming a urethane foam mixed with polyurethane and a foaming agent between the inner and outer layers.

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

[0042] The storage room (11) may include a space defined by an inner wall. The storage room (11) may further include an inner wall defining a space corresponding to the storage room (11). Various items such as food, medicine, and cosmetics may be stored in the storage room (11), and the storage room (11) may be formed so that at least one side is open for taking items in and out.

[0043] A refrigerator (1) may include one or more storage compartments (11). When two or more storage compartments (11) are formed in the refrigerator (1), each storage compartment (11) may have a different purpose and may be maintained at different temperatures. To this end, each storage compartment (11) may be partitioned from each other by a partition wall containing insulating material.

[0044] The storage room (11) may be provided to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on the intended use, and may include a refrigerator, a freezer, or an alternating temperature room, which are distinguished according to the intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and the freezer may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. Refrigeration may refer to cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, the refrigerator may be maintained in a range of 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. Freezing may refer to cooling items to freeze them or keep them in a frozen state, and for example, the freezer may be maintained in a range of -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The alternating temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user's discretion or regardless.

[0045] The storage room (11) may be called by various names, such as a vegetable room, a fresh room, a cooling room, and an ice room, in addition to names such as a refrigerator room, a freezer room, and a variable temperature room, and the terms such as a refrigerator room, a freezer room, and a variable temperature room used below should be understood to encompass the storage room (11) having a corresponding purpose and temperature range.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include at least one door (20) configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment (11). The door (20) may be provided to open and close each of one or more storage compartments (11), or one door (20) may be provided to open and close a plurality of storage compartments (11). The door (20) may be installed on the front of the main body (10) so as to be rotatable or slidable. The door (20) may be configured to seal the storage compartment (11) when the door (20) is closed. The door (20) may include an insulating material like the main body (10) so as to insulate the storage compartment (11) when the door (20) is closed.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the door (20) may include a door outer plate forming the front of the door (20), a door inner plate forming the rear of the door (20) and facing the storage compartment (11), an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0048] A gasket may be provided on the edge of the door inner panel to seal the storage compartment (11) by being pressed against the front of the main body (10) when the door (20) is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the door (20) may include a door body and a front panel that is detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forms the front of the door (20). The door body may include a door outer plate that forms the front of the door body, a door inner plate that forms the rear of the door body and faces the storage compartment (11), an upper cap, a lower cap, and a door insulation material provided inside these.

[0050] The refrigerator (1) can be classified into a French door type, a side-by-side type, a bottom mounted freezer (BMF), a top mounted freezer (TMF), or a single-door refrigerator depending on the arrangement of the door (20) and the storage compartment (11).

[0051] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment (11). The cold air supply device may include a machine, mechanism, electronic device, and / or a system combining these that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool the storage compartment (11).

[0052] 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 the storage compartment (11) through heat generation and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to a cold air supply device are arranged. The machine room may be arranged in the main body (10) to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room (11) to prevent heat generated from the components arranged in the machine room from being transferred to the storage room (11). The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the main body (10) to dissipate heat from the components arranged inside the machine room.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a dispenser provided on the door (20) to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without opening the door (20).

[0055] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray that stores water, an ice-separating device that separates ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket that stores ice produced in the ice-making tray.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator (1). The control unit may include a memory for storing or memorizing a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator (1), and a processor for outputting a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device or the like according to the program and / or data stored in the memory.

[0057] The memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the refrigerator (1). The memory can store temporary data generated during the process of generating control signals for controlling components included in the refrigerator (1). The memory may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0058] The processor controls the overall operation of the refrigerator (1). The processor can control components of the refrigerator (1) by executing a program stored in memory. The processor may include a separate NPU that performs the operation of an artificial intelligence model. The processor may also include a central processing unit, a graphics processor (GPU), etc. The processor may generate a control signal for controlling the operation of the cold air supply unit. For example, the processor may receive temperature information of the storage compartment (11) from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal for controlling the operation of the cold air supply unit based on the temperature information of the storage compartment (11).

[0059] Additionally, the processor may process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface based on programs and / or data stored / stored in the memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor may receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor may transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface for displaying an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0060] The processor and memory may be provided as a single unit or separately. The processor may include one or more processors. For example, the processor may include a main processor and at least one subprocessor. The memory may include one or more memories.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a processor and memory that control all components included in the refrigerator (1), and may include a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories that individually control the components of the refrigerator (1). For example, the refrigerator (1) may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cold air supply device according to the output of a temperature sensor. In addition, the refrigerator (1) may separately include a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface according to user input.

[0062] The communication module can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances via a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator (1) or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator (1) or user device can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

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

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

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the refrigerator (1) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole. In FIG. 1, the X direction represents the left-right direction (or width direction) when viewing the refrigerator (1) from the front, that is, the door (20) side, the Y direction represents the front-back direction (or depth direction), and the Z direction represents the up-down direction. The main body (10) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open front, and one or more doors (20), for example, four doors (20), may be supported on the main body (10) so that the front of the main body (10) can be opened and closed. The front of the refrigerator (1) may be defined by the doors (20). The upper surface, lower surface, rear surface, and side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the refrigerator (1) may be defined by the outer surface (100) of the main body (10). The upper surface, lower surface, rear surface, and side surfaces (10S1)(10S2) of the refrigerator (1) may be referred to as the upper surface, lower surface, rear surface, and side surfaces (10S1)(10S2) of the main body (10). A ventilation portion (30) may be provided on at least one of the side surfaces (10S1)(10S2) of the main body (10). The ventilation portion (30) is for communicating the aforementioned machine room provided in the main body (10) with the outside. The ventilation portion (30) may be implemented in various forms. For example, the ventilation portion (30) may be implemented by one or more ventilation holes, one or more ventilation slots, and / or a combination thereof.

