Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body; storage chambers which are formed inside the main body, and which include a first storage chamber and a second storage chamber partitioned from the first storage chamber; and a first heat exchanger provided in the first storage chamber so as to cool the first storage chamber, and a second heat exchanger provided in the second storage chamber so as to cool the second storage chamber. In addition, the refrigerator includes: a first Peltier module provided in a space that excludes the storage chamber; a second Peltier module provided in the second storage chamber; and a pipe for supplying a cooling liquid to the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first Peltier module and the second Peltier module. The pipe includes: a first pipe for supplying, to the first heat exchanger, the cooling liquid cooled as the first Peltier module has absorbed heat; a second pipe for supplying, to the second Peltier module, the cooling liquid having absorbed the heat emitted from the first heat exchanger; and a third pipe for collecting, in the first Peltier module, the cooling liquid having absorbed the heat emitted from the second Peltier module.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator that cools a storage compartment using a Peltier module.

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

[0003] A refrigerator's cooling device can utilize a Peltier module, which generates heat and cooling through the Peltier effect. The Peltier effect is a phenomenon in which heat flow is induced by the flow of electric current.

[0004] A Peltier module may include a thermoelectric element having a heat-absorbing surface and a heat-generating surface, and when current is applied, heat is transferred from the heat-absorbing surface to the heat-generating surface, thereby generating a temperature difference between the two surfaces. In other words, heat is absorbed from the heat-absorbing surface, and the absorbed heat can be transferred to the heat-generating surface and released. Therefore, the storage compartment can be cooled by absorbing heat from the storage compartment through the heat-absorbing surface.

[0005] A cold side plate that is designed to effectively absorb heat from the storage chamber can be attached to the heat-absorbing surface, and a hot side plate that is designed to effectively release the absorbed heat can be attached to the heat-generating surface.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator that cools both a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment included in a storage compartment through a Peltier module.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of increasing the coefficient of performance (COP) of a Peltier module, including a structure that exchanges heat with a Peltier module using a water cooling method.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a structure that minimizes the inflow of outside air into a storage compartment.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a structure having increased space utilization.

[0010] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0011] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a main body, a storage compartment formed inside the main body, the storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment partitioned from the first storage compartment. The refrigerator comprises a first heat exchanger installed in the first storage compartment to cool the first storage compartment, and a second heat exchanger installed in the second storage compartment to cool the second storage compartment. The refrigerator comprises a first Peltier module installed in a space other than the storage compartment, and a second Peltier module installed in the second storage compartment. The refrigerator comprises a pipe provided to supply a coolant to the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first Peltier module, and the second Peltier module. The pipe comprises a first pipe for supplying a coolant cooled by absorbing heat from the first Peltier module to the first heat exchanger. The pipe comprises a second pipe for supplying a coolant that has absorbed heat released by the first heat exchanger to the second Peltier module. The above pipe includes a third pipe that returns the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat emitted by the second Peltier module to the first Peltier module.

[0012] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a main body, a storage room formed inside the main body, the storage room including a first storage room and a second storage room partitioned from the first storage room. The refrigerator comprises a first heat exchanger installed in the first storage room to cool the first storage room and a second heat exchanger installed in the second storage room to cool the second storage room. The refrigerator comprises a first Peltier module installed in a space other than the storage room and a second Peltier module installed in the second storage room. The refrigerator comprises a pipe configured to supply a cooling liquid to the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first Peltier module, and the second Peltier module. The first Peltier module and the second Peltier module each include a thermoelectric element including a heat-absorbing surface that absorbs heat and a heat-generating surface that releases the absorbed heat, a cold side plate that contacts the heat-absorbing surface to exchange heat with the heat-absorbing surface, and a hot side plate that contacts the heat-generating surface to exchange heat with the heat-generating surface. The pipe includes a first pipe that is connected from the cold side plate of the first Peltier module to the first heat exchanger. The pipe includes a second pipe that is connected from the first heat exchanger to the hot side plate of the second Peltier module. The pipe includes a third pipe that is connected from the hot side plate of the second Peltier module to the cold side plate of the first Peltier module.

[0013] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a main body, a storage compartment formed inside the main body, the storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment partitioned from the first storage compartment. The refrigerator comprises a first heat exchanger installed in the first storage compartment to cool the first storage compartment, and a second heat exchanger installed in the second storage compartment to cool the second storage compartment. The refrigerator comprises a first Peltier module installed in a space other than the storage compartment, and a second Peltier module installed in the second storage compartment. The refrigerator comprises a pipe provided to supply a coolant to the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first Peltier module, and the second Peltier module. The pipe comprises a first pipe extending from the first Peltier module to the first heat exchanger to supply a coolant cooled by the first Peltier module absorbing heat to the first heat exchanger. The pipe includes a second pipe extending from the first heat exchanger to the second Peltier module to supply the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat released by the first heat exchanger to the second Peltier module. The pipe includes a third pipe extending from the second Peltier module to the first Peltier module to recover the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat released by the second Peltier module to the first Peltier module.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the flow of coolant in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of area A of Figure 2.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a refrigerator according to one embodiment, in which a Peltier module and a pipe are connected and a cooling liquid flows.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a cross-section of an unfolded module in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a Peltier module in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0020] 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.

[0021] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0025] 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).

[0026] 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.

[0027] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0031] The “body” may include an inner case, an outer case placed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0032] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the main body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0033] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0034] 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.

[0035] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of items.

[0036] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator includes two or more storage compartments, each compartment may have a different purpose and be maintained at different temperatures. To achieve this, each storage compartment may be separated from the others by a partition wall containing insulation.

[0037] The storage room may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a “refrigerator,” a “freezer,” or a “variable temperature room,” which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. 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 mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. “Freezing” may mean cooling items to freeze them or keep them frozen, and for example, a freezer may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user’s option or not.

[0038] In addition to being called “refrigerator,” “freezer,” and “variable temperature room,” a storage room can also be called by various other names, such as “vegetable room,” “fresh room,” “cooling room,” and “ice room.” The terms “refrigerator,” “freezer,” and “variable temperature room” used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms with corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0039] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment. The door may be configured to open and close one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be configured to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed on the front of the main body in a pivotal or sliding manner.

[0040] The “door” may be configured to seal the storage compartment when the door is closed. The door may include insulation, similar to the body, to insulate the storage compartment when the door is closed.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the back of the door and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided on the interior of these.

[0042] The door inner panel may be provided with a gasket that seals the storage compartment by contacting the front of the body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0043] In one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0044] Depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment, refrigerators can be classified into French door type, side-by-side type, bottom mounted freezer (BMF), top mounted freezer (TMF), or single-door refrigerator.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0046] A “cold air supply device” may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0047] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment by generating heat and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged.

[0049] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be connected to the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0050] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without having to open the door.

[0051] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray configured to store water, an ice-separating device configured to separate ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket configured to store ice produced in the ice-making tray.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0053] The “control unit” may include a memory that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc. according to the program and / or data memorized in the memory.

[0054] Memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. Memory can store temporary data generated during the generation of control signals for controlling components within the refrigerator. Memory may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0055] The processor controls the overall operation of the refrigerator. The processor can control the components of the refrigerator by executing programs stored in memory. The processor may include a separate NPU that performs the operations of an artificial intelligence model. The processor may also include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. The processor may generate control signals to control the operation of the cooling system. For example, the processor may receive temperature information about the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cooling system based on the temperature information.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components within the refrigerator, and may include multiple processors and multiple memories that individually control the components within the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cooling device based on the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately include a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface based on user input.

[0059] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, via a nearby access point (AP). The AP can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator or user device can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0060] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0061] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0062] Hereinafter, refrigerators according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0063] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the flow of coolant in a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 2.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator (1) includes a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) provided so that the front is open inside the main body (10), and a door (30) rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the open front of the storage compartment (20).

[0065] The main body (10) includes an inner case (11) forming a storage room (20) and an outer case (13) forming an outer appearance, and an insulating material (15) is foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (13) to prevent cold air from leaking out of the storage room (20).

[0066] The storage room (20) is partitioned into a freezer room (21), which is an upper storage room (20), and a refrigerator room (23), which is a lower storage room (20), by a partition wall, and a plurality of shelves (25, 60) are provided inside to store food, etc. by stacking them on the upper side, so that the freezer room (21) and the refrigerator room (23) can be partitioned into a plurality of sections, respectively. Hereinafter, the refrigerator room (23) and the freezer room (21) will be referred to and described as a first storage room (23) and a second storage room (21), respectively.

[0067] Additionally, a storage container (27) for storing food, etc. may be provided inside the storage room (20).

[0068] The freezer (21) and refrigerator (23) are opened and closed by a freezer door (31) and a refrigerator door (33) that are rotatably connected to the main body (10), respectively, and a plurality of door guards (35) that can store food, etc. can be installed on the back of the door (30).

[0069] For example, a heat exchanger (300) for cooling the storage room (20) may be arranged in the storage room (20). A first heat exchanger (310) may be installed in the first storage room (23). A second heat exchanger (320) may be installed in the second storage room (21). Each heat exchanger (300) may be arranged to exchange heat with a cooling liquid to cool the storage room (20) and supply cold air to the storage room (20).

[0070] A refrigerator (1) may include a Peltier module (100). The Peltier module (100) can absorb heat and release the absorbed heat through the Peltier effect, a phenomenon in which heat flow is induced by the flow of current. In other words, the phenomenon in which heat generation and cooling occur through the Peltier effect can be utilized as a means of supplying cold air to a storage room.

[0071] For example, a Peltier module may include a thermoelectric element having a heat-absorbing surface that absorbs heat and a heat-generating surface formed on the opposite surface of the heat-absorbing surface to release the heat absorbed by the heat-absorbing surface (see the first thermoelectric element in FIG. 6).

[0072] Additionally, the Peltier module may include a cold side plate connected to the heat absorbing surface to exchange heat with the heat absorbing surface, and a hot side plate connected to the heat generating surface to exchange heat with the heat generating surface. Since the cold side plate and the hot side plate are connected to the thermoelectric element, the heat absorbing and heating operations of the thermoelectric element can occur more effectively.

[0073] For example, the cold side plate may be positioned to contact the heat-absorbing surface, and the hot side plate may be positioned to contact the heat-generating surface. Hereinafter, a Peltier module according to one embodiment will be described in detail through drawings.

[0074] The Peltier module (100) may include a first Peltier module (110) and a second Peltier module (120). For example, the first Peltier module (110) may be installed in a space other than the storage room (20).

[0075] For example, the first Peltier module (110) may be installed in a space inside the main body (10) other than the storage room (20). For example, the space where the first Peltier module (110) is installed may be the machine room (24), but is not limited thereto, and a case where the first Peltier module (110) is installed outside (S) may also be considered.

[0076] The second Peltier module (120) can be installed in the second storage room (21). For example, the second Peltier module (120) can be connected to the second heat exchanger (320).

[0077] A refrigerator (1) may include a pipe (210) through which a coolant flows. The pipe (210) may be connected to a heat exchanger (300) or a Peltier module (100) so that the coolant may exchange heat with the heat exchanger (300) or the Peltier module (100). For example, the pipe (210) may be connected to a cold side plate and a hot side plate so that a thermoelectric element may exchange heat with the coolant flowing in the pipe (210).