[0066] The door (20) can be rotatably connected to the main body (10), for example, by a hinge (21). Although not shown in the drawing, the hinge (21) may have a single-axis hinge structure, and may also have a multi-axis hinge structure of two or more axes to reduce the rotation radius of the door (20). For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in which four doors (20) are arranged in a 2×2 configuration in the vertical direction (Z) and the left-right direction (X), each door (20) is rotatably supported on the main body (10) by two hinges (21) at the top and bottom. Accordingly, four hinges (21) are arranged in the vertical direction at positions adjacent to the side (10S1), and four hinges (21) are arranged in the vertical direction at positions adjacent to the side (10S2).

[0067] Fig. 3 is a schematic front view of a refrigerator system (2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Fig. 3. In Fig. 4, only the outline of the refrigerator (1) is schematically illustrated. Referring to Figs. 3 and 4, the refrigerator system (2) may include a cabinet (3) defining an installation space (S), and a refrigerator (1) installed in the installation space (S) inside the cabinet (3).

[0068] The cabinet (3) can be implemented in various forms. As an example, the cabinet (3) can be implemented by a wall defining an indoor space. As an example, the cabinet (3) can be installed in an indoor space as a separate structure implemented by a wood and / or steel panel, etc. As an example, the cabinet (3) can also form an installation space for the refrigerator (1) together with a wall defining an indoor space as a separate structure implemented by a wood and / or steel panel, etc.

[0069] As an example, the cabinet (3) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open front. For example, the cabinet (3) may have a pair of side walls (310S1) (310S2), a top wall (320), and a rear wall (330). The rear wall (330) may connect the pair of side walls (310S1) (310S2) and the top wall (320). Although not shown, the cabinet (3) may also include a pair of side walls (310S1) (310S2) and a top wall (320) connecting them. In this case, a wall defining an indoor space may function as the rear wall. Although not shown in the drawing, the cabinet (3) may also include a pair of side walls (310S1) (310S2) and a rear wall (330) connecting them. Either of the pair of side walls (310S1)(310S2) may be implemented by a wall defining an interior space.

[0070] By pushing the refrigerator (1) into the interior of the cabinet (3), i.e., the installation space (S), in the forward and backward direction (Y) through the open front of the cabinet (3), the refrigerator (1) can be installed in the installation space (S) inside the cabinet (3). The side surface (10S1) of the main body (10) faces the side wall (310S1) of the cabinet (3), and the side surface (10S2) of the main body (10) faces the side wall (310S2) of the cabinet (3). By this configuration, a so-called built-in refrigerator system (2) can be implemented. The built-in refrigerator system (2) prevents the exterior of the refrigerator (1) except for the front surface, for example, the front surface of the door (20), from being exposed to the outside of the cabinet (3), thereby allowing the refrigerator (1) and the cabinet (3) to harmonize with the interior design and improve the overall quality of the interior design.

[0071] In order to allow the refrigerator (1) to be easily inserted into the installation space (S) through the open front of the cabinet (3), the width (W3) of the front of the cabinet (3), i.e., the inner gap between a pair of side walls (310S1) (310S2), is greater than the width (W1) of the front of the refrigerator (1). Therefore, after the refrigerator (1) is installed inside the cabinet (3), a gap (SG) is created between the side surface (10S1) of the main body (10) and the opposite side wall (310S1) of the cabinet (3), and between the side surface (10S2) of the main body (10) and the opposite side wall (310S2) of the cabinet (3). In terms of the ease of installation of the refrigerator (1), the larger the gap (SG), the better. In terms of the quality of interior design, the smaller the gap (SG), the better. Meanwhile, the components of the cold air supply device installed in the aforementioned machine room require heat exchange with air, and the gap (SG) may be determined so as to secure a space for air to flow for heat exchange. In addition, the gap (SG) may be determined so as not to interfere with the side wall (310S1) (310S2) of the cabinet (3) when the door (20) rotates around the hinge (21). In addition, some of the components of the refrigerator (1) may partially protrude from the side (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10), and the gap (SG) may be determined in consideration of the protrusion amount of these protruding components. In this way, the gap (GS) may be determined in consideration of the ease of installation of the refrigerator (1), securing a space for air to flow for heat exchange, preventing interference with the door (20), the protrusion amount of the protruding components, and the quality of the interior design.

[0072] While the refrigerator (1) is in use, the refrigerator (1) may move within the installation space (S). For example, when opening and closing the door (20), a force may be applied to the refrigerator (1) in the forward-backward direction (Y) and the left-right direction (X), thereby causing the refrigerator (1) to move slightly in the forward-backward direction (Y) and the left-right direction (X). FIGS. 5 and 6 are plan views showing examples of changes in the position of the refrigerator (1') in a conventional built-in refrigerator system (2').