[0078] The pipe (210) may include a first pipe (211) that connects the first Peltier module (110) and the first heat exchanger (310) to allow the cooling liquid to flow. For example, the first pipe (211) may be arranged to connect the first heat exchanger (310) from the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module. That is, one end of the first pipe (211) connected to the first Peltier module (110) may be connected to the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module.

[0079] The thermoelectric element (111) of the first Peltier module can absorb heat through the heat-absorbing surface of the first Peltier module (110) and flow the absorbed heat to the heat-generating surface of the first Peltier module (110). At this time, the heat absorbed from the heat-absorbing surface of the first Peltier module (110) may be the heat of the cooling liquid passing through the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module.

[0080] In other words, the heat absorbed by the thermoelectric element may be the heat of the coolant, which may mean that the heat exchange method between the thermoelectric element and the external (S) component is water-cooled.

[0081] For example, the amount of heat of the cooling liquid absorbed by the first Peltier module (110) can be calculated by the following equation.

[0082] Q = h * △T

[0083] Here, Q represents the amount of heat absorbed by the Peltier module (100) from the cooling liquid, and h may be the heat transfer coefficient of the cooling liquid. In addition, △T may represent the temperature difference between the two ends of the thermoelectric element (111) of the first Peltier module, i.e., the temperature difference between the heat-absorbing surface and the heat-generating surface.

[0084] When the amount of heat absorbed from the coolant passing through the first Peltier module (110) is constant, when heat is exchanged with the Peltier module (100) using the coolant in a water-cooling manner, △T can be made smaller than when heat is exchanged using an air-cooling method. This is because the heat transfer coefficient of the coolant is usually greater than the heat transfer coefficient of air.

[0085] For example, the COP (Coefficient of Performance) of the Peltier module (100) can be calculated using the following equation.

[0086] COP = QCOOLING POWER / PINPUT POWER = QC / P = QC / (QH - QC) = TC / △T

[0087] That is, when heat is exchanged in the Peltier module (100) by water cooling using a cooling liquid, △T decreases, which ultimately has the effect of increasing the COP of the Peltier module (100).

[0088] The coolant cooled to a first temperature (T1) by absorbing heat from the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module can be supplied to the first heat exchanger (310) through the first pipe (211). The first heat exchanger (310) can exchange heat with the cooled coolant and supply cold air to the first storage chamber (23). In this case, the coolant can be heated to a second temperature (T2) higher than the first temperature by absorbing heat released by the first heat exchanger (310).

[0089] The pipe (210) may include a second pipe (212) that connects the first heat exchanger (310) and the second Peltier module (120) to allow the cooling liquid to flow.

[0090] For example, the second pipe (212) may be arranged to connect the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module from the first heat exchanger (310). That is, one end of the second pipe (212) connected to the second Peltier module (120) may be connected to the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module.

[0091] The cooling liquid heated to a second temperature (T2) by absorbing the heat released by the first heat exchanger (310) can be supplied to the second Peltier module (120) through the second pipe (212). In this case, the cooling liquid can be heated to a third temperature (T3) higher than the second temperature (T2) by absorbing the heat released by the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module.

[0092] The pipe (210) may include a third pipe (213) that connects the second Peltier module (120) and the first Peltier module (110) to return the cooling liquid to the first Peltier module (110). For example, the third pipe (213) may be arranged to connect the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module to the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module.

[0093] That is, one end of the third pipe (213) connected to the second Peltier module (120) may be connected to the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module, and the other end of the third pipe (213) connected to the first Peltier module (110) may be connected to the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module. For example, one end of the second pipe (212) and one end of the third pipe (213) may be connected to the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module, respectively, so that they may be in communication with each other.

[0094] The coolant heated to a third temperature (T3) by absorbing the heat emitted from the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module can be recovered to the first Peltier module (110) through the third pipe (213). The coolant recovered to the first Peltier module (110) can be cooled by the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module and cooled again to the first temperature (T1).

[0095] The refrigerator (1) may include a third heat exchanger (330). The third heat exchanger (330) may be connected to the first Peltier module (110). For example, the third heat exchanger (330) may be placed in a space other than the storage room (20). For example, the space other than the storage room (20) may be a machine room (24). For example, the space other than the storage room (20) may be an external space (S).

[0096] For example, the third heat exchanger (330) can be connected to the hot side plate (113) of the first Peltier module.

[0097] The pipe (210) may include a fifth pipe (215) connecting the first Peltier module (110) and the third heat exchanger (330). The fifth pipe (215) may circulate a cooling liquid between the first Peltier module (110) and the third heat exchanger (330).

[0098] For example, the fifth pipe (215) may include a fifth pipe supply section (2151) that supplies a cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat emitted by the hot side plate (113) of the first Peltier module to the third heat exchanger (330). The cooling liquid supplied to the third heat exchanger (330) may be cooled by heat exchange with the outside air.

[0099] For example, the fifth pipe (215) may include a fifth pipe recovery section (2152) connecting the hot side plate (113) of the first Peltier module from the third heat exchanger (330). The coolant supplied to the first Peltier module (110) may be heated by absorbing heat from the hot side plate (113) of the first Peltier module.

[0100] For example, the second Peltier module (120) of the second storage room (21) may be connected to the second heat exchanger (320). More specifically, the pipe (210) may further include a fourth pipe (214) that circulates a cooling liquid between the second heat exchanger (320) and the second Peltier module (120).

[0101] For example, the fourth pipe (214) may include a fourth pipe supply portion (2141) that supplies the coolant cooled to a fourth temperature (T4) by absorbing heat from the second Peltier module (120) to the second heat exchanger (320). The fourth pipe supply portion (2141) may connect the second heat exchanger (320) from the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module. The coolant supplied to the second heat exchanger (320) may be heated to a fifth temperature (T5) through heat exchange with the second heat exchanger (320).

[0102] For example, the fourth pipe (214) may include a fourth pipe recovery unit (2142) that absorbs the heat emitted by the second heat exchanger (320) and recovers the coolant heated to a fifth temperature (T5) to the second Peltier module (120).

[0103] For example, the fourth pipe recovery unit (2142) can be connected from the second heat exchanger (320) to the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module.

[0104] The main body (10) of the refrigerator (1) may include a through hole (180) that connects the first storage compartment (23) and a space other than the first storage compartment (23). For example, the through hole (180) may be formed by penetrating an insulating material (18) that partitions the first storage compartment (23) and the machine room (24). For example, the through hole (180) may include a first through hole (181) and a second through hole (182).

[0105] For example, the first through hole (181) may be formed to connect the first storage room (23) and the machine room (24). For example, the first through hole (181) may be formed to connect the first storage room (23) and a space other than the first storage room (23).

[0106] The first pipe (211) can extend from a space other than the first storage room (23) to the first storage room (23) through the first through hole (181). Therefore, the first pipe (211) can connect the first Peltier module (110) installed in a space other than the first storage room (23) to the first heat exchanger (310) installed inside the first storage room (23).

[0107] The third pipe (213) can pass through the second through hole (182) to connect the second Peltier module (120) and the first Peltier module (110) to each other.

[0108] In the city, the third pipe (213) is shown as extending from the first storage room (23) to a space other than the first storage room (23), but this is merely an example, and it can also be assumed that the third pipe (213) is connected to the second Peltier module (120) and extends directly from the second storage room (21) to the outside (S). In this case, it goes without saying that the second through hole (182) can be formed at a location that connects the second storage room (21) and the outside (S).

[0109] The diameter (D3) of the first through hole (181) may be formed to correspond to the diameter (D1) of the first pipe (211). For example, the correspondence of the diameters may include a case where the diameters are identical.

[0110] The diameter (D4) of the second through hole (182) may be formed to correspond to the diameter (D2) of the third pipe (213). For example, the diameter (D1) of the first pipe (211) and the diameter (D2) of the third pipe (213) may be formed to correspond. For example, the diameter (D3) of the first through hole (181) and the diameter (D4) of the second through hole (182) may be formed to correspond.

[0111] Below, the process of cooling the refrigerator (23) and freezer (21) according to the flow of the cooling liquid flowing in the pipe (210) is examined in detail.

[0112] The coolant can be cooled to a first temperature (T1) by passing through the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module. That is, the heat-absorbing surface of the first Peltier module (110) can absorb the heat of the coolant. Thereafter, the coolant can flow into the first pipe (211) (F1).

[0113] The coolant can flow into the first heat exchanger (310) through the first pipe (211) (F1). The coolant flowing into the first heat exchanger (310) can absorb heat from the first heat exchanger (310). The coolant absorbing heat from the first heat exchanger (310) can be heated to a second temperature (T2). The first heat exchanger (310) cooled by heat exchange with the coolant can supply cold air to the first storage room (23) to cool the first storage room (23).

[0114] The coolant that has passed through the first heat exchanger (310) can move to the second pipe (212). Thereafter, the coolant can flow to the second Peltier module (120) through the second pipe (212) (F2).

[0115] The coolant can absorb heat from the second Peltier module (120) by passing through the second pipe (212) connected to the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module. Through this, the coolant can be heated to a third temperature (T3). The coolant heated to the third temperature (T3) can be transferred to the third pipe (213) (F3).

[0116] The coolant delivered to the third pipe (213) can be recovered to the first Peltier module (110) (F3).

[0117] Afterwards, the coolant passes through the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module and is cooled again to the first temperature (T1) and can be supplied to the first pipe (211).

[0118] As described above, the process in which the coolant circulates through the first pipe (211), the second pipe (212), and the third pipe (213) can be defined as the first cycle (C1).

[0119] For example, the coolant circulating in the first cycle (C1) may include, but is not limited to, coolant.

[0120] For example, the second Peltier module (120) may be connected to the second heat exchanger (320) installed in the second storage room (21). More specifically, the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module may be connected to the second heat exchanger (320) via the fourth pipe (214).

[0121] The coolant flowing in the fourth pipe (214) can be cooled to a fourth temperature (T4) by absorbing heat while passing through the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module (F4). Thereafter, the coolant flows to the second heat exchanger (320) through the fourth pipe supply portion (2141), and can be heated to a fifth temperature (T5) by absorbing heat from the second heat exchanger (320) (F5).

[0122] The coolant heated to the fifth temperature (T5) can flow back to the second Peltier module (120) through the fourth pipe recovery unit (2142) and be cooled to the fourth temperature (T4).

[0123] As described above, the process in which the coolant circulates through the fourth pipe supply section (2141) and the fourth pipe return section (2142) can be defined as the second cycle (C2).

[0124] For example, the coolant circulating in the second cycle (C2) may include, but is not limited to, ethanol or antifreeze.

[0125] For example, the heat of the cooling liquid absorbed by the first Peltier module (110) can be transferred to the third heat exchanger (330). More specifically, when the first Peltier module (110) absorbs the heat of the cooling liquid circulating in the first cycle, the absorbed heat can be released to the heating unit of the first Peltier module (110). The released heat can be absorbed by the cooling liquid flowing in the fifth pipe supply unit (2151) and transferred to the third heat exchanger (330).

[0126] The coolant that has moved to the third heat exchanger (330) can release heat to the third heat exchanger (330). The third heat exchanger (330) can absorb the released heat and release it to the outside (S).