[0073] Referring to FIG. 5, the refrigerator (1') may be offset, for example, toward the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'). Then, when the refrigerator (1') is used, such as when opening and closing the door (20'), the refrigerator (1') may shake, causing the side wall (10S1') of the refrigerator (1') to interfere with the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), resulting in damage to the side wall (10S1') of the refrigerator (1') and / or the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'). In addition, a component protruding from the side wall (10S1') of the refrigerator (1') may interfere with the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), resulting in damage to the protruding component. In addition, as indicated by reference numeral 22', when opening the door (20') adjacent to the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), the door (20') may interfere with the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), so that the door (20') may not open properly or the door (20') and / or the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3') may be damaged.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 6, the refrigerator (1') may be rotated. For example, the refrigerator (1') may be rotated so that the right side of the front of the refrigerator (1') approaches the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), and the left side of the rear of the refrigerator (1') approaches the side wall (310S2') of the cabinet (3'). Then, when the refrigerator (1') is used, such as when opening and closing the door (20'), the refrigerator (1') shakes, so that the side wall (10S1') (10S2') of the refrigerator (1') and the side wall (310S1') (310S2') of the cabinet (3') interfere with each other, and the side wall (10S1') (10S2') of the refrigerator (1') and / or the side wall (310S1') (310S2') of the cabinet (3') may be damaged. The protruding parts on the side (10S1') (10S2') of the refrigerator (1') may come into contact with the side wall (310S1') (310S2') of the cabinet (3'), causing damage to the protruding parts. In addition, as indicated by reference numeral 23', when opening the door (20') adjacent to the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), the door (20') may interfere with the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3'), causing the door (20') not to open properly or the door (20') and / or the side wall (310S1') of the cabinet (3') may be damaged.

[0075] In addition, although not shown in the drawing, the side (10S1') (10S2') of the refrigerator (1') and the side wall (310S1') (310S2') of the cabinet (3') may interfere with each other during the process of moving the refrigerator (1') backward to install it in the installation space (S') of the cabinet (3').

[0076] The aforementioned problems may also occur due to deformation of the cabinet (3') over time.

[0077] In consideration of these points, referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the refrigerator (1) according to the present embodiment has one or more stopper blocks (200). The stopper block (200) may be installed on at least one of the side surfaces (10S) of the main body (10). The stopper block (200) may be provided together with the refrigerator (1) so as to be installed on at least one of the side surfaces (10S) of the main body (10).

[0078] In the present embodiment, a stopper block (200) is installed on each of the side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10). The stopper block (200) can be installed on each of the side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10) in various ways. In the present embodiment, the stopper block (200) is bonded to each of the side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the stopper block (200) can be installed on each of the side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10) in various ways, such as fastening or snap-fit ​​coupling.

[0079] The material of the stopper block (200) is not particularly limited. For example, the stopper block (200) may be formed of a plastic material. For example, at least a portion of the stopper block (200) may have elasticity. The installation positions of, for example, two stopper blocks (200) installed on the side surfaces (10S1) and (10S2) of the main body (10) may be symmetrical in the left-right direction (X).

[0080] The stopper block (200) may have a thickness that allows a gap (SG) to be secured between the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200) is installed on each of the side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10).

[0081] The position and number of the stopper blocks (200) are not particularly limited. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the stopper blocks (200) may be installed near the hinges (21) of the doors (20). The stopper blocks (200) may be installed near the center of the main body (10) in the vertical direction (Z). For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 in which four doors (20) are arranged in a 2×2 configuration in the vertical direction (Z) and the left-right direction (X), the stopper blocks (200) may be installed at the center of the two doors (20) arranged vertically. In other words, among the four hinges (21) arranged in the vertical direction (Z) adjacent to the side (10S1), the two hinges (21) in the middle are positioned adjacent to each other, and the stopper block (200) can be installed on the side (10S1) adjacent to the two hinges (21) in the middle. In addition, among the four hinges (21) arranged in the vertical direction (Z) adjacent to the side (10S2), the two hinges (21) in the middle are positioned adjacent to each other, and the stopper block (200) can be installed on the side (10S2) adjacent to the two hinges (21) in the middle. The length (200H) of the stopper block (200), i.e., the length in the vertical direction (Z), can be approximately 30 to 40% of the height (1H) of the main body (10). However, the number and installation positions of the stopper blocks (200) installed on each side (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10) are not limited thereto. Various installation examples of the stopper blocks (200) will be described later.

[0082] The stopper block (200) may be installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10). The stopper block (200) may be provided together with the refrigerator (1) and may be installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10) before installing the refrigerator (1) in the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3). With one or more stopper blocks (200) installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10), the refrigerator (1) can be pushed forward and backward to be inserted into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3). Since the stopper block (200) acts as a guide, interference between the refrigerator (1) and the cabinet (3) can be reduced during the process of inserting the refrigerator (1) into the installation space (S), and the refrigerator (1) can be easily inserted into the installation space (S). When the refrigerator (1) is installed in the installation space (S), the stopper block (200) is interposed between the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3). Therefore, a uniform gap (SG) can be secured between the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3), so that the quality of the interior design can be maintained. The gap (SG) can secure a space for air flow for heat exchange with the components of the cold air supply device installed in the mechanical room of the refrigerator (1), so that the dispersion of energy consumption according to the installation position of the refrigerator (1) can be reduced. In addition, even if force is applied to the refrigerator (1) in the left-right direction (X) or the front-back direction (Y) during the process of opening and closing the door (20), the change in the position of the refrigerator (1) is restricted by the stopper block (200), so that the refrigerator (1) can be maintained in the installation position, and the gap (SG) can be stably secured. Accordingly, the door (20) can be stably opened and closed without interference with the cabinet (3), and the risk of damage due to interference of protruding parts with the cabinet (3) can be reduced. In addition, since the positional stability within the installation space (S) of the refrigerator (1) is secured, the elegance of the interior design can be maintained.