[0127] The heat is released to the third heat exchanger (330) and the cooled coolant flows through the fifth pipe recovery section (2152) and can flow again to the hot side plate (113) of the first Peltier module.

[0128] As described above, the process in which the coolant circulates through the fifth pipe supply section (2151) and the fifth pipe return section (2152) can be defined as the third cycle (C3).

[0129] For example, the cooling liquid passing through the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module among the cooling liquids circulating in the first cycle (C1) can absorb heat released from the cooling liquid passing through the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module among the cooling liquids circulating in the second cycle (C2).

[0130] As previously discussed, the coolant circulating in the first cycle (C1) that passes through the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module may be in a state somewhat cooled by the first Peltier module (110) (second temperature). Therefore, the difference between the temperature of the coolant passing through the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module and the temperature inside the second storage chamber (21) may be smaller than the difference between the temperature outside (S) and the temperature inside the second storage chamber (21).

[0131] If the temperature difference between the inside temperature of the second storage room (21) (the cold side plate (122) side of the second Peltier module) and the hot side plate (123) side of the second Peltier module is large, the amount of power supplied to the thermoelectric element to form the temperature difference may be excessively large. This may mean that the Peltier module (100) is arranged to exchange heat between the inside of the second storage room (21) and the outside (S) simply to cool the second storage room (21, freezer). In this case, since the difference between the inside temperature of the freezer (21), which is the second storage room, and the outside (S) temperature is very large, the amount of power supplied to the thermoelectric element may be excessively large. Therefore, it may not be efficient to cool the second storage room (21) using the thermoelectric element.

[0132] However, in the case of a method of exchanging heat with the second Peltier module (120) through a cooling liquid circulating the first cycle as described above, the temperature difference between the two ends of the second Peltier module (120) can be reduced, so that the second storage room (21) can be efficiently cooled to the target temperature using only the Peltier module (100) by inputting an amount of power within an appropriate range.

[0133] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment, in which a Peltier module and a pipe are connected and a coolant flows. FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a cross-section of an unfolded module according to one embodiment of the refrigerator. Below, any description of content that overlaps with the above will be omitted.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a Peltier module (400) may include a thermoelectric element assembly (401), a cold side plate (402) in contact with one side of the thermoelectric element assembly (401), and a hot side plate (403) in contact with the other side.

[0135] For example, a thermoelectric element assembly (401) may include a plurality of thermoelectric elements. A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0136] The assembly heat absorption surface (4012, see FIG. 6) of the thermoelectric element assembly (401) can absorb heat, and the absorbed heat can be released through the assembly heat generation surface (4011).

[0137] A cold side plate (402) may be coupled to the assembly heat absorbing surface (4012). For example, the cold side plate (402) may be positioned to contact the assembly heat absorbing surface (4012). Heat around the Peltier module (400) may be efficiently absorbed into the assembly heat absorbing surface (4012) through the cold side plate (402).

[0138] For example, the heat around the Peltier module (400) may refer to the heat of the cooling liquid flowing in the pipe (500) passing through the cold side plate (402). Therefore, the Peltier module (400) can exchange heat with the cooling liquid through a water-cooling method.

[0139] The cold side plate (402) may include a cold side plate body (4021) forming an exterior. For example, the cold side plate body (4021) may be formed of a material having high thermal conductivity.

[0140] The pipe (500) may include a first inlet pipe (501) configured to introduce coolant into the interior of the cold side plate (402), and a first discharge pipe (502) configured to discharge coolant from the cold side plate (402) to the outside (S).

[0141] The pipe (500) may include a cooling pipe (4022) that is formed to be disposed inside the cold side plate body (4021) and to allow cooling liquid to flow inside the cold side plate (402). For example, the cooling pipe (4022) may be defined as a groove formed inside the cold side plate body (4021).

[0142] One end of the cooling pipe (4022) may be connected to the first inlet pipe (501). The other end of the cooling pipe (4022) may be connected to the first discharge pipe (502). Accordingly, the cooling liquid (Fa) flowing in the first inlet pipe (501) may flow into the cooling pipe (4022) and release heat to the assembly heat absorption surface (4012). Thereafter, the cooling liquid that has released heat may be cooled and discharged (Fb) to the outside (S) through the first discharge pipe (502).

[0143] Although not shown, similar to the structure of the above-described cold side plate (402), the hot side plate (403) may also include a hot side plate body. In addition, the pipe (500) may include a second inlet pipe (503) provided to introduce (Fc) a cooling liquid into the interior of the hot side plate (403), and a second discharge pipe (504) provided to discharge (Fd) the cooling liquid from the hot side plate (403) to the outside (S). In addition, the pipe (500) may include a heating pipe (not shown) that is arranged inside the hot side plate (403) body and is formed to allow the cooling liquid to flow inside the hot side plate (403).

[0144] Heat absorbed by the assembly heat absorbing surface (4012) can be released from the assembly heat generating surface (4011), and the released heat can be absorbed by the cooling liquid inside the heating pipe and moved to the outside (S).

[0145] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional drawing of a Peltier module in a refrigerator according to one embodiment. Descriptions of any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted below.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 6, the thermoelectric element assembly (401) may include a plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440). The plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may each include a heat-generating surface (411, 421, 431, 441) and a heat-absorbing surface (412, 422, 432, 442).

[0147] A plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the direction in which the cold side plate (402) and the hot side plate (403) extend (+-Y direction).

[0148] For example, the direction in which the cold side plate (402) and the hot side plate (403) extend may be the left-right direction (+-Y direction), and the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may be arranged along the direction parallel to the left-right direction (+-Y direction).

[0149] For example, a plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may be arranged to extend in a direction (+-X direction) that intersects the direction in which the cold side plate (402) and the hot side plate (403) extend (+-Y direction).

[0150] For example, the direction in which the cold side plate (402) and the hot side plate (403) extend may be the left-right direction (+-Y direction), and the direction in which each thermoelectric element extends may be the front-back direction (+-X direction). For example, the direction in which the cold side plate (402) is arranged may be the front (+X direction) and the direction in which the hot side plate (403) is arranged may be the rear (-X direction).

[0151] That is, when a plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) extend in the front-back direction (+-X direction) and are arranged in the left-right direction (+-Y direction), the number of thermoelectric elements arranged per unit length in the left-right direction can increase. Accordingly, more thermoelectric elements can be integrated and arranged within the same length range, thereby increasing the space utilization of the Peltier module (400).

[0152] As previously discussed, the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may each include a heat-absorbing surface (412, 422, 432, 442) and a heat-generating surface (411, 421, 431, 441). When the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) are arranged, the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may be arranged such that the heat-absorbing surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) or the heat-generating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) included in adjacent thermoelectric elements face each other.

[0153] For example, referring to FIG. 6, the heat absorption surface (412) of the first thermoelectric element (410) and the heat absorption surface (422) of the second thermoelectric element (420) may be arranged to face each other. In addition, the heat generation surface (421) of the second thermoelectric element (420) may be arranged to face each other and the heat generation surface (431) of the third thermoelectric element (430).

[0154] Each end of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) facing the cold side plate (402) may be covered with insulation parts (4041, 4042, 4043) on the cold side plate (402). For example, the insulation parts (4041, 4042, 4043) on the cold side plate (402) may be arranged so that the cold side plate (402) and the heating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) do not exchange heat with each other.

[0155] For example, the cold side plate (402) side insulation parts (4041, 4042, 4043) can be formed to connect the cold side plate (402) side ends of adjacent thermoelectric elements whose heating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) face each other among the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440).

[0156] Each end of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) facing the hot side plate (403) may be covered with insulation parts (4044, 4045) on the hot side plate (403). For example, the insulation parts (4044, 4045) on the hot side plate (403) may be arranged so that the hot side plate (403) and the heat-absorbing surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) do not exchange heat with each other.

[0157] For example, the insulation parts (4044, 4045) on the hot side plate (403) side can be formed to connect the ends on the hot side plate (403) of adjacent thermoelectric elements whose heat-absorbing surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) face each other among the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440).

[0158] For example, the cold side plate (402) may include a first heat transfer portion (4023) connecting the heat absorption surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) of the plurality of thermoelectric elements and the assembly heat absorption surface (4012). The first heat transfer portion (4023) may be in contact with the heat absorption surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440), respectively.

[0159] Heat absorbed from the outside (S) through the assembly heat absorption surface (4012) to the cold side plate (402) can flow to the heat absorption surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) through the first heat transfer unit (4023).

[0160] At this time, since the insulation parts on the side of the cold side plate (402) separate the heating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) from the cold side plate (402), heat can effectively flow to the heat absorption surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) (H1).

[0161] The hot side plate (403) may include a second heat transfer portion (4031) connecting the heating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) and the assembly heating surface (4011). The second heat transfer portion (4031) may be in contact with the heating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440), respectively.

[0162] Heat (H2) absorbed by the hot side plate (403) through the assembly heat absorbing surface (4012) can be released to the second heat transfer unit (4031) through the heating surface (411, 421, 431, 441) of each thermoelectric element.

[0163] And, the heat (H2) released to the second heat transfer unit (4031) can flow to the assembly heating surface (4011) and be released to the outside (S) (H3).

[0164] At this time, since the insulation parts on the side of the hot side plate (403) separate the heat-absorbing surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) from the hot side plate (403), the heat can be effectively discharged to the outside (S) without being reabsorbed by the heat-absorbing surfaces (H3).

[0165] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment includes a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) formed inside the main body (10), and a storage compartment (20) including a first storage compartment (23) and a second storage compartment (21) partitioned from the first storage compartment (23). The refrigerator (1) includes a first heat exchanger (310) installed in the first storage compartment (23) to cool the first storage compartment (23) and a second heat exchanger (320) installed in the second storage compartment (21) to cool the second storage compartment (21). The refrigerator (1) includes a first Peltier module (110) installed in a space other than the storage compartment (20) and a second Peltier module (120) installed in the second storage compartment (21). The refrigerator (1) includes a pipe (210) that is provided to supply a cooling liquid to the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), the first Peltier module (110), and the second Peltier module (120). The pipe (210) includes a first pipe (211) that supplies a cooling liquid cooled by absorbing heat from the first Peltier module (110) to the first heat exchanger (310). The pipe (210) includes a second pipe (212) that supplies a cooling liquid that has absorbed heat released from the first heat exchanger (310) to the second Peltier module (120). The pipe (210) includes a third pipe (213) that recovers a cooling liquid that has absorbed heat released from the second Peltier module (120) to the first Peltier module (110).

[0166] The pipe (210) may further include a fourth pipe (214) for circulating a cooling liquid between the second heat exchanger (320) and the second Peltier module (120). The fourth pipe (214) may supply the cooling liquid cooled by absorbing heat from the second Peltier module (120) to the second heat exchanger (320). The fourth pipe (214) may recover the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat released by the second heat exchanger (320) to the second Peltier module (120).

[0167] A third heat exchanger (330) may be further included, which is installed in a space other than the storage room (20) and is connected to the first Peltier module (110) to receive the heat emitted by the first Peltier module (110).