[0083] In this way, according to the refrigerator (1) and built-in refrigerator system (2) according to the present disclosure, by adopting a stopper block (200) having a simple structure and low cost, the stable installation position of the built-in refrigerator (1) can be maintained and usability can be secured.

[0084] Hereinafter, in describing various embodiments of the refrigerator (1), the side surfaces (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10) are collectively referred to as side surfaces (10S), and the side walls (310S1) (310S2) of the cabinet (3) are collectively referred to as side walls (310S).

[0085] The installation position, number, shape, etc. of the stopper block are not limited to the example illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator (1) showing an example of the installation position of the stopper block. Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator (1) showing an example of the installation position of the stopper block. Referring to Fig. 7, a plurality of stopper blocks, for example, two stopper blocks (200a) (200b), may be installed on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The stopper block (200a) is installed near the hinge (21). The installation form of the stopper block (200a) is the same as the installation form of the stopper block (200) illustrated in Fig. 1. By this, a gap (SG) is secured between the side (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) near the door (20), enabling stable operation of the door (20). A ventilation part (30) is provided on the side (10S) of the refrigerator (1) to communicate the aforementioned machine room with the outside. A stopper block (200b) can be installed adjacent to the ventilation part (30). By this, an air flow path can be secured between the ventilation part (30) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3).

[0086] Fig. 8 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator (1) showing an example of an installation position of a stopper block. Fig. 8 is different from Fig. 7 in that a stopper block (200c) is additionally installed. Duplicate descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be mainly described. Referring to Fig. 8, a stopper block (200c) is additionally installed adjacent to the rear edge (10ER) of the side (10S). The stopper block (200c) may be installed adjacent to the upper edge (10EU) of the rear edge (10ER) of the side (10S). Accordingly, when the refrigerator (1) is installed in the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3), the rear edge (10ER) of the side (10S) can be prevented from interfering with the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3). In addition, after the refrigerator (1) is installed in the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3), a positional offset due to shaking of the refrigerator (1) can be reduced. Additionally, a uniform gap (SG) can be secured in the front-back direction (Y) between the side (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3).

[0087] Fig. 9 is a schematic side view of a refrigerator (1) showing an example of the installation position of the stopper block. Fig. 9 is different from Fig. 8 in that the stopper block (200a) is divided into three stopper blocks (200d) (200e) (200f), and overlapping descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be mainly described. Referring to Fig. 9, the three stopper blocks (200d) (200e) (200f) are installed near the front edge (10EF) on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10), that is, near the hinge (21) of the door (20). For example, when four doors (20) are arranged in a 2×2 configuration in the vertical direction (Z) and the left-right direction (X), four hinges (21) are installed in the vertical direction adjacent to the front edge (10EF) of the side surface (10S). Accordingly, three stopper blocks (200d) (200e) (200f) can be installed so as to be arranged in the vertical direction (Z) adjacent to the front edge (10EF) of the side surface (10S). That is, the stopper block (200d) can be installed near the uppermost hinge (21), the stopper block (200e) can be installed near the central hinge (not shown), and the stopper block (200f) can be installed near the lowermost hinge (not shown). As a result, a gap (SG) is secured between the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) near the door (20), thereby enabling stable operation of the door (20). The stopper block (200d) (200e) (200f) has a shorter length than the stopper block (200a) illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, thereby enabling reduction in material costs. In addition, it has a wider protection area in the vertical direction than the stopper block (200a) illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, thereby enabling greater effectiveness in terms of positional stability and collision prevention of the refrigerator (1).

[0088] Two stopper blocks (200b) (200c) can be installed adjacent to the rear edge (10ER) of the side (10S). As a result, the rear edge (10ER) of the side (10S) can be prevented from interfering with the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) during the process of installing the refrigerator (1) in the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3). In addition, after the refrigerator (1) is installed in the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3), the positional offset due to shaking of the refrigerator (1) can be reduced. For example, the two stopper blocks (200b) (200c) can be installed so as to be arranged in the vertical direction (Z) adjacent to the rear edge (10ER). The stopper block (200b) can be installed adjacent to the rear edge (10ER) and the lower edge (10EB) of the side (10S), and the stopper block (200c) can be installed adjacent to the rear edge (10ER) and the upper edge (10EU) of the side (10S). The stopper block (200b) is arranged adjacent to the ventilation portion (30).

[0089] The refrigerator (1) may have a protruding member having a protruding portion that partially protrudes from the side surface (10S). Examples of the protruding member may vary. For example, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the hinge cover (22) covering the uppermost hinge (21) may have a protruding portion (22a) that partially protrudes from the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The hinge cover (22) is an example of the protruding member. Referring to FIG. 9, a stopper block (200d) may be installed near the protruding portion (22a) of the hinge cover (22) on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). As a result, damage to the hinge cover (22) due to interference with the cabinet (3) during the process of installing the refrigerator (1) in the installation space (S) can be prevented.