[0168] The pipe (210) may further include a fifth pipe (215) for circulating a cooling liquid between the first Peltier module (110) and the third heat exchanger (330). The fifth pipe (215) may supply the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat emitted by the first Peltier module (110) to the third heat exchanger (330). The fifth pipe (215) may recover the cooling liquid that has been cooled by absorbing the heat by the third heat exchanger (330) to the first Peltier module (110).

[0169] The first Peltier module (110) and the second Peltier module (120) may each include a thermoelectric element including a heat-absorbing surface that absorbs heat and a heat-generating surface formed on the opposite surface to release the heat absorbed by the heat-absorbing surface, a cold side plate that contacts the heat-absorbing surface to exchange heat with the heat-absorbing surface, and a hot side plate that contacts the heat-generating surface to exchange heat with the heat-generating surface.

[0170] The cold side plate and the hot side plate may be connected to the pipe (210) so that the thermoelectric element may exchange heat with the cooling liquid flowing in the pipe (210).

[0171] One end of the first pipe (211) connected to the first Peltier module (110) can be connected to the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module.

[0172] One end of the second pipe (212) connected to the second Peltier module (120) can be connected to the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module.

[0173] One end of the third pipe (213) connected to the second Peltier module (120) may be connected to the hot side plate (123) of the second Peltier module. The other end of the third pipe (213) connected to the first Peltier module (110) may be connected to the cold side plate (112) of the first Peltier module.

[0174] One end of the second pipe (212) and one end of the third pipe (213) may be connected to the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module and communicate with each other.

[0175] The main body (10) may include a through hole (180) that connects the first storage room (23) and a space other than the first storage room (23). The first pipe (211) and the third pipe (213) may extend from a space other than the storage room (20) to the first storage room (23) through the through hole (180).

[0176] The diameter (D3, D4) of the above through hole (180) can be formed to correspond to the diameter (D1) of the first pipe (211) and the diameter (D2) of the third pipe (213).

[0177] The thermoelectric element may include a plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440). The plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the direction in which the cold side plate (402) and the hot side plate (403) extend (+-Y direction). The plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) may be arranged to extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the cold side plate and the hot side plate extend (+-X direction).

[0178] The above-described plurality of thermoelectric elements (410, 420, 430, 440) can be arranged so that the heat-absorbing surfaces (412, 422 or 432, 442) or heat-generating surfaces (421, 431) of the thermoelectric elements (410, 420 or 420, 430 or 430, 440) adjacent to each other among the plurality of thermoelectric elements face each other.

[0179] The cold side plate (402) may include a first heat transfer portion (4023) provided to contact the heat-absorbing surfaces (412, 422, 432, 442) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements. The hot side plate (403) may include a second heat transfer portion (4031) provided to contact the heat-generating surfaces (411, 421, 431, 441) of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements. An insulating portion (4041, 4042, 4043, 4044, 40456) may be arranged between the first heat transfer portion (4023) and the second heat transfer portion (4031), so that the first heat transfer portion (4023) and the second heat transfer portion (4031) may not contact each other or exchange heat with each other.

[0180] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment includes a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) formed inside the main body (10), and a storage compartment (20) including a first storage compartment (23) and a second storage compartment (21) partitioned from the first storage compartment (23). The refrigerator (1) includes a first heat exchanger (310) installed in the first storage compartment (23) to cool the first storage compartment (23) and a second heat exchanger (320) installed in the second storage compartment (21) to cool the second storage compartment (21). The refrigerator (1) includes a first Peltier module (110) installed in a space other than the storage compartment (20) and a second Peltier module (120) installed in the second storage compartment (21). The refrigerator (1) includes a pipe (210) provided to supply a cooling liquid to the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), the first Peltier module (110), and the second Peltier module (120). The first Peltier module (110) and the second Peltier module (120) each include a thermoelectric element including a heat-absorbing surface that absorbs heat and a heat-emitting surface that releases the absorbed heat, a cold side plate that contacts the heat-absorbing surface to exchange heat with the heat-absorbing surface, and a hot side plate that contacts the heat-emitting surface to exchange heat with the heat-emitting surface. The pipe (210) includes a first pipe (211) that is connected from the cold side plate of the first Peltier module (110) to the first heat exchanger (310). The pipe (210) includes a second pipe (212) connected from the first heat exchanger (310) to the hot side plate of the second Peltier module (120). The pipe (210) includes a third pipe (213) connected from the hot side plate of the second Peltier module (120) to the cold side plate of the first Peltier module (110).

[0181] The pipe (210) may further include a fourth pipe (214) for circulating a cooling liquid between the second heat exchanger (320) and the second Peltier module (120). The fourth pipe (214) may include a fourth pipe supply portion (2141) connecting the second heat exchanger (320) from the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module, and a fourth pipe recovery portion (2142) connecting the second heat exchanger (320) from the cold side plate (122) of the second Peltier module.

[0182] The cold side plate and the hot side plate may be connected to the pipe (210) so that the thermoelectric element may exchange heat with the cooling liquid flowing in the pipe (210).

[0183] The main body (10) may include a through hole (180) that connects the first storage room (23) and a space other than the first storage room (23). The first pipe (211) and the third pipe (213) may extend from a space other than the storage room (20) to the first storage room (23) through the through hole (180).