[0090] The number of stopper blocks, installation positions, etc. are not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above. In order to evenly distribute the force applied to the refrigerator (1) during use of the refrigerator (1), prevent offset of the refrigerator (1), and secure positional stability of the refrigerator (1), an appropriate number of stopper blocks may be installed at appropriate positions on the side (10S) of the main body (10).

[0091] The refrigerator (1) may be provided with a position indicator that indicates the installation position of the stopper block (200). This allows the stopper block (200) to be installed in an appropriate position, thereby reducing installation time. The position indicator may be provided, for example, on a side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The position indicator may be implemented in various forms. FIGS. 10 and 11 are partial perspective views showing embodiments of the position indicator.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 10, the position indicator (250) can be implemented by a recessed shape provided on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) in accordance with the shape of the stopper block (200). For example, the position indicator (250) can be formed concavely on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) as illustrated in FIG. 10, or convexly on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) although not illustrated in the drawing.

[0093] Referring to Fig. 11, the position indicator (250) can be implemented by a marking provided on the side (10S) of the main body (10) in accordance with the shape of the stopper block (200). The marking can be implemented by, for example, printing, engraving, a sticker, etc.

[0094] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stopper block (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 12, the stopper block (200) may have a mounting surface (201) coupled to a side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and a guide surface (202) which is an opposite surface of the mounting surface (201). The stopper block (200) is installed on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). For example, the mounting surface (201) of the stopper block (200) may be coupled to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) by various methods such as adhesion, fastening, and snap-pot. In the present embodiment, the stopper block (200) is adhered to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). For example, the mounting surface (201) of the stopper block (200) can be adhered to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) by an adhesive member (230). The guide surface (202) can have an inclined surface (202a) whose distance from the mounting surface (201) decreases as it goes in the forward-backward direction (Y) of the refrigerator (1), that is, the installation direction (Y1). As a result, the refrigerator (1) can be easily pushed into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3). The guide surface (202) can further have an inclined surface (202b) whose distance from the mounting surface (201) decreases as it goes in the opposite direction (Y2) of the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1). As a result, the refrigerator (1) can be easily pushed into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3) or taken out from the installation space (S). The inclined surfaces (202a) (202b) may be flat or curved. The stopper block (200) may have a thickness (200T) that can maintain a gap (SG) between the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200) is installed on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The thickness (200T) of the stopper block (200) may be determined so as to secure the gap (SG) by taking into account the thickness of an adhesive member (230), for example, a double-sided tape, for adhering the stopper block (200) to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The adhesive member (230) may be provided separately from the stopper block (200).As an example, the adhesive member (230) may be provided attached to the mounting surface (201) of the stopper block (200). In this case, the stopper block (200) may include the adhesive member (230). The thickness (200T) of the stopper block (200) may be determined according to the width of the installation space (S). As a non-limiting example, the thickness (200T) of the stopper block (200) may be, for example, 2 mm to 6 mm.

[0095] The material of the stopper block (200) is not particularly limited. As an example, the stopper block (200) may be formed of plastic. For example, the stopper block (200) may be formed of a polymer compound such as PE, PS, PC, ABS, PP, PVC, an aluminum extrusion material, etc. As an example, at least a portion of the stopper block (200) may have elasticity. For example, the stopper block (200) may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber. In the process of inserting the refrigerator (1) into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3), the stopper block (200) may come into contact with the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3). At this time, the stopper block (200) having elasticity may be elastically deformed, so that damage to the cabinet (300) may be reduced or prevented.

[0096] When the refrigerator (1) is inserted into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3), the guide surface (202) of the stopper block (200) can be spaced apart from the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3). However, this is not limited thereto. For example, when the stopper block (200) has elasticity, when the refrigerator (1) is inserted into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3), the guide surface (202) of the stopper block (200) can come into contact with the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3), and as illustrated in FIG. 13, the stopper block (200) can be pressed against the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) and be partially compressed.

[0097] Fig. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block (200-1). The stopper block (200-1) illustrated in Fig. 14 has a different shape of the guide surface (202-1) compared to the stopper block (200) illustrated in Fig. 12. Therefore, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals and duplicate descriptions are omitted. Referring to Fig. 14, the stopper block (200-1) has a guide surface (202-1). The guide surface (202-1) may have an inclined surface (202a) whose distance from the mounting surface (201) decreases as it goes toward the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1), and a flat surface (202c) whose distance from the mounting surface (201) is constant. The inclined surface (202a) may be a flat surface or a curved surface. The stopper block (200-1) may have a thickness (200T) such that a gap (SG) can be secured between the side (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200-1) is installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10).

[0098] Fig. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block (200-2). The stopper block (200-2) illustrated in Fig. 15 has a different shape of a guide surface (202-2) compared to the stopper block (200) illustrated in Fig. 12. Therefore, the same components are indicated by the same reference numerals and duplicate descriptions are omitted. Referring to Fig. 15, the stopper block (200-2) has a guide surface (202-2). The guide surface (202-2) is an inclined surface whose gap with the coupling surface (201) decreases as it goes in the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1). The guide surface (202-2) may be a flat surface or a curved surface. The stopper block (200-2) may have a thickness (200T) such that a gap (SG) can be secured between the side (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200-2) is installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10).

[0099] A stopper block having various thicknesses may be employed depending on the width of the refrigerator (1), the width of the cabinet (3), etc. To this end, the stopper block may be provided with a stopper pad installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10), and a stopper spacer coupled to the stopper pad and protruding in the opposite direction of the side (10S) from the stopper pad.

[0100] Fig. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block (200-3). Referring to Fig. 16, the stopper block (200-3) may include a stopper pad (210) installed on a side surface (10S) of the main body (10), and a stopper spacer (220) coupled to the stopper pad (210) so as to protrude in an opposite direction of the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The stopper pad (210) may have a mounting surface (211) installed on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). The stopper spacer (220) may have a guide surface (222). The stopper spacer (220) may be coupled to the stopper pad (210) such that the guide surface (222) is an opposite surface of the mounting surface (211). As an example, the stopper pad (210) may have a first engagement surface (212) opposite the mounting surface (211). The stopper spacer (220) may have a second engagement surface (221) that is coupled to the first engagement surface (212) of the stopper pad (210). The guide surface (222) is the opposite surface of the second engagement surface (221).

[0101] The stopper pad (210) is coupled to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10). For example, the stopper pad (210) may be coupled to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) by various methods such as adhesion, fastening, and snap-pot. In the present embodiment, the stopper pad (210) is coupled to the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) by an adhesive member (230). The adhesive member (230) may be provided separately from the stopper block (200-3). In one embodiment, the adhesive member (230) may be provided in a state in which it is attached to the mounting surface (211) of the stopper block (200-3). In this case, the stopper block (200-3) may include the adhesive member (230). The material of the stopper pad (210) is not particularly limited. For example, the stopper pad (210) may be formed of an elastic material such as plastic or rubber. The stopper pad (210) reinforces the rigidity of the adhesive member (230) so that the stopper block (200-3) can be in close contact with the side (10S) of the main body (10).

[0102] The stopper spacer (220) can be coupled to the first coupling surface (212) of the stopper pad (210). The stopper spacer (220) can have a second coupling surface (221) coupled to the first coupling surface (212) of the stopper pad (210) and a guide surface (222) which is the opposite surface of the second coupling surface (221). For example, the stopper spacer (220) can be coupled to the stopper pad (210) by various methods such as adhesion, fastening, and snap-pot. In the present embodiment, the stopper spacer (220) is adhered to the stopper pad (210). For this purpose, although not shown in the drawing, an adhesive layer may be provided on either the first coupling surface (212) of the stopper pad (210) or the second coupling surface (221) of the stopper spacer (220). The guide surface (222) may be provided with an inclined surface (222a) whose distance from the second coupling surface (221) decreases as it goes in the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1). As a result, the refrigerator (1) can be easily pushed into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3). The guide surface (222) may further be provided with an inclined surface (222b) whose distance from the second coupling surface (221) decreases as it goes in the opposite direction (Y2) to the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1). As a result, the refrigerator (1) can be easily pushed into the installation space (S) of the cabinet (3) or taken out from the installation space (S). The inclined surfaces (222a)(222b) may be flat or curved. The stopper block (200) may have a thickness (200T) such that a gap (SG) can be secured between the side (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200) is installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10).

[0103] The material of the stopper spacer (220) is not particularly limited. For example, the stopper spacer (220) may be formed of various plastic materials. For example, the stopper block (200) may be formed of a polymer compound such as PE, PS, PC, ABS, PP, PVC, or an aluminum extrusion material. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the stopper spacer (220) may have elasticity. For example, the stopper spacer (220) may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber.

[0104] According to this configuration, the thickness (200T) of the stopper block (200-3) is the sum of the first thickness (210T) of the stopper pad (210) and the second thickness (220T) of the stopper spacer (220). At least one of the stopper pad (210) and the stopper spacer (220) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, one stopper pad (210) and multiple stopper spacers (220), or multiple stopper pads (210) and one stopper spacer (220), or multiple stopper pads (210) and multiple stopper spacers (220) may be provided. By combining an appropriate number of stopper pads (210) and stopper spacers (220), a stopper block (200-3) having an appropriate thickness (200T) can be implemented according to the width of the refrigerator (1), the width of the cabinet (3), etc. The refrigerator (1) can include an appropriate number of stopper pads (210) and stopper spacers (220) according to the number of stopper blocks (200-3) applied.

[0105] The stopper pad (210) and the stopper spacer (220) may be joined to each other, for example, by an adhesive layer. The stopper block (200-3) may have a separation prevention part having a complementary interlocking shape to prevent the stopper pad (210) and the stopper spacer (220) from being separated from each other.

[0106] Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a separation prevention unit. Referring to Fig. 17, the separation prevention unit (240) may include a first shape portion (241) and a second shape portion (242) of complementary shapes that are respectively provided on a stopper pad (210) and a stopper spacer (220) and interlock with each other. For example, the first shape portion (241) may be a concave portion and the second shape portion (242) may be a convex portion inserted into the concave portion, or vice versa. By connecting the first shape portion (241) and the second shape portion (242) to each other, the stopper pad (210) and the stopper spacer (220) do not come off during the process of installing the refrigerator (1).

[0107] Although Fig. 17 illustrates a detachment prevention unit (240) having a pair of first and second shaped portions (241)(242), the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the detachment prevention unit (240) may be implemented by two or more pairs of first and second shaped portions (241)(242). Fig. 18 is a schematic configuration diagram of one embodiment of the detachment prevention unit (240). As illustrated in Fig. 18, for example, one first and second shaped portion (241)(242) may be provided for each of the stopper pad (210) and the stopper spacer (220).