[0184] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment includes a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) formed inside the main body (10), and a storage compartment (20) including a first storage compartment (23) and a second storage compartment (21) partitioned from the first storage compartment (23). The refrigerator (1) includes a first heat exchanger (310) installed in the first storage compartment (23) to cool the first storage compartment (23) and a second heat exchanger (320) installed in the second storage compartment (21) to cool the second storage compartment (21). The refrigerator (1) includes a first Peltier module (110) installed in a space other than the storage compartment (20) and a second Peltier module (120) installed in the second storage compartment (21). The refrigerator (1) includes a pipe (210) that is provided to supply a cooling liquid to the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), the first Peltier module (110), and the second Peltier module (120). The pipe (210) includes a first pipe (211) that extends from the first Peltier module (110) to the first heat exchanger (310) so as to supply a cooling liquid cooled by absorbing heat from the first Peltier module (110) to the first heat exchanger (310). The pipe (210) includes a second pipe (212) that extends from the first heat exchanger (310) to the second Peltier module (120) so as to supply a cooling liquid that has absorbed heat released by the first heat exchanger (310) to the second Peltier module (120). The above pipe (210) includes a third pipe (213) extending from the second Peltier module (120) to the first Peltier module (110) to recover the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat emitted by the second Peltier module (120) to the first Peltier module (110).

[0185] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, a Peltier module is placed in each of a refrigerator and a freezer, and a system is applied to circulate cooling water through pipes between them, so that the refrigerator and freezer can be cooled to a target temperature.

[0186] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, since the Peltier module exchanges heat with the outside through water cooling, the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric element can be reduced compared to the case of air cooling, and thus the performance coefficient of the Peltier module can be increased.

[0187] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the diameter of the through hole connecting the outside air and the storage room can be formed to a size corresponding to the diameter of the pipe, thereby minimizing the inflow of outside air into the storage room.

[0188] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the integration of thermoelectric elements within a single Peltier module is increased by arranging a plurality of thermoelectric elements, thereby reducing the total number of Peltier modules and increasing space utilization.

[0189] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0190] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Main body; A storage room formed inside the main body, comprising a first storage room and a second storage room partitioned from the first storage room; A first heat exchanger installed in the first storage room to cool the first storage room; A second heat exchanger installed in the second storage room to cool the second storage room; A first Peltier module installed in a space other than the above storage room; A second Peltier module installed in the second storage room; and A pipe provided to supply cooling liquid to the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the first Peltier module, and the second Peltier module; The above pipe, A first pipe that supplies the coolant cooled by absorbing heat from the first Peltier module to the first heat exchanger; A second pipe that supplies the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat released by the first heat exchanger to the second Peltier module; and A refrigerator comprising a third pipe for recovering the cooling liquid that has absorbed the heat emitted by the second Peltier module to the first Peltier module.

2. In paragraph 1, The above pipe further includes a fourth pipe for circulating a cooling liquid between the second heat exchanger and the second Peltier module, The above fourth pipe, The second Peltier module absorbs heat and supplies the cooled liquid to the second heat exchanger, A refrigerator that recovers the coolant that has absorbed the heat released by the second heat exchanger to the second Peltier module.

3. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator further comprising a third heat exchanger installed in a space other than the storage room and connected to the first Peltier module to receive heat emitted by the first Peltier module.

4. In paragraph 3, The above pipe further includes a fifth pipe for circulating a cooling liquid between the first Peltier module and the third heat exchanger, The above fifth pipe, The cooling liquid that absorbs the heat released by the first Peltier module is supplied to the third heat exchanger, A refrigerator in which the third heat exchanger absorbs heat and cools the coolant, which is then recovered to the first Peltier module.

5. In paragraph 1, The above first Peltier module and the above second Peltier module, A thermoelectric element comprising a heat-absorbing surface that absorbs heat and a heat-generating surface formed on the opposite surface that releases the heat absorbed by the heat-absorbing surface, A cold side plate in contact with the heat absorbing surface to exchange heat with the heat absorbing surface, and A refrigerator, each of which includes a hot side plate that contacts the heating surface so as to exchange heat with the heating surface.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which the cold side plate and the hot side plate are connected to the pipe so that the thermoelectric element exchanges heat with the cooling liquid flowing in the pipe.

7. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator wherein one end of the first pipe connected to the first Peltier module is connected to the cold side plate of the first Peltier module.

8. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator in which one end of the second pipe connected to the second Peltier module is connected to the hot side plate of the second Peltier module.

9. In paragraph 8, One end of the third pipe connected to the second Peltier module is connected to the hot side plate of the second Peltier module, A refrigerator in which the other end of the third pipe connected to the first Peltier module is connected to the cold side plate of the first Peltier module.

10. In paragraph 9, A refrigerator in which one end of the second pipe and one end of the third pipe are connected to the cold side plate of the second Peltier module and are in communication with each other.

11. In paragraph 1, The above body includes a through hole connecting the first storage room and a space other than the first storage room, A refrigerator in which the first pipe and the third pipe extend from a space other than the storage room to the first storage room through the through hole.

12. In paragraph 11, A refrigerator in which the diameter of the above through hole is formed to correspond to the diameter of the first pipe and the diameter of the third pipe.

13. In paragraph 5, The above thermoelectric element includes a plurality of thermoelectric elements, The above plurality of thermoelectric elements are, The cold side plate and the hot side plate are arranged spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the extending direction, A refrigerator in which the cold side plate and the hot side plate are each arranged to extend in a direction intersecting with the extending direction.

14. In paragraph 13, A refrigerator in which the plurality of thermoelectric elements are arranged so that the heat-absorbing surfaces or heat-generating surfaces of the thermoelectric elements adjacent to each other among the plurality of thermoelectric elements face each other.

15. In paragraph 14, The cold side plate includes a first heat transfer portion arranged to contact the heat absorption surface of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements, The hot side plate includes a second heat transfer portion arranged to contact the heating surface of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements, A refrigerator in which an insulating part is arranged between the first heat transfer part and the second heat transfer part, so that the first heat transfer part and the second heat transfer part do not come into contact with each other or exchange heat with each other.

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