[0108] Fig. 19 shows an example of a combination of two stopper pads (210a) (210b) and one stopper spacer (220). Referring to Fig. 19, each of the two stopper pads (210a) (210b) has a first shaped portion (241) and a second shaped portion (242). The stopper spacer (220) has a first shaped portion (241) and a second shaped portion (242). The two stopper pads (210a) (210b) may have substantially the same shape. That is, the stopper pad (210b) may have a shape that is obtained by flipping or rotating the stopper pad (210a). The two stopper pads (210a) (210b) are coupled to each other so that the second shaped portion (242) and the first shaped portion (241) are interlocked with each other. For example, two stopper pads (210a) (210b) can be bonded to each other by an adhesive layer not shown. The second shaped portion (242) of the stopper pad (210a) and the first shaped portion (241) of the stopper pad (210b) are interlocked with each other, thereby functioning as a second separation prevention portion (240a) that prevents the stopper pads (210a) (210b) from being separated from each other. Next, the stopper pad (210b) and the stopper spacer (220) are bonded to each other so that the first shaped portion (241) and the second shaped portion (242) are interlocked with each other. For example, the stopper pad (210b) and the stopper spacer (220) can be bonded to each other by an adhesive layer not shown. In this way, a separation prevention part (240) that prevents the stopper pad (210b) and the stopper spacer (220) from being separated from each other can be implemented. The thicknesses of the stopper pads (210a) (210b) may be the same or different. In Fig. 14, two stopper pads (210a) (210b) are laminated, but three or more stopper pads may be laminated.

[0109] Table 1 shows examples of thicknesses of a combinable stopper block (200-3) when two stopper pads (210) each having a thickness (210T) of 0.5 mm, two stopper pads (210) each having a thickness (210T) of 0.7 mm, one stopper spacer (220) each having a thickness (220T) of 2.25 mm, and a double-sided tape having a thickness of 0.4 mm are used as the adhesive member (230).

[0110] Stopper PadThickness of the stopper block that can be implemented (mm)Including the thickness of the double-sided tape (mm)Unused2.252.651×0.5mm2.753.151×0.7mm2.953.352×0.5mm3.253.651×0.5mm + 1×0.7mm3.453.852×0.7mm3.654.05

[0111] The shape of the stopper spacer is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 16. FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block (200-4). The stopper block (200-4) illustrated in FIG. 20 has a different shape of the stopper spacer (220-4) compared to the stopper block (200-3) illustrated in FIG. 16. Therefore, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals and duplicate descriptions are omitted. Referring to FIG. 20, the stopper spacer (220-4) has a guide surface (222-4). The guide surface (222-4) may have an inclined surface (222a) whose distance from the second coupling surface (221) decreases as it goes toward the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1), and a flat surface (222c) whose distance from the second coupling surface (221) is constant. The inclined surface (222a) may be flat or curved. The stopper block (200-4) may have a thickness (200T) that allows a gap (SG) to be secured between the side surface (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200-4) is installed on the side surface (10S) of the main body (10).

[0112] Fig. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stopper block (200-5). The stopper block (200-5) illustrated in Fig. 21 has a different shape of the guide surface (222-5) compared to the stopper block (200-3) illustrated in Fig. 16. Therefore, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals and duplicate descriptions are omitted. Referring to Fig. 21, the stopper block (200-5) has a guide surface (222-5). The guide surface (222-5) is an inclined surface whose distance from the mounting surface (211) decreases as it goes in the installation direction (Y1) of the refrigerator (1). The guide surface (222-5) may be a flat surface or a curved surface. The stopper block (200-5) may have a thickness (200T) such that a gap (SG) can be secured between the side (10S) of the main body (10) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) when the stopper block (200-5) is installed on the side (10S) of the main body (10).

[0113] In the above-described embodiments, the side surface (10S) of the refrigerator (1) has been described as the side surface of the outer surface (100) forming the exterior of the main body (10), but the side surface (10S) of the refrigerator (1) is not limited thereto. Fig. 22 is a schematic partial perspective view of one embodiment of the refrigerator (1). Fig. 22 is an exemplary partial perspective view of the lower right end of the refrigerator (1). Referring to Fig. 22, the bracket (40) may extend from the lower portion of the main body (10) of the refrigerator (1) to partially cover the side surface (10S) and may have a protrusion (41) protruding from the side surface (10S). The side surface (10S) of the refrigerator (1) may encompass the surface of the protrusion (41). The stopper block (200-6) may be installed, for example, adhered, to the surface of the protrusion (41) of the bracket (40). In this case, the thickness of the stopper block (200-6) can be determined so that an appropriate gap (SG) can be secured between the side (10S) of the refrigerator (1) and the side wall (310S) of the cabinet (3) by taking into account the thickness of the protrusion (41).

[0114] Fig. 23 is a schematic partial perspective view of one embodiment of a refrigerator (1). Fig. 23 is an exemplary partial perspective view of the lower right side of the refrigerator (1). Referring to Fig. 23, a bracket (40) may extend from the lower portion of the main body (10) of the refrigerator (1) to partially cover the side surface (10S) and may have a protrusion (41) protruding from the side surface (10S). A stopper block (200-7) may extend from the protrusion (41) and be formed integrally with the bracket (40).

[0115] The bracket (40) illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23 is an example of a protruding member having the aforementioned protrusion.

[0116] In the above-described embodiments, the number and arrangement of the stopper blocks on both sides (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10) are the same, but are not limited thereto. At least one of the number and arrangement of the stopper blocks on both sides (10S1) (10S2) of the main body (10) may be different.

[0117] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a main body having at least one storage compartment; at least one door connected to the main body by a hinge to open and close the storage compartment; at least one stopper block having a mounting surface that can be coupled to a widthwise side surface of the main body and a guide surface that is an opposite surface of the mounting surface, and protruding from the side surface when coupled to the side surface of the main body.

[0118] As an example, the guide surface may have a sloped surface in which the gap with the mounting surface becomes smaller as it moves in the front-back direction of the main body.

[0119] As an example, at least a portion of the stopper block may be elastic.

[0120] As an example, the stopper block may be installed near the hinge.

[0121] As an example, the stopper block is installed in the central portion of the upper and lower direction of the main body near the hinge, and the length of the stopper block may be 30 to 40% of the height of the main body.

[0122] As one embodiment, the refrigerator includes a protruding member having a protrusion protruding from the side of the main body, and the stopper block can be installed near the protrusion.

[0123] As an example, the stopper block may be formed integrally with the protruding member.

[0124] As an example, a ventilation part may be provided on the side of the main body, and the stopper block may be installed near the ventilation part.

[0125] As an example, the stopper blocks may be installed near the front edge and the rear edge of the side, respectively.

[0126] As an example, a position indicator may be provided on the side of the main body to indicate the installation position of the stopper block.

[0127] As one embodiment, the stopper block may include: a stopper pad having the mounting surface; a stopper spacer having the guide surface and coupled to the stopper pad such that the guide surface is opposite the mounting surface.

[0128] As an example, the stopper spacer may be elastic.

[0129] As an example, the stopper pad may have a first thickness, and the stopper spacer may have a second thickness greater than the first thickness.

[0130] As an example, the stopper block may include a separation prevention member having a shape that complementarily interlocks with the stopper pad and the stopper spacer to prevent them from being separated from each other.

[0131] A built-in refrigerator system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a cabinet defining an installation space; a refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 14 installed in the installation space; wherein the stopper block can maintain a gap between a side of the refrigerator and a side wall of the cabinet.

[0132] According to the aforementioned refrigerator and the built-in refrigerator system employing it, the use of a stopper block ensures a stable and uniform gap between the cabinet and the refrigerator. Furthermore, the use of the stopper block reduces or prevents offset and / or rotation of the refrigerator due to forces applied to the refrigerator during use, thereby reducing or preventing damage to the refrigerator and cabinet.

[0133] The technical effects to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical effects mentioned above, and other technical effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains from the description of this document.

[0134] As described above, although the built-in refrigerator of the present disclosure and the built-in refrigerator system employing the same have been described through limited embodiments and drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within a scope that does not deviate from the spirit thereof.

Claims

1. A main body (10) having at least one storage room (11); At least one door (20) connected to the main body by a hinge (21) to open and close the storage room; A refrigerator comprising: a mounting surface (201) that can be coupled to a side surface (10S) in the width direction of the main body; and a guide surface (202) that is the opposite side of the mounting surface; and at least one stopper block (200) that protrudes from the side surface when coupled to the side surface of the main body.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the guide surface (202) has an inclined surface (202a) whose gap with the mounting surface becomes smaller as it moves in the front-back direction of the main body.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, A refrigerator wherein at least a portion of the stopper block has elasticity.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A refrigerator wherein the above stopper block is installed near the hinge.

5. In paragraph 4, The above stopper block is installed in the central part of the upper and lower direction of the main body near the hinge, A refrigerator in which the length (200H) of the above stopper block is 30 to 40% of the height (1H) of the above body.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, It includes a protruding member (22) having a protrusion (22a) protruding from the side of the main body; A refrigerator in which the above stopper block is installed near the above protrusion.

7. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator in which the above stopper block is formed integrally with the above protruding member.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, A ventilation part (30) is provided on the side of the above body, The above stopper block is a refrigerator installed near the ventilation part.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, A refrigerator in which the above stopper blocks are installed near the front edge (10EF) and the rear edge (10ER) of the side, respectively.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, A refrigerator having a position indicator (250) provided on the side of the main body to indicate the installation position of the stopper block.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above stopper block (200-3) is A stopper pad (210) having the above mounting surface; A refrigerator comprising a stopper spacer (220) having the above guide surface and being coupled to the stopper pad so that the guide surface is the opposite surface of the mounting surface.

12. In paragraph 11, The above stopper spacer is a refrigerator having elasticity.

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, The above stopper pad has a first thickness (210T), A refrigerator in which the above stopper spacer has a second thickness (220T) greater than the first thickness.

14. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, A refrigerator having a stopper block having a separation prevention part (240) having a shape that complementarily interlocks with the stopper pad and the stopper spacer so that they do not separate from each other.

15. Cabinet (3) defining the installation space (S); A refrigerator (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, which is installed in the above installation space; The above stopper block is a built-in refrigerator system that maintains a gap between the side of the refrigerator and the side wall of the cabinet.

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